Sunday observer 18 08 2013

THE SUNDAY

1

SUNDAY AUGUST 18, 2013

CMYK

The Sunday

PUBLISHED SINCE MAY 29, 1968

ODD NEWS

Pg. 6

Oldest Person Discovered In Bolivia

• Vol. XI NO. 4,010 •

SUNDAY, AUGUST 18, 20 13 • N 100.00

SOCIETY Pg.27

Why People Patronise Fairly Used Goods

Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babatunde Fashola SAN (right), welcoming the Acting Deputy Assistant Secretary for African Affairs at the US Department of State, Washington, Ms Eunice Reddick (2nd left), Director for African Affairs at the White House, Ms Leanne Erdberg (left) and the US Consul-General of the United States Consulate in Lagos, Mr. Jeffrey Hawkins (2nd right), during a courtesy call on the Governor at the Lagos House, Ikeja yesterday.

ENVIRONMENTAL LAWS ENFORCEMENT

Oshiomhole Canvasses Compliance

By ADAMS OYIBOKE

EDO State Governor, Comrade Adams Oshiomhole has canvassed for strict compliance to the enforcement environmental laws in Nigeria in order to prevent violators from exposing the environment to serious degradation and all forms of pollution.

ENCOUNTER My Odysseys - Stallone Ademola

Pg. 22

He disclosed this while receiving officials of the National

Environmental Standards And R e g u l a t i o n s

SHOWBIZ

Enforcement Agency (NESREA) led by the Continues on pg.2

INEC To Prosecute 72 Double Registration Cases In Anambra

THE Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) is to prosecute 72 out of some 93,000 cases of double registration recorded in 2011 in Anambra.

Pgs. 20/21

I Go Die Acquires Customized Rolls Royce Phantom

The Resident Electoral Commissioner in the state, Prof.

Chukwuemeka Onukogu, made the disclosure while speaking with newsmen Continues on pg.2

THE SUNDAY

2

SUNDAY AUGUST 18, 2013

NEWS INEC To Prosecute

Continued from pg.1

in Awka yesterday.

He said that the prosecution would serve as a deterrent to other intending electoral offenders in the state.

Onukaogu said that INEC was determined to make election a process in Nigeria and not an event.

He said that the commission was able to detect the fraud during the data consolidation process, finding people with multiple registrations.

“We have their names, pictures, addresses and gradually all of them will be caught and prosecuted but we are starting with 72 persons. The state police command had been notified.

The Commissioner said that INEC had improved over the years, noting that loopholes of yesteryears had been plugged.

He warned voters to desist from violating electoral laws.

go to their respective polling units to check their names and report any anomaly to the electoral officers in their areas for necessary action.

Onukaogu said that the continuous voter registration exercise would commence in the state on August 19 and end on August 25.

He urged every eligible voter to participate in the exercise.

Onukaogu also disclosed that 50 wards in the state recorded zero in the direct data-capturing machine during the consolidation process, saying that the wards would be reregistered.

The Commissioner said that the affected wards were in Awka South Local Government Area with 34 wards; Nnewi South with five wards; Nnewi North four; Idemili North two; Ayamelum two and Ihiala two.

He said that electorate in the affected wards would be recaptured, urging voters to avail themselves of the opportunity to re-register.

The Commissioner said that the commission had embarked on pasting of registered voters’ names in all the 4,608 polling units in the state.

Onukaogu said that the exercise would end today, to ensure that eligible voters were not denied their rights to vote.

He advised eligible voters to

Alagbado Grade A Customary Court, Lagos when an employee of Yaba College of Technology, Lagos, Gbenga Awoyode, 48 revealed how his 52-year old wife, Raliat, was caught with a Celestial Church pastor in a hotel, when he was on night duty.

Seeking divorce, Awoyode also told the court that his wife is equally having an affair with their neighbour.

the state and the deliberate effort at implementing the affirmative action.

She lauded government efforts at opening up the major roads, transformation of the city, educational development and the on-going screening of primary school teachers to ensure competence in the teaching profession.

She used the occasion of the visit to solicit for collaboration and partnership with the state government in the enforcement of all environmental laws, policy standards and regulations in the state.

She said NESREA is geared towards ensuring a clean and healthier environment for all Nigerians.

She requested the state government’s assistance in the provision of office accommodation and furniture

for 30 staff of the agency for basic operation in the state.

According to her “the agency on its part will operationalise the office and have 35% of senior staff and 100% of junior staff employed as Edo State indigenes.

National Environmental Standard and Regulations Enforcement Agency has the mandate of enforcing compliance with the provision of International agreement, protocols, conventions and treaties on the environment to which Nigeria is a signatory.

On the entourage of the DG/ CEO NESREA were Mr. Timothy Okewor, Head Finance and Administration, Abuja, Mrs. Ameze Asemota, Scientific Officer I, Lawrence Anoka and Mr. Aseguase Akhomogore Deputy Admin, Benin City branch.

Governor Oshiomhole said those who violate environmental laws should be punished, stressing that Edo State Government is sensitive to environmental laws and has taken steps in protecting the forest, dealing with issues of illegal felling of trees as well as planting trees to check deforestation in the state.

While calling for interministerial approach in addressing the problems associated with the environment, the governor blamed Nigeria engineers for their negligence in the design of roads which often times lead to flooding.

He attributed the gully – erosion problem at Queen-Ede as environmental hazard resulting from absence of proper design of the Benin/Agbor Road dualisation.

He said that the gully erosion has done great havoc to the people living in the area and called on the federal government to do something quickly to forestall the lives of the people.

Governor Oshiomhole told the visitors of his government commitment towards environmental issues in the state.

He said the state government is currently embarking on N30 billion Benin City water storm programme which would arrest the problem of erosion in the state when completed.

Earlier, the DG/CEO NESREA, Dr. (Mrs.) Ngeri S. Benebo had commended the state governor on his giant strides taken in the infrastructural development of

Emulate Mandela’s Amazing Love For His Country, Osasuyi Tasks Nigeria Leaders

By RICHARD EWEKA SNR. Apostle Osasuyi said Nelson Mandela is a true African leader who allowed himself to be locked up for the sake of his country. “ He loved South Africa and scarified 27 years of his life in prison for her freedom. He displayed an

Celestial Pastor Slept With My Wife,

By RAHEEM IBRAHIM Hubby Tells Court IT was show of shame at

Environmental Law Enforcement Continued from pg.1

DG/CEO, Dr. (Mrs.) Ngeri S. Benebo who paid him a courtesy visit in his office in Benin City.

THE Spiritual Leader of Christ’s Chosen Church of God International (CCCG), Most SNR. Apostle Joshual Osasuyi has called on Nigerian leaders to emulate the life and leadership style of Nelson Mandela who showed and exhibited amazing love by fighting for the freedom of his country South Africa.

He made the call while delivering a sermon titled “Amazing Love” at the 2013 International Convention of the Church in Benin City yesterday.

According to him, his neighbour’s wife had once told Raliat to leave her husband alone, which his wife refused to adhere to the warning and persisted on the illegal act.

The petitioner, who is seeking the dissolution of their 15-year marriage which has produced three children also added that his wife is very hostile and always insulting his two children from his first marriage.

Awoyode claimed that Raliat does not have regard for him or members of his family, explaining that when he took her to his family house, she pushed his aunt and she sustained serious injuries as a result of the fall during a quarrel.

According to him, his wife is always destroying his belongings whenever they have a misunderstanding, adding that sometimes she would seize his documents, ID card and driver’s license.

Awoyode who also stated that Raliat has torn many of his clothes to the extent that he has lost count claimed that he did not pay any dowry on his wife and wants the court to grant him a divorce.

Responding, Raliat, a pensioner with Yaba College of Technology, said that her husband’s claims are not true, as she is not a hostile person.

She claimed that when her husband’s children and some other relatives came to their house, they all lived together without problems, stressing further that when he is going to

work, he would give her N200 as feeding allowance for nine people.

She claimed that he is only accusing her of adultery because he wants to be free to marry the lady that he is dating currently.

Raliat denied destroying the properties in the house as her husband claimed but that he is the one that beat her up when he brought another woman to the house.

She begged the court not to dissolve the marriage, as she still loves her husband.

amazing love for his country; he fought for his people and liberated them from aparthied.

He became the president of South Africa, served just one term and vacated office for others. He is truly an African leader with a difference.

Speaking further, he condemned the leadership style of some Nigerian leaders especially the Senate who are doing everything possible to legalize child marriage because one of them successfully married a 13 year old girl. “If they are sincere with themselves, they should not only allow a 13 years old girl to get married to old men but also allow 13 years old boys to get married as well. This law is for selfish reasons, if they truly love this country, issues like this should not be mentioned among them”.

He called on our leaders to display amazing love like Nelson Mandela did and save this country from shame and lead us to development in all sphere.

Church Cleans Up School Premises

By VICTOR OMOALU THE school of the blind, Ihogbe in Oredo Local Government Area, yesterday received a facelift as the church of Jesus Christ of Later Day Saint, Ihogbe Stake cleared the school environment which had been engulfed by bushes.

Speaking with newsmen during the exercise, the president of the church, Ihogbe Stake, Okeke Romanu (CN), described the exercise as an annual one.

He noted that this year ’s exercise became necessary because of the need to extend its humanitarian service to the physically challenged persons through church Mormon

Helping Hand Programme.

The clergy man who stated that the event took place simultaneously across African countries, said the church embarks on such programmes yearly aimed at touching the society through humanitarian services.

Romanu used the opportunity to call on Christian faithfuls to build their consciousness on services to humanity.

“We have the School of the Blind, the School of the Deaf and these people cannot do it by themselves due to their disabilities so we decided to be in this school today. There is no way we can serve God without serving humanity”, stated Romanu.

Etsako Central To Get Neighbourhood

By ELIAS INAEDE area of security” Momoh Watch C’ttee the stated.

THE Executive Chairman of the Edo State Neighbourhood Watch Committee MajorGeneral Charles Omoregie (rtd) has appealed to the chairman Etsako Central Local Government Council Hon. Emmanuel Ozemede Momoh to constitute the Local Government Chapter of the Security Committee.

Gen. Omoregie who made the appeal in Fugar when he visited the council boss in his office said the visit was to sensitize the council leadership on the existence of the neighbourhood watch committee in the state and the need to replicate it in the council area.

While congratulating Hon. Momoh on his victory at the Local Governmment Polls in April 2013, General Omoregie noted that the Neighbourhood Watch committee Bill was passed into law in 2002, but could not start operation due to

some delay in the setting up of the committee by previous administrations. He stressed that the law stipulates that each local government council boss should set up their local committee to be headed by a coordinator.

Responding, the Executive Chairman of Etsako Central Hon. Emmanuel Osemede Momoh thanked the Neighbourhood Watch boss for the support given to him during his electioneering campaigns.

Momoh, stated that the security of lives and property is very important for any progress and meaningful development to take place.

In his words “If you want to achieve any meaningful development and progress, you must deal with the issue of security, if you want to sleep well, you must deal with the area of security, if you want our people to enjoy the dividends of democracy you must deal with

He asserted that since he came on board, the issue of security and the rate of crime has been reduced to the barest minimum stressing that he knew what the situation was before he came in and what it is now.

Hon. Momoh while thanking the Comrade Governor for setting up the committee, said his administration was committed to the protection of lives and property stressing that a crime free society is a developed society assuring that he would constitute the Neighbourhood Watch Committee in the council area as soon as he sights the Act of Parliament establishing it.

Later in a chat with newsmen Maj. Gen. Omoregie said the Neighbourhood Watch is a security outfit set up to assist the police and other Law Enforcement Agencies Operating within the state.

Endurance weds Lucky The solemnization of marriage between Miss Endurance Eronmwon Ugiagbe and Mr Lucky Osaro Ekenonmaghelo (based in London) took place on Saturday 17th August 2013 at Church of God Mission Int. Inc., Abundant Life Chapel, 42B Uwa Street, Off Dumez Road Benin City. It was attended by family members, relations, friends and well wishers. Picture shows the couple at the reception.

Congratulations! Photo Sonnie.E

THE SUNDAY

3

SUNDAY AUGUST 18, 2013

NEWS 500 Children For Training In ICT

THE National Centre for Women Development (NCWD) has said it had commenced training for 500 children in Information and Communication Technology (ICT) to meet the challenges of globalisation.

The Acting DirectorGeneral of the Centre, Malam Abdulmalik Dawudu, disclosed this at a news briefing to commence the 2013 National Computer Conference on ICT in Abuja.

Dawudu, represented by Malam Ahmed Bashar, said that the aim of the conference was to equip children between the ages of eight and 17 with skills to cope with emerging trends in technology and ICT. He said participants were drawn from the 36 states of the federation, including the FCT, and that the programme was in its second edition.

He said the centre was at the forefront of improving the lives of women, youths and children.

“Over the years, the NCWD Abuja has been in the forefront of innovation in ICT training around the nation.

“We blend the latest in technology learning with non-tech activities, thereby creating a well rounded experience.

“The aim of this programme, therefore, is to give 500 Nigerian children the opportunity to expand their knowledge of technology, while they experience a cross-cultural community relating with their peers.”

Dawudu said the programme would focus on game design modelling and programming, adding that each participant would have access to computers and personalised instructors.

Dawudu said measures were in place to ensure the safety of all participants, stressing that “children in the centre are safe.”

Mr Manny Emecheta, Director ICT in the centre, said the programme was also an opportunity for the children to expand their ICT skills and interact amongst their peers.

“The centre is catching them young, we will be giving them life skills on software development, it is not only for children to play games but to get skills on games software,” he said.

The NCWD is a parastatal agency of the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development, which focuses on training and empowerment of women.

Most Snr Apostle Dr. Joshua Osasuyi, Spiritual Leader/Chairman Church Council, Christ Chosen Church of God International (centre), blessing the members and participants at the 2013 International Convention of the Church while Snr Apostle Dr. David Unuefe-Ikhuiwu (left), Director of Administration and 1st Vice Chairman, Church Council and Snr Apostle Dr. Jonathan Onaghise (right), Director of Lands and Housing, 2nd Vice Chairman, Church Council look on.

Photo: MOSES OBOH.

Small Enterprises

CBN Commended On Intervention Fund THE Nigerian Association of Small Scale Industrialists (NASSI) has commended the CBN for the launch of a N220 billion intervention fund for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).

Chief Duro Kuteyi, the Vice-President of NASSI in South-West, told

Security Guard Docked For Abduction

THE police has arraigned a security guard, Godday Ebenezer, 22, in a Mararaba Grade 1 Area Court for alleged abduction.

The prosecutor, Cpl. Inuwa Maigida, told the court that the accused of Aso C and a guard attached to DSTV agent’s office at “Sharp Corner’’, Mararaba, allegedly abducted a 17-year-old girl.

Maigida said the matter was reported at the ‘A’ Division Police Station by Simon Nnluga of old Karu road, Mararaba on July 31.

He said that on July 29 the victim left the shop where she was employed as a salesgirl to an unknown destination.

“All efforts made to trace her proved abortive until July 31 at about 9 p.m. when she returned home.

“Upon interrogation, she said that the accused abducted and kept her inside a plaza also at Sharp Corner.

“He (accused) forcibly had sex with her several times before letting her go,’’ Maigida alleged.

Maigida said the offence contravened provision of section 273 of the Penal Code.

The accused, however, pleaded not guilty.

The presiding judge, Mr Albert Maga, granted bail to the accused in the sum of N150, 000 with two sureties in like sum following an oral application by his counsel, Mr

Alex Edim.

Maga ordered that one of the sureties must be a traditional ruler with landed property and must reside within the jurisdiction of the court.

He also ordered the two sureties to write undertaking that the accused would not commit similar offence and adjourned the case to September 17 for hearing.

reporter in Lagos that the fund would guarantee faster growth of the subsector.

The Governor of Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Malam Sanusi Lamido Sanusi, had in Abuja, launched a N220 billion Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises Development Fund (MSMEDF).

Sanusi launched the intervention fund at the 7th Annual Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) Finance C o n f e r e n c e / Entrepreneurship Awards ceremony.

He said that the MSMEDF was aimed at providing low interest and long-term funding to MSMEs through microfinancial institutions.

“It is a right step in the

right direction because the issue of inaccessibility to capital has been a major challenge to MSMEs. “Some people need between N250, 000 and N5 million to start up and expand their business capacity.

“The CBN fund will create a relief in getting working capital needed for the growth of their businesses.”

Kuteyi suggested that only entrepreneurs who registered with the association should benefit from the fund to achieve the intended purpose.

“The CBN should create a feedback process that will ensure that the funds are disbursed to the right people.

“The various MSME

Rivers Commission Of Inquiry Unconstitutional - Court A PORT Harcourt High Court has declared Governor Chibuike Amaechi’s eight-man Judicial Commission of Inquiry to investigate the crisis in the House of Assembly as unconstitutional.

The court presided over by Justice Lamenkara Iyaye,

also restrained the commission from sitting to investigate the crisis.

Iyaye held that under the principle of natural justice, Amaechi lacked the capacity to constitute a panel to investigate a crisis involving him.

The court restrained the state government from

receiving or acting on any recommendation made by the commission of inquiry.

He said that only a regular court was competent to inquire or try anyone on the allegation which led to the crisis in the assembly.

The state government had inaugurated an eight-man judicial commission of inquiry, headed by Justice

Biobele Georgewill, to investigate the crisis in the assembly on July 9.

A member of the assembly, Mr Victor Ihunwo, representing Port Harcourt Constituency, however, filed the suit challenging the setting up of the commission and urged the court to declare it illegal.

associations and chambers of commerce should be involved in the disbursement process.

“They will recommend their members to the micro-finance banks for loan acquisition and in turn monitor the usage of loans granted,” Kuteyi said.

Mr Eke Ubiji, the Executive Secretary, Nigerian Association of Small and Medium Enterprise (NASME), said the 60 per cent of the fund being dedicated to women would encourage women to remain in business.

Ubiji said that many women had lost interest in business owing to difficulties in securing loans.

“Many commercial banks often give stringent conditions to entrepreneurs before they are granted loans.

“These include collaterals such as landed properties and evidence of ownership.

“Many women in rural areas are not expected to have lands of their own because the society believes that only men should acquire lands.

“This explains why business women in rural communities have not been accessing loans from commercial banks,” he said.

THE SUNDAY

4

SUNDAY AUGUST 18, 2013

NEWS Edo Govt Trains Workforce On Ethical Re-Orientation

By HAMEED BRAIMAH

SEQUEL to the determination of the Edo State government towards ensuring a highly motivated and well equipped workforce, a capacity building seminar on ethical re-orientation was organized for officers in the state public service during the week.

Organized by the office of the Head of Service, Directorate of Establishment, Training and Management Services and facilitated by the T.E. Uliufoh Esq Management Consultants, the seminar which was one of a series of others lined up to train the public servants in the state was held at Bishop Kelly Pastoral Centre.

Speaking at the seminar which drew participants from the various ministries and state government agencies, the Head of Service Princess (Mrs.) Ekiuwa Inneh said the seminar was informed by the need to further re-awaken the consciousness of the participants in the observation of the time tested ethical

practices of the public service which according her most observers have agreed were now being observed in breach.

“It is becoming a norm for most officers to behave as if there are no ethics and procedures guiding their conducts as some civil servants have imbibed habits which run contrary to public service rules such as lateness, absenteeism, laxity etc,” Prince Ekiuwa emphasized.

The HOS whose address was read at the programme by the permanent secretary, Directorate of Establishment, Training and Management Mr. Alfred Omorogbe Olaye, urged the participants to imbibe the time tested tradition of ethics procedure, and discipline which area the hallmarks of the public service.

She therefore commended the Comrade Adams Oshiomhole’s administration in the state for its commitment to training and re-training of all categories of workers in the service with a view to building a virile, competent

and efficient public service as well as ensuring a peaceful industrial harmony in the state and sued for its sustenance.

Welcoming participants to the one day seminar, T. E. Uliufoh Esq Management Consultants commended the determination and efforts of the State Head of Service in ensuring a highly motivated and well equipped workforce.

According to T.E. Uliufoh, the objective of the seminar

was to acquaint participants with the various code of ethics that make the civil service a cohesive organization; the basic rules in the civil service and imperativeness of their observance for organizational effectiveness in service delivery as well as to expose them to the institutional arrangements for the enforcement of the code of ethics and discipline in the civil service.

Preserving the moral ethos of the civil service today Barrister Uliufoh admitted is a big challenge owing to the absence of discipline and the lack of courage on the part of senior officers to discipline erring subordinates as well as the get rich quick syndrome among young officers who are now most unwilling to be under the tutelage of their superiors.

He lamented the non-

exposure of young officers particularly those who were employed after many years of embargo to the code of ethics of the civil service, its rule and regulations, which guide the conduct of every officer in the service. He pointed out that the need to have a paradigm shift in this regard necessitated the organization of the seminar so as to impact positively on their minds.

