Sunday observer 23 06 2013 by Nigerian Observer

The Sunday

SUNDAY, JUNE 23, 2013

PUBLISHED SINCE MAY 29, 1968

• Vol. XI NO.4,002•

SUNDAY, JUNE 23, 2013 • N 100.00

SHOWBIZ Afrocandy Dares Critics, Releases Another Porn Movie Pgs. 20/21

SECURITY

Pg. 23

Intelligence Gathering And Community Policing

Edo State Governor, Comrade Adams Oshiomhole (middle), his deputy, Dr. Pius Odubu (left) and Crown Prince, Ambassador Eheneden Erediauwa, Edaiken of Uselu during the birthday anniversary celebration of the Oba of Benin, Oba Erediauwa at the Oba palace, Benin City yesterday. Photo: SOLOMON ENAIGBE.

Jonathan’s Preference For Two-Party System

Politicians Express Divergent Views SOME politicians in Lagos yesterday reacted differently to President Goodluck Jonathan’s preference for two-party system in the country. While some supported Committee (NEC) the President, others meeting in Abuja, said that the system advocated for a twowould not pave way for party system. true democracy in the He said that two-party country. system would be in the President Jonathan, best interest of the had at the Peoples nation. Democratic Party The Lagos State National Executive Chairman of the de-

MOTHERHOOD Raising Emotionally Intelligent Children Pg. 14

Bishop Gabriel Omoruyi, the Spokesperson for Lagos Chapter of the All Nigeria Peoples Party,

registered Justice Party, Mr. Ayo Akintayo, said that the two-party system would evolve naturally. “I totally agree with Mr. President. The two-

SOCIETY

party system must emerge naturally like in U.S. where over 100 political parties exist, but only two parties are relevant,’’ Akintayo said. Pg. 22

Checkmating The Menace Of Prostitution

said that only Nigerians could decide the number of political parties they wanted. Omoruyi advised

Nigerians to vote out parties and candidates they did not like. “It is Nigerians that Continues on pg.2

TUC Gets New President

MR. Bobboi Kaigama has been elected as the new President of the

Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC). Kaigama defeated Mr. Babatunde Ogun of the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria with 356 votes in the election held yesterday. Ogun got 314 votes in the peaceful election that was monitored by

all past presidents of TUC. The new TUC President, who is the President of Association of Senior Civil Servants of Nigeria, is succeeding Mr. Peter Esele. In his acceptance speech, Kaigama said that the new leadership Continues on pg.2

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Two-Party System Continued from pg 1

would decide the number of political parties by voting out parties not needed as manifested during the 2011 general elections when some parties could not even present any candidate. “Some of those who presented candidates were voted out and could not even win a council seat,’’ he said. Mr. Abraham Breakforth, Executive Director, the Global Initiative for African Development (GIFAD), an NGO, however, disagreed with the President on the two-party system. Breakforth said that there

were multi party systems in advanced democracies like the U.S. “though two parties are dominant.” “Multi party reflects true democracy because political parties are catalyst for development,’’ he said. Rev. Austin Nnorom, Lagos State Chairman of the Conference of Nigeria Political Parties, said that the President’s suggestion was in conflict with the Nigerian constitution. “Such suggestions will only take the country back to the period of the SDP and NRC which of course failed the country democratically,” Nnorom said.

TUC gets new President

Continued from pg 1

would work with the government and private sector employers to improve the welfare of workers. “The mandate given to us is to be good ambassadors so that we will better the lot of Nigerian workers,” he said. Kaigama assured that the new executive would build on the existing foundation in the provision of housing for workers and a new secretariat for the congress. He said that his team had developed a blue print on the welfare of workers and ways to address various challenges. Kaigama said that he dedicated his victory to past leaders of TUC and called on other contestants to join hands with the newly elected leaders to lift the standard of Nigerian workers, particularly those of TUC. Esele, the outgoing TUC president, expressed happiness at the peaceful

conduct of the election. Esele said that the congress would be taken to the next level by the newly elected leaders. Other members of the new executive include Mr. Sunday Salako from the Association of Senior Staff of Banks, Insurance and Financial Institution who was elected unopposed as first Deputy President. Mr. Augustin Etafo from PENGASSAN emerged as second deputy president, while Mr. Bede Opara from Senior Staff of Electricity and Allied Corporation was elected as third deputy president. Mr. Babatunde Abdulrahaman, President of Food Beverage and Tobacco Senior Staff Association was elected as treasurer. Reports indicate that over 700 delegates voted in this year’s conference which elected 10 new officers to run the affairs of the association for three years.

Oredo Council Chairman, Osaro Obazee (right), with the Benin Monarch, Omo N’Oba Erediauwa, when he paid a felicitation visit to the Oba on his birthday anniversary celebrations.

Nutritionist Recommends 3 Cups Of Bitter Leaf Juice Daily MADAM Veronica Zaki, a nutritionist, has advised people to drink a glass of bitter leaf (vernonia amygdalina) juice three times a day for healthy living. Zaki gave the advice in an interview with newsmen in Abuja. She added that bitter leaf should always be taken raw and fresh as an alternative health remedy. According to her, boiling or cooking the leaves reduces its potency, stressing that the leaves have high nutritional value. According to her, the infusion of the juice induces haemolysis the disintegration of red blood cells with the release of haemoglobin occurring in the living organism or in a blood sample. She said: “Bitter leaf is popularly consumed in many homes in Nigeria as

vegetable in the soup. ‘The infusion is used in traditional medicine for the treatment of malaria fever.” Zaki added that it was usually used as anti malarial, anti-bacterial, anti-parasites and anti-cancer. ‘It is also effective in preventing indigestion, scurvy, sciatica, rheumatism, and also useful in protecting the body against pollutants as cigarette smoke and some dangerous gases. “Bitter leaf is also good in treating stomach ache, skin infection, diabetes, loss of memory, prostate cancer,

PHCN Vandals:

THE Senior Staff Association of Electricity and Allied Companies (SSAEAC) on Friday urged the Federal Government to impose 15 years imprisonment on vandals of

Obasanjo Tasks African Export-Import Bank According to him, the bank NIGERIA’S former President, Olusegun Obasanjo at On Continental Growth formed part of the essential instruments needed by Africans the weekend in Addis Ababa, tasked the African ExportImport Bank to support the growth of inter-African trade. He also called for the growth of inter-African trade from its current 12 per cent “to at least 25 per cent by 2020 and 50 per cent by 2030“. Obasanjo made the remarks, when he chaired a lecture session of the bank, delivered by its founding President, Mr Christopher Edordu. The occasion was part of activities to mark the bank’s 20th anniversary celebration hosted by the Ethiopian Government in Addis Ababa.

In a lecture entitled “Afrexim Bank: History, founding philosophy, objectives and establishment, challenges and future prospects“, Obasanjo called for a boost in intraAfrican, He said: “Let intra-African trade move up to 25 per cent by 2020 and by 2030 to 50 per cent.” “ Let us all take advantage of the window of opportunity that opens for investment in Africa and consequently increase in trade within Africa.“ He commended the bank for

surviving all odds and challenged it to act as the arrowhead to enhance intraAfrican trade which currently stood as low as 12 per cent. “ I will like to restate your vision and mission to the people of Africa and the global community at large which is to stimulate a consistent expansion, diversification and development of African trade. “While at the same time operating as a first class, profitoriented, socially responsible financial institution and centre of excellence in African trade matters,“ Obajanjo said.

to bond together, as they strive take on their destiny in their own hands and develop something credible in terms economic development framework for themselves. Obasanjo said, “Africa must be the architect of its own future, and finance and credit are the life blood of trade that Africa must work to enhance.“ He said the bank was set up 20 years ago to help in dealing with the challenges of trade financing, which “stunted growth, development, innovation and entrepreneurial spirit and endeavour“.

general weakness, stroke, pneumonia, insomnia, arthritis, sexually transmitted diseases, kidney and liver problems.’’ She said the result of a study conducted on bitter leaves by the Department of Biochemistry, Federal University of Technology, Akure, revealed that it has high protein, fat and fibre. “The result also showed that the leaf has ash and minerals and low cyanide. She urged people to squeeze and rinse the leaves very well before using, adding that by so doing,

glycosides - the distinctive foam, is removed. “After this, the juice is suitable for the body to handle. The important thing the juice does is to cleanse the blood and prevent sickness.’’ Zaki said bitter leaves can grow anywhere unlike other leaves that only grow in certain places and temperature. “The leaves flourish anywhere and add beauty to places where it is present. “The plant is a reminder that life is not always sweet; it takes bitter taste before you can achieve sweetness.’’

Association Recommends 15-Yrs Imprisonment PHCN equipment. Mr Bede Opara, the President General of the association, made the suggestion in a telephone interview with newsmen in Lagos. Opara said that such measure would serve as deterrent to those still perpetrating the criminal act. He said that government had invested a lot of money on power reform, but the activities of vandals were crippling the efforts. “Some people are benefiting by throwing the country into darkness, by stealing PHCN cables and wires and by destroying the transformers. “But when they are caught and taken to the police station, you will discover that they have been set free within a short time; it is very disgusting. “Those buying PHCN cables and wire from the vandals

should be given the same punishment. “The National Assembly should enact a law that will make the offence punishable with at least 15 years imprisonment,’’ he said. Opara said that vandals were economic saboteurs whose activities were negatively affecting the lives of many Nigerians.

CHANGE OF NAME EGUAVOEN – I formerly Miss Precious Enibokun Eguavoen, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Precious Enibokun Osazee. All former documents remain valid. General public and all concerned authorities should please take note.

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NEWS Poverty, Unemployment Prevalent In Rural Communities - NGO

L-R: Commissioner for Transport, Isimeme J. Iriogbe Esq., and his Oil and Gas counterpart, Ambassador Orobosa OmoOjo (JP), during the birthday anniversary celebration of the Oba of Benin, Oba Erediauwa at the Oba palace, Benin City yesterday. Photo: SOLOMON ENAIGBE.

MR. Eugene Nweke, Executive Director, Initiative for Social Change in Africa, an NGO, has said that poverty and unemployment were prevalent amongst youths in rural communities. Nweke told newsmen in Abakaliki that poverty and unemployment were major social problems confronting Nigerian youths in rural areas. According to him, the fight against economic marginalisation of rural community youths will not be meaningful if youths are without some basic skills. He said that sustainable self reliance strategies were grossly absent in most government plans.

I-G Deploys Police Accountants To Pay Offices By JOSES SEDE

THE Inspector-General of Police, Mr. Mohammed Abubakar, has ordered posting of police personnel with

financial and accounting background to man police pay offices nationwide. Abubakar gave the order when he declared open a oneday training workshop for

Police Pay Officers drawn from the various police commands

Onyinye Weds Osaze

and formations in Abuja. He said that the process of enrolling all police personnel into the Integrated Personal Pay Information System (IPPIS) had reached an advance stage. The IG said that the deployment of such officers to pay offices was to ensure that the financial arm of the force was professionalised for transparency and accountability. He added that the measure was also in line with the ongoing transformation in the police. “You must, therefore, key into the transformation of the present administration and show high level of professionalism, transparency and accountability. “You must ensure that as soon as funds are released by the government to pay salaries, it is paid. “You must adhere strictly to the provisions of all financial rules and regulation and ensure that circulars from the Ministry of Finance are complied with without any hesitation,’’ he said. Abubakar said in spite of the meagre overhead appropriated to the force, he had directed that stationary, maintenance of vehicles and purchase of fuel should be directly made to commands and divisions.

CHANGE OF NAME

The solemnization of marriage between former Miss Onyinye Evan Muoma (Staff of M.T.N. Lagos) and Mr. Osaze Igbinoba (Staff of Fed. Inland Revenue Service Lagos) took place on Saturday 22nd June 2013 at the Oredo Local Govt. Council Marriage Registry in Benin City. Amongst those present were Mr. & Mrs. Palmer J. Igbinoba (Groom’s parents) Chief E.C. Udedike, Chief & Mrs. Ozigbo Esere, Chief Christopher Muoma, Chief Gabriel Muoma, family members, relations, friends and well wishers. Picture shows the couple at the registry. Congratulations. Photo: Sonnie E.

BROWN – I formerly Miss Linda Aleni Brown, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Linda Aleni John. All former documents remain valid. General public and all concerned authorities should please take note.

“This bottom-to-top approach is to ensure that no matter how little the fund is, distribution is made to the lowest police formation in order to ensure the realisation of self-accounting status of the police. “There is need to put structure on ground for realisation of this goal,’’ he said. The police boss charged the officers to work toward ensuring the successful enrolment of the personnel into the IPPIS. In a presentation, the Director of IPPIS, Mrs. Nana Mede, urged the officers to ensure the successful implementation of the system in the force.

Nweke said that more NGOs needed to collaborate with government to eradicate school drop-outs, out-ofschool youths and rural women poverty in the country. “We need to help rural dwellers acquire vocational training in tailoring, hairdressing, soap making, panel beating, motor and radio mechanic and in barbing,“ he said. Nweke said that large population of poor and unemployed youths were living in rural communities. “We have a greater number of poor and unemployed youths in our rural communities and this is not good for the overall development of this nation. “And it is our belief that these youths, through skill acquisition, will be productive and self reliant. “The focus of more NGOs, therefore, should be to harness the potential of these rural poor and unemployed youths to the advantage of our society. “When they are empowered they will be able to contribute to the development of their various communities,’’ Nweke said. Nweke told newsmen that his NGO had trained no fewer than 70 youths to acquire different skills.

Edo Govt Reiterates Commitment To Reduce Cancer Spread GOVERNOR Adams Oshiomhole of Edo has reiterated the commitment of his administration to reduce the spread of cancer through its cancer control programme. Oshiomhole said this at the 2nd Scientific Conference of the Association of Resident Doctors, Edo State Hospital Management Board, in Benin. Represented by Dr Aihanuwa Eregie, the Commissioner for Health, Oshiomhole said that the cancer control programme would install equipment that would help to reduce the spread of the disease in the state. The governor said that the Ministry of Health had distributed 69 Cryo-therapy

machines and accessories to primary and secondary health centres as part of measures to check the spread. He added that mammography machine would be installed at the accident and emergency ward, Central Hospital, Benin. Oshiomhole said that awareness campaign on screening for breast and prostate cancer was on going in the state. He promised that his administration would address the challenges in the health sector with available resources at its disposal. “The renovation of 20 hospitals across the state has been completed or near completion,’’ he said.

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E. A. ADEBOYE On Sunday

Any Credit With God? MEMORISE: Remember all thy offerings, and accept thy burnt sacrifice; Psalm 20:3. READ: Acts 9:36-42 for you. At such times,

“And she went up, and laid him on the bed of the man of God, and shut the door upon him, and went out.” 2Kings 4:21 When the son of the

you may not be the one to speak for yourself. Psalm 20:1-3 says God will remember your offering in the day of trouble. This

go now. So the Lord was forced to ask her to return to earth to continue her good work. If you die today, how many people will miss you? To test this, travel for

“Do you have a deposit with God which you can draw from in times of crisis? It is wisdom to have such a deposit because at very crucial moments in the life of the depositor, your investment will speak for you.” rich Shunammite woman died in 2 Kings 4:18-26, she laid him on the bed that she had provided for the man of God. It was another way of telling God: ‘Lord, I have some deposits in my heavenly account: it is time to make a withdrawal’. She did not request for the child in the first place; it came as interest on her investment. Do you have a deposit with God which you can draw from in times of crisis? It is wisdom to have such a deposit because at very crucial moments in the life of the depositor, your investment will speak

refers to regular offerings. But do you have a solid deposit with God? Dorcas did. In Acts 9:36-42, when she died, everybody protested – Not Dorcas” when some people die, people would say may their soul rest in peace, but when some others die, people will lead a protest march to God, saying there must have been some kind of mistake. Check it; such people whose cases are protested most likely had deposits with God. As people protested Dorcas’ death, they sent for Peter and began to show him reasons she cannot just

one month and see how many people will ask you where you have been. If on your return people just say good morning to you, then it is likely that when you die, you may go unnoticed to such people. While on board a ship in one of his trips, there was a terrible storm that put the lives of all that were on board in danger for over two weeks. In the midst of this, an angel visited Paul and God said to him that because of his credit with God, both his life and the lives of those with him would be saved (Acts 27:13-24). Do you have credit with God?