Group To Train 200 Widows On Skills Acquisition THE Taakra Academy School of Arts and Crafts at Gwarinpa, Abuja, is to train 200 widows in various skills acquisition programmes.

Miss Blessing Okeiyi, Administration and Marketing Manager of the academy, made the disclosure in an interview with newsmen in Abuja at the weekend..

She said that the scheme entitled ‘Pet Project’, was meant to empower widows in the FCT. “The project we call Pet Project is meant to empower 200 widows in the FCT in various skills acquisition programmes.

“Right now, the project is on in Our Lady of Perpetual Help Parish, Gwarinpa, with the Zumutamata women.

“It started around June ending this year. We hope it will last for a period of time for us to be able to train as many people as we projected.”

Okeiyi said that the programme had tutors from different areas of specialisations, explaining that the academy was a private initiative.

The manager said that the sole aim of the academy was to empower youths and women in the FCT to be useful to themselves and to the country at large.

She urged Nigerians to show passion for widows.

According to her, to such widows, it is better to teach the widows how to fish than giving them fish and that is exactly what Taakra Academy is doing at the moment.

She said that women should be empowered because they were ‘the home makers’.

Okeiyi urged the Federal Government as well as stakeholders in the country to join hands to tackle the problem of widows.

Governor Isa Yuguda of Bauchi State (right) with the Principla Private Secretary to the Governor, Alhaji Adamu Alkali, during the Governor’s News briefign on the heavy rainfall in Bauchi over the weekend.

Association Groans Over High Electricity Bills

THE Association of Electricity Consumers of Nigeria (AECN) has decried the high electricity charges being imposed under the new Multi Year Tariff Order (MYTO2) introduced last year.

Mr. Gani Makanjuola, President of the association, disclosed the position of the association to newsmen in Lagos at the weekend.

He alleged that the PHCN officials were extorting consumers by the new tariff regime.

According to him, electricity consumers are being charged outside the MYTO2, thereby forcing consumers to pay in excess of power consumed.

“Many consumers do not have prepaid metres which can accurately measure power they consumed,” he said.

“We want the PHCN and the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) to instruct the distribution companies to massively roll out the new metres,” he said.

Mr. Dele Dawodu, Chairman, Alaba Market Electronic Association of Nigeria, alleged that PHCN were hoarding prepaid metres for their selfish

motives.

Dawodu suggested strict punishment for any erring worker, threatening that the group would embark on a

AN Islamic scholar, Alhaji Mufutaudeen Ajijola-Anabi, on Friday urged prospective pilgrims to embrace peace and good conduct while performing 2013 Hajj.

Ajijola-Anabi, who is also the Chief Imam, Dairat Jafariyat Fitorikat Tijaniyat Islamic Organisation, Abuja branch, gave the advice in an interview with newsmen in Abuja.

“Prophet Muhammad says that one who performs Hajj for the sake of Allah, avoiding carnal desires and sins, becomes as free from sins as on the day when his mother gave birth to him.

“So Hajj is not only a pillar of Islamic faith but it also influences every aspect and sector of moral, social,

economic, political and national life of Muslims.

“This is besides being a towering symbol of the positions they enjoy in the comity of nations,” he said.

The cleric said the purpose of Hajj was to strengthen religious communication and coordination among the Muslims from different parts of the world.

He said it also made the pilgrims to rally round the banner of “Kalimah Tauheed” (the code of Oneness of Allah), which he said, is the pivot of Islam.

“The simple unstitched white clothing which Prophet Adam wore is proposed for pilgrims so that the Muslims who all believe in one Allah, one messenger, one book and

protest if the trend was not checked.

“We will not accept cheating and we will never pay estimated billings.

Cleric Tasks Muslims On Pilgrimage one Ka’abah look alike.

“This is irrespective of their social ranking and status, thereby demonstrating outward religious harmony and cohesion.

“Hajj also envisages projection of the glory and truthfulness of Islam, besides earning believers the benefits and gains of the air, land and sea travels,” Ajijola-Anabi said.

According to him, any pilgrim who leaves his home for Hajj and dies in the way will keep gaining the reward of every year’s Hajj till the day of judgement.

He said such pilgrim would not be made to account for actions while on earth on the judgement day.

“God has put standard measurement on everything He created, even the market women use measurement to sell their goods, why did PHCN desist from accurate measurement for power.

“You can imagine, if a worker earns a minimum wage of N18, 000 and PHCN charges him N15, 000 for electricity consumed for the month, how will he survive?

In his reaction, Mr. Pekun Adeyanju, the Assistant General Manager (Public Affairs) in Ikeja Electricity Distribution Company, disclosed that it was an offence for marketers not to read the metres.

He said that the issue of estimated billings arose where customers did not have metres or when the metres were malfunctioning.

“If the metre is working, it is supposed to be read and if it is not read, the marketer should be sanctioned.

“But when the metre is faulty and cannot be read, we estimate the bills,” he explained.

THE SUNDAY

5

SUNDAY AUGUST 18, 2013

WORLD NEWS Divers Search Philippine Ferry For 213 Missing Persons

DIVERS combed through a sunken ferry Saturday to retrieve the bodies of more than 200 people missing from an overnight collision with a cargo vessel near the central Philippine port of Cebu that sent passengers jumping into the ocean and leaving many others trapped. At least 28 were confirmed dead and hundreds rescued.

The captain of the ferry MV Thomas Aquinas, which was approaching the port late Friday, ordered the ship abandoned when it began listing and then sank just minutes after collision with the MV Sulpicio Express, coast guard deputy chief Rear Adm. Luis Tuason said.

The ferry carried 752 passengers, including children and infants, and 118 crew. The number is higher than the 841 earlier reported by ferry owner 2Go, Tuason said.

He said that 213 are still

missing, some of them possibly trapped inside the vessel that sank in waters about 33 meters (100 feet) deep off Talisay city in Cebu province, about 570 kilometers (350 miles) south of Manila.

Twenty-eight people, including children, were confirmed dead and 629 passengers and crew had been rescued.

Tuason said that navy divers recovered at least four more bodies from the underwater wreck early Saturday. Reporters at the site, about two kilometers (1.25 miles) from shore, saw the bodies coated with fuel and oil that spilled from the ferry.

“There could be more bodies there, but there were ropes inside that our divers could get entangled in,” Tuason said.

He said that the coast guard will send more divers with deep-

water equipment to help retrieve bodies.

In a statement, 2Go said the ferry “was reportedly hit” by the cargo vessel “resulting in major damage that led to its sinking.”

An investigation will begin after the rescue operation, the coast guard said.

Danny Palmero, a former fisherman, said he was with friends who responded to the ferry’s distress call and rescued seven people on their motorized outrigger canoe.

“I saw many flares being shot,” he said by telephone.

“As a former nautical student, I knew it was a distress signal.”

He said a fisherman arrived at the shore with three survivors and told the crowd gathered that there was a collision and that there were many people in the water.

Divers combed through a sunken ferry yesterday to retrieve the bodies of more than 200 people missing from an overnight collision with a cargo vessel near the central Philippine port of Cebu.

1,600 Homes Evacuated As Idaho Wildfire Burns A wind-driven wildfire burned its way through sage and pine trees near the Idaho mountain resort community of Sun Valley as sheriff’s deputies expanded evacuation orders to 1,600 homes The evacuation orders for the 100-square-mile Beaver Creek fire included homes in drainages and foothills west of the towns of Hailey and extending to north of Ketchum in central Idaho.

More than 600 state and federal firefighters were working to get the blaze under control and protect property in the affluent resort region that’s a second home to celebrities such as Arnold Schwarzenegger, Tom Hanks and Bruce Willis.

Another 1,000 firefighters were expected to report to the scene later Friday night, said Shawna Hartman, spokeswoman for the Beaver Creek Fire.

Fire managers say the fire grew rapidly thanks to wind gusts

topping out at 30 mph, low humidity and tinder-dry ground fuels.

“It’s safe to say we’ve got a lot of structures at risk,” Hartman said.

Managers at the Sun Valley Ski Resort turned on water cannons that are normally used for wintertime snowmaking.

One home in an outlying valley was destroyed said Bronwyn Nickel, a spokeswoman for Blaine County, where the fire is burning.

In addition, some private insurers have sent in their own crews to provide structural protection for homes with values that can stretch into the millions of dollars, Nickel said.

“There are private engines that insurance companies have sent in,” she said. “They’re on site, they’re working with our local firefighters and law enforcement.”

Fire officials said crews spent

the day building fire lines and trying to funnel the fire into areas burned during another blaze in 2007. A huge DC-10 tanker, capable of carrying 12,000 gallons of retardant, was among aircraft making drops on the blaze.

Jack Sibbach, a Sun Valley Resort spokesman, had to leave his home south of Ketchum. He said he watched as airplanes and helicopters made runs in roughly 3-minute intervals, dropping water and red retardant to create a barrier against flames west of U.S. Highway 75.

The resort turned on snow cannons on Bald Mountain, he said, largely to protect lodges atop the mountain, should the fire advance that far.

“The fire’s not that close to Baldy, but with the wind, you’re worrying about things sparking,” Sibbach said.

“Things could jump ahead.”

E. A. ADEBOYE On Sunday

Let Your Hope Arise MEMORISE: “Which hope we have as an anchor of the soul, both sure and steadfast, and which entereth into that within the veil.” Hebrews 6:19 -Read:1 Samuel 1:9-18 CERTAIN events however experienced told him that at last, take place at some an incident that had his tide was about to point in one’s life convinced her beyond turn. Also, in Acts 3:1 which causes one’s reasonable doubts that the lame man had hope to soar. This the tide will surely begged from the season your hope will turn. same location for soar. In 1 Samuel 1:9Similarly, in Mark several years until he 18, Hannah had been 10:46-52, blind gave up hope of ever going to Shiloh and Bartimaeus had been receiving any healing had been praying staying at the same other than alms. But without receiving road side begging for one day, the same any change in her years without men who had always situation. She was receiving the help he given him alms came probably never so much needed, until by and as usual he noticed. But one day, one day, the Helper of asked and they said to while praying, the the helpless passed by. him. ‘Focus on us’. man of God noticed As he began to shout As he looked on her but misjudged her out the name of Jesus, them, he saw the – taking her for a he heard someone say. glory of God. At that drunkard; by the time Be of good cheer, point, hope arose in she explained herself, Jesus is calling you. his heart to receive the man of God asked On hearing that good God to grant her news, his hope arose. something of them. It request. From that The King of glory was does not matter how long you have been at moment, Hannah about to pass was no longer sad; judgment on his that particular bus she was free with problem of many stop of your life, the everybody and happy years. Yes, his hope Lord is passing your because suddenly her soared high even way this season. Let hope began to rise. though he was not yet your hope arise today, Even though she was healed. He threw be full of expectation yet to see the away his garment and of His touch because manifestation of her headed for the Lord the tide is about to miracle, she had because something turn in your favour.

ACTION POINT Worship the Lord throughout today and thank Him for your expected turn around.

“It does not matter how long you have been at that particular bus stop of your life, the Lord is passing your way this season. Let your hope arise today, be full of expectation of His touch because the tide is about to turn in your favour.”

THE SUNDAY

6

SUNDAY AUGUST 18, 2013

Virgin Mary And Baby Jesus ‘Appear’ In Giani Bubble IT might just look like a big bubble, but look closer. And closer again, Yes, you’ve got

it- it’s the Madonna and baby Jesus (apparently).

Photographer Jenny Helier

captured the moment the Virgin Mary materialized from seemingly holy water while on holidays with friends in Dunwich, Suffolk.

She took a photo of a teenage boy blowing the huge bubble, but it was only when she got back home to London she realized it resembled Guido Reni’s famous painting of the Virgin Mary and Jesus.

She told mailonline that it was “blind luck” she

managed to snap the moment as the boy was playing with a giant bubble making machine.

Describing the “extraordinary” photograph, she said: “when I downloaded the photographs I never thought we would see something divine as there was so much wind and it wasn’t obvious what the image was.

“But once I saw the photograph on screen I recognized it immediately to be Madonna and child”

$6m Cathedral Opens In N/Zealand A $6 million cardboard cathedral was officially dedicated in New Zealand, replacing the neo-Gothic structure destroyed in a 2011 earthquake that killed 185 people.

Made from nearly 100 24-inch cardboard tubes coated with waterproof polyurethane, the new building in Christchurch is

Odd News Compiled By EJIROGHENE ONOJETA

New Animal Discovered A new mammal species has been confirmed by scientist and its already melting hearts. The olinguito described as a cross between a house cat and a teddy bear, is the first new carnivorous mammal identified in the western hemisphere in 35 years, and it’s considered one of the cutest scientific find in recent memory.

Researchers first spotted the critter on a trip to Ecuador in 2006. On their first night out in the fig tree

jungle near Otonga, they saw it, but it has taken several years to determine genetically, how distinct it really was from the other furry mammals it resembles.

The acting dean Lynda Patterson told Agence France Presse that the official opening of the innovative structure marked a major milestone in the city’s recovery from the devastating 6.3-magnitude quake that leveled much of the downtown area.

expected to last for more than a decade while permanent replacement is built.

It includes a mosaic of colored, triangular glass etched with images from the original cathedral’s façade, which dates to 1864.

Oldest Person discovered In A man aged 123, said to ago, said “we only Bolivia years be the oldest person ever ate what we found in the recorded, has been found living in a dirt-floor hut in Bolivia.

Illiterate herder Camelo Flores Laura is still in good health though all his teeth have gone, and doesn’t need a walking stick or glasses.

The father of three-who has 16 grandchildren and 39 great-grandchildrenwas born on July 16, 1890, the civil registry reveals.

And the Aymara Indian was happy to share his secret to a lasting lifeeating skunk and fox meat, avoiding sugar or pasta and taking a long walk.

His daily diet has always included cananhua, a wild grain species rich in protein and amino acid, and occasionally pork and mutton.

Carmelo widowed 10

wild.

His straw-roofed hut is in the isolated hamlet of Frasquia, 13,100 ft up in the Andes near Lake Titicaca This must be verified by the Guinness book of records before he can officially overtake Jeanne calment of France, who died at 122 in 1997, as the oldest person on record.

Skinniest House In New York Sells For $3m THE skinniest townhouse in New York City has sold for a robust price-$3million-official says.

The 990-square-foot residence is only 8-foot-4 at its widest spot, but is rich in history, the New York post reported.

The bedroom house was built in 1873 and features floor-to-ceiling French doors that opens to a backyard that is 42 feet, 4-inches long. At 9feet 9-inches wide, it is wider than the house.

Edna St Vincent Millay penned her Pulitzer prizewinning poem “ballad of the harp weaver” between its narrow walls in 1923 and 1924.Actors Cary Grant and

John Barrymore visited there.

Anthropologist Margaret mead lived there, as did “stone soup” children’s author Ann McGovern.

A r c h i t e c t u r a l preservationist Christopher

Dobbs purchased the house in 1994 for $270,000 and sold it in 2000 to Steven balsamo $1.6million, three years ago it sold again for $2.175million.

City records indicate the townhouse’s latest buyer is George Gund.

Firefighters Free Boy’s Head From Toilet Seat Seat

A boy of two was freed by firefighters after getting a children’s training toilet seat stuck on his head.

Rescuers said the boy who has not been named, was “distressed”.

A fire and rescue service spokeswoman said. “We received a call reporting a boy with toilet seat stuck to his head.”

“Fire crews removed the

toilet seat from the head of the boy using small tools.”

She added that the boy was “unharmed and left in the care of his mother in Barnstaple, Devon”.

THE SUNDAY

7

SUNDAY AUGUST 18, 2013

TO restore according to the Oxford Advanced Learners dictionary means to bring back a situation or feeling that existed before; or to bring back something

Sunday Sermon With Bishop Clement Ehidiamhen

spirit with him, and hath followed me fully, him will I bring into the land wherein to he went; and his seed shall possess it”. No wonder it was only Caleb and Joshua

Restoration Through God’s Intervention (1)

or somebody. So restoration is the act of returning something to its correct place, condition or owner while intervention is to become involved in a situation in order to improve or help it. Therefore; restoration through God’s intervention is seeking the help of God to be involved in your present situation so as to be able to get back what is originally yours that was taken from you before now.

The devil took by trick the authority given to man to oversee God’s creation at the beginning but God divinely intervened by sending His son (Jesus) to restore as many that will believe in Him to their original position at creation.

Daniel in the Bible is a case study of a man that enjoyed restoration through God’s intervention. Daniel is a descendant of King Hezekiah; certainly he was from an upper-class educated family in Jerusalem but was among those taken as captive to Babylon by Nebuchadnezzar. In the midst of the captivitys, God stepped into his case by allowing them to choose him among those to serve in the King’s court; from there he rose from obscurity to prominence even above the citizens of the land. Brethren when God takes interest in your case it does not matter who is not there, every body will start working for your favour and this is why we must stop working for man’s favour because man’s favour is temporal and transcient but God’s favour brings men to help unconditionally. Daniel was not born a slave, circumstances led him to slavely. I prophesy to the reader of this edition, no matter what circumstances has pushed you to, God will intervene in your matter in Jesus name.

Daniel was an epitome of God’s intervention and restoration. In Daniel 6:1-3 the Bible say “It pleased

Darius to set over the kingdom an hundred and twenty princes, which should be over the whole kingdom; And over these three presidents; of whom Daniel was first: that the princes might give accounts unto them, and the king should have no damage.

Then this Daniel was preferred above the presidents and princes, because an excellent spirit was in him; and the king thought to set him over the whole realms” This was a story of how Daniel was being elevated again in another regime in Babylon above his equals because an extraordinary spirit was in him. In verse 4, jealousy arose from among his copresidents and princes because of God’s lifting for the man Daniel and as such decided to set him up for destruction. God saw them while they were planning and decided to allow them carry out their plans but why? Because God has a better plan; no matter what you are going through, it is going to end for your good as long you are connected to God. These presidents and princes carried out their plan by framing Daniel up with the things of God since there was no other way to have brought him down. Daniel was thrown into the lion’s den and God intervened by sending forth an Angle to go ahead of Daniel to shut the lion’s mouth so that they will not devour Daniel.

Daniel 6:20-22 says “And when he came to the den, he cried with a lamentable voice unto Daniel: and the king spake and said to Daniel, O Daniel, servant of the living God, is thy God, whom thou servest continually, able to deliver thee from the lions? Then said Daniel unto the king, O king, live for ever. My God hath sent his angel, and hath shut the lions’ mouths, that they have not hurt me: forasmuch as before him innocence was found in me; and also before thee, O king,

have I done no hurt”. God intervened in Daniel’s case, His life was speared and restored to life and prominence.

WHAT WERE THE SECRETS OF DANIEL a) Godly character and integrity: In Daniel 6:1-3 the king decided to select some people to be appointed as major key players in his

not compromise their faith for a peanut.

How many ladies today can enter a relationship without having sex before marriage and how many men can you entrust your business in their hands without running it with many unethical practices.

Food eaten with integrity is better than those that eat cow meat with sin.

was in him; and the king thought to set him over the whole realm”. Daniel was the foremost of three presidents or administrators who assisted King Darius in ruling his empire. Because of Daniel’s “excellent spirit” which included an extraordinary intelligence, the king planned to give him a new position above all the other administrators and

cabinet, a captive (Daniel) was chosen and preferred above the citizens of the land.

No matter whom you are and no matter where you are, if you are a person with good character and integrity, you will always stand out.

Check traders with integrity in business, they don’t beg for customers, why customers don’t come to them sometimes is because they might not have the particular product customers are looking for. Integrity can mean being unique, being original, known for whom you say you are; integrity is one character of God. So if you are a true child of God i.e. born again child of God, integrity is a lifestyle. You don’t need to take it to make it, we still have people who are looking for people that can truly stand for what they believe to hand over their companies, institutions, conglomerates, children, money, church to but how many can you find in the society that will

Proverbs 20:7 says “The just man walketh in his integrity: his children are blessed after him”. Proverbs 11:3 says “The integrity of the upright shall guide them: but the perverseness of transgressors shall destroy them”.

Psalm 26:1 says “Judge me, O LORD; for I have walked in mine integrity: I have trusted also in the LORD; therefore I shall not slide”. b) Excellent spirit: Daniel 6:3 says “Then this Daniel was preferred above the presidents and princes, because an excellent spirit

satraps. It was due to God’s goodness that at 80 years of age his mind was still sharp and his abilities undiminished. When this excellent spirit is at work in a man, it makes everything he does to be excellent.

This spirit is like a propelling force that makes a man put extra effort, techniques, ideas in whatsoever he is doing which eventually bring outstanding performances.