KEY POINT From today, begin to build your Heavenly credit for future benefits.

WORLD NEWS Brazil’s President Pledges To Hold Dialogue With Protesters BRAZILIAN President Dilma Rousseff promised on Friday to hold a dialogue with members of a protest movement sweeping the country, but also said she would do whatever is necessary to maintain order in the wake of widespread vandalism and looting. “We cannot live with this violence that shames Brazil,” she said in a nationally televised address. “All institutions and public security forces should prevent, within the limits of the law, every form of violence and vandalism.” Rousseff spoke even as new demonstrations broke out on Friday, including one that for several hours blocked most passengers from entering or leaving the country’s busiest international airport, outside Sao Paulo. The protests have come out of seemingly nowhere over the

past week. More than 1 million people took to the streets on Thursday in the biggest demonstrations in Brazil in 20 years. The nameless, leaderless movement - composed largely of students and the middle class - has pulled together a wide range of grievances including bad public transport and healthcare, corruption, and the billions of dollars that the government is spending to host next year’s World Cup. Rousseff, a former guerrilla who herself protested a military rule during the 1960s, praised the peaceful majority of protesters and said she would listen to their demands. Speaking calmly but firmly, she said Brazil has a “historic opportunity” to harness the energy from the protests and make improvements. But she warned the movement could be ruined by violence like that seen

on Thursday, when protesters smashed buildings, looted stores and set fires in a dozen cities. Rousseff said it was her “obligation to listen to the voice of the streets, as well as dialogue with all segments” of society peacefully protesting. The president, who is not known for initiating talks, did not specify what such a process would look like. After her speech, the hashtag #calabocadilma - “Shut up, Dilma” in Portuguese began trending on Twitter accompanied by withering comments attacking her government. Friday’s protests were much smaller than those on Thursday. There were signs of a backlash against the movement on Friday, and one prominent leftist group said it would stop organizing marches for now because of discord and violence.

Putin Warns Syrians Rebels As Conflict RUSSIAN President U.S. President Barack Obama, Widens Vladimir Putin cautioned the citing the Syrian government’s West on Friday against arming Syrian rebel forces, which he said included “terrorist” groups, and warned that a swift exit by President Bashar al-Assad risked creating a dangerous power vacuum. “If the United States ... recognizes one of the key Syrian opposition organizations, alNusra, as terrorist ... how can one deliver arms to those opposition members?” Putin told a panel with German Chancellor Angela Merkel. “Where will they end up? What role will they play?” Putin defended his own country’s arm sales to the embattled Syrian government as “entirely legal, repeating Russia’s position that outsiders should not determine the fate of Assad and Syria. “If Assad goes today, a political vacuum emerges - who will fill it?” Putin said at a later news conference with Merkel. “Maybe those terrorist organizations.

Nobody wants this - but how can it be avoided? After all, they are armed and aggressive.” The only solution, he said, was an international peace conference that Russia and the United States are seeking to convene. A U.N. human rights investigator warned on Friday that an increased flow of arms to Syria’s government and rebel forces would likely result in increased war crimes in a twoyear civil war that has killed some 93,000 people. “States who provide arms have responsibilities in terms of the eventual use of those arms to commit ... war crimes or crimes against humanity,” said Paulo Pinheiro, chairman of a U.N. commission of inquiry on rights violations in Syria. With Russia and Iran arming Assad’s forces, and Lebanon’s Hezbollah fighters joining the war on his behalf, Western powers have agreed to step up aid to the mainly Sunni rebels.

alleged use of chemical weapons, decided last week to provide military aid to rebels fighting to overthrow Assad. Obama said on Friday the United States was leaving about 700 combat-equipped troops in Jordan after a training exercise there, at the request of Amman. The United States previously decided to leave Patriot missiles and warplanes in the country. Jordan fears a spillover of the Syrian war into its territory, where an estimated half million Syrian refugees have fled to escape the bloodshed. With both countries keeping an eye on the war, Obama told Congress in a letter that the troops would remain until the security situation became such that they were no longer needed. The European Union lifted its arms embargo on Syria last month. Britain and France have spoken in favor of potentially arming the rebels, but have not yet taken any decisions.

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Tiger Photobombs Couple’s Wedding perfect service for a crazy “It was amazing,” Vicki KARMA and Andrew Photo cat lady like me!!!” Boulter, the wedding Madgwick weren’t expecting a tiger to crash their wedding. But that’s sort of what happened last weekend, when the newlyweds were posing for photographs at their reception at the Paignton Zoo in Devon, England. The couple was standing in front of a glass barrier outside the zoo’s forest habitat, passionately gazing into each other’s eyes, when a female Sumatran tiger wandered into shot.

photographer, told Cornwall’s Western Morning News. “We were talking and Karma shook her wedding dress. Within 20 seconds she came over. I think she thought it was dinner. She was gone just as quick but we managed to get the photo.” The pair—who were married earlier in the day in nearby Exeter—didn’t realize the endangered tiger, named Banda, had gotten so close.

But Karma, 30, who teaches performing arts at South Devon College, took it in stride. “A very scary moment and one fabulously unique wedding picture,” she wrote on Facebook. “We are loving married life. We are also going to adopt Banda now.” Andrew, a 25-year-old videographer, is even using the “tigerbomb” as his Facebook cover photo. Karma added: “The

Odd News Compiled By LOVETH OKPOKPO

Boston To Give Away Condom In officer of the National STUDENTS at all Boston High Sch Campaign to Prevent Teen public high schools will soon be able to obtain free condoms at school - as long as they sit through a few minutes of counseling about safe sex under a policy approved Wednesday by the school board. Condoms are already available in 19 high schools with on-site health centers. The policy, endorsed on a 5-0 vote by the Boston School Committee, expands distribution to all 32 high schools and their 17,000 students. Parents will have the right to exempt their children. Several U.S. urban districts, including New York and Los Angeles, make condoms widely available in high

schools. So do many suburban school districts around Boston. The expansion in Boston will not cost the district anything since the contraception is donated by public health agencies, district spokesman Lee McGuire said. Schools will distribute the condoms on request, after a brief counseling session with the nurse or another staff member. The Archdiocese of Boston issued a statement calling condom distribution misguided, but did not organize formal protests. Bill Albert, chief program

and Unplanned Pregnancy, said parents often fear easy access to contraception will encourage teens to have sex earlier or more frequently. Studies have shown that isn’t the case, he said. “That is one they can cross off their worry list,” Albert said. “The science is absolutely clear.” It’s less clear, Albert said, whether students consistently practice safer sex when they have access to free condoms. The condom policy is part of a broader wellness initiative in Boston schools, including expanded sex education, better nutrition and more physical activity for students.

Cat Nurses Pit Bull Puppy A cat caring for four newborn kittens is nursing an orphaned week-old pit bull puppy in Cleveland. Sharon Harvey of the Cleveland Animal Protective League said that Lurlene the cat welcomed Noland the

puppy to her “unusual little family.” The puppy was dropped off at the animal shelter last week when he was a day old. The staff decided to place Noland with the nursing cat and her litter because bot-

tle feeding doesn’t always work. The puppy will grow faster, so the shelter says it may have to come up with another feeding idea in several weeks until Noland is ready

Message In Bottler Found note? A simple message After 97 Years from two young women A scuba diver looking for treasure in the St. Clair River near Detroit stumbled upon a different type of prize at the bottom of the river: a message in a bottle. Dave Leander of the Great Lakes Dive Center told Detroit’s WJBK that the note had been buried for 97 years until he found it in the silt.

“I happened to see a piece of paper in there, and I could actually read the writing underwater,” Leander told WJBK. This was last June. Now, the bottle is heading for a local museum on Harsens Island, Mich., where it (and the note inside) will be on display. So, what was on the

who were at the Tashmoo amusement park on Harsens. The message read, “Having a great time at Tashmoo,” and was written by Stella Pramstaller and Tillie Esper. Eric Schiebold, one of Esper’s 32 grandchildren, spoke to WJBK about the note and his memories of his grandmother.

Brother Saves Sister From Bear

Message in a bottle

A family had a close encounter with a bear while celebrating Father’s Day during a camping trip in Wyoming, NBC-2 reports. The Kelly family had a relaxing Sunday morning breakfast, but apparently they didn’t clean up as well as they initially thought. According to NBC-2, a bit of

bacon grease was still on the campground grill, and that was enough to draw the attention of a bear. Two staff members of the camp came to warn the Kelly family that a bear was close by,

and that’s when 11-year-old Baden Kelly sprung into action. Baden began screaming in order to get the bear’s attention. He was able to distract the bear long enough for most of his family to run into a nearby cabin. However, his little sister Moriah, perhaps due to the shock of the situation, didn’t run.

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GOD in His wisdom gave you two eyes, this organ of the body though two is made to see one thing at a time if it must see clearly. The Oxford dictionary defines focus as to give attention, effort, etc. to one particular subject, situation or person rather than another. In my own words, I will define it as concentrating on a particular issue with the aim of achieving a desired goal. Focus is one weapon that keeps you going even when it looks as if things will not work out. A man that has focus cannot easily be discouraged. Every youngster is a hunter aiming at a target which I call a destination; it could be career, relationship, marriage etc just like a hunter will miss a target without proper focus, so also any person will miss his/her destiny if he/she is not properly focused. Joseph in the book of Genesis 37:5 said “He had a dream” which means he was focused on his tomorrow. Paul speaking in Philippians 3:13 say “Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before”. This scripture talks about things and one of which is that, no matter what he is going through at the present, it does not make him loose focus on where he is going. He further buttressed that he does not allow what he has gone through or what he has experienced to obstruct this focus “but one thing he does”; that is talking about focus. A man that is not focused cannot get to his destination. It takes a focused footballer to score a goal; it takes a focus splinter to cross the line. You cannot be looking backward and be going forward. Just like a hunter will miss targets and waste bullets for not being focused so also a man full of dreams seldom achieves those dreams if he is not focused. Let us look at the common

Sunday Sermon With Bishop Clement Ehidiamhen enemies to focus; SIN: If the devil can distract our focus, he can steal your future, what the devil does is to get your attention, and if he succeed in this, he gives a misdirection different from your destination. Sin is a distraction. Genesis 3:6 says “And when the woman saw that the tree was good for food, and that it was pleasant to the eyes, and a tree to be desired to make one wise, she took of the fruit thereof, and did eat, and gave also unto her husband with her; and he did eat” the first sin that man committed was done because the devil shifted the woman’s focus to something that will hinder her in life. When Samson sinned in the book of Judges 16, the first thing the enemies removed was the eyes, the organ through which he sees his vision and where he is going to in life. Daniel in the Bible was so focused that even the king’s delicacies, could not make him lose his focus on his destination. Joseph had every opportunity to have committed adultery with the master’s wife which would have ended his career. My dear friends, what is distracting you from achieving your aim, is it that little sin, please for the sake of your future leave it. FRIENDS: Some friends can make you lose focus on where you are supposed to be because men are products of influence. If you move with a man that has no future, be rest assured that your life and future can be

and will be stampeded. Know it that you go to the place which your friends go. It takes a wise man to know that, just as everyman is born alone and born different so also is every man born alone and born with different dreams. I have seen so many people that have lost focus, mostly when they started moving

and as such were always seen together and were classified as wise men. CRITICISM: Because of criticism, many people have discontinued their pursuit (focus). Who is a critic? He/she is a person that probably cannot do what you are doing, but with the destruction of the mouth

Focus

with some set of people. It is an error for you to join a car going somewhere different from your destination simply because your friends are inside. Never you tolerate friends that are distraction, don’t deceive yourself, you know them. The wise men in the gospels were friends heading the same direction

run you down, so that you cannot focus or continue with what you are doing. To a wise and focused man, criticism is a compliment in disguise. Critics are men at work, though not paid, construct good passage for those who know where they are going to. If you don’t want criticism, stop focusing at the top because

you cannot be at the top, and not be criticized. Jesus was criticized and yet was focused, if He had followed their criticism, He would not haven been able to achieve His assignment on earth. If you mind your critics, you will miss your goal. Elisha followed Elijah in the book of 2kings 2:5 “And the sons of the prophets that were at Jericho came to Elisha, and said unto him, Knowest thou that the LORD will

take away thy master from thy head to day? And he answered, Yea, I know it; hold ye your peace” This was done to distract his focus of collecting the double portion of the power. But his answer was “Hold your peace”. When he finally got the double portion of power, all his critics bowed down for

“A man that is not focused cannot get to his destination. It takes a focused footballer to score a goal; it takes a focus splinter to cross the line. You cannot be looking backward and be going forward. Just like a hunter will miss targets and waste bullets for not being focused so also a man full of dreams seldom achieves those dreams if he is not focused.”

him. Go on with that your God given dream, when you get there, they will bow for you. A wise man once said “What people don’t understand they criticize and what they understand they condemn”. It is better you are criticized than destroyed. As long you know that your hands are clean and you are not guilty of what they are saying, forge ahead with full determination and undistracted focus. Take every criticism like the horn of vehicle, that you are embarking on a journey and other vehicles are blowing theirs to overtake or just to greet

another person on the high way does not stop you from arriving your destination. Take criticism as one of the side attractions you will experience on your way to destiny. Every critic is entitled to their own opinion, that somebody, no matter who he is said something about you does not make it right. A success that listens more to what critics says than where he/ she is going to is bound to go their way which is disastrous. Remember you can’t do or be what everybody wants you to be or else you will end as a nobody. All we need is to know where we are going to and focus on it till we get there.

8 SUNDAY, JUNE 23, 2013

Environment

Policing Corporate Environmental Degradation: The Law’s Position IT is no longer news that our environmental status is in peril and in a state of jeopardy. Brought about most frequently by company’s undisciplined activities in the process of manufacturing, processing and production. Hence, mankind is being agitated in a monumental scale. Expressing his disgust on this scale, U THANT, the former U.N. Secretary who died at New York hospital at age 56, lamented thus “The pollution, degradation, and usurpation of our environment is very serious, unless immediate steps are taken to correct the situation, the very survival of human life is in danger…” One can only, but perceive the foregoing with the spirit of agreement. Environmental degradation is the deterioration of the environment through depletion of resources, such as air, water, soil, general destruction of the ecosystem and consequently, the extinction of wild life. It is any change or disturbance to the environment perceived to be deleterious and undesirable. If our legal system should allow this trend to continue to gain fertile ground, then it would have a lot of lacuna to grapple with. And this will be to the public discomfort.

Following this issue that has bedeviled our society since the destructive human history; this piece is therefore geared toward proffering possible and radical regulations to make sure that corporation like companies activities are properly policed. One of such means, is the proper enforcement of the legal rule of “STRICT LIABILITY OFFENCES.” This means liability imposed on a defaulting party without given an opportunity to prove the mental element of his crime. Liability hinged solely on the actual commission of the offence ( actus reus), not with intent. It is note worthy to acknowledge at this juncture, that our criminal justice system can no longer continue to condone environmental infractions of which corporations are the brains behind. Our criminal justice system has posed1indifferent to societal plight. In line with the foregoing. it is safe to conclude that appropriate bodies which are endeared with regulating the activities of

By UKIRI CLEMENTINA

With ANTHONY AIBANGBEE responsibility have em-

be held accountable for

phasized that a corpora-

the omissions of such per-

companies, especially within the oil and as sector should brace up to their responsibilities, as they are the major source of pollution in Nigeria. Pollution of our environment by these corporations should he punished on the strict liability rule, so as to easily incriminate their activities without much problems. As this w ill induce

criminal liability.” Upon this concept of Law, many questions have arose, of which the prominent and most important is, since criminal liability envisage conviction and imprisonment or penalty for crime, it consists an absurdity for an artificial person that cannot be actually imprisoned in the strict sense of the subject of criminal responsibility.

tion is an abstraction

sons. The above position

which has no mind of its

of Law was made clear in

own any more than it has

the case Okatta V. the

a body of its own. Its ac-

Regd Trustees, O.S.C.

tive and directing will

(

discipline and the spirit of care in corpoIa1 bodies. This is a legal concept referred to as corporate

But just adequately, here is the solution to the problem above, the concept of corporate criminal

ego and center of the per- 1 3 N W L R ( P T 1 1 0 5 )

)

must be consequently sought in the person of somebody who for some purpose may be called an agent but who is really the directing mind and will of the corporations, the very

sonality of the corpora- P.632, where the court tions. It therefore follows held that an artificial perthat the corporation must son vested with legal or

“It is noteworthy that the regulation of corporate environmental crimes in Nigeria is premised on the need to protect its citizenry and environment from adverse environmental consequences of corporate activities in Nigeria.”

9 SUNDAY, JUNE 23, 2013

Vaginal Spotting And Bleeding During Pregnancy (2) By TESSY OTENE

Bleeding in early pregnancy: VAGINAL bleeding during pregnancy is any discharge of blood from the vagina. It can happen any time from conception (when the egg is fertilized) to the end of pregnancy. About 2 or 3 out of every 10 pregnant women have vaginal bleeding during their first 20 weeks of pregnancy. The Difference between Spotting and Bleeding Spotting is when you notice a few drops of blood every now and then on your underwear. It is not even enough to cover a panty liner. Bleeding is a heavier flow of blood. With bleeding, you will need a liner or pad to keep the blood from soaking your clothes. Ask your doctor or midwife more about the difference between spotting and bleeding at one of your first prenatal visits. Should I Worry about Spotting? Some spotting is normal very early in pregnancy. Still, it is a good idea to tell your doctor or midwife about it. If you have had an ultrasound that confirms you have a normal pregnancy, call your health care provider the day you first see the spotting. If you have spotting and have not yet had an ultrasound, contact your health care provider right away. Spotting can be a sign of an ectopic pregnancy (a pregnancy

where the fertilized egg develops outside the uterus). An untreated ectopic pregnancy can be life threatening for the woman. What Causes Vaginal Bleeding? Bleeding in the first trimester is not always a problem. It may be caused by: Having sex An infection The fertilized egg implanting in the uterus Hormone changes Other factors that will not harm the woman or baby More serious causes of first-trimester bleeding include: A miscarriage, which is the loss of the pregnancy before the embryo or fetus can live on its own outside the uterus. Almost all women who miscarry will have bleeding before a miscarriage. An ectopic pregnancy, which may cause bleeding and cramping. A molar pregnancy, in which the pregnancy does not form properly. When to Call the Doctor Call or go to your doctor or midwife right away if you have: Heavy bleeding Bleeding with pain or cramping Dizziness and bleeding Pain in your belly or pelvis If you cannot reach your health care provider, go to the emergency room. If your bleeding has stopped, you still need to

ealth Watch

With ANTHONY AIBANGBEE

call your doctor or midwife. Your health care provider will need to find out what caused your bleeding. You may need an exam and tests to check on your

bleeding during this or an earlier pregnancy? When did your bleeding begin? Does it stop and start, or is it a steady flow? How much blood is

Have you been injured, such as in a fall? Have you changed your physical activity?

pregnancy. You may need a shot of medicine to protect your pregnancy, depending on your blood type. What Will My Doctor Need to Know? Your doctor or midwife may need to know these things to find the cause of your vaginal bleeding: How far along is your pregnancy? Have you had vaginal

there? What is the color of the blood? Does the blood have an odor? Do you have cramps or pain? Do you feel weak or tired? Have you fainted or felt dizzy? Do you have nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea? Do you have a fever?

Do you have any extra stress? When did you last have sex? Did you bleed afterward? Treatment for Vaginal Bleeding Most of the time, the treatment for bleeding is rest. Your doctor or midwife may also advise you to: Take time off work Stay off your feet

Not have sex Not douche (NEVER do this during pregnancy, and avoid when not pregnant too) Don’t use tampons Your doctor or midwife may also give you a shot of medicine to help you keep your pregnancy and avoid a miscarriage. Very heavy bleeding may require a hospital stay or surgical procedure. What if I Discharge More than Blood? If something other than blood comes out, call your doctor or midwife right away. Put the discharge in a jar or a plastic bag and bring it with you to your health care provider. Your doctor or midwife will check to see if you are still pregnant. You will be closely watched with blood tests to see if you are still pregnant. If you are no longer pregnant, you may need more care from your health care provider, such as medicine or possibly surgery. SOURCES: MEDIPLUS.COM Susan Storck, MD, FACOG, Chief, Eastside Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Group Health Cooperative of Puget Sound, Bellevue, Washington; Clinical Teaching Faculty, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Washington School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M. Health Solutions, Ebix, Inc.

“Spotting can be a sign of an ectopic pregnancy (a pregnancy where the fertilized egg develops outside the uterus). An untreated ectopic pregnancy can be life threatening for the woman.”

10 SUNDAY, JUNE 23, 2013

THERE is a real need for understanding regarding the process of reformation generally and specifically as it relates to the apostolic. We need to gain the Lord’s view of not only what this reformation is but also how this reformation will come

day. In the early morning hours of any day the light is just beginning to dawn. The condition is a mix of old and new; light and dark. In the dawning new day things are obscure and our view is limited. We have the promise of the light of the

don’t lust for what it isn’t time for us to have. At the same time, we must press in to all that the Lord has ordained to give us for our day! Glimpse or Gaze? In Song of Solomon there

apostolic? Personally I don’t think so. I don’t say these things to judge those who have written books or produce materials about the apostolic, but to warn us to understand that we are just getting started with this thing. We must be patient

BRIO With Francis Odupute

safeguards we should employ in the process of

would always say, “son, you don’t look at the field to lay

The Process Of Apostolic Reformation

about. We must understand that the process of reformation is at the same time supernatural and miraculous but by no means immediate. There are laws that apply in the Kingdom of God such as seed time and harvest. Jesus taught us that the Word of the Kingdom was seed, blade, ear and full corn in the ear. If we fail to understand the process we will not be able to cooperate with it or we will assume we are where we’re not. There is joy in the journey if we understand the process. Also, God uses people in the process of reforming His Church. It’s like remodeling in a house. The product may seem miraculous but it in fact isn’t a miracle. The product of a reformed Church isn’t a miracle though it really is miraculous when you see people respond to the grace of God and the outcome of that response expresses Heaven’s will. The process of apostolic reformation, just as all that God does, involves the will and choice of men. Very often I find that I am waiting on people to come on line so that the thing I have seen in the Spirit can be administrated on the earth. “Don’t be weary in well doing” is the admonition of scripture and the promise offered for perseverance is, “we will reap in due season if we do not faint” (Galatians 6:9). Early Morning Hours of the Third Day We need to be aware of the stage or phase of reformation we are currently in. By so doing well gain understanding which will enable us to be patient and even thankful during the process. If you think in terms of 1000 years being as a day to the Lord, we are in the 3rd day since the Cross. However, it would be a mistake to forget that we are in the early morning hours of the third

new day but we have no alternative but to wait for the light. A beautiful verse of scripture in Proverbs 4:18 from the Amplified Bible gives me hope in the new day. It says, “But the path of the [uncompromisingly] just and righteous is like the light of dawn, that shines more and more (brighter and clearer) until [it reaches its full strength and glory in] the perfect day [to be prepared]. We are in the dawning of a new day but have the promise of God for our day to reach its full strength and glory! We can be sure that our Faithful Father will finish what He has started; He will perform His whole will and have His way fully!! There is revelation for our day that wasn’t needed by former generations and consequently wasn’t given to men by the Lord (see Ephesians 3:5 and 1 Peter 10-12). God gives us our daily bread. Bread for the day. You don’t get tomorrows bread today— you will get it tomorrow. We must be careful to position ourselves as Bereans and not Athenians. The Athenians were always looking for some new thing (Acts 17:21). The Bereans (Acts 17:10 - 11) were noble people who studied the scriptures daily. How often in the scriptures do we find the language, “and the word of the Lord came to” or some variation of this idea. The point is that God speaks to His people when His people need to be spoken to. Oh brothers and sisters get this! God will speak to you when you need to know the thing. There is revelation for our day that is being given to us that hasn’t been given to others because there was no need for them to have it. Contrarily, there is revelation reserved for those who will follow us that we have no right to or need of. We must be careful that we

By MICHAEL BARRET is a truth or principle that I believe will help us gain understanding. SOS 2:9 says, “My beloved stands

and realize that we are very young in the apostolic. I have found a few helpful books on this subject but

behind our wall and shows himself through the lattice.” There is real revelation contained here that will help us understand process. This scripture says that our Beloved stands behind “our wa1l” and shows himself “through the lattice.” (..see article “Through the Lattice” for more thorough treatment of this revelation). There are walls and lattice in every one of our lives. Walls of doctrine, theology; belief systems, pride, fear, and on we could go. Lattice of experience, hurt, disappointment, disillusionment, confusion, success, failure and again we could go on here. The walls and lattice obscure a clear view of our Beloved. Through the walls and lattice we get a glimpse of our Beloved. The problem arises when we have had a glimpse and believe we have seen clearly. Specific to the apostolic we have seen our Beloved in a glimpse and not prolonged gaze. Is it time yet to write books and produce lengthy CD and tape series on the

others I have found to be more of an extrapolation of sermons preached and lack real depth—thus they won’t be particularly helpful to the Church. The risk with the later works mentioned is that leaders will take them seriously and attempt to build new models of work around the ideas contained in these works. To the leaders I want to say, we have nothing to lose and much to gain by being patient. To the saints I want to ask, please be patient with us as we continue to grow through this learning curve. Keeping our eyes on the Prize One

the

main

reformation is to maintain a clear intention to seek the Lord and not just the work of the Lord. The more we keep Jesus as first love and refuse to allow the work to slip into first place the safer

we are. Keeping Jesus in and as the center will also insure that the product of the work we are doing will be as pure as possible. A brother wrote, “We’re not just looking for a kingdom, we’re looking for a King!” I whole-heartedly agree. We must labor to keep the priority of seeking the Lord first and He will add everything to us that is needed for our day (Matthew 6:33). I can remember working on my uncle’s farm in the summers as a young man. One of my responsibilities was to lay out the fields that were to be planted in rows. It was tricky to get the hang of this job. The older men

the first rows out.” They taught me to pick out a fixed object at the other end of the field and concentrate on driving directly toward that fixed point. I can remember thinking that I was sure I could lay out straight rows by just driving the tractor in a straight line. So I would look at the steering wheel or the front wheels of the tractor man attempt to go in a straight path. This never worked no matter how much I was convinced that it would. If I would pick out a tree or some other fixed object and focus on driving straight for it, the rows always came out straight. Jesus is the fixed object that we must focus on during the process of the reformation of our day, Jesus is our Heavenly Apostle and we must fix our gaze on Him like never before. I had an opportunity to visit with a brother once who had been a leader in a strong movement in our country which had fallen apart seemingly overnight. I asked him, “What went wrong?” He replied, “We learned how to have the church and forgot how to have the Lord!” Let leaders be warned that we too, could learn how to have the church and forget how to have the Lord. Let’s seek the Lord first. Let’s keep our eyes on the Prize. Jesus is the Author and the Finisher of our faith. He is the Builder of the House and of His Church. God bless you richly as you continue to seek Him.

“One of the main safeguards we should employ in the process of reformation is to maintain a clear intention to seek the Lord and not just the work of the Lord. The more we keep Jesus as first love and refuse to allow the work to slip into first place the safer we are.”

11 SUNDAY, JUNE 23, 2013

Naked Truth

What Have You To Say On The Release Of Suspected Terrorists? The state of insecurity in Nigeria today is no longer news to her citizens even as we are all getting use to words like bomb blast, suicide bombing and all other words which are capable of sending fear to every home, all occasioned by the deadly activities of the Islamic terrorist Sect known as Boko Haram. This has led to a massive manhunt for them by the federal government, resulting in many of the suspects and their family members being arrested for serious interrogation. But just recently the federal government announced their unconditional release which has sparked off serious debate among the citizens. Naked Truth went to town with citizen Emma Kola Okhakhu to sample the views of the people, they are presented here for your Sunday delight. Excerpt:

GET INFORMATION FROM THEM TOOTunde Molen ORDINARILY, I was infuriated at the news of the release of suspected terrorists. But after the explanation of the President that it was actually relatives of suspected terrorists that were released, I had a rethink. Security reports at the disposal of the Presidency may have informed the release of the suspects. But the suspect released ought to be thoroughly screened and interviewed before their release. Information should be obtained from them to help the course of investigations. IT MAKES NO SENSEComrade Pius Ede IT is unwise to pick off dirt on your head when you are still in the forest, it makes no sense. But decency demands that if there are women and children currently in detention as a result of their husbands or relations involvement, government could find a way to assuage their plights. For me, if anybody is found to be directly or indirectly connected with the activities of Boko Haram sect, he or she should be made to face criminal charges. No normal person would go on suicide mission and anybody caught must not be released until justice is done.

TERRORISTS ENEMIES

ARE OF

H U M A N I T Y Ikhureigbe Ernest O. TERRORISTS are enemies of humanity. They should be treated as

leper and possibly put out of circulation if they refuse to come to reason. Nonetheless, nothing should be too much to bring peace to the nation. If the government deems it expedient to release them for peace to reign, they could be given the benefit of doubt. The government should however, not grant them blanket amnesty as they could still be dangerous if their arms and ammunition are not

surrendered as did the Niger-Delta Militants. It will be more honourable and acceptable if their leaders could apologize

for their barbaric adventures and the bad name labeled against Nigeria and Nigerians. Otherwise, it will be seen as an act done out of cowardice. TERRORISTS OUGHT TO BE PROSECUTED - By Kester Ogiesewu Terrorists don’t deserve to be handled with kid glove. This is because terrorism has to do with violent activities which

most likely leads to the loss of innocent souls. That is why it is against the interest of the Nigerian nation to be exposed to the

With CITIZEN EMMA KOLA OKHAKHU danger of terrorism, with the recent release of suspected terrorists who ought to be prosecuted and given proper punishment. Government must intensify effort to deal decisively with all terrorist groups rather than contemplating amnesty for them. That presupposes that all those who are involved in the acts of terrorism must not be allowed to go unpunished. We are aware of many lives that had been lost in

T E R R O R - B y Emmanuel Amaechi The President’s action is like giving a child a gift with the right hand and taking it with the left hand. Releasing these hardhearted criminals amount to more terror on the nation. What are these terrorists going back to do in the society? Yes, it may be argued that they have not been found guilty of terrorist activities by law, but it is important to note that no nation succeeds

the past due to the activities of terrorists.

under conditions of crime. Let the government take the bull by the horn and bring these culprits to book.

THEIR RELEASE AMOUNT TO MORE

“They should be treated as leper and possibly put out of circulation if they refuse to come to reason. Nonetheless, nothing should be too much to bring peace to the nation. If the government deems it expedient to release them for peace to reign, they could be given the benefit of doubt.”