Another man that had this kind of spirit in the Old Testament was Caleb; Numbers 14:24 says “But my servant Caleb, because he had another

that entered the Promised Land in their own generation. When this spirit is operating in a man, it makes him see possibilities in impossibilities, if this spirit is in you, you will not settle for less than the best, it pushes you upward and forward above your contemporaries because you always do what their natural strength can not achieve for them. This spirit is not restricted to age; it even gives strength and agility to the old’ it gives foresight to the possessor. Joshua 14:1013 says of Caleb even in an advanced age “And now, behold, the LORD hath kept me alive, as He said, these forty and five years, even since the LORD spake this word unto Moses, while the children of Israel wandered in the wilderness: and now, lo, I am this day fourscore and five years old. As yet I am as strong this day as I was in the day that Moses sent me: as my strength was then, even so is my strength now, for war, both to go out, and to come in. Now therefore give me this mountain, whereof the LORD spake in that day; for thou heardest in that day how the Anakims were there, and that the cities were great and fenced: if so be the LORD will be with me, then I shall be able to drive them out, as the LORD said. And Joshua blessed him, and gave unto Caleb the son of Jephunneh Hebron for an inheritance”.

You need this excellent spirit from God to do excellent things in life, young or in old age.

(To be contd)

“Brethren when God takes interest in your case it does not matter who is not there, every body will start working for your favour and this is why we must stop working for man’s favour because man’s favour is temporal and transcient but God’s favour brings men to help unconditionally.”

THE SUNDAY

8

SUNDAY AUGUST 18, 2013

Stopping Pollution Through Waste Management System

POLLUTION is man – made or man aided alteration chemical, physical or biological quality of the environment beyond acceptable limits (according to the NESREA ACT).

Pollution therefore arises by any intentional or accidental contamination of the environment.

According to Professor Atsegbua, pollution is the introduction of any substance in such characteristic, in such duration as to produce deleterious effect on all living things in an areas in terms of the viability, relative abundance, health, morality e.t.c.

Pollution occurs on our environment which according to the NESREA ACT include water, air, land and all planet and human beings or animals living therein and the interrelationship which exists among these or any of them. This definition encompasses the physical which involves the air, water, land and the animals enjoying the environment.

The excessive use and abuse is tantamount to pollution.

Pollution can cause the following consequences Depletion of Natural Resources Health problem, for example, lung cancer, skin cancer, cholera, dysentry e.t.c Death Lost of Aesthetic appeal Social challenges for example inflation, high cost of living etc we basically have four (4) types of pollution, which are.

Water pollution: These occurs in oceans, lakes, rivers and streams.

The major water pollution are oil spills, industrial waste, refuse and agricultural fertilizer. The

effort of water pollution include cholera, dysentry, diarrhea, typhoid fever e.t.c.

Air Pollution. This is the contamination of the atmosphere by gases and solid material. The main sources of air pollution include factories, motor vehicles, generator fumes, bush burning activities e.t.c.

Noise pollution: These arises when there is unwanted or excessive sound. These are two major types of noise pollution, which are environmental noise and occupational noise.

The effect of noise pollution include hearing impairment, decreased efficiency, emotional disturbance, psychological disorder and sleep deprivation.

Land pollution: This is degradation of land by man through harmful activities like dumping of waste materials on land.

The main cause of land pollution is industrilisation which leads to urbanization.

Having seen the above types of pollution, it is imperative to discuss one of the basic way to reduce and if possible stop pollution from our environment, this process is referred to as waste management.

Waste management is simply the collection, storage, treatment and disposal of waste in such a manner as

to render them harmless to human life, animal life, the ecology and the environment at large.

Waste can be managed by way of disposal, by burying it, burning it or

sips through the land fill, taking harmful chemicals that may pollute farmlands, seas, Rivers etc.

Incineration also account as the major method of waste disposal

dumping it in the seas or rivers. It is worth noting that each of these methods has implications on the environment and its occupance.

Waste can be burried in land fills. This involves digging a hole in the ground and burying the waste. It is the most common method of waste disposal in the U.K and Nigeria. The biggest challenge with this method is from leaching. Leaching is process whereby liquid

in Africa. It is simply the process of burning waste.

When waste is burnt, it is usually done in an incinerator. Two major challenges arises from in cineration viz (a) When gases emith into the air, it causes air pollution. (b) Residues in form of ash will be produced. Another method of waste management is waste dumping. When waste is dumped in a river or sea, it is termed water dumping.

This is usually carried out

Environment With CLEMENTINA UKIRI illegally and in secret. The consequence of water dumping are enormous.

The major consequence is that it causes health problems that could lead to death, for example, food poisoning e.t.c.

From the aforementioned methods of waste management, it is clear that they are levied with disadvantages and in view of this, the following

minimization goal.

Recycling: This is the process of using, re-using and recycling of waste for original or some other purpose. When waste is repackaged or reused, it is said to have been recycled.

The idea of recycling is environmentally attractive because it minimises the challenges of waste management and appeals to our frugal ethics.

has been proposed to be followed in order of hierarchy to ensure a less harmful method of waste management.

Prevention: The prevention of waste generation should be the first option if and where possible.

Minimisation: The avoidance, reduction or elimination of waste within the area of generation would tremendously aid in the

There are different stages in recycling process which are (i) Sorting stage and (ii) Reclaiming stage, which is collectively gathering waste to be recycled. Disposing: This entails the disposal of waste in air, water or land in properly controlled and safe ways. Treatment: This is the destruction, d e t o x i c a t i o n , neutralisation of waste into less harmful substance.

- Courtesy of Dr Gozie Ogbodo

“Waste can be burried in land fills. This involves digging a hole in the ground and burying the waste. It is the most common method of waste disposal in the U.K and Nigeria. The biggest challenge with this method is from leaching. Leaching is process whereby liquid sips through the land fill, taking harmful chemicals that may pollute farmlands, seas, Rivers etc.�

THE SUNDAY

9

SUNDAY AUGUST 18, 2013

Eating Healthy Or Just Pleasing Your Taste Buds (4)

Healthy eating tip 8: Add calcium for strong bones CALCIUM is one of the key nutrients that your body needs in order to stay strong and healthy. It is an essential building block for lifelong bone health in both men and women, as well as many other important functions.

You and your bones will benefit from eating plenty of calciumrich foods, limiting foods that deplete your body’s calcium stores, and getting your daily dose of magnesium and vitamins D and Knutrients that help calcium do its job.

Recommended calcium levels are 1000 mg per day, 1200 mg if you are over 50 years old. Take a vitamin D and calcium supplement if you don’t get enough of these nutrients from your diet.

Good sources of calcium include: Dairy: Dairy products are rich in calcium in a form that is easily digested and absorbed by the body. Sources include milk, yoghurt, and cheese.

Vegetables and greens: Many vegetables, especially leafy

green ones, are rich sources of calcium.

Try turnip greens, mustard greens, collard greens, kale, romaine lettuce, celery, broccoli, fennel, cabbage, summer squash, green beans,

whole grains, lean protein, and good fats, you may find yourself naturally cutting back on foods that can get in the way of your healthy diet—sugar and salt.

Sugar causes energy

foods such as bread, canned soups and vegetables, pasta sauce, margarine, instant mashed potatoes, frozen dinners, fast food, soy sauce, and ketchup. Here are some tips: Healthy eating tip 9: Avoid sugary

Brussels sprouts, asparagus, and crimini mushrooms.

Beans: For another rich source of calcium, try black beans, pinto beans, kidney beans, white beans, blackeyed peas, or baked beans. Limit sugar and salt: If you succeed in planning your diet around fiber-rich fruits, vegetables,

ups and downs and can add to health and weight problems. Unfortunately, reducing the amount of candy, cakes, and desserts we eat is only part of the solution. Often you may not even be aware of the amount of sugar you’re consuming each day. Large amounts of added sugar can be hidden in

drinks. One 12-oz soda has about 10 teaspoons of sugar in it, more than the daily recommended limit!

Try sparkling water with lemon or a splash of fruit juice.

Eat naturally sweet food such as fruit, peppers, or natural peanut butter to satisfy your sweet tooth.

How sugar is hid-

By BINITIE ROSELINE/CLEMENTINA UKIRI

ealth Watch

H

With CLEMENTINA UKIRI

den on food labels Check food labels carefully. Sugar is often disguised using terms such as: - cane sugar or maple syrup - corn sweetener or corn syrup

- honey or molasses - brown rice syrup - crystallized or evaporated cane juice - fruit juice concentrates, such as apple or pear - maltodextrin (or dextrin) - Dextrose, Fructose, Glucose, Maltose, or Sucrose

Healthy eating tip 10: Reduce your salt intake.

Most of us consume too much salt in our diets. Eating too much salt can cause high blood pressure and lead to other health problems. Try to limit sodium intake to 1,500 to 2,300 mg per day, the equivalent of one teaspoon of salt.

Avoid processed or pre-packaged foods.

Processed foods like canned soups or frozen dinners contain hidden sodium that quickly surpasses the recommended limit.

Be careful when eating out. Most restaurant and fast food meals are loaded with sodium.

Opt for fresh or frozen vegetables instead of canned vegetables.

Cut back on salty snacks such as potato chips, nuts, and pretzels.

Choose low-salt or reduced-sodium products.

Try slowly reducing the salt in your diet to give your taste buds time to adjust.

(The end)

“Most of us consume too much salt in our diets. Eating too much salt can cause high blood pressure and lead to other health problems. Try to limit sodium intake to 1,500 to 2,300 mg per day, the equivalent of one teaspoon of salt.”

THE SUNDAY

10

SUNDAY AUGUST 18, 2013

THE SUNDAY

11

SUNDAY AUGUST 18, 2013

What Is Your Take On Senate Failure To Pass LG Autonomy Bill?

THE proposed local government Autonomy bill which was passed by the House of Representatives, if passed into law is to grant the local government in Nigeria access to funds allocated to it and also bring governance and development to the grassroots. This gesture by the House of Representatives was applauded by majority of the citizens of Nigeria but their joy was short-lived when the Senate refused to pass the bill, there by dashing the hopes of many who have always yearned for local government autonomy, since they see it as an avenue for grassroot development.

Naked Truth went to town to seek the divergent views of members of the public on this matter of n ational importance. Their views are presented here for your reading delight.

by the state governors, who on their own vehemently opposed to the bill or there is a monthly or quarterly share from the local government allocations accruable to the senate. For God’s sake, local government councils is one of the tiers of government and must be given full autonomy, it is total wickedness for state governors to connive with senate to emasculate local government administration,

the state. If it remains like this, you will not blame local government chairmen for not developing the grassroots for they don’t have the finances to do as things should be done.Ensuring that the local government autonomy bill is approved will create room for grassroot development.

But I doubt if the state wants the grassroots to develop.

There is political undertone – Adams Oyiboke In politics, opinion differs

Naked Truth Compiled By CITIZEN EMMA KOLA OKHAKHU interest put together has tremendous influence which is presently working against the success of the local government autonomy bill.

Senators are self centred – Imuesi Godfrey Self centredness!!! The Senate in the fourth republic has shown itself to be more pro-elite than the lower house which has shown some inclination for the masses. Knowing fully well the elitist (political class) view on local government

They want to do the bidding of state governors –Leo Atakpu It is because they want to do the bidding of state governors who are opposed to local government autonomy. This is regrettable because laws are meant to be made for today and tomorrow, not for individuals. It is the same thing for request for state police.

Local government autonomy is an imperative for the entrenchment of democracy at the grassroots, any opposition to this is self serving and unfortunate shame to the senate.

They are being teleguided by some governors – Comrade Pius Edo Self preservation is the first law of man and nature, but if it becomes antithetical to the preaching of the church and other men of goodwill it becomes sentimental on selfish basis.

Senators are being teleguided by the Governors who see the autonomy of local government councils as a very big blow or rather a check on their powers to manipulate the councils chairmen and their allocations as they like.

I wonder why some top government officials still preach fairness and justice in a country where non exist leaders at the three tiers of government are voted in to take full control of the positions they are voted into.

If the governors are not behind it, they should impress it on the senators to pass the bill. What is good

Senate in session

for the goose is also good for the Gander.

Every right thinking Nigerian should support the autonomy of local government as it is the only way to hold the councils chairman accountable to the people at the grassroot.

They were either bribed or got their share from LG allocation –Osaretin Okhomina That the senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria failed to endorse the Local Government Autonomy Bill, during the process of trying to amend the constitution, did not come to me as a surprise for two reasons: either the senate was bribed

perpetually. The reasons senate gave for not endorsing the bill are not tenable. They should come out openly and tell Nigerians the truth and nothing but the truth. We are tired of senate’s antics.

They have hidden agenda – Richard Eweka The endorsement of local government autonomy is the needed ingredient to move development at the grassroot. But our legislators will not approve such bills because most of them have hidden agenda.

The governors and the senate will not approve of such as some of our senators have interest to become governors while the governors want to be in total control of the resources and revenue that comes to

but interest matters. The failure of the senate to endorse the local government autonomy bill has political undertone.

Many of the present senators are eyeing 2015 gubernatorial election in their various states. Passing the local government autonomy bill would be tantamount to reducing the state financial control over local government and ultimately reduce the looting capacity.

Secondly some governors in the states and their Deputy-Governors is another factor. Where the Governor has completed his two terms, the Deputy’s interest to vie for the master’s position is very paramount. Thus, such

autonomy to be selfish and anti-masses, it was no surprise to see the senate vote along that line. After all you are fully aware of how the chairman of the then unified governors forum, Rotimi Amaechi sounded it clearly that his group was against local government autonomy, it was no surprise to see a senate which has always gone with the political class vote against local government autonomy, not only to please the political elites but because of their strategic position, they equally stand to benefit from the bounty available from joint account when they too become state governors.

Failure to endorse is due to

fear of embezzlement –Olugbemin Opeyemi Michael Although, I have always been a fan of local government autonomy, but with more information some reservations now exist. It is important for the local government to have funds to carry out developmental projects, so that there will be more grounds for the chairmen to be held accountable. But I think the same fear of improper management of funds and embezzlement is one of the reasons, the passing has been stalled; as this might give opportunity for another embezzlement channel.

Also, local government autonomy may increase intra-state quarrels, as it will provide avenues that look as if there are more than one captain in the ship with an autonomous local government you have a less powerful governor. Hence this might also be a reason for the failure in endorsement, we have a problem of the minister of state and governor, see the problem? Not to talk of an autonomous chairman and governor.

However, I will suggest a controlled autonomy, but not full autonomy, for the sake of global peace and global tranquility.

His Due To Personal Insterest -Winifred Osasobo Local government autonomy is self government, the right to rule a community. The bill has been delayed by the senate and did not see the light of the day due to personal interests.

The local government is the government of the grass root, which is closer to the people than the federal or state government. But, since the senate has failed to endorse it due to favoritism, nepotism and corruption undermining what will be of interest to the general public.

Since they have failed to sign it into law, it simply means the senate has failed in its responsibility as an organ to serve and work for the masses.

“The local government is the government of the grass root, which is closer to the people than the federal or state government. But, since the senate has failed to endorse it due to favoritism, nepotism and corruption undermining what will be of interest to the general public. Since they have failed to sign it into law, it simply means the senate has failed in its responsibility as an organ to serve and work for the masses.”

THE SUNDAY

12

SUNDAY AUGUST 18, 2013

VOX POP

Your View On The Proposed Demolition Of Structures Under High Tension Wires By Govt IT is now a common sight in Edo State and in Benin City in particular to see houses that have been erected under high tension wires. This, with its inherent dangers posed on owners of such structures has prompted the Edo State government to propose the demolition of houses built under high tension wires in the state.

This position of the government is to take effect soon. In view of this, SUNDAY OBSERVER interns Clementina Ukiri, Salami Blessing, Binitie Roseline went out to feel the pulse of the people.

Excerpts.

These people live with the fear of being constantly exposed to danger – Ejiroghene Onojeta Policies are bound to be made and implemented and more often than not, these policies do not always at first sit well with the soon-to-be beneficiaries of the policies.

For me the demolition of houses built under high tension wires will benefit the people if carried out to the letter.

There’s been several mishaps, heartaches and irreplaceable losses to families who have been adamant enough not to heed the warnings to avoid living in such dangerously exposed locations.

These people no doubt live with the fear of being constantly exposed to danger. True people would be affected in more ways than one, but the right step has to be taken. If possible, alternative houses should be made available even if at low costs .

It should be borne in mind that the occupants of these houses, most of them have lived in those houses all their lives, they should be considered and their well-being should be

thought about.

It is a welcome idea – Anthony Aibangbee The proposed demolition of houses or buildings under high tension wire is a welcomed idea and should be applauded by all.

Although many ignorant citizens who would be affected by this proposed action will not welcome the idea, but it should be seen by all, as government’s resolve to protect the lives of her citizens due to the high risk associated with people living or trading under high tension wires. When you consider the adverse effects of erecting buildings under high tension wires, then you will see that the government gesture is not borne out of hatred or witch-hunting of any individual but to avert the loss of live which in my own opinion is what is more than any monetary value.

It is risky - Okogba Emmanuel O The risks involved in building or living in houses under high tension wires is something that nobody wants to involve in, such buildings are the ones that are easily affected when we have

heavy rains that come with lightening and thunder.

Also we cannot rule the possibility of disconnected wires falling on such houses and the outcome is always distrastrous. I believe there is a body that controls the way houses are built. This body should step in and make sure this blind act is stopped at once to save lives.

Houses under high tension wire should be demolished – Mrs. Jumoke Houses under high tension wires should be demolished because these people living there are not safe but they don’t know.

Another thing is that the

government should try and notified these people on time so that it will not look as if they are driving them away from their own properties.

The government should compensate owners of demolished houses – Mr. Festus

done, and they are adequately compensated, I believe they will agree to what the government is saying.

The decision is reasonable – Queen Obiekwuye It is absurd that government makes effort

My view is that before the government should take any step, they should try and compensate these people before demolition because it’s not very easy to own a house and also most of these people are old, they might not have any where to go, so the government should please give them sometime.

House owners should be educated before demolishing – Matthew House owners should be educated before demolition because most of them were not educated and are still not educated on the dangers of building houses under the high tension wires. If this can be

to safeguard the life of its citizens and all they get is complains.

It is detrimental to build your house under high tension wires due to the adverse risk of getting electrocuted if change or error in the electrical supplier occurs.

The problem of the people building houses despite the installation of high tension wire is as a result of illiteracy. I am sure there are processes involved in building a house. Poverty is another issue that ravages this irrational decision. It is not enough to buy land, build and start living there, there are some professionals who should look at the land, tell you the risk and

advantage of the land. The fact that people don’t consider this make them fall prey of building in a floody land and wearing lands. The decision of the Edo State government is a reasonable one and it shows that the government have its people at heart and are working for the progress of the state.

The government should provide alternative – Mrs. Josephine Erhunmwunsee I am not a party to that kind of a thing. I mean why would the government want to demolish the houses of people under power line without providing alternative for the people that would be affected, they should remember that it was money these people used in building those houses, it was not easy for them and from what I know it is out of frustration that they build houses there, now the government is planning to demolish them. They are claiming that they care about the people’s safety but there are so many other things the government can do to make our environment secure, they have not done that, instead they are planning to make people homeless without considering the psychological and physical effect it would have on the people. There are some stores and workshops there too where some of them earn their living, I want them to think about what they want to do very well before going into implementation.

“The proposed demolition of houses or buildings under high tension wire is a welcomed idea and should be applauded by all. Although many ignorant citizens who would be affected by this proposed action will not welcome the idea, but it should be seen by all, as government’s resolve to protect the lives of her citizens due to the high risk associated with people living or trading under high tension wires.”

THE SUNDAY

13

SUNDAY AUGUST 18, 2013

NEWS EXTRA

SURE-P: 3000 Youths, Women Empowered THE Vice Chairman of SURE-P in Ebonyi, Mrs Ngozi Iheanachor has said that 3000 youths and women in the state had benefitted from the programme.

Iheanachor, who is the Coordinator of the National Directorate of Employment in the state, told reporters in Abakaliki that the beneficiaries were recruited under its community service youth and women empowerment project.

She said the beneficiaries were deployed to communities to engage in community services such as environmental sanitation, traffic control in markets and vigilance services, among others.

“The programme has impacted positively in

reducing unemployment among women and youths.

“The exercise is the first in the community service empowerment programme of the SURE-P and no fewer than 2000 women and youths would be employed in the second batch before the end of September.

“The programme is a well thought out programme to keep the unemployed women and youths busy and thereby reduce crime in the society,’’ Iheanacho said.

The NDE coordinator said the directorate, which coordinates the programme, had worked out measures to sustain the programme and ensure its success.

“We usually monitor and evaluate the activities of the beneficiaries on daily basis to

ensure that the programme is not compromised.

“Our community support officers are in various communities charged with the responsibility of ensuring that the employees are doing what

is expected of them,” she explained.

Iheanacho said the directorate had also created desk offices to coordinate the activities of the programme in each of the 13 local

government areas.

“We have developed strategies and mechanisms that will ensure the success and sustainability of the programme and no indolence will be entertained from any

beneficiary.

“We monitor and receive reports from our field officers at the communities and local government levels,’’ she said.