12 SUNDAY, JUNE 23, 2013

13 SUNDAY, JUNE 23, 2013

NEWS XTRA

TETFUND Spends N574.5b On Tertiary Institution THE Acting Executive Secretary of Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund), Malam Aliyu Na’iya, said the agency spent N574.5 billion to support 201 institutions from 2003 to date. Na’iya made this known at the 2013 Ministerial Platform on the Mid-term report on President Goodluck Jonathan’s administration in Abuja. He said funds were disbursed to 78 Federal and State Universities, 60 Federal and State Polytechnics and 63 Federal and State Colleges of Education. Na’iya said, “TETFund is the key agency for actualising a four-year strategic plan of the President Goodluck Jonathan’s administration in focal areas of funding, partnerships, resource mobilisation and utilisation.’’ He said the agency initiated the construction of microteaching laboratories in 58 institutions, including all Federal Colleges of Education, one State College of education and the FCT. Na’iya said the agency released N4.7 billion for the initial for the provision of infrastructure for each of the new federal universities. He said the agency also enabled the nine new Federal Universities to commence full academic activities with the exception of three new ones that would commence academic activities in 2014. “To support Access and Quality, TETFund is actively involved in the development and rehabilitation of

infrastructure, including halls, lecture theatres and laboratories. “It provided classrooms, libraries, workshops and integration of ICT into teaching and learning and built capacity for the development of academic and non-academic staff,’’ he said. He said the agency also provided multimedia microteaching laboratories for 58 Federal and State Colleges of Education. Na’iya said that the agency also supported the establishment of the Almajiri Model Schools under the Tsangaya System of Education. The executive secretary said the agency carried out Needs Assessment in Public Universities (Federal and State) by assessing staff and student population in relation to facilities. He said the agency’s recent interventions included the eLibrary development in Unity Colleges and teaching practice for teachers in Colleges of Education. “TETFund will continue to prioritise support for the actualisation of the transformation agenda, through the four-year Strategic Plan of improving access and quality of education at tertiary levels. He said it would also support institutions in ensuring that they produce individuals with the competence to drive diverse sectors of the economy and enhance Nigeria’s global competitiveness.

L-R: FCT Minister, Senator Bala Mohammed; Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator Anyim Pius Anyim, and Minister of State for Works, Amb. Bashir Yuguda, at the inauguration of the organising committee for the grand finale of Nigeria’s Centenary celebration in Abuja weekend.

Nigerians Urged To Be Committed To National Devt

Centenary Celebration: AS preparation for Nigeria’s centenary celebration intensifies, the Federal Government has urged Nigerians to re-dedicate themselves and be committed to national development. The Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Chief Anyim Pius Anyim, made the call in Abuja at the inauguration of the Presidential Committee for the

UBEC Gets N73bn Intervention Funds In 2 THE Universal Basic classrooms, Yrs - Exec. Sec additional Education Commission furniture, toilets, boreholes/ (UBEC) has said that the commission received more than N73 billion from the Federal Government as intervention funds between May 2011 to May 2013. The Acting Executive Secretary of UBEC, Prof. Charles Onocha, said this at the 2013 Ministerial Platform midterm report on President Goodluck Jonathan’s administration. Onocha said the amount was a matching grant that was disbursed to states within the period under review. He said N61billion, representing 85 per cent, was disbursed to all the states and the FCT to address basic education infrastructure development. Onocha, however, said the agency had not been able to access more than N11billion representing 15 per cent of the funds between May 2011 and 2012. “From May to December 2011, Federal Government through its UBE matching

grants released and disbursed N25 billion to states for the construction, innovation of classrooms for primary schools. “From January to December 2012, Federal Government also disbursed over N19 billion as matching grants to states while N15 billion was also disbursed to states from January to May 2013. “Between May 2011 to May 2013, N67 billion nonconditional grants were released for self-help projects, Almajiri, Girl and Boy child education project, special education fund, instructional materials and teachers development fund,’’ he said. The acting executive secretary also said the commission assisted communities with N1 billion each to improve infrastructure through their self-help programmes. He said it is a strategy of involving them in running the affairs of their schools. Onocha said the interventions also included the provision of

deep-wells, among others, nationwide between 2011 and 2012. He said the commission would continue to pursue programmes that were beneficial to the Nigerian child.

grand finale of the Nigeria Centenary celebration. It will be recalled that on February 4, 2013, President Goodluck Jonathan inaugurated the Nigerian Centenary celebration project. Anyim said that activities for the celebration, outlined in the Concept Document, would climax in a grand finale on January 1, 2014. He said that the celebration, as clearly spelt out in the Concept Document, was aimed at celebrating Nigeria’s history, unity and diversity as well as great promises which inspired people. “The celebration is to reinforce hopes and express shared values as well as strengthen national consciousness and patriotism. “It will preserve our heritage

and document Nigeria’s history, achievements and progress,’’ Anyim said. In his remark, FCT Minister and Chairman of the Presidential Committee, Malam Bala Mohammed, said that there were many reasons for Nigeria to celebrate its 100 years of existence. He said that since the amalgamation of Northern and Southern Protectorates on Jan. 1, 1914, Nigeria had remained a cohesive nation, richly endowed with vibrant and creative human resources few countries could boast of. Mohammed said that Nigeria’s large population of over 160 million people with substantial human resources was worthy of celebration. “As the largest black nation and the seventh most populous

country in the world, Nigeria’s attainment of 100 years is a unique celebration,’’ he said. The committee include Chief Edem Duke, the Minister of Tourism, Culture and National Orientation, and Ms Ama Pepple, Minister of Lands, Housing and Urban Development. Others are Chief Emeka Wogu, Minister of Labour and Productivity, Mrs Omobola Johnson, Minister of Communication Technology, Alhaji Yusuf Suleiman, Minister of Sports and Mr Bashir Yugudu, Minister of State, Works. Also in the committee are Prof. Viola Onwuliri, Minister of State 1 for Foreign Affairs, and Director, General Services Office, OSGF, Mr Mohammed Bukar.

Do Not Ban Sachet Water, CLO Tells FG THE Civil Liberty Organisation (CLO) in Rivers has said that the plan to ban sachet water would increase unemployment and poverty rates in the country. Mr Livingstone Wechie, the Publicity Secretary of the organisation, said this in an interview with newsmen in Port Harcourt. Wechie said that the ban would be a negation of President Goodluck Jonathan’s transformation agenda. He said that sachet water was an alternative source of potable water to the common man.

“Water-borne diseases are very common in the country because of poverty rate, but the sachet water has reduced it since its inception. “A lot of people have been empowered through the production and sale of sachet water; some of these people were once frustrated,’’ he said. Wechie called on the Federal Government to have a rethink, saying that it should instead device means of improving the quality of the water. According to him, NAFDAC should do more work by fishing out the

adulterated ones as well as closing down all unregistered sachet water industries. He said that sachet water production was one of the country’s fastest growing industries and should be promoted for accelerated economic growth. Wechie said the industry was indispensable in the nation’s march to economic advancement, describing it as panacea to poverty. He advised government to provide recycling centres for sachets which could be turned to manure. He bemoaned the use of contaminated water and

substandard machines for production, adding that this posed a serious problem to the industry. Wechie urged the sachet water producers to ensure strict regulation of the business, having in mind the penalties for quacks. He said consumers should report any suspected sachet water producer to the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) and other appropriate quarters to save lives. Wechie also appealed to consumers to always dispense the sachets properly so as not to litter the environment.

14 SUNDAY, JUNE 23, 2013

ALL parents want their children to be happy and successful. But how many parents know and understand their children enough to be able to help them develop into happy, stable and successful adults? In today’s changing world, good academic qualifications are simply not enough to ensure success in life. Our

dull, smart, stupid, clever, slow and so on. There is a general agreement that intelligence is the ability to learn from experience and

who together in 1990 introduced the concept of emotional intelligence, defined it as “the ability to perceive, understand, express, and regulate emotion.” They asserted that emotionally intelligent people can use their emotions to guide thoughts

Motherhood emotional intelligence, a common core of personal and social abilities has proven to be the key ingredient in people’s success, and carries much more weight than IQ, in determining who emerges as a leader.

With Chelson SMS: 08023457637 others. It is the ability to show understanding and

remain focused to attain them. They try to

Raising Emotionally Intelligent Children (1) children need to know and understand their own needs and wants as well as the needs and wants of others. They need to develop feelings of empathy and learn to interact positively with friends, relatives, colleagues and strangers. They need to be well rounded and emotionally mature. This is the essence of an all-round education. This article will sensitise the parents on the need to understand the child’s feelings and emotions. It will also help the child to become confident, happy and well adjusted. It will help the parents also to ensure that the child is emotionally intelligent. Intelligence as a concept Intelligence is a term that refers to the general mental capacity of an individual to reason, solve problems, think abstractly, learn and understand new materials and profit from past experience. This ability is expressed in many aspects of a person’s life. Intelligence draws on a variety of mental processes including memory, learning, perception and decision-making, thinking and reasoning. Most people have intuitive notion of what intelligence is, and many words in English Language distinguish between levels of intellectual skills; bright,

to adapt to one’s environment, which arise from the influence of both genetic and environmental factors. The emergence of emotional intelligence

and behaviour and can accurately read others’ emotions. Daniel Goleman, an American author and

In the past, a great deal of attention was given to developing a child’s IQ (Intelligence Quotient) and learning potential. However, in a changing world with so many options, people are beginning to recognize that IQ alone is not enough to ensure success and happiness in life. American psychologists, Peter Salovey and John Mayer,

journalist popularized the concept of emotional intelligence (1995). He expanded the concept to include general social competence. He saw emotional intelligence as the understanding of feelings which is a personal attribute that enables people to succeed in life including self awareness, empathy, self control and self confidence. According to Daniel Goleman,

From time immemorial, people had always known that there is a special type of intelligence one needs to apply to be able to get

empathy and it involves the ability to see things from other people’s point of view. Emotional intelligence skills, such as the ability to empathise with others, control

understand people, they are listeners, they communicate effectively in order to establish healthy interpersonal relationships. They have the ability to use available information to make

along in life as a well adjusted individual in the society. This is popularly referred to as ‘common sense’. In the true sense of it, this sense is not common. One needs to properly develop it into what is called emotional intelligence. Emotional intelligence, thus, is the ability to identify or recognise, understand and mange one’s own feelings as well as the feelings of

impulsive behaviour, manage moods and solve problems play an important role in the development of good interpersonal relationship at home, school and in the work place. The importance of emotional intelligence Emotional intelligent people have selfawareness, and are highly motivated. They are able to set realistic goals and

appropriate choices in personal matters and in work place or any other organisation or community they belong. They recognise that there are differences amongst individuals and so are able to use people’s strengths advantageously and show their empathy for weaknesses. They are very considerate people. To be contd.

By BLESSING SALAMI

“From time immemorial, people had always known that there is a special type of intelligence one needs to apply to be able to get along in life as a well adjusted individual in the society. This is popularly referred to as ‘common sense.”

15 SUNDAY, JUNE 23, 2013

Giving Your All

IN every relationship, there is always the good, the pleasant, the bad and the ugly side of it. It’s a wrapped pack from both sides of the male and female into one whole bunch called relationship. People tend to go into affairs with all of themselves, everything that consists of that person, the behavioural attitudes, emotions, characteristics, the whole personality. Though, some persons tend to tread softly, especially in a shaky foundation of the relationship, not wanting to put everything at stake, hiding or keeping the real/true identity from the relationship. That is why in some cases or stages of relationships, you hear one of the partner saying things like, she/he is not like this before; ‘he has changed’, ‘he used to be loving or uncaring’, ‘he doesn’t love me anymore’ etc. no, in this case, he was not revealing his true emotions in the relationship from the onset, he was holding back certain things. Relationship is a c o m m u n i o n , partnership, oneness of two individuals from

two different backgrounds that have come to find a common understanding,

any relationship while love is the foundation. Knowing your partner helps you to trust, build

they can get out of the relationship which over 70% (Percent) are monetary gains,

“People tend to go into affairs with all of themselves, everything that consists of that person, the behavioural attitudes, emotions, characteristics, the whole personality.” agreeing, fellowship ground in fulfilling the divine purpose of marriage. You go into this partnership with all your faults, mistakes, dirt, good, bad, dislikes, likes, success, failures, infact, everything concerning you as a person, who you are, what you are, your abilities, strength and weakness, no hidden agenda, just you, the way you are, hoping and believing you are accepted for who you are. You do all these and also preparing yourself for whatever your partner baggages are and accepting it. A solid foundation is accepting each other baggages right from the onset without any hidden secrets. Trust is the building material for

and strengthen any weakness found in each other.

influence, position, power and emotional

Nowadays, most relationships are founded on falsehood, shaky footing because one or both of the partners are not true to the relationship. Usually based on selfish motivates, what

stability. Initially, the motive are not revealed, they pretend to be what they are not, maybe all sweet and rosy with their partner but the moment they get what they want, they are not, maybe all sweet and rosy with

Relationship With Chelson SMS 08023457637

their partner, especially those that went into the relationship just for sexual satisfaction, they show their true character, you might not hear from them again. Some with a little maturity, will gradually break off, while looking for an excuse to cut off, leaving you in the cold. These are the partners that would want you to accept them the way they are but refuse to

accept your baggages, always finding faults in all you do, not willing to compromise on anything or at anytime in the relationship. They are the ones that don’t know the meaning of

relationship. Relationship is about giving and taking. When you don’t give, (not only money) in every aspect of life, your time, emotions, love, trust, respect, and money, and you expect all these in return, it is not possible, it shows you are a selfish individual. What are you putting into the relationship? If all you want is to take. Most women are into a relationship where they give their all, though not receiving anything in return, hoping one day, he will change, trapped in a loveless relationship. Contentment in a loveless relationship will never come as long as you cling to the notion that the relationship is or will one day be a romantic love, then you will lose sight of the good gifts of God. Instead of focusing on what you lack in the relationship and be miserable, why not focus on what you have, no matter how little it is and make up your mind to praise God for it, then you can be sure, there will be a change.

“Instead of focusing on what you lack in the relationship and be miserable, why not focus on what you have, no matter how little it is and make up your mind to praise God for it, then you can be sure, there will be a change.”

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17 SUNDAY, JUNE 23, 2013

18 SUNDAY, JUNE 23, 2013

Passionate Preaching (2)

SECOND, preaching is a call of submission to preach what God bids you to preach. Jonah 3:2 says, “Arise, go to Nineveh the great city and proclaim (preach) to it the preaching which I bid you to preach.” Jonah 3:34 says, “For He whom God has sent speaks the words of God, for God does not give the Spirit by measure.” Jesus in Matthew 10:27 says, “What I tell you in the darkness, speak in the light, and what you hear whispered in your ear, proclaim upon the housetop.” Jesus gives a warning and an encouraging word in Matthew 10:17-20, “But beware of men, for they will deliver you up to councils and scourge you in their synagogues. You will be brought before governors and kings for My sake, as a testimony to them and to the Gentiles. But when they deliver you up, do not worry about how or what you should

speak. For it will be given you in that hour what you should speak, for it is not you who speak, but the Spirit of your father who speaks to you.” Let us follow carefully what Peter had to say before Cornelius and his household in Acts 10:3644, “The word which God sent to the children of Israel, preaching peace through Jesus Christ. He is Lord of all. That word you know, which was proclaimed throughout all Judea, and began from Galilee after the baptism which John preached. How God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and with power, who went about doing good and healing all who were oppressed by the

unday Diet With ERNEST IKHUREIGBE

devil, for God was with Him. And we are witnesses of all things which He did both in the land of the Jew and in Jerusalem, whom they killed by hanging on a tree. Him God raised up on the third day, and showed Him openly, not to all the people, but to witnesses chosen before by God, even to us who ate and drank with Him after He rose from the dead. And He commanded us to preach to the people, and to testify that it is He who was ordained by God to be Judge

of the living and the dead. To Him all the prophets witness, that through His name, whoever believes in Him will receive remission of sins.” Third, preaching is a call to preach confronting men with the need to believe in and trust God’s message for salvation. In John 1:7 the Word clearly says, “This man (John) came for a witness, to bear witness of the Light, that all through him might believe.” And we know without hesitation that

eflections

With MOSES EVBUOMWAN Jesus is the Light of the ministry of grace – a minWorld. He is the challenge from the prophet Joel in Joel 3:14, “Multitudes, multitudes in the valley of decision. For the day of the Lord is near in the valley of decision.” Paul said in Romans 10:14, “And how shall they believe in Him of whom they have not heard? And how shall they hear without a preacher? Preaching is God’s

istry of confrontation with dead and dying men – with God through His Ambassadors challenging men to be reconciled to God through Jesus only. That is why in 2 Corinthians 5:11 Paul writes, “knowing therefore, the terror of the Lord, will persuade men.”

“Jesus in Matthew 10:27 says, “What I tell you in the darkness, speak in the light, and what you hear whispered in your ear, proclaim upon the housetop.” done should only be done. Unfortunately, they refuse to acknowledge the grace of God upon their lives to be where they are, dispensing authoritative pronouncements. It is expedient to remind them that the

ter to have a rethink before you incur the wrath of God. Don’t disturb the smooth operation for selfish and wicked action of yours. You may not know how God loves to retain and sustain you till now. Your con-

29:11. You may have people of feeble minds who flock and socialise with you for fear of your position and also not to incur your wrath. You are in your own world and in no distant time, your report of

ity those that are your victims. Otherwise, your waterloo is imminent. Isaiah 33:1. Beloved, it is glorying to seek after what would bring eternal joy to mankind and your generation than to in-

The Lord Pondereth The Heart Of Men

EVERYONE has the latitude to ponder on issues that affect one and one could decide to take whatever action one considers befitting. It’s however stated in the Bible that “Every way of a man is right in his own eyes; but the LORD pondereth the hearts.” Prov. 21:2. The LORD is omni-sci- and guidelines. Jere 29:11 ence as well as powerful to Deut 28:1-14. King David is said to know and bring to pass have the mind of God. He what man decides to do in the course of life’s journey. knew what to do whenever No one has the exclusive he went off the line and power to bring to pass what God, being merciful, would one cogitates. Lam 3:37 always have mercy on him. affirms that “who is he that Man is known and resaith, and it cometh to pass, corded to have wicked when the LORD imaginations. For this reason, God ponders on the commandeth it not.” Beloved, God expects cogitation of man and He us to reach our goals on only brings to pass what He earth and ends up glori- wants done according to ously with Him. So He His Will. Some unreasonable perdoes not allow the whims and caprices of the wicked sons have the misconcepto prevail on us, particu- tion that nothing happens larly when one lives in line without their inputs and with His divine instructions whatever they decide to be

LORD still keeps them for a purpose and when they choose to be deviants continually, their days and position will be truncated. You cannot continue to exercise authority that only the LORD has the prerogative; He allows you to exercise authority over your subjects for a time. But for you, He could cripple with all means possible to give room for His instructions to be carried out. King Saul thought he could appease the LORD by his disobedient gesture. He did not only lose his fame, his crown was given to his servant while still alive. 1 Samuel 16:1. Who are you to exercise power and authority that only the LOD has the exclusive Authority? It is bet-

nection and influence can fail you if the LORD decides to wade in and disconnect you from Him. No matter how you rate yourself in the occultic world, God still loves you and will want you to disconnect and be connected to Him so as to reach your destination that will bring glory unto His name. Jere

wickedness and arrogance will be pasted and posted for posterity. 1 Kings 13:26. You know yourself and God knows more than your contentions. The wicked acts of yours are in the hands of the Devil, who accuses you on daily basis to bring you into ridicule. There is no better time than now to release from captiv-

dulge in acts of destruction. You are created to impact lives positively and whatever good steps you decide today, God would accordingly reward you. Remain blessed.

“Man is known and recorded to have wicked imaginations. For this reason, God ponders on the cogitation of man and He only brings to pass what He wants done according to His Will.”

19 SUNDAY, JUNE 23, 2013

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SJ h o

Music

Movies

Afrocandy Dares Critics, Releases Another Porn Movie

W b i

UDITH Okpara Mazagwu, with the screen name Afrocandy, has released the trailer and sequence to her soft porn movie, “Destructive Instinct 1& 2 ” The latest is part 3&4. Known for her extremely sexual displays, Afrocandy has been on the Nollywood radar for some time now. With no appreciable storyline and horrendous production, she has come to represent sex symbol in the Nigerian movie industry. If you think she was bordered by the array of criticisms that trailed Destructive Instinct 1& 2, she released months back, then you are in for a rude shock. In the recent release, which confirmed her as a full porn star, she does not hide anything; she

bares it all for interested viewers! Unlike Destructive Instinct 1 & 2 which was soft, this is a full blown blue film. Posted on the Internet, she does not pretend about it, rather she dares the society that says her first movie was repulsive as she goes the

entire hull to say ‘yes pornography has come to stay in the Nigerian movie industry.’ She posted via You Tube on Thursday a message to her critics, which says: “No time for haters and no shame in my game. I do what I do, don’t need your stupid

opinion cos it doesn’t count at the end of the day. So you either get with it or get lost. Or better still; stick your foot in your mouth. Afrocandy doesn’t give a crap”

Wizkid: I Have Arrived, No More Peanut Shows

INGING sensation, Wizkid has announced that he has arrived and will no longer be hired with “chicken feed’. Shortly after the arrest by policemen for refusing to honour a show after collecting N500,000, he posted in his twitter handle that from now on any one who wanted his services should be prepared

Afrocandy

to pay for it as he would no longer honour any event for less than a million naira. It was alleged that after collecting N500,000 from students of the University of Lagos (UNILAG) to perform on campus, he refused to honor the invitation. The students, ShowBiz gathered, went to Zone 2 Command to lodge

a complaint and Wizkid was invited for interrogation. Shortly after the whole brouhaha, Wizkid went to his Twitter Timeline and tweeted that he doesn’t come cheap anymore and that anyone who needs his service should contact his management and pay the right fee.

Charly Boy Celebrates 63rd Birthday you are my true heart On The Streets desire.

THE typical character that he is made of, Charles Oputa, popularly called Charley Boy who was a year older on Wednesday, took to the streets of Abuja to celebrate. Rather than invite la de creame of the society to a five - star event centre, he would rather celebrate with okada riders and jetsam. The most touching and memorable of his day was the letter he received from his father, former Supreme Court Judge, Chukwudifu Oputa, which he read and distributed to his audience. His wife Diane was there too and also shared a word to commemorate the birthday of a man she has being with for about 35 years now. Read the content of their letters: “Letter to my beloved son”, from the father was poetic in a way. Time does fly/ I never want this to go unsaid/ There are no words to express how much you mean to us/ A son like you/ I thought could never be. God sent us a blessing, and that was you/A true definition of a son in every way. You have shown us a new sense of being,/Out of everything we did, you are one of the things we did right. Always remember that we know how much you care, we can tell by the relationship we share/May your children do the same for you/A very happy Birthday to a loving son –

from father. From wife Daine; “My dear Charles, you have been in our lives for many- many seasons, and I have chosen to lay my heart out for that reason. This is for the best

Husband, Father and Son that I know. The one, who is dedicated to his family and works hard for us. My Husband and Friend, our love shall never end, even when it goes through the fire, because you and only

“The children and I will always pray for you, the man who has inspired millions because you never gave up on your dream. I will always provide a home of love and emotional purity, and when life places pain in your heart, may I always fill it with love. Thanks for being there for us, thanks for loving me and for all the beautiful memories you have given me so far. To my soul mate, lover and best friend…, Happy Birthday.”

Wizkid

KCee Signs MTN Deal

F Charley Boy and spouse, Lady Diane

Charley Boy At Abuja during his birthday celebration

ORMER member of KC Presh music group, KCee has

signed a deal with MTN. We were informed that the deal runs for a year and would see the ‘Limpopo’ master do some advertising campaigns for the major telecommunication giant in Nigeria. KCee has enjoyed a favourable rise into fame in the entertainment industry lately. Soon after the split of his former two-man group, he took the industry by surprise. His other ex-group mate, Presh has been on the low key since they broke up.

KCee

21 SUNDAY, JUNE 23, 2013

Theatre Concert Mo’Hits Crisis Destroyed My Marriage Plans - D’Banj

HE self acclaimed “Eja Nla” (big fish) has disclosed that he was almost getting married until the 2012 crisis that crashed Mo’Hits Records. That, he said, put his marriage plans on hold and destroyed his wedding arrangements. The entertainer revealed this in an interview. D’Banj confessed that, “I would have been married if Mo’Hits had not broken up. The crisis really affected me and I had to start so many things afresh. Just like my mentor 2Face Idibia, I will be married and have my own kids one day.” D’Banj who says he is 33 years old recalls that in 2011, he said he was set to

marry in 2012 after pressure from his mother until the crash spoilt the marriage plans. Meanwhile, the international superstar, entertainer and “Oliver Twist” crooner is always breaking new grounds in terms of his wardrobe and clothing items. In a recent newspaper interview, he confirmed he wears the same wristwatch as American rapper, Jay-Z, valued at $50,000. He also has been appointed the Hennessy Artistry artiste for 2013 and recently became the Goodwill Ambassador for the Bank of Industry. His increasing earning power has also led to an increase in spending as D’banj just took delivery

of what is known as the “Suit of Money”. Designed by Okunoren, Nigeria’s leading clothing brand, the suit is made of

actual One Hundred Dollar bills and cost a whopping $25,000, which is approximately N3.7 million. It was entirely

sewn by hand in London but was then taken to Italy for the specialized Milanese buttonholes to be done at the same factory used by Tom Ford.

D’Banj

Jackie Appiah

Secretary of the Economic Commission for Africa, Dr. Carlos Lopes, Founder and CEO of the African Movie Academy Awards (AMAA), Peace AnyiamOsigwe, Founder and Publisher of The Network Journal, Aziz Adetimirin, notable fashion designer, Korto Momolu and founder of the African D e v e l o p m e n t Foundation, George

Ntim. The award ceremony took place on SaturdayJune 15, at New York. It was established by Face2face Africa in 2011 to acknowledge, celebrate, and honor the outstanding achievements of Africans and friends of Africa who are contributing towards a more dynamic and advanced global community.

‘Funke Akindele Still My Friend

Victor Osuagwu Emerges Lagos AGN Chairman

OPULAR Nollywood comic actor, Victor Osiagwu has emerged the new chairman of the Lagos State chapter of the Actors’ Guild of Nigeria

(AGN) in the last weekend election held in Lagos. Victor defeated his opponent in the election, Don Pedro Agabi. He was sworn on Wednesday. He took over from Emeka Rising.

ONTRARY to insinuations that the two of them have been torn apart by jealousy, Yoruba actress, Bimbo Thomas, has debunked speculations that her relationship with friend and colleague, Funke Akindele, has gone sour. She said her friendship with Akindele began before they both starred in Omo Ghetto. She said that they do not only enjoy a healthy relationship on the screen but off it too. She explained that people are quick to conclude on matters they have little or no knowledge about. “Funke has always been my friend, even before ‘Omo Ghetto’. People are entitled to their own opinion and that is why they say a lot of nonsense. If you are not close to us you can’t really say what is going on between us, you just can’t judge a book by its cover. I do whatever I like to do, I take whatever decision I like to take,” she said.

GLOBAL BUZZ Tom Cruise Orders Guests Out In Hotel To

HE “Rock Of Ages’’ actor w a n t e d complete privacy for a meal at the boutique Forza Mare Hotel in Dobrun, Montenegro recently and insisted no one else could be around at the same time as him.

Tom Cruise

Ghanaian Actress, Jackie Appiah Honoured HANAIAN star actress, J a c k i e Appiah, flew into the USA over the weekend to receive a well deserved honour for her excellence in Africa’s Entertainment Industry from the organizers of The Fascinating Africans Committed to Excellence (F.A.C.E.) list Awards. Among those honoured include: the Executive

With FELIX OMOH-ASUN GSM: 07060576600

- Bimbo Thomas

However, the outraged manager denied his request with question: “Who does Mr. Cruise think he is? The hotel was full. It would have been unfair to other guests”, the manager said. The “Mission: Impossible” star’s bodyguards were the first to enter the restaurant to warn staff that a special Hollywood star was about to enter the building and wanted a low-key meal. The restaurant owner added: “They said someone special was coming but did not say who it was. When he came in it was a big shock but we just wanted to be professional.” The refusal didn’t deter the 50-year-old actor as he later ordered a seafood banquet to be delivered to his luxury yacht, Lady S, so he could dine in peace.

Amanda Bynes For Second MANDA Bynes Surgery has revealed she

is “in between nose surgeries”. The “Easy A” actress had her first nose job last month, claiming she went under the knife to remove skin that was growing between her nose and her eyes, before following up with a second surgery. She tweeted: “I am in between nose surgeries! My eyes are black and blue because my nose is broken! I can’t wait for my nose to be done!” Amanda, 27, who was recently charged with attempted evidence tampering, reckless

endangerment and marijuana possession, has opened up about her previous procedures, explaining she had them in order to “feel prettier”.

Amanda Bynes

Amy Adams Can’t Let Go Of Mormon Values

The 38-year-old “Man of Steel Star” actress was raised believing in the ideals of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints - a form of Christianity - which bans cigarettes, coffee, tea, drugs and has a strict law

Funke Akindele

Amy Adams

of chastity, requiring abstention from sexual relations outside of marriage. Although Amy Adams is no longer a practising Mormon, Amy still follows the same moral code which she was taught as a child. In an interview, she said: “I grew up as a Mormon and that had more of an impact on my values than my beliefs. I am afraid I will always feel the weight of a lie. “ I am very hard on myself anyway. Religious guilt carries over, too. You can’t really misbehave without feeling badly about it - at least I can’t.

Rory Mcllroy Ex, Holly Bares All

Bimbo Thomas

OLF superstar Rory McIlroy’s ex-girlfriend, Holly Sweeney, has shown off her assets to the world – and earned a rap from her angry parents. The 22-year-old

university student stripped down for a raunchy photo shoot with a photographer friend. Holly has defended her decision to pose topless and insisted the photos have an ‘artistic’ value.

22 SUNDAY, JUNE 23, 2013

SOCIETY

Checkmating The Menace Of Prostitution THE “oldest profession” in the world has been defined variously by experts and various groups. Wikipedia, an online encyclopedia, defines it as the act of providing sexual services to other persons in exchange for money. Also, the MeriamWebster online dictionary says that prostitution is the act or practice of engaging in promiscuous sexual relations especially for money. It has become a poverty. challenge to Nigeria. Also, a Professor, Prostitution, according Elizabeth Balogun, to reports take various noted while raising the forms and happening in alarm over the high level numerous places. of prostitution among “Campus girls”, female undergraduates, children, the aged etc, stated that inordinate are persons that engage desire for affluence and in this illicit act. Also, desperation by many hotels, bars and the rest, Nigerians, is a factor constitute places where triggering prostitution. prostitution takes place. According to a report In some instance, there on Naij.com, a prostitute are people called pimps noted that the who send “their girls” “profession” gives her out for prostitution. the chance of meeting These pimps, get certain “wealthy people…not percent of the money just wealthy people, paid to “their girls.” people who worked in Failure to obey their certain careers like in the madam’s orders/ city.” instructions, usually As reported by the come with Dictionary of Victorian corresponding effects. London, demand for sex According to a media workers is a reason while report (Sahara reporters), prostitution is poverty is the root cause continuing. In of prostitution in economics, demands Nigeria. Unsound triggers supply. Most governance, corruption persons including the and incompetence of leaders, patronize these political leaders have sex-workers and thus resulted to difficulty in they are called for as “hot the living conditions of cakes.” Nigerians. This poor Every action, living standard has made according to Newton’s 75% of Nigerians live laws of motion, is always below the poverty line accompanied by equal and thus making most of and opposite reaction. them take prostitution as The gains of prostitution, the surest way to escape notwithstanding, there the harsh realities of are multiple effects of

By EMMANUEL EGOBIAMBU

engaging in prostitution. Authorities and experts are of the view that the consequences of prostitution are immediate and long term. The most immediate is the physical, mental and emotional violence

accused allegedly murdered her because she (Anthonia Egbuna), refused to give up prostitution. Tackling prostitution has to be from its root. As has been noted initially, poverty is the

prostitutes get. Pimps often assault their “workers” who do not live up to expectations. In addition, there abound cases of rape, beatings and even deaths of prostitutes. Back in August, 2012, a Nigerian prostitute was allegedly murdered by an Italian, Daniele Piampaschet. The

root factor fueling prostitution. It will amount to little if the needed human resources and efforts are spent correcting the effects of prostitution as HIV/ AIDs without uprooting it. Due to this, e m p l o y m e n t opportunities must be provided for the teeming number of unemployed.