LG Disburses N10m Scholarship To 500 Indigent Students MRS Adaeze Nwauzor, the Chairman of Ebonyi Local Government of Ebonyi, said weekend that the council had disbursed N10 million as bursary to students in tertiary institutions.

Nwauzor said that the award would enable the students to overcome basic financial challenges and show commitment to their education.

“The money will serve as assistance to the students to

overcome some basic financial challenges in school.

“You know that university education is expensive and very critical in the manpower development of any society.

Therefore, we are giving our students in these institutions the necessary assistance we can,’’ Nwauzor said.

She urged the beneficiaries

to be good ambassadors of the council and show deep commitment to their academic pursuits.

She also advised them to shun secret cult activities, examination malpractice, drug abuse, prostitution and other acts capable of derailing their academic endeavours.

“Failure, they say, has no friend; therefore, I urge the benefiting students to be good ambassadors of this council in their various institutions and avoid anything that will hinder their success.

“They should stay away from illicit drugs, examination malpractice, prostitution and cult activities, among other acts that can lead to failure,’’ Nwauzor said.

The chairman further

advised the students not to be used as thugs to foment electoral violence in the forthcoming local government elections.

She also called on the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) and government to resolve issues that led to the ongoing indefinite strike by university lecturers in the interest of the students and university education.

“I am appealing to ASUU and the Federal Government to resolve their differences so that our children, whose academic future is being jeopardised, can go back to school.

“It is really bad that the affected children have remained out of school for two months now. I am, therefore, appealing for understanding from both parties,’’ she said.

Poor Sanitary System, Threat To Healthy living - Experts

The Spiritual Leader, Chairman Church Council, Christ Chosen Church of God International, Most Snr Apostle Dr. Joshua Osasuyi with Snr Apostle Dr. David Unuefe, 1st Deputy Chairman, Church Council during the 2013 National Convention at the Central Cathedral. Photo: MOSES OBOH.

Alkali Tasks Politicians On Utterances A FORMER National Publicity Secretary of PDP, Prof. Rufai Alkali, urged politicians to avoid utterances that could heat up the polity and cause disharmony.

Alkali, who made the appeal in an interview with newsmen noted that there are many appropriate channels of registering complaints or passing on criticisms.

“Some people seek to gain popularity and shout at the top of their voices bringing in religious and ethnic sentiments; people should not hide under religion and fuel

the crisis in the country.’’

He expressed the need for people to be mindful of what they say as there “are various channels for communicating grievances’’.

“If you are in the state, you have the governor, if you are the federal level, you have the president, if you are in the constituency, you have the senator; if you want to use the traditional institution, you have the traditional rulers.

“But what we see is a situation where people get up and say all sort of things and go back to their beds leaving behind dust and crisis.” he

said.

Alkali said President Goodluck Jonathan was doing his best in terms of developing the country as he inherited complex and accumulated problems. he listed areas where the president has done well as education, agriculture and infrastructural development.

“This country is very complex; the democracy is just 14 years. There are many accumulated problems and it is difficult to address these problems within a short time.

“The government is doing its best in education; look at

the issue setting up of nine universities across the country; infrastructure issues are very complex and the government is committed to improving things.

“In the area of agriculture, we don’t hear about the previously recurring issue of fertiliser scandal,’’ he said.

He noted that “expectations are always very high’’, but advised Nigerians to give the president their support as it would enable them to reap the desired benefits from the nation’s democratic process.

“There should not be further distractions.’’

MEDICAL experts have identified poor sanitary system as a bane to healthy living and conducive environment for human habitation, .

A reporter who spoke to some medical personnel in Osun weekend, reports that the inability to observe simple rules of hygiene was responsible for the health challenge facing some people.

Dr Oso Taiwo, a medical officer at the Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, said,’’ the greatest threat to healthy living of humans in a particular geographical location is poor sanitary system.

“Authoritatively, the aftermath of poor sanitary system is worse than HIV and AIDS. “ Do you believe that cholera, which is one of the consequences of poor sanitary system, can kill faster? ‘’Some people without toilet facilities ignorantly pass faeces at the back of their houses; they are oblivious of the fact that dangerous bacteria from that faeces can threaten their survival,’’ he said.

Oso described flies as the carrier of the bacteria from

faeces, saying it could perch on meals and contaminate them.

Also speaking, the Executive Director of Millennium Health Centre in Ila-Orangun, Dr James Fasogbon, said indiscriminate disposal of faeces around human settlements could be dangerous. “ The traditional way of sewage system in this part of the world is inimical to the health of the people, it is what brought about the high rate of maternal and child mortality. ‘’Cholera and dysentery are two dangerous diseases that continue to kill our people in their thousands out of ignorance. “ It is so pathetic that people are dying out of ignorance. ‘’Some will use the latrine and still come back to prepare food for their household without washing their hands, and eventually put the entire family in serious health problems. “ The Ministry of Health must intensify its campaigns on the importance of hand washing and proper sanitary system for the betterment of our people,” he said.

THE SUNDAY

14

SUNDAY AUGUST 18, 2013

Divorce Trauma On Children (2) TAKING care of children at the time of divorce is something that most parents fail to do, because most of their energies are geared towards what is best for them and bringing in the children, secondary.

Most parents are usually overwhelmed by all the issues or even become depressed, anxious and angry at such a time, in most cases, you find the children wanting to take care of their parents especially their mother or the parents that finally has their custody, you see the children acting as adults, helping and comforting their parents, all because they see the distress in their parents. Don’t forget that it is difficult for these children, so don’t let your children act as your caretaker and don’t treat them as adults also, let them be children that they are and keep the parents child relationship intact.

On the other hand, when feeling depressed or the children getting on your nerve, take time off from the children, spend time with friends, family or support groups, make new friends or take a vocation alone to sort

out yourself and be children from the yourself again. It is trauma of divorce is not the time to isolate when parents take out yourself.

their anger, frustration, betrayal, hurt, etc, seeing that it

Motherhood With Chelson SMS 08023457637

home but what is really at stake which is the long term effect

“The most important factor in protecting the children from the trauma of divorce is when parents take out time to step back and take a look at what is at stake, away from their anger, frustration, betrayal, hurt.”

The most important factor in protecting the

time to step back and take a look at what is at stake, away from

is not about their pride, money, who gets what or about the

on the children. No divorce case has been known to benefit any

“Divorce stakes are usually very high on the children, which is why parents should make the extra effort at better options for the sake of the children, surely they are certainly worth it.”

child or make the child come out emotionally balanced in life but that the children’s lives are endangered. Divorce stakes are usually very high on the children, which is why parents should make the extra effort at better options for the sake of the children, surely they are certainly worth it.

A US research showed that 98% of prisoners are from divorced homes or raised by single parents. What does that tell us, that divorce never does any good for the children but mar them.

That is why, if you must have a divorce, encourage visitation from and to your former spouse frequently, brace yourself to accommodate him/ her, help the children stay connected even to their old friends especially if you have to move out, also encourage new friends, never leave the children alone to deal with their emotions, keep conversation/ communication open at all times. Seek the help of a counsellor or a therapist if you can’t handle it yourself, but most especially seek help from God.

THE SUNDAY

15

ACCORDING to the English dictionary, nag means to repeatedly remind or complain about an insignificant matter, to act inappropriately in the presence of other people, to bother someone with persistent memories. In the above definitions there is always a part of it found in the character/ behaviour of a woman/ man. Sometimes, all definition are exhibited at all times or some times.

Some say that in a relationship whether married or courting, nagging situations are bound to come up because it is definite that disagreement, differences in ways of doing things will come as well as quarrels. So, nagging can’t be ruled out, for at other times, the partners will tend to remind the other that “oh, this is what you did the other time and I don’t like it”, statement such as this and more will surely come out, you are reminding, complaining of the present situation and also the past. (who is not guilty of this?).

Often, these complaints are of insignificant value, something that the other person might not take seriously or do unconsciously, or something that may not be damaging or be a threat to life, yet is an issue for you. In all relationships it is expected that you are accommodating in all ways, sometimes, be blind to certain things done by your spouse or be deaf to your spouse saying.

SUNDAY AUGUST 18, 2013

Women are generally known to be very free with words, especially when angry, that is when you know there are words

When you are in a relationship with a nagging partner, what do you do? Well, here are some steps to take.

time, it can be spending a weekend out or take a vacation. It’ll surely do you both some good and give you time before

Relationship With Chelson SMS 08023457637

Handling A Nagging Spouse

in a woman’s mouth, some people say nagging comes naturally with woman but there are men that nag even more than the women.

Give attention. It is time to give that little attention your spouse is complaining or reminding you of that you don’t give. Give her your

another nagging issue comes along.

Listen. You have heard enough of “you never listen to me”, well, stop pretending that you

have or you always hear your spouse complain or reminder, now is the time to actually listen with your heart to that voice or cry, have a talk, a good

conversation with your spouse everyday for at least 30 minutes.

Get your spouse involved. Yes, involve your spouse in that end of year dinner party in your office, take your spouse outing frequently, also with friends. Involve your partner in your business/job decisions, seek opinions from them at home, discuss issues that bother you and also engage them in their own business/job if none.

Shower love and gifts. It may seem a bit difficult to constantly show love and affection to someone that is always nagging you on every bit of issue but honestly, it works. Go out as the nagging kicks off and buy a gift, it will definitely shut the mouth or telling him/her I love you”.

Ignore the nagging.

This is where self control plays an important role in the relationship, it is difficult to completely ignore the nagging, control yourself, walk out of the door or go into a room don’t say a word, they may either get tired or bored.

“Often, these complaints are of insignificant value, something that the other person might not take seriously or do unconsciously, or something that may not be damaging or be a threat to life, yet is an issue for you. In all relationships it is expected that you are accommodating in all ways, sometimes, be blind to certain things done by your spouse or be deaf to your spouse saying.”

THE SUNDAY

16

SUNDAY AUGUST 18, 2013

THE importance of youths as veritable tools for the development of any nation cannot be over stressed, neither can any society neglect her youths in

income.

In a chat with reporters the President Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Comrade Abdulwaheed Omar warned that if left unattended to this

Another major aspect militating against Nigeria’s youthful population is illiteracy. The rate of illiteracy amongst Nigeria youth is very high and even higher when you talk about

youth unemployment crisis could undermine the peace and security of the nation.

According to him “with an estimated 80 million youths in the total population, 30 to 40 million unemployed youths constitute a veritable army of the hungry, disssillusioned and an anger that can undermine the stability, security and peace of any nation, if left unattended to.

Also speaking in the same vein, Governor of Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Mr. Sanusi Lamido Sanusi lamented recently that while the Nigerian economy grew at the rate of seven percent for the past five years, unemployment has actually doubled at same period. He noted that the current security upheaval and internal insurrection all over the country were as a result of severe poverty and rising unemployment, stressing that jobs can only be created by establishing industries that rely on little technology but high in productivity similar to the ones adopted by the Chinese and Asian tigers. As the number of unemployed youths continue to soar, the rate of crime will certainly be on the increase, insecurity will always arise, under development will abound and migration of our active and indispensable population needed for national development is inevitable.

computer literacy with the population of Nigeria youth, if illiteracy is reduced to the berest minimum, it can go a long way in helping the development of the Nation and sub-Saharan Africa. And if the Nigerian government has this in mind then adequate and proper funding of education must be ensured, in order to make sure that incessant strike by lectures and teachers, decayed infrastructural and learning facilities in our institutions of learning, non-availability or access to cheap and affordable education among the populace producing half – baked graduates are things of the past in our dear nation, for illiteracy as they say is a disease that cannot be cured by any doctor. So if Nigeria must compete favourably with her counterparts from across the globe in human capacity development, enhance the standard of living of her citizenry and become productive, than the education of her ever rising youthful population must be encouraged since it is a catalyst to National development.

Moreso, poverty is another challenge before the Nigerian youth, with mass unemployment, low standard of living, corruption and the insensitivity of the nation’s few political elites to the plight of the majority Nigeria

Politics An With

ANTHONY AIBAN

The Nigerian Youth A Develo

the scheme of things in her quest for National, social, economic and political development. This is a fact that is accepted by all and sundry. Hence when Nigeria joined her counterparts around the world to commemorate the 2013 world youth day on Monday, August 12, 2013 many factors which have always been impediments to the full utilization of the potentials of the Nigerian youth in her quest to contribute its quota to the Nation’s development came under the search light of today’s discuss.

According to statistics from the Nigerian Bureau of Statistics (NBS), Nigeria’s unemployment rate is at 23.9 per cent and 60 per cent of its population are youths, translating to about 80 million Nigerian youths. Youth unemployment rate is over 50 percent, about 64 million Nigerian youths are unemployed. This scourge of unemployment has deprived many Nigerian youths access to contributing their quota to national development. The result of the rising youth unemployment situation in the country has provided shrinking options to job seekers as those who find work are forced to be less selective about the type of job they settle for, including parttime work and temporary contracts because they are in desperate need for any

• Shipload of migrating youths

masses of which the Nigerian youth is a part, poverty seems to be a master and on up-hill task to be seen passed.

This poverty as a result of corruption on the part of past and current leaders has seen that Nigerian citizens mostly youths suffer in the midst of plenty. The resultant effect of this is the involvement of our active and energetic youths in practices or crimes such as kidnapping, armed robbery, oil bunkering, militancy, acts of terrorism and migrating to foreign land in search for greener pastures. The current insecurity, crisis and congestion of our prisons are as a result of poverty among our youths, hence they result to violence at the slightest provocation. This same poverty is the much reason our youths will continue to be used as agents of political thuggery by our politicians, that is why migration of our youths will continue unabated and the safety of lives and property will continue to be a mirage in the entity called Nigeria, if the plight of the Nigerian youth is left unattended to.

Also, the Nigerian ruling class has continued to deny the Nigerian youths access to key leadership position. A close look at the Nigerian ruling class will show you that they are the same set of people, of families that have been in charge since independence. This is

Nigeria where a fifty years old man can be the youth leader of a political group,

of tomorrow, but it interest you to know

Comrade Abdulwaheed Omar, NLC President association, community or organisation. A look at Nigeria’s presidents from independence (excluding the military era) will show you that Nigeria has never produced a president less than 50 years of age. They pretend that the youths are the leaders

tomorrow starts from The Nigerian youth been short changed b nation’s leaders and since been silenced b laws made by these leaders, hence the alternative left for Nigerian youths is to

“As the number of u to soar, the rate of cr increase, insecurity development will ab active and indispens national developmen

THE SUNDAY

17

SUNDAY AUGUST 18, 2013

nd Issues

NGBEE

the nation.

This year’s United Nations youth day celebration with the theme youth migration: moving development forward,

remained insensitive to the plight of these unexplored potentials which are important for national development.

If the economic situation

governor has promised to do even more in order to engage the youths and reduce the rate of crime and vices in the state. It is the wish of many citizens of the state that those

should not be ignored. The migration of our youths to other land to contribute to their development and the sufferings of those at home should not go unnoticed, this

of the country is an enabling one, there would not be the craze to go abroad for greener pastures nor the crave to remain there, but instead it would be a case of traveling

already employed are retained or their employment made permanent before the end of the Comrade Governor’s tenure, so that they would not have to go

year’s international youth day has provided a united platform to remind our leaders and political elites, that there is an urgent need for decisive intervention to resolve the numerous youths problems.

The signal of strife and insecurity today are warning banners we cannot afford to ignore.

The youth are the bedrock and the foundation upon which every nation in the quest for development and improved standard of living of her citizenry builds upon. Hence they play a vital role and serve as an important tool to national development. If the society, free from crimes, vices, insecurity and other negativity which we so desire must be achieved, then migration must be discouraged among Nigerian youth and this is possible if the government provide an enabling environment for our youths to compete favourably with their counterparts from across the world, by providing employment, eradicating poverty (by improving the standard of living), giving education a priority in the budget, fighting and eradicating corruption and giving the youths access to political leadership positions in the country. With these, Nigeria will not need to look outside for her developmental needs or technocrats but instead she will look inward, for such is the success of many great and developed nations of today.

As A Tool For National opment

might w that

m now. have by the d have by the same only many o flee

abroad for a better and more conducive environment of

living. With leadership roles being denied Nigerian youths, one begins to wonder if they are no qualified, capable and efficient youths in the nation who can do better than what we are experiencing at the moment and steer the country towards national development. Not until

the country’s leaders realize the unlimited and untapped

potentials that abound in the Nigerian youth and give them the enabling environment to utilize them and be in key positions to forestall the development of the nation in all sectors, the development that they so desire or profess to desire will continue to elude

unemployed youths continue rime will certainly be on the y will always arise, under ound and migration of our sable population needed for t is inevitable.”

created the unique platform to discuss and exchange ideas on the problems of the Nigerian youth and possible solutions.

According to the United Nations (UN) Secretary General Mr. Ban Ki-Moon, on the occasion of the International youth day, more than 21.4 million young people are among the annual total of some 214 million international migrants, he said despite the huge numbers, little is known about their struggles and experiences, as according to him the reasons young people migrate are many, some are fleeing prosecution, and others are escaping economic hardship in the cause of seeking greener pastures, young migrants face lots of challenges such as sexual exploitation, crowded and unsanitary living conditions, poverty, challenges of finding decent employment, bad weather conditions, ill-health imprisonment and even untimely death. Moreso these migrants (youths) are often discriminated against by their host communities and politicians of coming to take the limited jobs from local people, exposing them to further risk of discrimination, or have you forgotten the Ghana-must-go era in Nigeria? When Nigerians insisted that Ghanaians must go back to their country?

The current migration of Nigeria active youth population speaks volume of the condition of the Nigerian youth. This action of our youths has continued unabated with many never getting to their dreamland or destination while many are wallowing in jails cross various countries in North Africa, Europe, Asia and America while others in hospitals or homeless in these countries. Bitter stories of Nigerian youths who suffer one hardship, molestation death or the other are heard and watched every now and then in the media and yet the Nigerian government has

• Comrade Adams Oshiomhole of Edo State

abroad for more training and exchange of ideas with the intention of coming back home to contribute their quota to national development.

It is in view of this that various states and the federal government are creating one initiative or the other to engage the Nigerian youths. In Edo State, the Governor, Comrade Adams Oshiomhole in his drive towards engaging the teeming Edo youths embarked on the Edo State Youth Employment Scheme (EdoYES), Neighbourhood Watch and Agricultural program with a view to engaging as many youths as possible. This project has seen to the gainful employment of thousands of youths in the state who had hitherto been unemployed before now. And the Comrade

back to the streets after 2016, which will amount to a dog going back to its vomit as this will not augur well for the security of the state in its drive to combat crime and vices.

The Edo State example is worthy of emulation by various state governments and the federal government, as the empowerment of the Nigerian youth is not for one tier of government alone, but instead it should be collaborative efforts towards making our youths fully engaged.

The youths in Nigeria constitute up to 70 percent of the entire population, which is a majority figure and also means with such number, they can influence things to a certain level, hence they

• UN Secretary-General, Ban Ki Moon

THE SUNDAY

18

SUNDAY AUGUST 18, 2013

Compassionate Ministries

“AS Jesus is so are we in this world” (1John 4:17).

Our duty is to fulfill the building plan of His glorious Kingdom by the example Jesus gave us.

Zechariah 7:9-10 says, “Execute true justice, show mercy and compassion everyone to his brother. Do not oppress the widow or the fatherless, the alien or the poor. Let none of you plan evil in his heart against his brother. That is a picture of the nature and character of God Himself. And so He tells us in Luke 6:35-36. “But love your enemies, do good and lend, hoping for nothing in return, and your reward will be great and you will be sons of the Most High. For He is kind to the unthankful and evil. Therefore be merciful, just as your father also is merciful.”

Matthew 9:36 says, “But when He saw the multitudes, He was moved with compassion

for them, because they were weary and scattered, like sheep having no shepherd.”

Again, in Matthew 14:14, “And when Jesus went out He saw a great multitude, and He was moved with compassion for them, and healed their sick”.

Jesus asked a very penetrating, convicting question in Matthew 18:33,” should you not also have had compassion on your fellow servant just as I had pity on you?.

I pray with all my heat that you see with spiritual eyes and hear with spiritual ears our Lord’s descriptions of His true people. And this is found in Matthew 25:34-40, then the king will say to those on His right hand,

S

unday Diet

With ERNEST IKHUREIGBE

SOME people erroneously believe that their present predicament is the end of their Godgiven life. I consider this as a misconception based on life experiences and numerous accounts in the Bible as figments of their own imaginations. Borne out of the seed sown from the pit of hell by the devil.

John 10:10b state. “I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.” It is not impossible to be deceived by evil thought coined and planted in one’s mind, it’s however, imperative to curtail and rebuke every thought that could kill, steal and destroy; as it is basically the vision and mission of the devil as

contained in John 10:10a.

It is important as a life policy to be connected to a noble cause in the course of life journey. It is God’s own word that, no matter the challenges we pass through, He would give us an expected end. Jere 29:11. However, it’s a choice that should either be taken or rejected, depending on our level of obedience. Isaiah 1:19 states.