This will result in the reduction of poverty and subsequently the “oldest profession.” According to Sahara reporters, if the unsound governance, corruption and incompetence of our political leaders are checkmated, then the products of such acts by the leaders, which

include prostitution, can be stabbed at the back. Furthermore, strict laws that would penalise offenders, and allow clamp down on brothels and the likes that feed prostitution should be made. The available laws have not done enough to halt the spread of this menace (Sahara Reporters, Online).

Aside the above, “training up a child” in the way he should go” by parents cannot be thrown to the thrash can. It would be hard for a child with the right upbringing and moral fibre to become a commercial sex-worker. Some may argue that prostitution is an age-

long practice that has provided jobs for people. However, the effects it has on the individual and society is too much to be allowed to thrive. Prostitution can and must be checkmated if the nation is to get back to her right moral foundation. After all, there are other means of survival.

“Training up a child” in the way he should go” by parents cannot be thrown to the thrash can. It would be hard for a child with the right upbringing and moral fibre to become a commercial sex-worker.”

23 SUNDAY, JUNE 23, 2013

SECURITY

Intelligence Gathering And Community Policing In Nigeria By DESMOND AGBAMA

THE security challenges facing Nigeria are enormous, and it is taking its toll on the social, economic and political lives of every Nigerian and non Nigerians alike. From North to South, East to West, there are myriads of security challenges in the form of terrorism, armed insurgency, kidnapping, armed robbery, political conflicts, violent destruction of lives and property, communal hostility, ritual killings, cultism, illegal oil bunkering and oil theft, clashes between Fulani herdsmen, cyber crime, among others. These crimes are perpetrated daily on innocent Nigerians to the extent that people no longer sleep with their two eyes closed, and they can no longer go about their normal duties freely. This state of insecurity pervading the entire country has become source of worry and concern to the government, security agencies, and the people. If it is not checked, then the future of this country will remain bleak or uncertain. Although, the responsibility of securing lives and property of the citizenry rest squarely on the government, however, security is every body’s business, especially as it relate to the internal security of the nation. But the police and other security agencies have greater roles to play in arresting the security challenges confronting this country. Perhaps, it was in response to the security challenges bedeviling Nigeria that made the Nigeria Police Force under the leadership of the Inspector General of Police to organize Intelligence Sensitization and Community Partnership Workshop in

the Six Geo-Political Zones of Nigeria. The theme of the workshop was “Enhancing National Security through intelligence and community partnership”. That of the South-South took place on Saturday 1, June, 2013 in Tinapa Resort, Calabar the Cross Rivers State Capital. The workshop examined intelligence-led policing and internal security, the role of non-state actors, e.g. traditional rulers, religious leaders, and members of the local community as well as security alertness and community policing. Intelligence as it relate to security refers to information that is gathered by the government or the security agents about a society, community, individual or groups in a country. Community policing is the process whereby police officers work in a particular area of the country to uncover or check crime as well as enforce law and order in the community. The Police Act specifically prescribed the responsibility of the Nigeria police to include; protection of life and property, enforcement of

all laws, preserving law and order, arresting with or without warrant offenders who may be detained and prosecuted, and to perform military duties within or outside Nigeria as may be required of them under the authority of the Act or any other Act. Internal security is key to national security, which

no doubt ensures the survival of a nation and facilitates national development. The effective use of socioeconomic, diplomatic, political, judicial, paramilitary and military resources, have been found to be essential for the realization of internal security. In Nigeria today, the country is becoming more and more vulnerable due to several factors

“Nigerians should at all times display high sense of security alertness in their neighbourhood and inform the police quickly about any suspicious characters, movement or activities in their neighbourhood. That is what community policing and intelligence gathering is all about.”

prominent among which is the porous nature of the nation’s borders. According to the Minister of Interior, Abba Moro, there are about 1, 497 entry points into Nigeria which undoubtedly exposes the country and her citizens to too much dangers and threat. That of course explains the importance of community policing and partnership in a modern society.

crime occurring. This is so because, crime has the ability of stunting the nation’s growth and development, it can also affect the quality of life of the people, hence, the need to put every security measures in place to safeguard the lives and property of Nigerians. Towards this end therefore, participants at the 2013 police intelligence sensitization

promotion. Above all the police authority should engage some civilians who are intelligent, level headed, matured and has the innate ability to detect crime on adhoc basis to aid their operations. The police should evolve a better image for itself by being truthful and being true friend to the people rather than foe. This will help raise people’s confidence

The role of non state actors like the traditional rulers, religion leaders, and other members of the community in crime management cannot be over emphasized. Infact, the police or law enforcement agents should always work with them to achieve maximum result in terms of crime detection, prevention and management. Various scholars and experts have posited that when the police work closely with the community people or locals, they would be able to curb crime and criminality in their respective area of jurisdiction. As the saying goes, prevention is better than cure, which explains why crime prevention strategies must be put in place to reduce the chances of

and community partnership workshop were unanimous in their call for proper funding and equipping of the Nigeria police force to enable them respond proactively to crime detection and prevention. We must encourage community partnership in intelligence gathering and crime prevention. There must be adequate training and retraining of the men and women of the Nigeria Police. There must be deliberate effort by the police authority to deploy the use of technology to detect and prevent crime, because many crimes have become sophisticated and only the use of hi-tech equipment can help detect it. The morale of the policemen should be raised through adequate remuneration and regular

in them, and be ready to volunteer useful information to them that would aid the police to combat crime in the society. Any factor promoting crime in the society should be done away with. Meanwhile, the porous national borders, be it land, sea, or air should be adequately policed and secured to prevent influx of criminals and enemies of the nation from gaining entrance into the country. Finally, Nigerians should at all times display high sense of security alertness in their neighbourhood and inform the police quickly about any suspicious characters, movement or activities in their neighbourhood. That is what community policing and intelligence gathering is all about.

24 SUNDAY, JUNE 23, 2013

WAY-BACK in my teens, I dreamt of doing

Story Time

wind was furious. I muttered out, “what an angry night.”! Before I

Daring A Night Hunt For Snails a lot of crazy things, absurd, mischievous, and impressive were on my to-do list. Through times, I scanned to a point where I was at Egbeme village in Isoko South of Delta State. It is quite a remote farming settlement where tranquility and nature is at its best. It is located beside the coast line of the Niger River, where I was on a two-day visit. So, in my adventurous, curious and ambitious characteristics, I planned a night hunt for snails with my cousin. The hunt was to be in a rain forest, which shares boundary with the village. Lo and behold! The so much anticipated night came as we got set for our hunt which was to last three hours, from 1 a.m. to 4 a.m. freezing with cold and anxiety, I pulled my bag wherein I packed a pair of garden gloves, a torch, water can, an oil lamp, a collapsible umbrella in case it rains, a helmet and a sack bag folded neatly for snails carriage. Alongside, we had a club and cutlasses for self defence in case of attack from wild lifes. We left immediately through the river route, so we paddled on a canoe as it was shorter than using the foot road to our hunting location. Paddling a canoe was quite exciting as I felt the cool mist of the morning dew kissing my exposed face and hands. Soon enough, we arrived at the forest with so much enthusiasm and guts. But just as we anticipated, the rains were on our heads. Quickly, we opened our umbrellas for shade as we moved deep into the forest. In a low tone, I said to myself “it is not bad it rained, after all snails come out of their

By UKIRI CLEMENTINA EGWOLOMENA

hidings in cold, wet and damp places.” Just a little forward as we moved, we laid sight on a shrubby bush which could be home to the reason of our hunt. I dashed toward it with my cutlass and torch, and

nearby. Little will one wonder why a colony of them bred there. In no time, we went deeper into the forest with so much hope and high wishes. Passing through the bush paths, we heard croaking frogs, hissing

could say Jack Robinson, we heard thunder strike above our heads, at that point it dawned on us to start going home. We managed to find our way back to the canoe, and we paddled home feeling disappointed. Though we didn’t get what we bargained for,

hildren’s World

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POEMS

By PATIENCE OKONKWO

Seesaw I sat down on a seesaw To see what I could see, But all I saw was seesaw Rising up in front of me. I could not see the tree tops, I could not see the sky I could not see the far-off fields I sat and wondered why, I could not see the swingest, Or even see the slide I guess I need someone to sit down on The other side.

Trees Trees are tall Trees are green Trees are the loveliest things I have seen. 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567

JOKES

just within the shrubs was a kingdom of snails, both big and small. I quickly reached out for my sack bag and started picking them one after the other. And around that place, we discovered a kind of fruit which served as food to snails standing

snakes and squeaking birds above our heads and around us. And after a while of walking, my torch went dead, as it was the only torch we had, except an oil lamp. So, I hurriedly brought out the lamp and lit it, but the rain was heavy and the

but I enjoyed every bit of the hunting adventure, as well as the experience we had that night. It made me have flashback and reminiscence on movies I have seen with similar scenes and background just like our hunting forest.

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RIDDLES

By PATIENCE OKONKWO

(1) What has a face and two hands but no arms or legs? (A clock). (2) What is the easiest way to double your money? (Put it in front of

the mirror of course). (3) What has a thumb and four fingers but is not alive (A glove). (4) What has to be broken before you can

use it? (An egg). (5) What has a neck but no head? (A bottle). (6) What gets wetter as it dries? (Towel) (7) What goes up and does not come back? (Age).

What A Man Can Do ... girlfriend. I’m going to

Jokes

GOVERNMENT announced that if you have 5 kids, your salary will be N50,000,000. A man heard the news and said to his wife, “I have a kid with my

bring him so we can add him to our 4 kids.” When he came back, he saw only one of his kids remaining. he asked the wife, “where

are the other 3?” His wife replied, “you are not the only one who heard the news. Their fathers have come for them.”

By UKIRI CLEMENTINA EGWOLOMENA

Teacher: It’s very clear that you have not studied your geography. What’s your excuse? Student: Well, my dad says the world is changing every day. So I decided to wait until it settles down! Home Teacher: If I had five coconuts and I gave you three, how many would I have left? Kid: I don’t know. Home Teacher: Why not? Kid: In our school we do all our arithmetic in apples and oranges. Question: what is the difference or similarity between a marriage and a war? Answer: A marriage is a war in which the enemies can sleep together! Museum Administrator: That’s a 500 year old statue you’ve broken. Banta: Thank God I thought it was a new one. Teacher: Draw a diagram of bacteria Few minutes later…. Johnny: Here it is sir. Teacher: Where? You haven’t drawn anything kid. Johnny: Sir, can you see bacteria without microscope?

25 SUNDAY, JUNE 23, 2013

RELIGION

See God Face To Face (3) EVERYTHING you want to do in life to succeed is by prayer. In your marital life, in business, as student, is by prayer. It is not by struggling. An old man went to write JAMB because all his younger brothers are educated and only him left. shouting but to lift up He passed the exam and situations to God for help was called to read Law. and to trust Him. A His friends encouraged woman was staying him to read the Law that beside the sickbed of her he will make it because little boy who was down an old man has time to with meningitis in the read while the younger hospital. She was ones cannot sit to read. As constantly praying but his he was reading it, he ailment persisted. After failed the first year. He 30 hours of treatment, the started to put prayer to doctor said that with the support him, then he medication the boy was passed. Today he has given, he should have been called to bar if you responded in 5 to 8 hours. are a trader and it’s not This implied that there moving, you back it with was no hope for him. The prayer and you will make situation became terrible it. If you are married and as the boy was neither no child, God did not dead nor alive but the make you not to have woman surrendered her children. If you pray, you child to God for quick will have children. If you death or quick recovery, are a business man and believing that this was the things are not moving, best thing for her child. seal it by prayer. Things Peace came instantly to in life are by her and within the hour, determination. To be a hot the boy’s meningitis gave Christian is by way and healing came determination. Some upon him. If a man needs people easily say it is a car and wants God to Devil. It is a lie (Phil 4:6- give him, he should go 7). An elephant was very privately in prayer one on small when a tiny rope one with God. He doesn’t was tied to its leg. When need to broadcast it to the elephant grew to be people or ask them to help very big, the tiny rope him pray for a car. But the was still holding its leg. condition for this is that People came to the zoo the person should be and wondered, but the clean and pure before trainer explained: The God answers his prayer elephant has registered in You find a baby who is its mind that the rope on crawling playing in its leg was unbreakable conditions that endanger and a yoke that cannot be his life but nothing broken, hence, it made no happens to him. This is move. Some Christians because God’s presence are like that. They are still is with that child. This is having fallow ground like the way a person feels the rope that need to be God’s presence when he broken. The tiny minds is praying. A person does they have before they not need to have faith to were Christians is still have this experience. tying them (Hos 10:12). Having God’s experience Prayer takes a lot of does not imply getting rid faith and this is of all problems out of demonstrated in one’s one’s life but instead He state of relaxation while will bring in a set of new praying. Prayer doesn’t positive things in your require a person to be life that will make the jumping up and down or problems leave your life.

When

your

life

By PRINCE BAYO OKUO

overflowing with positive new things, some things has to go. This s why prayer has the power to change situation’ in a person’s life. The changing of a person’s behaviour from

is giving you the intellectual power to make changes in your way of life towards your family, work, friends, and political Associates e.t.c. Also Christ criteria for a Godly life has to do with

living in conformity with the world to living in conformity with Christ criteria for a Godly life depends on his prayers for God to reveal the changes and also by the person unconsciously yielding to prevailing opinions of his christian brothers and sisters. These changes will drive away his pride and selfrighteousness. Conforming to the will of God means that the person’s prayer must deal with the areas yet unchanged in his life. If a man who is a socialite and stays out late at night is brought to be teaching Sunday school in the church, he will require some changes in his social life in order to be a good Sunday School Teacher. He will be living with moderation in everything he does. These changes will open him to a new world of personal relationships with others which he didn’t have time for. As you pray for God to reveal his will to you, He

allegiance to himself and the fruits produced in the person’s relationships with other people (Matt 12:33). A life of prayer is judged by whether or not we have fed the hungry, clothed the naked and loved the stranger (Matt 25:31-40). A prayerful man changes the spiritual climate in his city, town or community. Because of his foreknowledge of the future through the Holy Spirit, he is able to strategize and establish a plan to combat the enemy’s attack. An army that goes to war without a strategy is bound to lose. If the viral infection of Jezebel or Delilah attack

you with appetite of lust, will you allow the controlling powers of Jezebel hold YOU captive or the seductive powers of Delilah grip you in bondage? There is no drug that can relieve and ameliorate the emotional distress of the attack.

Only faith and belief can do it. The devil is always after the head, and that is you. You are the promise keeper and the seed bearer. The promise is for you and your children. Abraham laid the foundation. Your position is an important one. This is not to say that the position of women is not important. However, the head is an essential part of the body. It is in the region of the head that decisions are made and visions are conceived. When the head is badly hit, the promise will be missed. We are living on God’s promise. The promise is what is sustaining our lives (Acts 2:39). Faith and belief is more

powerful than drugs. If a person who does not have faith is sick, his sickness will not go - no matter the quantity of drugs he takes. The drugs will be worthless and completely ineffective in his case. But if a sick person has faith and takes the right drugs prescribed by a Doctor, he will be well. If a person has severe headache and takes drug for stomach pain, there is no amount of faith the person will have that can make his headache to go. Faith does not mean that a person shouldn’t see a Doctor when he is sick. Who made the Doctor to have the knowledge to treat a sick person and prescribe drugs? The drug prescribed by a Doctor to a sick person is a catalyst for the person’s faith and a vehicle for his belief, which will make the sickness to go. It is therefore very wrong for a sick person to refuse to see a Doctor because he has faith in God. Nigeria needs faith. Faith based in God does not disappoint. Example of this kind of faith is the woman with the issue of blood (Mk 5: 25-29). The Devil being so wicked, dealt with this woman for 12 years until only breathe is left with her. She spent all she had in the world until she turned to Jesus. There is no answer in the world, no answer from any man or woman unless we turn our ways to Jesus (Heb 13:5-6).

“Having God’s experience does not imply getting rid of all problems out of one’s life but instead He will bring in a set of new positive things in your life that will make the problems leave your life.”

26 SUNDAY, JUNE 23, 2013

RELIGION

Knowing God Is Not Enough, Love Him! IT is a good thing to fellowship with the brethren. The light is given but not accepted. Some do not know how to accept the light and others know the way but have neglected it. Our activities each day should reflect God’s glory and sovereignty. “Let your light so shine before men that they may see your good works and glorify your father which is in heaven” (Matt. 5:16). acknowledge His love It should be for mankind. But it remembered that, ‘one doesn’t end here. He only shines when he has expects you to love Him light’. This light is Jesus, in return. What else does He is the bread of heaven He want? He wants you that was sent down to the to keep His hungered. I wish to commandments. For He address two sets of said “if ye love me, keep people, those who don’t my commandments” know the love of God (John 14:15). All these and those who know go a very long way, it him, but don’t strive to starts by accepting God know him more. The and His love for you. first group have not even This love is shown in the believed that Christ died death of His only son, for our sins. Jesus Christ. Then you The latter have should admit your accepted God’s love but wrongs and feel remorse don’t know the extent. for having repaid him They think God love with evil. Then you them because he must do confess your sins before so and if he didn’t, then and He will forgive your God will be deprived of sins (1 John 1: 9). something he wants. No, After this first step, this is not true. God loves God has enlisted you because he wants you to among His own and you find peace. He wants you must continue with Him. to know this fact, then But your strength and you will love Him in wisdom and knowledge return. Not because He cannot empower you but will stand to gain Him alone. For it is “for anything from you, but by strength shall no man because you will gain. prevail” (1 Sam 2: 9b) “Herein is love, not that when you forsake your we love God but that He strength, He gives you loved us and sent His son His. Whatever you to be the propitiation for forsake for God’s sake, our sins” (1 John 4: 10). He refills even more. If After knowing this you give out your life, love, there is need to act you will find it (Mark 8 : on it. It is the first step 35), if you forsake towards God. You must wealth, He will give

more, if you humble yourself, He will lift you up (1 Peter 5 : 6). So, giving up the pleasures of this world, God will give you joy

because ‘where the light shineth, darkness comprehended it not”. You can abide in Him if only you are not filthy. People claim God’s

miserable of all men. That is why it is written, “But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you” (Matt. 6 : 33). That is to say that

and peace and life hereafter. Whatever you have done is not too heinous to be forgiven. So far as you make up your mind to continue with God. He is faithful, loving, caring and He will always be there for you. One thing to understand is that God remains where he is but we move further away from Him because of our filthiness. So if you always put Him before you, He will stand close, but if you forsake His word, you will find yourself moving away

holiness but ‘faith without work is dead’. You must make up your mind before He can help you. And after this, you must flee sin. He will reveal the way towards righteousness but you have to walk therein. “If in this life only we have hope in Christ, we are of all men most miserable” (1 Cor 15 : 19). This world is transient. If all our hopes are in this world, if we think not of the life beyond, we are most

this world and its pleasures should not be your focal point but the kingdom. The good thing is that you will find more of these blessings. Don’t serve God because you want Him to bless you but because He loves you. When things go wrong, hold on to His word and do not question or accuse him, for He knows what temptations come for elevation and not the other way round for he will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able (1 Cor. 11 : 13).

By UKIRI CLEMENTINA EGWOLOMENE

“For those who have known Him, it makes no difference if you don’t learn to know him more, knowing God is more than saying it, but your works shall justify you. If you claim to love God, and you steal, lie,

backbite, are proud, fornicate, hate and still subject to wrath, cause others to sin, then you have not recognized God’s love. You don’t need to pay for it, the price has been paid. Just believe, pray and study God’s word and He will hear. The summary is claim your heritage, that is, your priesthood. You are a child of a king. Why neglect your royalty. God bless you as you take a step forward towards him. Take a step forward towards Him. His arms are stretched out still.

“For those who have known Him, it makes no difference if you don’t learn to know him more, knowing God is more than saying it, but your works shall justify you.”

THE NATION

SUNDAY, JUNE 23, 2013

Panacea To Nigeria Telecoms Industry

Mobile Number Portability: TELECOMMUNICATION in Nigeria has witnessed tremendous revolution since the inception of mobile telephone services in the country. Prior to the inception of GSM in Nigeria in the year 2001, the communication industry was monopolised by the National Telecoms (NITEL) which offered poor services and yet billed subscribers outrageously. However, the launching of services by Econet (now Airtel) and MTN in 2001 marked the beginning of a revolution in the Nigerian telecommunication industry with Globacom following suit as the second National Te l e c o m m u n i c a t i o n s operator in August 2003 and other operators joining the foray. Nigerians now enjoy innovations like mobile banking, mobile television, mobile internet etc that came with the GSM revolution. Competition among the mobile service operators became stiffer as they strived to outdo another with new innovations aimed at getting more subscribers. This, undoubtedly, led to an unprecedented explosion in the growth of mobile telephony in Nigeria. Along the years, however, the quality of services offered by these mobile operators fell below bar. Subscribers experience disservices like network congestion, call drops, number unreachable (even when the other subscriber is under the same roof as the caller), failed messages which are still billed, unaccessable customer care lines amongst others. Apparently, in a bid to checkmate this ugly trend, the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), backed by the Federal

Government launched the mobile number portability initiative on the 25 th of March, this year. The mobile number portability service which has been operational in South Africa, Ghana and most European countries entails that subscribers can migrate to other networks without losing their previous phone numbers. That is to say that a subscriber dissatisfied with the quality of service obtained from his original network can switch (port) to another network in search of better service quality. The mobile number portability services is currently available to GSM subscribers both on pre-paid and post-paid services for the time-being, but will be extended to CDMA and fixed line networks after a while. According to the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), to port lines, subscribers must visit the customer care centre retail or an authorised outlet of the network they intend switching to, as porting cannot be done by simply putting calls through to the customer care or completing some online procedure. At the customer care unit or retail outlet, a Port Request Form along with some documents like international passport, driver ’s license or an identity card will be demanded to prove owners hip of the number to be ported, while those who cannot satisfy these requirements above will have their pictures captured into the new service provider’s system. Porting to a new network or porting

By OKOMAYIN PAUL

back to the original network spans approximately ninety days of a previous port. Also, prepaid subscribers cannot take outstanding

credits while switching to the new service provider, while messages sent to you prior to porting may be lost. Mobile number portability is a good initiative that will further revolutionise the telecommunication industry, as subscribers will now have the power to hire and fire any network they find its services poor. Also, all mobile service operators will be on their toes as competition would drive them to improve on their service delivery. The most significant value of mobile number

“Mobile number portability is a good initiative that will further revolutionise the telecommunication industry, as subscribers will now have the power to hire and fire any network they find its services poor.”

portability, perhaps, is that you do not need a new phone number as you port between the networks, hence, no need to commit

new phone numbers to memory. Your contacts can still reach you via the same number. However, the old sim becomes useless as soon as the porting process is completed.

Mobile number portability, however, have been received with mixed reactions. Some subscribers find the task of visiting customer care centres and filling port request forms quite cumbersome, as they can easily purchase new sim cards at cheap price and less time. It is also argued that since the continuous deteriorating service is a common feature among the existing mobile operators, then, there is no point in switching between the networks. Nonetheless, mobile number portability has been hailed in some quarters as one of the good developments to happen in the telecommunication industry, second only to the introduction of per second billing. As a result of the competition mobile number portability will bring, it will no doubt, be a success in Nigeria as subscribers will have more freedom of choice and the mobile service operators will be spurred to up their game or lose out to competitors.

28 SUNDAY, JUNE 23, 2013

Dortmund Still Chasing De Bruyne

Lewandowski Agents Come Under Fire

THE German Football Agent Association (DFVV) has hit out at Robert Lewandowski’s representatives and the manner in which they have been carrying out their business. Rumours of Lewandowski’s exit from Borussia Dortmund have been rumbling on for months, but the speculation has been dampened since Sunday when the club’s CEO, HansJoachim Watzke, ruled out a move for the Poland international in the summer. However, on Thursday DFVV chief Gregor Reiter lambasted Lewandowski’s agents, Cezary Kucharski and Maik Barthel, for their recent actions. “For months they have been shouting Lewandowski’s name from the rooftop. This is not a manifestation of a serious business conduct,” Reiter told Sport1. “Robert Lewandowski is under contract at Borussia Dortmund until June 30, 2014. More than once, Borussia Dortmund have made it clear that they are not willing to release the player before the end of his contract. End of discussion.” Both Kucharski and Barthel have also come under huge German media scrutiny for their conduct surrounding Lewandowksi’s possible Dortmund exit. They have been accused of intentionally releasing information to the press concerning the striker’s future.

Bayern Munich Players celebrating with the 2012/13 champions League trophy.

Bayern Aren’t The Best Yet

Former Netherlands international Ronald de Boer feels it is premature to say Bayern Munich have dethroned Barcelona as the team to beat in Europe following their impressive

2012-13 campaign. The Bavarian giants became the first German team in history to win the treble last term and beat Arsenal, Juventus, Barca and Borussia Dortmund on their way to

European glory. However, De Boer believes it is too early to say a changing of the guard has taken place. “Bayern have the quality to beat anybody on their day. Bayern were playing exceptional football, to an

Monaco ‘Forced’ Into Big-Money Signings Monaco have claimed that they were “forced” into big-money signings, such as the estimated 60 million Euro purchase of Radamel Falcao, and believe there is a witch-hunt against them as they battle to maintain their financial privileges. The newly-promoted Ligue 1 side and the French Football League (LFP) clashed in France’s highest court for administrative issues, the Conseil d’Etat, for some two hours on Thursday. The principality club argued their case against the LFP’s decision to force them to be based in France for tax purposes by June next year, removing financial

privileges that have been in place for more than a century. The decision, made on March 21 by the LFP’s Administrative Council, would see rules which exclude foreign players from paying income tax, and mean a player earning +1 million-ayear in Monaco costs Frenchbased clubs three times more in taxes and contributions, no longer applying. While the Ligue 2 champions argued against the decision’s legality, they also claimed they had only followed through with the estimated +130 million post-season capture of Falcao, James Rodriguez and Joao

Moutinho because they were contractually obliged to do so following agreements reached before the LFP made their move. “Since then, our transfers have been frozen. For those who’ve been talked about in the press, the contracts were signed before March 21. If those players are with us now, it’s independent of our will. We were obliged to take them. It’s the selling clubs who forced us to take them by activating the option which existed. If we hadn’t done it, they would have applied heavy penalties,” argued Tatiana Bersheda, a lawyer for Monaco owner Dmitri Rybolovlev and a

Zanetti To Start Walking Again INTER skipper Javier Zanetti says he will soon start walking again as his road to recovery from a ruptured Achilles tendon continues. The veteran set himself up for a return to playing when he signed a one-year extension at

Javier Zanetti

Inter despite still having to face a long return to full fitness. “Everything is going well,” he told Inter’s website. “The next step, over the next couple of days, is to remove the brace and to start to walk again wearing normal shoes. To continue my rehabilitation. “I’ve been able to start it while still wearing the brace and that’s good news. I’m trying to keep fit and not put too much stress on the tendon.” Inter have also been linked with various names in the transfer window, with Antonio Cassano reportedly being offered in a swop deal

for Parma’s Ishak Belfodil. “Cassano to leave? I have a fantastic relationship with Antonio. He’s a true champion. I’ve read about the rumour, but I don’t have any idea about what’ll happen,” added the skipper. “Belfodil? He had a good season. He’s a good player and he wants to prove himself again next season. Let’s wait and see what develops during the transfer window. “We’re setting out to be very competitive right from the start of the season: a club such as Inter should always be aiming to win the title. We’ll have to do that right down to the last kick of the season.”

member of the club’s administrative council. “The date it comes into effect of June 1, 2014 gives the false impression of a deadline which is far away. In reality, it has an impact in the present. How can we, in this transfer window, negotiate transfers and contracts without knowing the future situation of the club?” Valenciennes defender Nicolas Isimat-Mirin is reportedly a victim of the uncertainty with his estimated +4 million move to the Stade Louis II on ice, even though it was agreed some weeks ago. Should Monaco fail to comply with the decision, they could face expulsion from LFP competition, and one of their lawyers, Dominique Foussard, told the court the motives for the ruling were clear. “It’s an eviction measure. They want to eliminate us. The League is taking liberties with its powers,” he is reported as saying in L’Equipe. The court will make an initial ruling in the coming days with a definitive judgement being handed down next autumn. With Russian billionaire Rybolovlev seemingly content to dig deep into his even deeper pockets, many Ligue 1 sides fear Monaco and fellow financial heavyweights Paris SaintGermain will monopolise France’s two automatic qualifying spots for the lucrative Champions League group stages.

- De Boer

incredibly high standard week-in-week-out, over the entire season,” De Boer told the official Bundesliga website. “In 2012-13 they were simply too good, even for Barcelona. They were superbly organised - it reminded me of our Ajax team back in 1995 and had top-class players from front to back, each of them deploying his own special qualities for the good of the team. “But I think it’s still a bit premature to be talking about a changing of the guard. Obviously, Barcelona are capable of beating Bayern - but they’ll need to be on top form themselves.”

Borussia Dortmund sporting director Michael Zorc says the Bundesliga outfit will continue their pursuit of Chelsea midfielder Kevin De Bruyne. The Belgium international, who spent last season on loan with Werder Bremen, is seen as an ideal replacement for Bayern Munich-bound Mario Gotze. And despite new Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho’s insistence that both De Bruyne and fellow Belgian Romelu Lukaku have a future at the club, Dortmund remain determined to try and sign him. “We respect his contract at Chelsea but we will keep trying him,” Zorc told Kicker. Zorc revealed that De Bruyne reciprocated Dortmund’s interest, while also playing down speculation linking the club with a move for Ajax’s Christian Eriksen. “The player [De Bruyne] wants to join us,” the 50-yearold told Ruhr Nachrichten. De Bruyne joined Chelsea for 8 million Euro in January 2012 and has yet to make a first team appearance for the club, but scored 10 goals in 33 league appearance on loan with Bremen.

De Bruyne

Come To Madrid, Morata best club in the world,” the Tells Isco centre-forward said. “I have Alvaro Morata has said he wants Isco to join him at Real Madrid next season as the Malaga star prepares to make a final decision on his future. Isco, 21, is one of the hottest properties in world football after his sparkling displays at the European Under-21 tournament in Israel augmented the impression he had made during Malaga’s impressive Champions League and La Liga campaigns. Although Manchester City have made an offer to reunite Isco with his former Malaga coach Manuel Pellegrini at Eastlands, Marca claimed the attacker would prefer to move to the Bernabeu and a deal could be agreed as early as Friday. Morata, also 21, told AS he had been attempting to persuade Isco to move to Madrid. “I tried to put pressure on him. I told him that Madrid was the

known him for a while - I know he has the capacity to do the dribbles he does, so that does not surprise me.” Isco was met by AS TV reporters on his return to Madrid’s Barajas airport on Thursday, but said only: “I am not going to talk about my future. I’m off on holidays.” A few hours later, he tweeted a photo showing him and a friend enjoying a break in Ibiza. Earlier this week, Malaga executive vice-president Moayad Shatat suggested his club’s most valuable asset would not be sold for anything less than the +35 million release clause in his new contract, which he signed in January. The Andalucian club’s new coach, Bernd Schuster, said he knew he may not be able to count on the attacker being part of his squad next season.