“If ye be willing and obedient ye shall eat the good of the land. His promise is for the deligent, the willing and the obedient”. But whoever choses to disregard his devine instructions risks being confirmed to the dustbin of irrelevance and self

“come you blessed of my father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world, for I was hungry and you gave me food; I was thirsty and you gave me drink; I was a stranger and you took me in; I was naked and you clothed me; I was sick and you visited me; I was in prison and you came to me”, then the righteous will answer Him, saying, “Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and gave you drink? When did we see

you a stranger and take you in or naked and clothe you? Or when did we see you sick or in prison and come to you?”

And the King will answer and say to them, “Assuredly, I say to you, inasmuch as you did it to one of the least of these my brethren, you did it to me”.

In Colossians 3:10, Paul talked about putting on “the new man” who has been renewed “in knowledge according to the image of Him who created him”. And in verses 12-15 and 17, Paul

R

eflections

With MOSES EVBUOMWAN

describes the glow of the glory of God on the life of the new men and women of faith.

“Therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, put on tender mercies, kindness, humility, meekness, long suffering, bearing with one another, and forgiving one another, if anyone has a complaint against another even as Christ forgave you, so you also must do. But above all these things put on love, which is the

bond of perfection. And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to which also you were called in one body, and be thankful. And whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the father through Him”.

I pray you understand how shallow your stream of ministry may be or become if it is not ministry in the Spirit of Jesus – Compassionate Ministries.

“Therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, put on tender mercies, kindness, humility, meekness, long suffering, bearing with one another, and forgiving one another, if anyone has a complaint against another even as Christ forgave you, so you also must do.”

It Is Not Over Yet

caused grief.

Beloved, it can’t be over when the Lord has not approved of it.

Nobody can thwart your effort if the Lord does not approve of it. (Lam 3:37).

One can vividly recall in Luke 5:1-8 when Simon Peter could not catch a single fish throughout a whole night of fish hunting. But when Jesus came and he (Peter) acknowledged and obeyed his simple but divine instruction, - to “launch out into the deep”.

He did not only catch

fishes, he was recruited immediately into the Ministry of fisher of men!

Luke 5:10.

One thing is very important that you and I must acknowledge in the course of dealing with the Lord Jesus. Peter did acknowledge himself as unfit and unrighteous before him to get what he desired from the Lord.

(Verse 8). It states, when Peter saw it, he fell down at Jesus knees, saying depart from me; for I am a sinful man, O Lord”.

And immediately, the Lord Jesus saw in his

heart the seed of confession and repentance.

He immediately recruited him as His own servant on His service. This was a man, whose hope was once lost but Jesus reassured and lifted him above his imagination.

Mary and Martha had thought that their brother Lazarus who was sick and later died could not longer come out of the grave after four days. Jesus appeared in their house at their time of mourning John 11.21. Then Martha said unto Jesus, Lord, if

“Beloved, the Lord Jesus is still in the business to cause breakthrough in our lives, Heb 13:8.

He could decide to have mercy and compassion on whosoever that calls on him even at the time and state you least expect.”

thou hadst been here, my brother had not died.

Martha only had the belief that Jesus could heal him.

But she was proved wrong that even what is dead can be resuscitated. Lazarus, who was dead and buried after four days was miraculously raised from the grave. John 11:43-45 Beloved, the Lord Jesus is still in the business to cause breakthrough in our lives, Heb 13:8. He could decide to have mercy and compassion on whosoever that calls on him even at the time and state you least expect.

Never write yourself off, he wants you to come to terms with Him. Isaiah 1:18-19 Matt 11:28-30.

Don’t give up even as the enemies gather to launch their weapons. It cannot prosper as you decide to allow Him take over the battle of your life. 2 Chron 20:15.

Remain bless as you throw away the garment of despondency.

THE SUNDAY

19

SUNDAY AUGUST 18, 2013

Top Best Brands For Comfortable Dress Shoes For Women (2)

By IKIKA CLARA Naturaliza Naturaliza has a loyal following because their designs are generally more stylish than other comfortable dress shoe brands. Though they do not have as much cushioning as some other labels, naturalizer offers a wider selection of modern feminine dress shoes that appeals to a larger age bracket.

Me too A relative new comer to the comfortable dress shoes crowd. Me too targets a younger audience of women. Me too shoes are cuter and more fashionable than the traditional brands, featuring a wide variety of casual and dress flats that reflect the latest colors and styles at very reasonable prices.

Stuart Weitzman One of the best designer brands for comfortable dress shoes is Stuart Weitzman. The collection

includes bold fashionable heels, flats, loafers, and mules that most designer brands cannot match in comfort of course, you’ll also pay a premium for this style usually upwards of $250, though Amazon often has sales on their comfortable dress shoes for under $100.

Munro If you go to a specially walking shoe store, you will probably find munro pumps, which tend to be wider then normal dress shoes and offer solid arch support your feet. They are not inexpensive, but they do tend to have better designs than other brands with similar foot support.

Ecco Ecco shoes are most similar to born in their focus on construction and cushioning. Like Born, Eccos also tend to be built bulkier than other brands.

Fashion & Style

With ROSE ORHIBHABOR

The company is actually more well known for their casual and athletic shoes, but they also make a good selection of comfortable dress shoes.

Tarun Rose Another designer brand known for comfort with a large fan following is

merrell as stylish or formal women’s dress shoes, but they are formal women dress shoes, but they are practical comfortable, and affordable their shoes range from hiking boots to athletic shoes to casual flats and pumps, which can be worn in many work

Tarun Rose. The line was lunched by an orthopedic surgeon, so the shoes are built with high tech cushion for fit and

places.

Hush Puppies Hush puppies makes a few stylish boots, loafers and sandals, but for the

flexibility. However, these stylish and comfortable dress shoes also cost as much as other designer shoes like Stuart Weitzman.

Merrell I would not describe

most part they are selling comfortable women’s shoes, not stylish dress shoes. If that sounds good to you, you will also appreciate their reasonable prices.

“A relative new comer to the comfortable dress shoes crowd. Me too targets a younger audience of women.

Me too shoes are cuter and more fashionable than the traditional brands, featuring a wide variety of casual and dress flats that reflect the latest colors and styles at very reasonable prices.”

THE SUNDAY

20

SUNDAY AUGUST 18, 2013

Music

S h o

z

My Career Thrives On Controversies

• I Can’t Marry An Actor - Tonto Dike

THIS is a sheer case of if you have it flaunt it. Caroline, the erstwhile actress who is now into singing, music production and fashion parlour recently posed with her husband,

Danjuma, in what looks like showcase. She may have decided to flood the Internet with the pictures to douse any doubting Thomas that the marriage is not real.

CONTROVERSIAL actress, Tonto Dike who loves to appear on pages of tabloid as fish loves water is at it again. The fair complexion actress will never allow a week go by without stirring up controversy. She just loves to talk and it seems it is really paying off. Of course she just confessed that her career thrives on controversies.

The other day, she was quoted to have hit Mercy Johnson, a coactress. The attack was so fierce that even fans of the mother of one, Mercy fought for her.

Just when her fans thought she could calm down a little, few days ago she gave insight into her kind of man she would love to marry, forbidding artists like her not to get close.

Listen to her: “I am not too strong to fall in love; I am human and I have feelings too.

I don’t think there is any woman on earth that has not experienced love in one form or the other. But it is not possible for me to marry an actor; I can never be caught doing that,” Tonto explodes.

COMEDIAN I Go Die has disclosed that his ordered Rolls Royce Phantom has finally arrived. The comedian, who has been enjoying the best of time with his comedy in and out of the country, no doubt, is one of the best acts in the industry.

He just got the delivery of his N30million white and ash customized Rolls Royce Phantom. Show Biz learnt that even the footmat is customized.

Hear what he said, “Yes, I have got a Rolls Royce

and I think I deserve it because I have worked for

• Caroline and Hubby

Caroline Ekanem Showcases Hubby

W b i

Movies

don’t care about me; everyone She said about herself, “I am is entitled to his or her own a role model to those who see opinion. I live my life the way I me as one; I am sure Nigerians want to. People should also out there see and read all these remember that I am human and things and they laugh. I am sure no one is perfect” there are people out there who appreciate what I do as an actress and hope to someday achieve what I have achieved as a thespian.”

Responding to w h y controversies swirl around her, she noted: “My career thrives on everything; my career thrives on all the ups and downs that I have been faced with.

But most especially, the controversies have made me stronger and wiser. I don’t care • Tonto Dike about them because they

it. You also know that I don’t like to flaunt my wealth and

I Go Die Acquires Customized Rolls Royce Phantom

• I Go Die

• The Car

Doris Simeon Releases Pictures To Promote Movie

acquisitions, so I wish you wouldn’t quote me”

Stella Damasus Cries Out

Bloggers Are Lying Against Me

DORIS Simeon, the Nollywood actress who has made a name for herself in business of make believe world has debuted with a movie entitled

“Unforgivable” The movie starring Desmond Elliot and Mike Ezuronye promises to be a thriller, an insider told Show Biz

• Doris Simeon

• Mike Ezuronye, Doris and Desmond Elliot

CONTRARY to widespread rumour that actress Stella Damasus will be sued to court by her ex-husband, Emeka Nzeribe, latest news reaching Show Biz shows that there is no iota of truth in the story.

Publicist to Stella Damasus tissues of lies as nothing like disclosed that the blogging that exist. industry has become a ‘jagbajanstis” market where people fabricate all sort of things to get traffic.

According to speculations, Nzeribe is considering a legal option against Stella because they are not fully divorced yet before remarrying another man, Daniel Ademinokan.

But her publicist said all are • Stella Damasus

THE SUNDAY

21

SUNDAY AUGUST 18, 2013

Theatre

Concert

Funke Akindele Confirms “Jenifa Part 4” In Works

• Funke Akindele

FUNKE Akindele is telling her fans that she has finally put her devoice palaver behind her as she announced few days ago that Part 4 of her block buster movie” Jenifa” will soon hit movie stand.

The popular actress who made large chunks off her massive movie,

Jenifa which has 3 parts already, confirmed that she is already putting final touches to the part 4 of the movie.

The part 4 is expected to showcase the new life of the main character, Jenifa in the United States of America after her travails in part 1, 2 and 3.

had issues with American rapper, 50 Cent, which began the wreck of his music career few years ago, had taunted Don. But Don replied in his

wooz (slap) me, I go still bend down clean your shoe o. I hail. Love your new jam, keep the flag flying boss.

God bless,” wrote the Delta State-born Don Jazzy.

Recall, Eedris is not new to controversies. He once had problem with former President Olusegun Obasanjo, who slammed him for his “Jagajaga” hit single some years ago. Also the Nigerian Breweries black listed him for his unruly behavior during one of their music shows. Eedris had also fought journalists on what he referred to as “unpalatable” reports about him, among other undisciplined character.

Marvin Record Boss, Don Jazzy Replies Eedris RAPPER and former handle: “Baba Abdulkareem’s Dart Twitter member of the group (referring to Eedris), if you Remedies, Eedris Abdukareem, who has been fighting hard lately to bring back his already fading music career, because of his fiery temper picked on Don Jazzy when he dismissed him

• Don Jazzy

in a new song.

In his usual matured way of handling hot issues, the Mavin Records boss replied the rapper without taking offence. Eedris, who once

• Eedris Abdulkareem

Controversy Trails Nollywood Actor’s Planned Marriage FOR those who don’t know Benson Okonkwo, the best way to remember him is to go watch “Pregnant Hawker”. Being one of the actors, who played a gay role in Nollywood’s first soft porn gay, and was rumoured to be a gay to have played the role so well, is enmeshed in a controversy over marriage plans.

Benson has repeatedly said he is not gay and resently said he was in a long-term relationship with the woman he is planning to marry. He said he and Emelda Emells have been dating for over eight years even

• Benson and Emelda

before he acted in the flick; and that he has picked a December date to tie the marital knot.

“I am not bi-sexual, neither am I homosexual. I have dated my girl for close to eight years now. I plan to take her to the altar someday. Besides I am from a Christian home. My family did not teach me a habit like that. And looking for money cannot push me to do that” However, in a twist of event, Emelda Emells denied the marriage plans, saying it is all but a cover up. “I’m not in any

relationship with Benson. He is just using me to cover up his real lifestyle. I have known him since 2005 and those photos (below) was taken in 2011 at a salon and we were just playing around, even the kiss is not real.

Benson has been using me to cover up for years and it has to stop. I have a serious boyfriend and it was his friend that drew his attention to the rumour”, she narrated. According to her, “Now I am having issues with my man. I am not engaged to Benson or planning to marry

him. He has never even asked me to marry him. His father and my father were friends and that is how we met. We were introduced but he never touched me and when I started seeing men in his house I understood and we have been friends ever since. The story is so painful to me. I lost my father on August 4th and I am still mourning him so to be reading this type of story online is making my situation worse. Please I am not getting married to Benson”, she said in an emotional voice

Big Act, Omotola Jolade Ekehinde On Top With new QX56 sport utility ROAD to stardom was New SUV vehicle (SUV) with a

easy for elegant and sexy Omotola Jolade Ekehinde but there is always a glittering ride at the end of every tunnel. That is just exactly the best way to describe Omotola’s grand entry at the special party organised by Actors Guild’ of Nigeria in her honour recently. Arguably the most flamboyant African actress, Omotola

came to Oriental Hotel, Lekki, Lagos, in a brand

• Omotola

With MISTER FELIX

GSM: 07060576600

GLOBAL BUZZ Chris Brown’s Seizure Caused By Emotional Stress

SINGER Chris Brown reportedly suffered a seizure when he collapsed at Record Plant recording studios in Hollywood. This occurred shortly after spending 45 minutes in jail after his probation as a result of his 2009 assault on Rihanna was revoked due to an alleged hit and run accident in Los Angeles in May. Meanwhile, some have related his seizure to his intense fatigue and anxiety related to his recent hit and run legal troubles’.

His spokesperson said “while in the studio working early, Chris suffered a non-epileptic seizure (NES). He was not

hospitalized. His doctor tended to him and attributed the NES to intense fatigue and extreme emotional stress, both due to the continued onslaught of unfounded legal matters and the non-stop negativity”

• Chris Brown

Oprah Winfrey Apologizes Over Switzerland Store Incident AFTER all the uproar caused by Oprah’s allegation that a sales girl in a Swiss store

• Opray Winfrey

was a racist, which the girl refuted, it is alleged that it has affected Switzerland’s image.

Oprah must have thought about it and apologized. Not because she accepts she was lying but maybe because she mentioned the country’s name. “I’m really sorry that it got blown up. I purposefully did not mention the name of the store. I am sorry I said it was Switzerland.

I was just referencing it as an example of being in a place where people don’t expect that you would be able to be there”.

Justin Bieber Strips Nude To Play Guitar For Grandma PHOTOS of Justin Bieber playing the guitar totally naked to his grandma at her home on Thanksgiving has surfaced online.

Justin Bieber reportedly strolled up to her and began singing, “I Love you Grandma, how are youu……helloooo Grandma”. His grandma and others in the home were said to be amused by the sexy show but grandma quickly started begging Justin to put some clothes on.

Meanwhile, angry fans of the

19 years old pop star attacked the media organization responsible for releasing the photos.

• Justin Bieber

Mary J Blige Having Fun Despite Tax Evasion Slam

customized plate number ‘Omo T’

DESPITE money woes that saw Blige hit with a $3.4 million

• ‘Omo T’

• Mary J. Blige

tax slien in May, she and Isaacs appeared to be in a good spirits and enjoying their European getaway.

Music diva Mary J. Blige was spotted in a bikini as she relaxed on the beach in Sardinia, Italy.

The 42- year old singer was joined by her husband, Kendu Isaacs at the Pitrizza Hotel later.

Blige looked incredible, wearing a black two piece and multi coloured cover up while vacating on the Mediterranean Island.

• Compiled by Emma Okogba O.

THE SUNDAY

22

SUNDAY AUGUST 18, 2013

ENCOUNTER

THIS story of a European returnee, to many will sound incredulous while to others a fairy tale. But it is true, according to him. So, he advises, before you make that move to travel overseas for greener pastures, stop, think and introspect. You could be in for a rough time.

Remember all that glitters is not gold.

Stallone Sunday Ademola saw it all, he fought but didn’t conquer. He tells a story of unspeakable happenings, things unimaginable that often befall travellers, especially those who travel by road en route Europe.

He first ventured into Libya through Niger Republic and the Sahara desert. When war broke out there, he sought refugee status in Italy and later went on to Switzerland and back to Italy, then to Malta, among other places.

Stallone Ademola told Felix Omoh-Asun and Emmanuel Okogba his odysseys.

In The Beginning Until you see the pictures When Lucky Igbinedion I have to show, you would for governor of Edo State not really understand was building his house, I what I am talking about. believe I was one of the You could trek four miles youngest labourers there. to get to a well just to I was always hard drink water. There was a working, then I gained day we trekked for about admission but things were four hours for water and so rough for me so I could when we got there, a dead not meet up with my body was inside the well, education, so I had to we had no option but to leave the country because drink or we will die of I am the first son of my thirst. At times people family. So, I had to take drink their urine. As you on a challenge. I wrote go along the desert, you application letters to the see human carcasses on immigration and different the way, at times, you see Nigerian forces and there vultures feeding on fresh was no chance for me. So human beings who just I had to leave for Libya. died. Many of you could Through The Desert leave at the same time but My names are Ademola only a few would get to Sunday Stallone. The the next destination. So experience I had is the one many things I cannot I would not wish anybody explain with my mouth. to have. A lot of people Life In Libya died. I have photos that Though the journey was show what I am saying. tough, many died, many

My Odysseys

Africans killed by rebels in the desert but I believe God saw me through, that was why I came back home and said I will not die with this story. I have to tell it so that God will bring the right people to solve this issue of unemployment in Africa once and for all and help us deliver those thousands of Africans imprisoned in Europe by the Europeans for no reason.

When I was there- LibyaI lived in a place called Sharabahi, there were too many guns there. Whether you are black, white or a Libyan, they would ask you if you need a gun to help fight Gaddafi. If you need, they would give to you but if you don’t, nobody will force you.

Free Guns It was free of charge and if you want to devout your time to fight during that period they will definitely give you and when you return each day, you have something in your pocket.

So people were using that as means of survival.

The Fight It was a revolution; they were fighting to overthrow Gaddafi. From

- Stallone Ademola

my own perspective, Gaddafi was a good man but he was still wicked to some extent because a

Italian rule. From there, the things that were coming up were not good. When we arrived

Stallone Ademola

country where you speak with fear is not a country.

So, the fight in Libya was for a means of survival and also to overthrow Gaddafi.

Asked if he participated, he said no! I did not participate. Why would I? I have the fear of God in my heart so I can’t do something like that.

Moreover, I was working as a supervisor in a tiling company so I did not have time for fighting.

Other Countries Visited In 2011, I left Libyan; I spent three days on the sea and arrived at Lapadozza.

From there, I went to Andorra. From Andorra to Bizantino, a place called Masafra under Bari Island, a region under

there, they arranged for a woman called Katarina where they enumerated people, they built a place where they come every day. They tell you what to say, what to do.

Exploitation The governments that have some refugees from Ghana, Nigeria, Morocco, Gambia and Senegal and who said they wanted to give us food, water, schools, houses failed and all turned out to be propaganda and exploitation. At times, they would arrange and snap photographs that show that we were enjoying and send to some governments whereas we were suffering. If anybody wants to see the

evidence of what I am saying, I am ready to show them. When the people keeping us receive grant, they would share among themselves. They were using such grants to trade. They would ask us to talk into tapes, but we never knew it was a set up.

We never knew they were using those things they told us to say to extract money from the United Nations and foreign governments. They were feeding us with poisonous food so I had to continuously smoke Indian hemp instead of eating their food. I struggled to leave for Napoli before getting to Milan.

Life In Italy Then I spent two years in Italy, and later left January 15, 2012 because my supervisor wanted to have sex with me. He is a homosexual. He was always disturbing me. I was afraid he would kill me. I then resigned and went to Switzerland as illegal immigrant for about two months and then deported back to Italy then to Malta, then to Italy again. In Switzerland, I was placed in an underground prison with others seeking asylum. There they wanted me to be a translator because they realized I speak Italian Contd on page 23

“I have to tell it so that God will bring the right people to solve this issue of unemployment in Africa once and for all and help us deliver those thousands of Africans imprisoned in Europe by the Europeans for no reason.”

Travellers arriving Lempadussa, an island off the coast of Italy from Libya

THE SUNDAY

23

SUNDAY AUGUST 18, 2013

... Odysseys

Contd from page 22

very well. But because of what I saw there I refused.

People were placed under dehumanizing conditions.

I felt if I remain as a translator, there are things I will not communicate.

Nigerians were more in the population of asylum seekers, Edo State had the highest population. In Napoli, Italy you can see Yorubas more in number but in Swiss and Malta, they are full of Ibos.

Back Home I came back home about two months ago with nothing, only with my bag. I came back home to preach the gospel of good governance. What I saw cannot be comprehended through imagination. The condition of Nigerians and Africans in Europe is worse than that of dogs.

Our women are used as next to nothing. They could be asked to open their legs, even in the open because of hunger they cannot say no. Blacks are seen as animals.

When I came back, I went to the Federal Ministry of Information in Abuja to tell them of my ordeal so that the ministry could sensitize our youths not to travel abroad. I noticed some things there, nobody gave me audience. I travelled through the desert to Libya and I believe, you lying down in your house does not have that

experience. I don’t take death as anything now because I believe any man can die anywhere and anytime. Because of what I have seen, I thought to myself that I should use my time to fight all these things and decided to go to newspaper houses to help me publish the story – the way all these white people treat us and the way government underrate things, it has to change for the better.

My Crusade Although I want to start a crusade to tell our youths to develop themselves at home rather than travel abroad, I don’t have the structures to take off this. I believe that with God I will be able to take off properly.

I am here to tell the federal government or most importantly, the United Nations and Africa governments that there are some issues that they don’t need to neglect or underrate because there are too many people in Europe that are coming home with ugly faces. I watched one programme last week where T.B Joshua said that a revolution is coming up.

But I believe the revolution is not just coming, it is here already.

There are experiences out there, the brain-box of the problems are here with us.

There are some areas I visited. I once asked a

Travellers to Europe from Libya

ENCOUNTER the Europeans are the Boko Haram. Europeans are Boko Haram in the sense that in Africa,

motivated to write a story in which I referred to the black man as not being the devil, because 95% of

experiences there I will not. The advice I have for Nigerian youths is that

lorry load of Africans travelling to Europe through the hot desert

white man who Boko Haram are in Africa?

Because in Africa, there is

nobody produce guns and bombs but those things are coming from outside.

After sponsoring those

white men are devils, only 5% have the fear of God. I believe God will intervene.

A dead African who died while on his journey in search of greener pastures

no Boko Haram. I believe

things, they look for ways to make us fight so that we can run away from our country and go abroad so that they can exploit us there. From what I saw and experienced, I got

Advice For Youths I believe if they go, they would see things for themselves. I am still saying that I have full right to go back to Europe but because of my

they should not try to imitate anybody. Because you see someone driving a car or someone criticizing you. You want to “check out” to make money. I believe why most youths go into things like this is because they want to impress people. I will further blame the Nigerian government for what these youths do because I feel they ought to help those youths who need help. Like I said before, I wrote applications to different places, one of which was the customs. During this time, I met a man named Mr. Igari who is an immigration officer, he gave me and one of my friends who also wrote application some excuses that discouraged us, so I had to travel abroad to get something for myself.

Nigerian youths should learn from my experiences and make up their minds to stay here in Nigeria.

“What I saw cannot be comprehended through imagination. The condition of Nigerians and Africans in Europe is worse than that of dogs. Our women are used as next to nothing. They could be asked to open their legs, even in the open, and because of hunger they cannot say no. Blacks are seen as animals.”

THE SUNDAY

24

SUNDAY AUGUST 18, 2013

LONG time ago in the animal kingdom the

friend all what he told him when he came to

Story Time The Tortoise And The Rabbit tortoise and the rabbit and other animals where living together and the tortoise and the rabbit where very close friends, they lived together share ideas with each other then came a day the rabbit’s mother fell sick and died of the sickness he moared his mother for a very long period while the rabbit was moarning his mother He lacks nothing there was always enough for him to eat and cloths himself. While the rabbit mother was alive she was very kind to the other animals in the kingdom because of this, the animals in the kingdom gave what was within their reach to the rabbit as a way to show their gratitude and appreciation of what his mother did to them during this condolence visit by the animals to the rabbit the rabbit gained what his mother did for the animal.

The rabbit became very robust and attractive as a result of the numerous gift he was receiving from his mother relations and friend’s he used all the gifts to substained himself till he was able to face life himself.

Then came another day the tortoise mother fell sick and died of the sickness too he cried out loudly to attract the attention of the other animals and that of his mother relation they came and console him and left he received nothing from no one of the animals and FATHER Man How old is your father?

Boy As old as me Man How can that be?

Boy He became a father only when I was born MOSQUITOES Are M o s q u i t o e s religious?

Yes! They first sing over you and then pray on you

By ROSELINE BINITIE

his mother relations. He buried his mother and was now alone in the world he ate and spent every thing the mother left behind he now became stranded not

leaves from the bush and rap them into a small bulk to form a parcel he made the parcel very many he then set out for the bush.

When he arrived at the

asked for his help and advice about how he can survive after his mother’s death because he saw he lacks nothing when his mother died and that he told him that it is what he put in the bush that he was collecting and it was what

C

hildren’s World

With CLEMENTINA UKIRI 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789

POEMS

By STANLEY OSAMWONYI

Cry Of A Widow (1) Oh cry of a widow Life is a misery, death a thief Sorrow my garment and my scarf pity My feet shame and my voice a mockery Life laughs at my reddish eyes Death gladdens at my empty arms Like a silent wind you came as a thief Took away my joy from my arms

knowing where to turn to and who to go and meet for help, he thought about his problem all the night he then remembered the rabbit his friend he made up his mind to go and see his friend and asked him how he was able to survive the same situation when he lost his mother.

When it was morning he went to his friend the rabbit, when he got there he told him his problem and asked him to show him the way to make it.

His friend answered him and told him that it is what one put in the bush that one will collect. He thanked the rabbit very well and left when he got home he got a very big bag and went into near by bush that was very close to his house took some

first junction he drop a parcel he continued dropping these parcel in the different junctions in the bush till he finished dropping all. He then went home gave himself some time after a period of one month he went back to the bush, got to the first junction picked up the parcel he had dropped there opened it he found out it was the same way he left it, he went into the bush to all the junctions he had dropped his parcels opened them all to his greatest disappointment, he found nothing in any one and so he went back to his friend the rabbit getting there he told him that he had lied to him his friend was surprise at him when asked how did he lied to him he now told his 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012345678901234567890121 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012345678901234567890121 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012345678901234567890121 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012345678901234567890121 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012345678901234567890121 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012345678901234567890121 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012345678901234567890121 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012345678901234567890121 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012345678901234567890121 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012345678901234567890121 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012345678901234567890121 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012345678901234567890121 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012345678901234567890121 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012345678901234567890121

Jokes

By CLEMENTINA UKIRI

MARRIAGE Marriage is a three ring circus an engagement ring, a wedding ring, and a suffering ring.

BANTA Museum administrator!

That’s a 500 year old statue you’ve broken.

Banta: Thank God!!

Thought it was a new one.

he used to sub stained himself. When he lost his own mother he put stuffs in the bush went back to collect them he found them same way he dropped them his friend laughed hearting at him and said to him you are a fool when I said it is what one put in the bush that is what one will collect I did not mean you should go and be putting parcels in the bush, what I mean by telling you that is that while my mother was still alive she was good to people and so when she died all those she was good to reciprocated by giving me things like food stuffs, materials and cloths etc as a way of expressing their gratitude.

In shame and surprise the tortoise left, got to his house to continue his stronger for survival.

In this world it is good to be good because it is what one sow that he or she will surely reap as a parents be good to people so that while you are alive or dead people will remember you for your good do the same to your children

Glimpsing into the door of widowhood My imaginary past remain only a dream With her eyes profuse with tears The future too blur for her to see Lying helplessly on the floor Her legs too weak to stand Crawling to the grave but refrain by her comforter She screened for the earth to swallow her Excavating the ground with her fingers As if searching for the spot of its mouth Now rejected by the living and the dead.

Her life ravage with tears in the day Bartered with loneliness in the night Crying silently on the inside Only God can truly hear her God is a friend to the lonely A shoulder to the fallen The strength to the weak The hope to the hopeless He alone comfort those who mourns

THE SUNDAY

25

SUNDAY AUGUST 18, 2013

RELIGION

The Sands Of Time Are Sinking (5) THE world is becoming churchy and the church is becoming worldly. In those days, you know a Christian by how he lives. Today many people honour God with their lips, but their hearts are far from God. They believe that once they find themselves in church, no enemy could overcome them, even if they did not do what God expected of them.

If the Boko Haram Sect was not killing human beings, the Sect members would have been better than many Pastors in this country. Many Pastors are killing people by spiritual means in the country.

A Pastor was arranging a crusade for winning of more souls and he paid two brothers N10,000 each to wear charms to the crusade.

During the crusade, the Pastor told the audience that he saw a vision of two people in the congregation wearing charms and he wants the two people to come outside to the altar. The Pastor had seen the two boys in the congregation before talking to the audience. When the boys got to the altar, the Pastor asked them to give him the charms they were wearing and the two boys immediately brought out the charms tied round their waists and gave them to him. All the people in the congregation hailed the Pastor that he could see vision and perform miracles.

The Pastor became popular and many people were going to pay him money to see vision for them. He was telling people lies and he became rich. Another boy was always paid by a Pastor to go to crusades outside the State and the boy would tell the congregation at the crusade that he had been suffering from leprosy or epilepsy and could not walk until the Pastor came and cured him of the disease. The boy had not been able to pass his WAEC Exam since 1981 when the Pastor started paying him to deceive people and he now took it as his main work. The boy has been placed under a curse.

Another Pastor seduced three small girls between the ages of 8 and I l years and raped them. What did God require of these Pastors? It is change. Prophet Jeremiah knew people in his day who honoured God with their lips

By PRINCE BAYO OKUO while their desires are elsewhere. This was why he said they should change the way they are living and stop doing the things they were doing (Jer7: 1-11).

There is nothing absolutely scary about being the Pastor of a church. Our lives are judged by Biblical criteria of their “fruits”: healing, love, understanding, and sacrificial living for others.

True worship shows in the way you treat other people.

God expects you to treat others the way you would

drunkards, but they did not allow their bodies to be defiled. Your body does not belong to you but to God because He bought you at a price. So, honour God with your body (I Cor 6:12-20).

The place you find yourself is not the last place on earth.

When you find a new place you will find some good things and some bad things.

Heaven is the dwelling place of God and the final destination of every believer.

The gate will always remain

animals such as rats or rabbit could only be done by a few people who had great courage since many people lacked the courage to cut these animals and some have been known to faint at the sight of blood. But recently, a woman was transporting five human heads inside a cooler of rice to P/Harcourt.

She told the Police that she was taking the cooler of cooked rice to assist her sister whose daughter was getting married. When she opened the cooler and the Police saw that it was only

want them to treat you. Jesus did not deceive people to make himself famous as a miracle worker. He did not tell people to bring money in order to see vision for them.

Your body is the temple of God. It is not to be used for sexual immorality but to serve God. The prophets of old worked with prostitutes and they could easily have become prostitutes themselves. They worked with drunkards and they could have become

open and no night there. But there is nobody who is impure or deceitful nor anybody who does shameful things that will ever enter it (Rev 21:22-27).

There are many people of evil conscience but few people of good conscience in the world today. In those days, it takes people a lot of courage to see the corpse of a dead member because of fear that the dead member may suddenly rise up from the dead. The killing of small

rice inside, they asked her to go. But the Israeli dogs with the Police refused to allow the woman go because they perceived something different inside the cooler.

The action of the dogs made the Police to ask the woman to scoop out the content of the cooler and they discovered five human heads hidden inside the cooler. The Police arrested her. Where did the woman get five human heads from? What is she going to do with the five

human heads? The woman has no conscience. Her conscience is dead. The five human heads belong to five different people and heads of five different families.

A girl was going out with a boy who proposed to marry her. The boy was a cripple but very rich. He was spending all his money on meeting the needs of the girl including paying her school fees. Because of this, the girl was not worried about the condition of the boy and the boy promised not to disappoint her. Their relationship continued for

two years until it got to time for them to marry. The girl came and told the boy that she was not interested in marrying a cripple. She left the boy and the boy went and looked for another girl to marry. He moved with the new girlfriend for 6months before they married. On their wedding day, the boy’s former girlfriend came to the church to see the girl who wanted to marry the cripple.

A miracle happened as the boy and the girl were waiting

“Your body is the temple of God. It is not to be used for sexual immorality but to serve God. The prophets of old worked with prostitutes and they could easily have become prostitutes themselves.

They worked with drunkards and they could have become drunkards, but they did not allow their bodies to be defiled. Your body does not belong to you but to God because He bought you at a price.”

for the Pastor to join them together as husband and wife. The cripple boy stood up, stretched his two legs out and started to walk majestically on the church altar. Everybody was amazed by the miracle that happened.

The boy’s former girlfriend was shocked when she saw the boy walking on the altar.

She went and committed suicide. The girl died of guilty conscience. If the girl knew she was not going to marry a cripple, why was she eating the crippled boy’s money since two years. The second girl only moved with the boy for 6months before they married.

It is very wrong to pass judgment on others without giving them fair hearing before saying that what they did is bad or not. When somebody come and tells you something negative about another person, it is wrong for you to condemn the person that what the person did is very bad. You ought to hear from the other person to know if what you heard was correct or not, before passing judgment. It is possible that the person telling you something about the other person was telling a lie. Any judgment you pass on the other person without hearing from him/her is a sin.

Even in the court of law, the judge listens to an accused person before passing judgment on him/her. It is better for you to reply somebody telling you something about another person that “if that is what the person actually did, it is not good” than to reply that “what the person did was very bad”. Most people in this country are guilty of this sin. People do not necessarily respond to the facts before them, but rather they respond to what they perceive before them, even if what they perceive is incorrect e.g. If somebody lied to a new leader against another person, the new leader will not look at the facts on the ground before making his judgment but he will base his decision on what he heard from others even if what they are telling him is incorrect. Send your reaction on the message to Eail:pbo1030@yahoo.com or 07055599615.

THE SUNDAY

26

SUNDAY AUGUST 18, 2013

PSYCHOLOGY

Promoting A Child’s Emotional Intelligence Through Social/Emotional Education SOCIAL and Emotional Learning (SEL) is an umbrella term that refers to students’ acquisition of skills to recognise and manage emotions, develop care and concern for others, make responsible decisions, establish positive relationships, and handle challenging situations effectively. In other words, SEL refers to skills to manage self, relate to others and make viable decisions. performance and success in SEL is geared towards life. He outlines five crucial aspiring to a higher emotional competencies Emotional Intelligence basic to social and emotional (EQ). Research has shown learning. that EQ is the best purveyor Self and other of a child’s future awareness: understanding achievement, even better and identifying feelings; than any other single factor. knowing when one’s Emotional intelligence is feelings shift; understanding not a new concept, it could the difference between be traced to Socrates the thinking, feeling and acting; Greek philosopher that lived and understanding that one’s long ago. Socrates was actions have consequences having the idea of emotional in terms of others feelings. intelligence at heart, when Mood management: he said, “man know Handling and managing thyself”. difficult feelings; In the 1980, Howard controlling impulses; and Gardner, in his important handling anger work on multiple constructively. intelligences, outlined the Self-motivation: Being presence of seven domains able to set goals and of intelligence, two of them persevere towards them were inter-personal and with optimism and hope, intrapersonal – these even in the face of set backs. combined were the fore Empathy: Being able to runner of what we now put yourself “in someone known as emotional else’s shoes both cognitively intelligence. The term was and affectively; being able first coined by a Yale to take some perspective; University Professor and being able to show that you Psychologist, Peter Salovey care. and University of New Management of Hampshine’s Professor and relationships: Making Psychologist, John Mayer. friends, handling Daniel Goleman in 1995, friendships; resolving reported that “IQ is only a conflicts; cooperating; minor predictor of success collaborative learning and in life, while emotional and other social skills. social skills are far better The mastery of these five predictors of successes and competencies its in well-being than academic enhanced emotional intelligence”. intelligence.

Goleman in his book, Parents have been “Emotional Intelligence”, warned by child said that a child’s emotional psychologists not to omit and social skills can be social-emotional programs cultivated, so that the child from their children. will accrue both short-term A leading child and long-term advantages in psychologist, researchers regard to well-being,

By ERUANGA ISAAC

and expert on SEL from Rutgers University, Maurice Elias explains the dangers of omitting social emotional programs from our children’s classrooms in his ground-breaking book –

“Emotionally intelligent parenting.

He asserted that “many of the problems in our schools are the result of social and emotional malfunction and debilitation from which too many children have suffered and continue to bear the consequences. Children in class who are beset by an array of confused or hurtful feelings cannot and will not learn effectively. In the process of civilizing and humanizing our children the missing piece is, without doubt, social and emotional learning. Protestations that this must be outside of and separate from traditional schooling are misinformed, harmful and may doom us

to continued frustration in our academic mission and the need for Herculean efforts in behavioural damage, control and repair.

The roster of social casualties will grow ever larger.

How to integrate social and emotional learning into a child’s life Many schools are implementing and infusing social and emotional learning competency building into their daily curriculum; many educators are honing their social and emotional skills through workshops and self study and parents too can bring social and emotional learning into their daily lives.

Some tips for parents The earlier emotional education begins, the better.

Being attentive to the social and emotional needs of your infants, toddlers and young children is a great way to start them off and will make

“Keep a journal to increase your self-awareness and self reflection. Use “self talk” to encourage yourself, be your own best friend, not your worst critic. Encourage friends to tell you their points of view on issues. Pay attention to strategies you can used to calm yourself and shift your mood from negative to positive.”

the transition to adolescence easier.

Start a PTA SEL discussing group, attend SEL workshops and on-line charts.

Be a role model.

Providing your child with social and emotional competent parenting makes it easier for children to

emulate your prose behaviour.

Build a language between you and your child which involves talking about feelings; describe your feelings out loud; ask your kids how they feel, teach your child that he can have two feelings at the same time.

Applaud your child’s efforts to improve her EQ. Some tips for educator Integrate SEL skills into the daily curriculum.

Exhibit pro-social and emotionally intelligent behaviour to your students.

Investigate successful SEL programs, such as the social decision making and problem, solving program or the resolving conflicts creatively program and talk to educators currently implementing these programs.

Be alert to teachable moments that occur naturally in the classroom, for example, moments when you notice a shift in mood, a conflict, a caring act.

Keep a journal which will allow you to be more reflective about your

emotional self, and encourage your students to keep a journal.

Participate in SEL forums, conferences, etc.

Check with other teachers about classroom strategies they have used to boost social and emotional competencies of their students.

Some tips for students Keep a journal to increase your selfawareness and self reflection.

Use “self talk” to encourage yourself, be your own best friend, not your worst critic.

Encourage friends to tell you their points of view on issues.

Pay attention to strategies you can used to calm yourself and shift your mood from negative to positive.

Take quiet, alone time every day to listen to your inner voice. Be attentive to your own social and emotional needs.

According to the Director for New Media Research and Development at the Center for Social and Emotional Education at Teacher ’s College, Columbia University, Dr. Robin Stern, “it is crucial to provide children with an environment that allows them to develop their social and emotional skills. In November 6, 1999 speech delivered at a conference on Social and Emotional Learning and Digital Technology, Dr. James Comer, a national leader in social and emotional learning told a group at Columbia Teachers College about the impact a child’s school and home settings can have on his/her development, Comer explains that an atmosphere that provides support for one’s social and emotional learning and competence versus one that does not make a huge difference in that child’s life. The difference, Comer claims, is equal to the difference in the outcome of throwing seeds on cement versus planting seeds in enriched soil. And what a difference that is!.

THE SUNDAY

27

SUNDAY AUGUST 18, 2013

SOCIETY

Why People Patronise Fairly Used Goods

THE way people in Benin City patronises fairly used wears/accessories and gadgets is alarming. Most of the markets in Benin City such as Oba Market, New Market, New Benin Market, Oliha Market, Ikpoba Hill Market, and Lagos Street etc, are some of the places where most buyers and sellers of these wears and accessories converge to do their bargains. Almost every corner of these markets are replete with fairly used products or goods of various styles, tastes and sizes. In these places you easily get used wears for children of all ages to adult wears.

The thing is that the term is popularly you just go there in known and refered to time and be patient to as aloko, some select your choice people even refer to bargain with the it as bend down seller and pay the boutique in the amount agreed upon. aspect of wears/ What are fairly accessories. used things? It is a More than a term used to refer to decade now, the wears/accessories appearance and use and gadgets that of these cloths, have been used by shoes, bags, caps, people in other belts e.t.c. is c o u n t r i e s predominantly particularly the common among the advanced nations of poor people. And the the world such as the other aspect of it U.S.A, Britain, which is electronic France etc who are gadgets is equally more advanced in predominant among science and the poor people. It technology than the has become a major less developed source of income to countries like in those who import Asia, Latin America and sell these goods. and Africa (Nigeria). Despite the In Nigeria parlance, availability of new

By ROSELINE BINITIE

products or goods in the markets, sellers of ‘aloko” still experience high rate of patronage from buyers daily.

compared to home made products or goods. Most people in Benin City put on these wears and accessories at home,

people to save money for other things.

The patronage of fairly used cloths are mostly by the poor who have just the little money they make which would not be able to

their continuous patronage of fairly used products.

The economic hardship in the country has compelled the people to resolve to the use of fairly used products couple with

purchase new products for them.

Efforts have been made by various governments to stop the importation of fairly used products but to no avail the reason is attributed to the government’s inability to provide quality products for the people, hence

this, is the issue of substandard products in Nigeria which had failed the people in countless number of time, and they seem to be okay with the trend because, Its affordable, durable and they are able to acquire more things as well as save more money.

Fairly used clothes on display

The reason people patronise those who sell fairly used wears/accessories is because it is cheaper compare to new ones or home made products or goods.

An additional reason for their high patronage is their durability. These goods last longer

markets, school as sweaters and stockings in the church and many other places. Most homes/families are able to afford electronic gadgets at their convenience due to the availability of these products. This has also helped the

“The economic hardship in the country has compelled the people to resolve to the use of fairly used products couple with this, is the issue of substandard products in Nigeria which had failed the people in countless number of time, and they seem to be okay with the trend because, Its affordable, durable and they are able to acquire more things as well as save more money.”

THE SUNDAY

28

SUNDAY AUGUST 18, 2013

AVB Critical Of English Players Pricing

WITH three new big name signings through the door, Andre Villas-Boas is looking to bring some fresh spirit into Tottenham Hotspur this season.

Andre Villas-Boas

Tottenham manager Andre Villas-Boas believes English football is in danger of shooting itself in the foot by pricing their homegrown players out of moves to top Premier League clubs.

Spurs have spent around £60 million to recruit overseas talents Roberto Soldado, Paulino, Nacer Chadili and Etienne Capoue this summer, with Villas-Boas insisting English clubs have little option other than to spread their net wide in the search for new players due to the price of local stars.

“There is one problem with English players in the English Premier League and it’s the price,” stated Villas-Boas “This is something that has been happening on another level with Chelsea and Wayne Rooney and Man United and Rooney.

“I think players in England cost you a lot more than what you can get out of Europe particularly in the case of Nacer Chadli and Etienne Capoue so at the moment it is a market we have been looking at with players that we have been following.

“The other two [Soldado and Paulinho] are renowned internationals that we had to pay a very high price for, but I

Pepe Future Hangs On Bale Sale MANCHESTER City believe their hopes of signing Pepe could rest on whether Real Madrid bring in Gareth Bale, sources told newsmen.

City have registered an interest in the defender as manager Manuel Pellegrini looks to find a fourth centreback for his squad. But Real manager Carlo Ancelotti said a month ago that Pepe is not for sale and City have not made a bid for the Portugal defender.

However, they feel the situation could change either if Pepe asks to leave the Bernabeu - which is unlikely or if Real need to raise funds for a marquee signing such as Bale.

Pepe remains former Real manager Pellegrini’s top target to strengthen his back four but the Chilean will not make a signing for the sake of it if he

proves unavailable.

The club are determined to learn the lessons from last summer when they failed to secure the players former manager Roberto Mancini wanted and four of their five arrivals struggled.

With Matija Nastasic, the one triumph from their August 2012 spending spree, injured and Kolo Toure having joined Liverpool, they will begin their Premier League campaign with only two fit senior specialist central defenders, Vincent Kompany and Joleon Lescott.

But Nastasic could be fit for next week’s game at Cardiff and Pellegrini, whose four main summer signings were secured comparatively quickly, will not be afraid to end the transfer window without further acquisitions if real are intent on keeping Pepe.

Pellegrini was noncommittal about further additions in his Friday press conference, saying: “We will see. Maybe not.”

number one target.

Portuguese icon Mourinho has also been linked with a reunion with Samuel Eto’o who appears destined to leave Anzhi Makhachkala and has spoken positively about his desire to work with his former Inter Milan coach again.

But Mourinho indicated his main priority lay elsewhere.

“For me as a manager, I’m happy that a player who worked with me before goes publicly and says he’d like to join me again,” said Mourinho, now in his second spell in charge of Chelsea.

“Especially a player like

Daren Bent

Newcastle Move Better For ALAN Pardew has told Darren Bent Darren Bent he would have more chance of going to the World Cup with England if he had signed for Newcastle.

Speaking to the Newcastle Chronicle, Pardew said that Bent, who joined Fulham from Aston Villa on a season-long loan, would have had a bigger platform for his talents at St James’ Park than Craven Cottage.

“I think he’s taken the safer option, to be honest,” Pardew said.”Here, he’d have been under the spotlight a bit more.

“With England, it would have been better for him. He’s taken that option, and I wish him all the best.”

Pardew is keen to bolster his attacking options ahead of the new Premier League season and the club continue to be linked with Marseille striker Bafetimbi Gomis.

They have already signed Loic Remy from QPR on a loan deal, and Pardew insists signing Bent was a real possibility.

He added: “For me as the manager, you’re not allowed to have contact with the player.

Rodgers Says Nothing’s Changed to serve a ten-match LUIS Suarez has rejoined On Suarez hebancontinues imposed after he bit Chelsea Liverpool first-team training after apologising to the club for his behaviour over the summer.

Neither the Reds nor the striker’s representatives have made any comment on the issue, but sources have confirmed to ESPN that the striker did train with the squad on Friday.

It is also understood that Suarez said sorry to his teammates after arriving back on Merseyside from Japan, where he had been on midweek international duty with Uruguay.

The 26-year-old was ordered to train on his own last week in response to manager Brendan Rodgers’ concerns about his

Mourinho Not Giving Up On Rooney Pursuit

JOSE Mourinho insisted on Friday he will not give up on his pursuit of Wayne Rooney until the transfer window finally closes.

The Chelsea manager has made it clear he wants to recruit Rooney this pre-season but has so far failed twice to persuade Manchester United to part with the England striker.

And while Mourinho avoided referring specifically to his ongoing pursuit of Rooney during a news conference at Chelsea’s Cobham training ground, south of London, on Friday he confirmed ahead of his side’s opening Premier League game with Hull City he will not abandon his efforts to land his

think it is the right price for players of that level.

“Eventually if a good deal at the right price for an English player arises I wouldn’t have any problem with that.”

Meanwhile, Villas-Boas has suggested he turned down approaches from a couple of clubs to leave Tottenham this summer, as he claims his loyalty to the north London club and its chairman Daniel Levy persuaded him to stay on at White Hart Lane.

“I have been very welcomed, I have an excellent group of players and the conditions and structures we have at Tottenham are fantastic,” the Telegraph quotes Villas-Boas, who is reported to have turned down the chance to take over at Paris Saint-Germain in June.

“The arrival of Franco Baldini (as Sporting Director) takes us to another level so these are things I had to measure. I have great respect for the club and for Daniel (Levy) and these are the reasons the couple of clubs that came knocking I told them that I wasn’t interested.

“Being at the same club for a second successive season is a new challenge for me and one I am keen to experience and I believe we have a team now that can take us into the top four, which is the target we were so close to last season.”

Villas-Boas has confirmed that last season’s star turn Gareth Bale will miss the club’s first three games of the new season, as he continues to be heavily linked with a world record move to Real Madrid.

Samuel, a player with a big history in European football.

“But we are trying to get one player (Rooney) and we’ll see what happens. Before the transfer window closes, we’ll make decisions. The decisions can be different decisions.”

He added: “I’m just a Chelsea manager, and every one of us is looking always to try and strengthen your squad.

“We (managers) all say ‘no’ but we lie to the last day, when the market is open, because we’re all waiting for something to happen.

attitude.

And Rodgers said last week that Suarez would not be allowed to join up with the rest of his team-mates until he said sorry for showing “total disrespect” to the club.

The Uruguay international has given a series of interviews since the end of May stating that he wants to leave Anfield.

He claimed earlier this month he had been promised a year ago that he could depart if Liverpool failed to qualify for this season’s Champions League.

Both Rodgers and the club have dismissed those claims, insisting that they are under no obligation to sell the player.

Arsenal have had two bids for Suarez rejected, including an offer of £40,000,001 made on July 23, in the apparent belief that it would trigger a release clause in his contract. Liverpool insist that there is no such clause.

Principal owner John W. Henry has made clear that the striker will not be leaving this summer, and dismissed the notion of selling him to Arsenal as “ludicrous”.

On Wednesday, Suarez denied a Uruguayan journalist’s report that he had decided to stay at Anfield, but his chances of leaving before the transfer window shuts are looking increasingly unlikely.

The former Ajax man is suspended for Saturday’s Premier League opener against Stoke as

defender Branislav Ivanovic during a 2-2 draw at Anfield in April.

Suarez will not be eligible to play for Liverpool until late September, and Rodgers said on Thursday that he would not discuss the striker until he was available again.

“I was having contact with his agent until the deal was done.

“I honestly thought he’d be looking at our challenge and finding that a bit tasty.”

Shearer Worried By Newcastle’s French Influx FORMER Newcastle United great Alan Shearer has criticised the club’s policy of signing French players and says it could create an unhealthy atmosphere within the squad.

Newcastle signed France international striker Loic Remy from Queens Park Rangers on a season-long loan earlier this week, taking the number of French players at manager Alan Pardew’s disposal to 11.

Shearer, who scored 206 goals in 404 games for Newcastle, fears the strategy will come back to haunt the club if the team starts to struggle on the pitch.

“I don’t think it’s a healthy thing to have too many French players in one dressing room,” he told BBC Radio 5 Live late on Friday.

“If things start to go against you then little cliques appear. I know Arsenal had a lot of French players and went on to be successful, but I don’t see Newcastle being that successful.”

Newcastle start the new Premier League season away to Manchester City on Monday.

Suarez Salutes Fans On Anfield Return

UNSETTLED Liverpool striker Luis Suarez made his return to Anfield yesterday, saluting fans from beside the pitch prior to his side’s opening Premier League game against Stoke City.

The 26-year-old Uruguayan was forced to train on his own after declaring that he wanted to leave the club, but he returned to training with his team-mates on Friday after reportedly apologising to the squad.

Suarez arrived at Liverpool’s home ground around an hour before kick-off and received a short burst of applause from fans already inside the stadium when he appeared beside the pitch carrying his daughter, Delfina.

He shook hands with former referee Mark Halsey, present to fulfil media duties, before disappearing down the tunnel,

re-emerging 10 minutes later to walk to the executive boxes on the opposite side of the ground.

Suarez is suspended for the first six matches of the new season after biting Chelsea’s Branislav Ivanovic during a league game at Anfield in April.

Luis Suarez

THE SUNDAY

29

SUNDAY AUGUST 18, 2013

Moscow 2013: Unbeatable Farah In

Line For Knighthood

AFTER Mo Farah’s heroics in Moscow, Reda Maher explains why he is so hard to beat – and wants the Briton to receive his country’s highest honour.

Mo Farah is the double world and Olympic distance champion. It has a nice ring to it, doesn’t it?

Only Kenenisa Bekele has done that before, and a Briton has never previously got close to that kind of dominance.

A question many fans and

pundits ask is why – when half a dozen of them have quicker personal best times – Mo’s rivals always seem to run cagey,

• Farah coasts home to victory at Moscow

Pakistan Confident Of Hosting Asia Cup

PAKISTAN’S football chief Friday said he was confident about hosting qualifying matches for the AFC’s under-16 championship despite a bomb attack that killed eight young football fans in Karachi last week.

Pakistan has been a “no go” area for foreign teams since the 9/11 attacks on the United States in 2001 and the ensuing war on terror which sparked security fears in the South Asian country.

Terrorists attacks on the Sri Lankan cricket team bus in Lahore four years ago washed

away all hopes of Pakistan staging any cricketing or international sporting event.

Eight people were killed in a bomb blast last week after a daynight football match in the Karachi’s Lyari slum, an area famous for producing quality players.

But Pakistan Football Federation President Makhdoom Saleh Hayat said the Asian Football Confederation had given a go-ahead to the

Metalist Lose Appeal Against UKRAINIANS Metalist UCL Ban

Kharkiv lost their appeal against a Champions League ban for match-fixing following a decision made by the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) on Friday.

Metalist had been kicked out of the 2013/14 competition by European football’s governing body UEFA after the Ukrainians had been found guilty by CAS of match-fixing in their homeland.

The club, who have been replaced by PAOK of Greece for the Champions League play-off clash with Schalke 04 — with a place in the lucrative group stages up for grabs for the winner — had filed an urgent request to CAS seeking a temporary stay of the decision.

UEFA welcomed the decision releasing a statement on their website saying: “In rejecting the request of Metalist, the CAS has upheld the decision of the UEFA Appeals Body. It follows that PAOK FC will participate in the UEFA Champions League playoff match against FC Schalke

04, the first leg of which will take place on 21 August 2013 in Germany.”

On August 2, a CAS Panel determined that Metalist, as well as some individual club officials, were guilty of matchfixing in relation to a Ukrainian league game with Karpaty Lviv in 2008.

UEFA subsequently opened proceedings against the Ukrainians, resulting in Metalist being banned from this year’s Champions League.

PAOK, who had originally been eliminated by Metalist in the previous qualifying round, were thus reinstated to face Schalke.

qualifiers in October.

“The AFC President Shaikh Salman bin Ebrahim Al Khalifa has been kind enough to give us the go-ahead and I am sure the successful staging of the qualifiers will open doors for more sporting event in the country,” Hayat told AFP. The PFF staged the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) President’s Cup in 2011 and has also hosted age group events with foreign participations over the past three years.

The Group E qualifiers involving United Arab

slow races that allow Farah to use his superior finishing pace to claim victory.

It is argued that such tactical races play into Mo’s hands because, in addition to his sprinting ability, he is probably the cleverest racer on the circuit, who thrives on the hustle and bustle of the jostling pack, fending off physical attacks and constantly engaged in chatter with friends – like training pal Galen Rupp – and foes.

The writer Malcolm Gladwell theorised after the Olympics that Farah could have been beaten had somebody set a faster pace - but whoever did it would have effectively sabotaged their own chances of gold. Consequently, his rivals hung back and waited for someone else to push the pace. Of course, nobody did and the slow race effectively handed victory to Farah. The game theory of distance running played perfectly into his hands.

This kind of strategy has been employed before in other sports, as we saw when Germany, France and the rest shot themselves in the foot during the Olympic cycling road race last summer. They were so worried about the British team - and so determined to keep them at the front of the peloton where the work is harder - that they neglected to follow the breakaway that ultimately sealed gold.

Farah, though, is more complex. In the past, a quick race would have seen him suffer, as the incessant sub-60 laps over 5-10k fatigued the younger Mo. His finishing speed would be irrelevant as he would be too far

off the overall pace.

But – and his rivals know this – Farah has changed. A renewed sense of professionalism saw him cut out the partying, and base his entire lifestyle around training, first in Kenya, and now in the United States with Nike’s high-tech Project Oregon team.

His stamina and speed endurance increased hugely, to the point where he rarely seems tired and can always dig out a 25s 200m at the end of a gruelling distance slog.

Mo Farah added World Championship 5,000m gold to his 10,000 title in Moscow with another brilliant run.

Farah never runs 1500m, but he did last month – and set a European record and sixthfastest time ever in the process.

Why? Because a world-class 1500m specialist led from the front, and Farah was able to follow.

Combine that with the daily half-marathons he runs while training under Alberto Salazar in the United States, and you have

• US relay team at the Moscow 2013 Athletics Championships

Djokovic Crashes Out To Isner, Nadal Downs two hours and set up a last four AMERICAN John Isner Federer clash against Tomas Berdych,

shocked Novak Djokovic 7-6 (5) 3-6 7-5 to reach the semifinals of the Cincinnati Masters, while Rafael Nadal extended his winning streak against Roger Federer.

In a heavyweight matchup featuring two of the game’s bighitters, it was Isner who came out on top after a slugfest lasting two hours and 23 minutes to set up a meeting in the last four with Argentine Juan Martin Del Potro.

Earlier, the seventh-seeded Del Potro beat Russian qualifier Dmitry Tursunov 6-4 3-6 6-1 to kick off a mouth-watering day of quarter-final action that

featured the ATP Tour’s ‘big four ’ in Djokovic, Andy Murray, Nadal and Federer.

Nadal came up against an improved Federer in the final men’s match of the day at the sprawling Lindner Family Tennis Center and had to withstand huge pressure for a set and a half before emerging triumphant 5-7 6-4 6-3 in over

the Czech an earlier victor over Andy Murray.

Djokovic, a four-time runnerup on the Cincinnati hardcourts, had been eager to take the final step this year and become the first player to complete what the ATP Tour has dubbed the Career Golden Masters by winning all nine World Tour Masters titles.

EPL Results Liverpool Arsenal Norwich Sunderland West Brom West Ham

1-0 1-3 2-2 0-1 0-1 2-0

Stoke Aston Villa Everton Fulham Southampton Cardiff

the perfect all-round middleand long-distance athlete, with so many weapons in his arsenal that forcing a slow tactical race – and thus the possibility of a spiking or heavy fall – is probably the best chance you have of beating him.

World-record long-distance times are rarely run in major championships because a world record usually requires a pacemaker or two, and no one is going to sacrifice the chance of a medal to help Farah set a record.

And Farah is a championship runner – he rarely bothers with the longer distances during the regular season, often popping up for a 3000m or two-mile jaunt, or shorter – as we saw in July.

As such, his championship performances will always come with a slower overall time, but a savage finishing kick.

Farah is close to being unbeatable, and his rivals know that. A world record requires a perfect storm of conditions and excellent pace-making, and expect that to be one of his next

• Novak Djokovic hits back against Isner

USA Bounce Back From Olympic Disappointment With Relay Gold WORLD 400 metres champion LaShawn Merritt anchored an emphatic American men’s 4x400 metres relay triumph on Friday, a year after they were stunned in the Olympic final by the Bahamas.

The U.S., who have won the world title at every world championships since 2005, had the race sewn up from David Verburg’s opening leg, with Tony McQuay and Arman Hall extending the advantage to allow Merritt a comfortable last lap.

With Merritt uncatchable, a thrilling duel for second materialised with Jamaica just pipping Russia much to the disappointment of a vociferous crowd roaring home Vladimir Krasnov.

The Bahamas failed to qualify for the final.

THE SUNDAY

30

SUNDAY AUGUST 18, 2013

Gero Off To Winning Start With Start ALHAJI Gero made a winning debut for Osters IF on Friday night as the Swedish club chalked up their second straight win of the season.

Osters beat bottom team Syrianska 1-0 to move clear of the relegation pack with Gero coming in as a 70th minute substitute for Freddy Soderberg in this home game.

They have now climbed to 11th on the 16-team table.

Gero’s work permit after he signed a contract for three and half years came through just hours to the kick-off of this game and so he started on the bench.

The fans then started clamouring for his introduction with shouts of “Gero!Gero!!Gero!!!”

Watching the game from the stands were agents Goke Oshatoba and David Borha, whose company brokered the deal in conjunction with the player’s agent Adam Mohammed.

The big Nigeria U20 striker, who featured for the Osters reserves at Kalmar on Tuesday, came close to doubling his club’s lead but somehow his header missed target narrowly.

“He posted an encouraging debut as he kept the other team’s defence in check for the time he was on the pitch,” a delighted Oshatoba informed MTNFootball.com “The club are happy with him, they say he has brought them luck as since his arrival they have won back to back to move clear of the relegation zone.”

Gero has already moved into his furnished apartment after he was warmly received by fans and officials alike.

Eagles Victory Over Bafana Crucial To World Cup Qualifier -Chukwu

Eaglets striker Isaac success

CHRISTIAN Chukwu, a former Super Eagles Coach, on Friday said that the 2-0 victory against Bafana Bafana in the Mandela Challenge was crucial to Eagles’ preparation for the World Cup qualifier.

Reports say that the Eagles will on Sept. 7 meet Malawi in a qualifier for the 2016 World Cup in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

The international friendly match played on Aug. 14 at Moses Mabhida Stadium, Durban, South Africa, was part of Eagles’ preparation ahead of the qualifier.

Chukwu told newsmen on telephone that the victory

was important and also a motivation to the team’s World Cup qualifying campaign.

“It’s a good preparatory match; we have seen our team and the win will act as a morale booster for the team.

“But all the same, that doesn’t mean we should underrate Malawi at the qualifier, the joy is that we have a lot of players from where the coaches can select those in good shape “Now, it’s for the coach crew to look at all the players and get the best eleven against Malawi in Calabar,’’ he said.

The former coach also

official informed MTNFootball.com “We don’t wish to take unnecessary risks and so this decision.

“It simply means the coaches have to draft capable replacements for the players to be affected by this.”

The FIFA U17 World Cup in the UAE will be played from October 17 with the draw to be staged on August 26 in Abu Dhabi.

Age Scare: More

NIGERIA’S U17 team will be further decimated after a decision to throw out more players who are on the borderline of a recent age test.

MTNFootball.com can specially report that officials have recommended that players who are on grade 5 of the recent MRI test be asked to go rather than risk them for the FIFA U17 World Cup in the United Arab Emirates.

FIFA accept grade 5 for the U17 World Cup, but officials have said players on that grade from the recent MRI scan could well be past that grade by the time of the tournament.

There is also the possibility that the MRI machine used in

Nigeria may not be as sophisticated as what would eventually be used at UAE. Confused U17 officials had divided the players on grade 5 into A and B with those in A with a better chance to scale the age test in Dubai.

However, this division was disregarded by medical experts, who said there was no basis for such division.

“The final decision to do away with players on grade 5 has thrown the Eaglets into more confusion as it means many more players will now have to be decamped,” a top

Eaglets To Go

Trabzonspor Target 5m Euros-Rated Kalu Uche

FIVE million Eurosrated Kalu Uche is wanted

by Trabzonspor after they ended the pursuit of exLiverpool star Milan Baros.

Trabzonspor will have to

Anambra Sports Festival For ready in 28 weeks with football field, eight lane September bestandard tartan tracks, standard

Alhaji Gero

THE Anambra Government has said that preparations were in top gear for the 7th State’s Sports Festival slated for September.

The Commissioner for Youths and Sports, Dr Edozie Aroh, said this at an interactive session with sport writers in Awka on Friday.

Aroh said the festival would hold between September 11 and 15, and would feature no fewer than 28 sports for male and female as well as the disabled.

The commissioner said that this was in line with the

Coach Calls For Health Insurance Scheme For THE Head Coach, Nigeria Athletes Para-Powerlifting Federation (NPPF), Feyisetan Are, on Friday urged the Federal Government to provide a health insurance scheme for retired and serving national athletes.

He told newsmen in Lagos that the scheme would improve the health of the athletes and motivate them to do their best for Nigeria.

According to him, Nigeria has lost many retired and active athletes due to poor medical attention. “ Healthcare for our

national athletes, whether active or retired, should be thoroughly addressed by the government; we have lost retired and active athletes to ailment that can be treated.

“There should be wellequipped hospitals where sportsmen and women who have served or are serving the country can go constantly for medical attention,” he said.

He urged that physically challenged athletes should be given priority by the health insurance scheme.

development programme of the state.

He said the festival would be preceded with sensitisation tour of all the local councils in the state in the coming weeks.

“The 7th Anambra sports festival will hold between September 11 and 15, this is prelude to the National Youths Games in Abuja later in the year.

“We expect to discover more talents and the incentives from the government aside other sponsors include N1m, N750,000 and N500,000 for the first, second and third best local governments respectively.

“From Monday, the commissioner and directors in the ministry with other stakeholders will embark on sensitisation tour of the local councils until they are covered.

“Jingles are also on to ensure full participation”, Aroh said.

Aroh added that efforts were being made to improve the sporting facilities in the state.

He said that the Awka Township Stadium would be ready in 28 weeks, pointing out that the contract had been awarded and the contractor mobilised to site.

“The Awka Mini Stadium will

emphasised on the need for more improvements for the team to achieve success in the qualifier.

“There is never a perfect team, you keep making amendments, but for now, I think we are ready for Malawi,’’ he added.

On the Globacom League, Chukwu commended the Nigeria Football Federation for making it possible for the national team to play grade A friendly matches.

According to Chukwu, the friendly matches will enable the coaching crew of the team to assess its squad and make necessary amendments.

Chukwu also added that he expected nothing less than the best from the Eagles at the qualifier and urged Nigerians to continue with their relentless support towards the team.

Reports say that the qualifier against Malawi on September 7, is the last Group F match to qualify the Eagles for the final round of the qualifiers.

gymnasium and parking lots.

“We shall provide facilities for the various games. That is why we are going to partner with the local governments in order to make use of the best facilities available anywhere in the state”, he said.

cough out 5.3 million Euros to lure the Nigeria striker away from fellow Turkish club Kasimpasa.

Uche was a smash hit with Kasimpasa last season, where he scored 19 goals to emerge as second top scorer in his debut season in Turkey.

According to fanatik.com, coach Mustafa Akçay is desperate to land a striker before the transfer window closes and the Nigerian is now his main target and so Trabzonspor will begin negotiations as soon as possible.

Kalu Uche

Deputy Leader Urges Youths To Develop Interest In Sports

By ELIAS INAEDE

THE Deputy Leader of Etsako Central Legislative Arm and Chairman, House Committee on Information, Youth, Sports and Culture, Hon. Becky B.B. Sule has urged youths in the locality to develop interest in sports.

Hon. Becky made this known recently at Fugar during the kick off ceremony of the 10th Mike Oghiodomhe Gold Cup while speaking to newsmen.

She said that sports was a unifying factor that has helped to bring transformation to the local government stressing that sports has contributed to the reduction of crime in the locality.

In her words” it is a fact that sports has provided jobs to a lot

of people within and outside the local government. When a man is gainfully engaged, he will not be thinking of committing crime.

Becky added.

The Deputy leader commended the donor of the Gold Cup and the executive chairman of Etsako Central Local Government Area for hosting the tournament.

On her message to the people of the Local Government Area.

Hon. Becky said they should support the Hon. Emmanuel Ozemede Momoh’s led administration so that the much needed dividends of democracy can be attracted to them adding that when a man is doing well, he needs to be commended as that will spur him to do more.

Hon. Becky Sule

THE SUNDAY

31

SUNDAY AUGUST 18, 2013

Bruce Relishing Chelsea Clash HULL City coach Steve Bruce says his side are looking forward to taking on Chelsea on Sunday and is expecting the match to be a spectacle.

The Tigers finished as runners-up in the Championship last season to earn their return to the Premier League and Bruce believes the trip to Stamford Bridge will help them

. . . Chelsea Assistant Wary Of Confident Hull

CHELSEA assistant coach Steve Holland says they are expecting Hull City to give them a run for their money when they meet on Sunday.

The Blues will host the newlypromoted side in their first Premier League encounter at Stamford Bridge and Hull says they are targeting a positive start.

“The full focus is on Hull, there is no thought of anything other than giving ourselves the best chance of getting three points from the first game,” he said.

“We’re expecting a difficult opener, I remember being here in Carlo Ancelotti’s first match four years ago, where we won the game late on.

“The teams that come up, when you play them early, they still have a feel-good factor from the season before, and are used to winning.

“They’re full of confidence, have new players and have hope and excitement, so they can be dangerous and we’ll have to be ready for sure.”

Hull City coach Steve Bruce has already stated that his side have nothing to lose on Sunday and will go out to enjoy themselves.

to adjust to life in the elite league.

“When the fixtures came out back in June, we couldn’t have picked a bigger or better one to play in than this,” said Bruce.

“It’s Jose Mourinho’s first game back at Stamford Bridge; it’s live on the telly and a wonderful occasion.

“All of those months of work and, at times, frustration in the Championship last season were all about playing on Sundayand being a part of it.

“Let’s go and enjoy it and take them on. We know it’s going to be a huge task ahead of us, but that is why we’re here in the Premier League.”

Hull have enjoyed mixed results during preseason but they go into this game high in confidence following their 3-0 win over Spanish side Real Betis in their last friendly.

Michu Unlikely To Join Arsenal - Laudrup

SWANSEA City manager Michael Laudrup has told Arsenal it would take “an absolutely ridiculous bid” to sign Michu and warned his club will not do business late in the window.

It was claimed in the Daily Mail and Daily Express this week that the Gunners, having been frustrated in their attempts to sign the likes of Gonzalo Higuain and Luis Suarez, are now considering moves for Michu and Manchester City striker Edin Dzeko.

There appears to be little prospect that Dzeko will be allowed to leave the Etihad Stadium, and Laudrup has now said the Swans have no reason to sell Michu, who contributed 22 goals last season.

“I have not even discussed the idea of Michu leaving with anyone as I am so convinced that he wants to stay here this

• David De Gea

David De Gea Grateful To Ferguson

DAVID de Gea has thanked former Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson for his backing during his difficult start to life at the club.

The 22-year-old very important. To know that goalkeeper was signed by he was behind me all the time Ferguson for £18 million in and backing me up was great, 2011 but struggled to cement and it was probably one of a first-team place in his the reasons that I’ve opening 18 months at Old continued to improve, that Trafford, with Anders confidence he showed in me.

Lindegaard often picked The PFA thing was something I wasn’t expecting ahead of him.

However, De Gea went on at all so that was really to help United win the special.

“It was a little bit tough and Premier League title last a little bit difficult right at the season and was selected in beginning.

You’re moving to the PFA Team of the Year. a new country and a new And the Spaniard believes league, coming from a Ferguson merits much of the different style of football so credit for his improvement. it was difficult at first but two He told the Daily Telegraph: “The faith that he years really is a long time in showed in me at all times was football and I feel totally at home and relaxed, totally

settled in.”

New United manager David Moyes dismissed goalkeeping coach Eric Steele, who had a close relationship with De Gea, earlier in the summer, and replaced him with Chris Woods, who had performed the same job at Everton.

And De Gea said: “You’re going to miss someone that you worked with side by side every day for two years. He was always there, always giving me advice and looking to improve things.

“Things have been great with the new goalkeeping

Sunday Pools GuideIn Week 06Race Chelsea Lose Ground Title Mansfield; Morecombe For “X” Says DR. J.K. POOLS

IN week 04 matches played on 10th August, 2013, I recorded 100%. Please pick up your SUNDAY OBSERVER and check the pools page. The captioned headline was 100% and the 3 pairs I had 4/6. That was also 100%. Please check again.

In this week 06, the above captioned headline must supply a draw come rain or sun.

The headline: “MANSFIELD; MORECOMBE FOR “X”.

They are No. 41 and 42. I bet and boast that I will record 100% again this week 06.

Who will compete with me this season? I don’t think there is any body. I will do the wonders I did 10 years ago in this paper. All readers continued to smile to the Banks. I will do the same wonders this season with the application of “INFRA-DRAW Guide systems.

Please watch out.

Scanning through the whole fixtures with a visit to championship, I see looming cluster of draws between Blackpool Vs Reading at No 12 and Bolton Vs QPR at13. An “X” is evidently for this controversial pair of the week.

In the same vein, Mansfield Vs Plymouth at 41 and Morecombe

Vs Exeter of 42 for an “X” In summary, No 12-13-41 and 42 for at least for two draws As I did in week 04, so also A visit to League Division one, Rotherham Vs Shrewsbury at 31 and Swindon Vs Gillengham at 32 for an “X” All those who want to win handsome amount on pools this season should continue to keep accurate records.

HOT LINE; 07039275802 8 Treble chances 1. Blackpool Vs Reading 0-0 2. Bolton Vs QPR 0-0 3. Colchester Vs Carlisle 1-1 4. Colchester Vs Preston 1-1 5. Borton A Vs Bury 2-2 6. AF Wimbledon Vs Scuntrope 2-2 7. Mansfield Vs Plymouth 3-3 8. Morecombe Vs Exeter 3-3 3 HOT PAIRS (a) 41-42 (b) 12-13 (c) 31-32 Good luck, says DR. JK Pools Box 34 Irrua or opposite police station, Irrua, Edo state 0703925802.

coach, Chris Woods. He’s great, a really laid-backkind-of-guy, very calm.

Every training session is 100% but we have a lot of fun and I’m enjoying it.”

season,” Laudrup said in the South Wales Echo. “I don’t want Michu to leave for any amount in the world, but if someone comes in and gives an absolutely ridiculous bid then I can understand if the player or the club say this is way beyond what we could expect in the future.”

Even if the Gunners were to make a substantial bid, Laudrup said his club would have to be given time to bring in an adequate replacement.

“Economically this club are very good, and I think if they (Arsenal) came in with a late bid, the reaction from the board and chairman will be ‘no’ even if the money is ridiculous, because we would not have time to find a replacement who is near enough to the same standard,” he said.

“You could say we got the money, but why be the richest club in the Championship?

What is that worth?”

Laudrup said he thought the 27-year-old, who committed to a new deal at the Liberty Stadium in January, might be tempted to play for Barcelona or Real Madrid but suggested he would not look to force a move to Arsenal.

“I spoke to him last season when he extended his contract,” he added. “He asked me about my contract and I said: ‘I am

Arsenal’s Arteta Could Be Out For Six Week ARSENAL midfielder Mikel

Arteta could be out for up to six weeks with a thigh injury, increasing the pressure on Arsene Wenger to spend.

The Mirror reports that the Spanish midfielder tore a muscle in training and could miss the start of Arsenal’s Premier League campaign as well as their Champions League play-off against Fenerbahce.

Bacary Sagna, Aaron Ramsey and Theo Walcott are also all currently carrying knocks but still Arsenal have signed just one player this summer despite a number of departures.

On Thursday, manager Arsene Wenger maintained the club will continue to be active in the transfer window right up to the deadline - but stressed he could give no guarantees of how many new players the club would be able to sign before September 2.

Chief executive Ivan Gazidis may have talked up the Emirates Stadium club’s new “financial firepower” at the end of last season, but so far the only confirmed signing has been France Under-21 forward Yaya Sanogo, and that on a free transfer from Auxerre.

Arsenal, who failed to land Real Madrid’s Gonzalo Higuain earlier in the summer, continue to pursue wantaway Liverpool

striker Luis Suarez, but will have to up their bid to closer to £50 million with the Reds unwilling to sell.

Bayern Munich’s Brazil midfielder Luiz Gustavo is a target but has been tipped for a move to Wolfsburg, while 20year-old Lille winger Florian Thauvin is another said to be on Wenger’s radar, as is Romania forward Ciprian Marica following his release by Schalke.

While the Gunners boss clearly is determined to bolster his squad, albeit not in time for next week’s crucial Champions League play-off first leg against Fenerbache in Turkey, Wenger accepts patience will be key as the clock ticks down towards the September 2 deadline.

• Mikel Arteta

THE SUNDAY

CMYK

32

SUNDAY AUGUST 18, 2013

ASUU Strike: Ex-VC

Wants NAS, NAL’s Intervention

Operatives of the FRSC at the monthly jogging and walking exercise of the Commission in Abuja yesterday

A FORMER ViceChancellor, University of Ilorin, Prof. Ishaq Oloyede, has called on the Nigerian Academy of Science (NAS) and the Nigerian Academy of Letters (NAL) to intervene in the seven-week old ASUU strike.

Oloyede, who expressed worry about the lingering strike, said the two bodies should not fold their arms and allow the situation to continue.

Recall that the Academic Staff Union of Universities had on June 30 declared an indefinite strike in public universities across the country.

The lecturers are protesting the non-implementation of their 2009 agreement with the Federal Government.

The founder, National Parent-Teacher Association of

NLC Seeks God’s Intervention To Alleviate Workers’ Plight In Anambra

NIGERIA Labour Congress (NLC) in Anambra plans to stage a one-day prayer session in Awka to seek God’s divine intervention over “the precarious condition of workers in the state.”

Mr Patrick Obianyo, Anambra State Chairman ofNLC, told reporters in Awka weekend that a three-day fasting from August 19 would precede the prayer session slated for August 21.

He said that the NLC decided to seek the face of God because workers in the public civil service in the state had suffered so much under successive governments.

Obianyo, who is also the chairman, Medical and Health Workers Union of Nigeria (MHWUN), Anambra chapter, enjoined the workers to participate actively in the prayer programme.

He said that the prayer session was being organised to prevail on the present administration to

intervene in the plight of the workers.

He said that the permanent secretaries in the state civil service were more of glorified clerks in terms of salary, with the net pay of about N150, 000 per month and Directors receiving N110, 000.

“If these are the salaries of Permanent Secretaries and Directors, then come to think of what the salaries of other workers down the ladder would be.

“Anambra workers are the least paid throughout the federation and it is not more of lack of fund, but the willingness by the powers that be to accord workers their due rights,’’ Obianyo said.

The Chairman said that Anambra remained the only state that organised labour had never gone into any meaningful dialogue with the government.

“That is, perhaps, part of the reason government is still holding seven months check-off dues of some industrial unions for going on strike to demand the implementastion of the minimum wage regime,’’ he

said.

Obianyo explained that Anambra was the only state without the Civil Service Commission, Local Government Service Commission and Post Primary School Service Commission for one year and six months.

According to him, “the workers will vote only for the aspirant in the forthcoming

Incessant Strikes: A Challenge To Production Of Teachers - Provost DR Sijubunmi Olusanya, the Provost, Federal College of Education (FCE) Technical, Akoka, Lagos, has tasked stakeholders to intervene and proffer solutions to the incessant strikes in the education sector.

Olusanya who was speaking

weekend in Lagos said that incessant strikes were capable of worsening the current shortfall in teachers needed at the basic level of education in the country.

The National Commission for Colleges of Education (NCCE) had in 2012 observed that it

NSC Chair Wants Enforcement Of Shipping Regulations

RETIRED Lt.-Gen. Salihu Ibrahim, Chairman, Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC), says adequate enforcement of regulations on shipping in Nigeria will enhance the overall development of the maritime sector.

Ibrahim said this at the opening of a three-day meeting of the Management of NSC and its Board of Governing Council in Lagos recently.

He said that the NSC was poised to help in repositioning the nation’s economy.

Ibrahim promised that the board would work to achieve effective service delivery to improve the social contract between the government and Nigerians.

He urged the board and the NSC management to plug all avenues frustrating effective regulation of shipping business in the country.

“It is our task to address the various ills causing existing economic regulatory vacuum in the sector.

“We must strive to achieve the

gubernatorial election that will be ready to pay them the minimum wage.

“Enough of the sacrifice, enough of the sufferings. Our children have the right to quality education, they must have food on their tables,’’ Obianyo said.

Mr Uche Nwora, Head of Service, Anambra State, said that government had been sensitive to the plight of workers in the state.

Nigeria (NAPTAN), Alhaji Babs Animasaun, and other stakeholders had urged the government and ASUU to resolve the matter.

Oloyede said these two academies can no longer afford to watch this development continue since their major obligation is to promote academic activities and the education sector in general.

“I feel the Nigerian Academy of Letters and the Nigerian Academy of Science have a lot to do to ensure that the problem is solved once and for all.

“The face-off between the Federal Government and ASUU over the strike is becoming a perennial one.’’

The immediate past Chairman, Committee of ViceChancellors of Nigerian Universities, said everything should be done to resolve the impasse.

According to Oloyede, the only way out of the impasse is to go scientific since every other process has failed to work.

“When I say scientific, I mean it is time to sit down as a body of intellectuals and get the issues well thought out in order to arrive at a workable solution.”

Oloyede, who was recently inducted into the Nigerian Academy of Letters, said the two intellectual bodies owed the country a duty to rise up to the challenge.

Inland Dry Ports and Trucks Transit Parts.

“These goals will help to provide assistance to shippers and reduce the infrastructure deficit in the country,’’ the Chairman said.

He said that Dry Ports would reduce the hardship being faced by shippers in the course of clearing their goods at the sea ports.

In his remarks, Mr Hassan Bello, the Chief Executive of NSC, said that the council would ensure that new trends in

shipping and transport logistics in the maritime sector were applied.

Bello said that it was important to be abreast of current technological advancements in maritime sector as well as provide seamless services in the areas of international trade and transportation.

“It is important that the council maintain an efficient and effective trade statistics data bank across all transport modes,“ he said.

would take two decades to produce about 1.3 million teachers needed in public primary schools in Nigeria.

The Executive Secretary of the Commission, Prof.

Muhammed Junaid, made the disclosure during the 35th preconvocation lecture of FCE Akoka, Lagos in 2012.

According to the provost, the incessant strikes and attendant lack of adequate manpower in the education sector could affect meeting the target.

He said that there was an urgent need for stakeholders to come together and resolve issues that had adversely affected the sector in order to forge ahead collectively as a people.

Olusanya noted that strikes were not the best approach to resolve issues, and advised that rather, dialogue should be adopted.

“I feel the issue of strike should be checked in our education system if we have any

intention of meeting our developmental goals.

“You know that the education sector is the key to any country’s growth and development, and this sector cannot be complete without the contribution of the teachers.

“Now, if this sector is faced with incessant strikes, no matter at what level, then it would further dampen the morale of those who want to take teaching as a profession.

“And as a result, the issue of meeting our target in producing teachers for our basic level of education in the country might simply remain a mirage,” Olusanya said.

The provost said effort must be made to ensure that the teaching profession was taken seriously, in order to catch up with the rest of the world.

According to him, if there are to be strikes in the Colleges of Education in the country for too long and this is left unresolved, it will generally affect the output of teachers.

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. ROSE ORIBHABOR (08026716192). Marketing Manager (08023457566), Advertisement Manager (08023808856) Lagos Office: 3/4 Amode Close, Kudirat Abiola Way, By Olushonsun Bus Stop, Oregun, Ikeja, Lagos. Abuja Office: Floor 1, Edo House, 75 Ralph Shodeinde Street, Central Business District, Abuja. Tel/Fax: 09-5237631.