29 SUNDAY, JUNE 23, 2013

Shearer Refutes Newcason the club’s official website that tle Claim Shearer was fully aware of the

Pienaar Looking Forward To Life After Moyes Exit EVERTON midfielder Steven Pienaar says that life will be different at the club next season, but he believes new manager Roberto Martinez will do a commendable job. The Toffees will be without former manager David Moyes who has replaced fellow Scotsman Sir Alex Ferguson at Manchester United next season. Moyes twice brought Pienaar to Everton; firstly making his loan deal from German giants Borussia Dortmund permanent and then re-signed him again from Tottenham Hotspur in 2012. “In football you always change managers. So I am looking forward to working with the new manager,” Pienaar told MTNFootball.com. “We are all professional and if we have a new manager then we need to adjust. “In football you have to adjust to the situations but now we have to move because there is always life with a new manager.” Pienaar and his Everton teammates have in the last two seasons finished higher than local rivals Liverpool on the log standings. But the former South African captain is confident that they will push for a UEFA Champions League spot next season. “We have to improve on our sixth position,” added the 32year old Johannesburg-born player. “It is not about finishing above Liverpool even though our fans love it. “Last season was about us pushing hard for a European spot and we got it. “Next season I am sure that we can push for a Champions League spot because we have the players to do that. “If we start the season well next season then God knows what can happen next season, but hopefully we can play in that world famous club competition.”

Tottenham Super Star, Gareth Bale.

AVB Confident Bale Not Leaving Spurs

TOTTENHAM manager Andre VillasBoas is confident Gareth Bale “is not going to leave the club”, insisting chairman Daniel Levy has given assurances that no sale will take place this summer. Bale has been heavily linked with Real Madrid in recent weeks, with the La Liga giants making no secret of their ambition to lure the Wales international to the

Santiago Bernabeu. However, Villas-Boas is adament the winger will remain at White Hart Lane next season amid the transfer speculation. “We have the pledge of the chairman that Bale is not going to leave the club,” Villas-Boas is quoted as saying in Spanish newspaper Marca. Real have previously hinted that they would be willing to spend as much as £100 million on signing

Bale from Spurs.

I therefore see no reason why this tight match would not result a draw on Saturday come rain or sun. Again, I give this clash a 50-50 chance of drawing at the weekend. All those who want to win Handsome amount of money this season should keep in touch with me and to also keep accurate records of SUNDAY OBSERVER in order to see the wonders of DR. J.K. Pools. 07039275802

1.BlackTown SP. 2.Sutherland 3. BANYULE 4.CAIRNLEA 5. BALCATTA 6. SORREOTO 7. Morley 8. Melborne U

Alan Shearer

8 Treble Chance vs SOUTH Coast vs Bonnyrigg vs Morland U vs SUNBURY vs BUNBURY vs Armade vs MANDURAH vs WESTVALE

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“I am very much looking forward to working with this group of players as they achieved great levels last campaign and that is something that gives us a great platform to start from in pre-season,” Martinez told the Liverpool Echo. “That’s important, that the players are here and they will get a little bit of help with the new signings and all together, we can work from where we are now, so that pre-season is something that gives you a very good starting point.

“As a manager you can never be satisfied until you are with your players and the team working on the training ground and until then you are just waiting to get started. “I’m very much looking forward to getting the next few weeks out of the way as quick as we can. “Everyone at the football club has made me very welcome and that makes it easy to get a real feeling between all of us and develop a real good working mentality and a good standard of daily work.”

Higuain To Arsenal be Carlo Ancelotti. ‘Not Done’ could “Up until then nothing is for

Banyute; Bayswater For “X” A cousory X-ray of the 49 programmed fixtures of this week 50 of the on-going Aussie Pools season matches to be played on 29th June 2013, I have soft spot for an “X” between “BANYULE vs Moreland U at No. 23 and BAYSWATER vs BUNBURY at 35”. Both are fixtures in Victoria Division four and West Australia Premier restively. I mean the games at Nos. 23 and 35. In the same vein, BALCATTA vs Perth at No. 34 and Sorrento vs Armadale at 37 for an “X”. In summary No. 23-34-35 and 37 for at least two draws. In this week 50 matches to be played on June 29, 2013 BANYULE vs BANYULE AT 23 xx 23 xx 23 Plus 2 others for serious NAP! NAP!! NAP!!! . Please watch out for another naked 3 NAPABLE GAMES in Week 52. THE CODE is “RAHAM” PLUS Two others. Lest I forget, a look at the captioned Headline “BANYULE” the Almighty home draw thirsty club is hosting its equally an away “x” thirsty visitors Moreland U. So far, both have played eight games since the season and are very close on the TABLE.

plans to re-brand the bar, in a statement that has now been contradicted by the club’s alltime leading scorer. “Shearer’s Bar was immensely popular when it was first launched in 2004, but its popularity has dwindled over the years as this part of Newcastle has developed and new bars have opened around it,” stated Irving. “In transforming the site and opening the bar up to a wider range of visitors, it was important that a new name remained in keeping with the club’s history and heritage, and Nine is certainly faithful to that. “We have liaised directly with Alan to keep him abreast of the plans, which he has been appreciative of, and we are looking forward to launching Nine next month.” With the dust finally beginning to settle on Kinnear ’s controversial return to the club, reports in Thursday’s newspapers suggest respected chief scout Graham Carr is the latest high profile staff member to be considering their position at the club.

Martinez Excited About Preseason ROBERTO Martinez admits he is ‘very much looking forward to working’ with his new group of players at Everton preseason training. The 39-year-old, who left Wigan to succeed David Moyes as Toffees boss, is currently working on recruiting new players to shape his squad for the new season. Everton will return for preseason training at the start of July ahead of friendlies against Austria Vienna, Accrington Stanley and Blackburn Rovers.

Sunday Pools Guide Week 50 SAYS DR. J. K. POOLS

NEWCASTLE legend Alan Shearer has disputed claims that he was fully consulted by the club in their decision to re-brand the bar named in his honour at St James’ Park. With the North East club still attracting a plethora of negative headlines following Joe Kinnear’s appointment as Director of Football and the resignation of Managing Director Derek Llambias earlier this week, Newcastle appear to have walked straight into yet another PR disaster by riling Shearer. After club officials claimed the former England striker was fully aware of their plan to re-name the bar at the Gallowgate End of the stadium ‘Nine’ to recognise the club’s most famous shirt number, the club’s former striker and manager has insisted he had no input into the plans. “There was no consultation, I was simply informed by email of their decision to change the name,” states Shearer in The Sun. “It was not a question of me agreeing or disagreeing. “It is their ground and it is up to the owners what they do with it. It won’t stop me from buying my season tickets and supporting the team. “Right now people are laughing at the football club I support and that sickens me. I promised myself years ago never to be surprised by what happens in football, particularly at Newcastle.” Newcastle’s Finance Director John Irving had earlier insisted

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ARSENAL have not yet wrapped up a deal for Juventus-target Gonzalo Higuain, an agent close to Real Madrid has claimed. Ernesto Bronzetti has been acting as an intermediary on behalf of the Italian champions for the available Argentina international. The Bianconeri are understood to have spoken to Real and the striker about a possible summer swoop. However, reports in England over the last few days are suggesting that Arsenal are in pole position for the 25-yearold. “Will Higuain go to Arsenal? I’m not aware of that,” Bronzetti told TMW. “Real Madrid still need to define their coaching situation and that

certain. All I can say with regard to Higuain is that there are five or six clubs chasing him, not just Juventus and Arsenal.” Juve are hoping to get the player for about 22 million euros. Real, though, have insisted it will take over 30m to sign the South American.

Gonzalo Higuain

30 SUNDAY, JUNE 23, 2013

Brazilian President Rousseff Defends World Cup Spending

BRAZILIAN president Dilma Rousseff has defended the money spent on next year’s World Cup amid widespread anti-government protests and demonstrations that have hit the nation this week. An estimated one million people have been involved in protests in cities across the country, initially over rising transport fares but quickly developing into rallies against other issues, including government corruption and also the amount of public money spent on the 2014 World Cup. Protests have affected the ongoing Confederations Cup,

with local media on Friday claiming the eight-team competition could be stopped. However, FIFA has insisted there are no plans to abandon the tournament despite some of the demonstrations descending into violence. Rousseff said: “With regard to the World Cup, I want to clarify that the federal money spent on the stadiums is in the form of financing that will be

duly repaid by the companies and governments that are exploiting these stadiums.” She added: “I would never allow these funds to come out of the federal public budget or to damage priority sectors such as health and education. “In fact, we have strongly expanded spending in health and education, and we will expand it more and more. I trust

Athletic: Gay Sprints To Year’s Fastest Freeman (10.87) with TYSON Gay overcame 100m Alexandria Anderson grabbing

Olympic bronze medallist Justin Gatlin’s quicker start and sped to the year’s fastest 100 metres, clocking 9.75 seconds at the US trials for the world championships. Fully fit for the first time in years, Gay took control midrace with a dominant run to equal the 10th fastest 100m of all time. Gatlin finished second in 9.89 seconds in the race at Des Moines, Iowa. “It’s been five years since I have been the US champion and it feels good to be back on the podium,” said Gay, beset by injuries since winning both sprint titles at the 2007 world championships. “I’m not as sharp as I could be but I’m healthy so that’s all that counts,” said Gay, who ran another 9.75, this one windassisted, in the semi-finals.

Gatlin, who surprised Jamaican world record holder Usain Bolt in Rome earlier in the month, said he was affected by a strained right hamstring. “It felt good running 9.8 with a bandage on,” said the 2004 Olympic gold medallist who narrowly edged Gay for the bronze medal at last summer’s London Games. Charles Silmon grabbed the third spot on the US team for the Aug. 10-18 world championships by edging Mike Rodgers by two thousandths of a second. Silmon ran 9.972 and Rodgers 9.974. Collegiate champion English Gardner came on strong to win the women’s 100 in another year-best time, 10.85 seconds, and Olympian Sharon Day delivered the top heptathlon score of the season, 6,550 points. Gardner, now coached by John Smith, edged Octavious

third (10.91). Haitian-born Barbara Pierre struggled to finish fifth after setting the world lead of 10.85 in the semi-finals that Gardner equalled. The 100m hurdlers also flexed their speed, with collegiate record holder Brianna Rollins blitzing to an eye-catching but wind-assisted 12.33 seconds in qualifying. Queen Harrison added a windassisted 12.44 seconds, hometown Olympian Lolo Jones clocked a wind-allowable 12.50 seconds. The 2008 Beijing gold medallist Dawn Harper won her preliminary in a wind-assisted 12.60. World record holder Ashton Eaton, taking a “play it safe” approach, trailed Gunnar Nixon after the first day of the decathlon with 4,405 points. Nixon had 4,449.

that the National Congress will approve the bill I presented that ensures that all oil royalties are spent exclusively on education. “It is also imperative that I mention a very important topic that has to do with our Brazilian soul and our manners. Brazil, the only country to have participated in every World Cup and a five-time world champion, has always been very well received everywhere. “We must give our friends the

same generous welcome we have received from them - with respect, love and joy. This is how we must treat our guests. Football and sport are symbols of peace and peaceful coexistence among peoples. Brazil deserves to, and will, host a great World Cup.” The disruption and violence has also raised questions over Brazil’s ability to put on a safe and secure tournament in 12 months’ time, but Rousseff

• Dilma Rousseff, Brazil President

FIFA Probing New Zealand Over W/Cup FIFA on Friday said they governing body said the Qualifier berth in November’s homehad launched disciplinary result of the probe will not and-away play-off against

• Tyson Gay

proceedings against New Zealand amid claims that they fielded an ineligible player in their 2014 World Cup qualifier against the Solomon Islands in March. However, world football’s

Real Madrid Agree Deal For Isco

REAL Madrid have reached an agreement with Malaga to sign Spanish wonderkid Isco,

• Isco

according to reports. Having inspired Spain’s U21 side to victory at the Euros this summer, speculation has been rampant over the star’s future with Manchester City, Chelsea and other top European clubs all linked with him. But Real Madrid appear to have won the race to sign Isco, with a fee of 30 million euros having already been accepted from the Spanish giants, according to newspaper AS. The move will reportedly be confirmed early next week, with the starlet currently on holiday in Ibiza and having been informed of the deal by his father.

affect New Zealand’s campaign to reach next year’s finals in Brazil, given that they finished streets ahead of all their rivals. FIFA did not name the player whose eligibility was in dispute at the match with the Solomon Islands on March 26, when the All Whites wrapped up their Oceania region qualifying with a 2-0 away win. It seemed all but certain, however, that they were referring to Australian-born defender Andrew Durante. Having only received his New Zealand citizenship just weeks earlier, Durante failed to make his All Whites debut against New Caledonia at home on March 22, pending FIFA confirmation that he met all the eligibility criteria. He made his debut in the Solomon Islands match. New Zealand have been

insisted her country would rise to that challenge. “This violence, promoted by a small minority, cannot tarnish a peaceful and democratic movement,” she continued. “We cannot live with such violence, which shames Brazil. All institutions and public safety bodies have the obligation to curb, within the limits of law, all forms of violence and vandalism.”

asked to set out their position and provide any appropriate documentary evidence, FIFA said. The All Whites finished top in round three of the Oceania qualifying race, a full six points clear of second-placed New Caledonia. That guaranteed them a

the fourth placed team from North, Central America and the Caribbean, regardless of the result of the disciplinary proceedings, FIFA underlined. Oceania, the weakest of the six FIFA confederations, does not have an automatic slot at the 2014 World Cup.

2014 World Cup Must Be Held In Brazil - FIFA

THE 2014 World Cup must be held in Brazil, FIFAsecretary general Jerome Valcke said Friday, one day after more than one million people marched in protests across the country. “The Confederations Cup is taking place in Brazil and the World Cup must be held in Brazil,” he told local media ahead of a meeting bringing together FIFA, the Brazilian Football Confederation and the World Cup’s Local Organizing Committee.

Liverpool Paid Carrol £1m To Leave LIVERPOOL were so desperate to get rid of Andy Carroll that they paid him more than £1 million to leave the club according to the Times. West Ham completed the signing of the striker from Liverpool on a six-year contract for a club-record fee earlier this week. The paper claims that Carroll would have preferred to sign for former club Newcastle United but they were only willing to pay £10m while West Ham offered £15.5 million, plus £2 million in additional payments. Liverpool had paid £35

million to land the striker from Newcastle in 2011 but offered a ‘golden handshake’ to get him off their books. The Times reports: “Liverpool asked for an increased transfer fee from West Ham and have used some of this money for Carroll’s severance payment. “It illustrates the extent to which Liverpool wanted to sell Carroll, who earned almost £80,000 a week, to reduce the club’s wage bill and recoup some of the £35 million that they paid Newcastle for the striker.” The paper also says that West

Ham gave Carroll a ‘slight payrise’ to help complete the move. Carroll spent last season on loan at Upton Park, scoring seven times in 24 league appearances despite an injuryhit a campaign. After completing his move earlier this week he said: “It’s fantastic for me to be here. I really enjoyed last season, and that shows in me coming back and making it permanent. “The fans, the lads and the club itself has been great to me, and what I wanted to do was come back here and play football.

31 SUNDAY, JUNE 23, 2013

Flying Eagles Disappointed Over Loss To Portugal, Promise To Fight Back THE Flying Eagles players are disappointed with their 2-3 loss to Portugal on Friday in their group opening match of the U-20 World Cup in Turkey, a statement said. The team’s Captain, Abduljaleel Ajagun, made the statement yesterday, according to the statement issued by the team’s Media Officer, Samm Audu, in Abuja. Ajagun promised that the team hoped to improve in their next match. “We are all disappointed we lost the game but we are also looking forward to our next game against Cuba on Monday. “We will improve in our next game and score the goals that will get us back into the competition,’’ the team captain said. The statement added that Coach John Obuh said the match against Cuba should now be their focus. “It was a keenly contested game but unfortunately we lost, this was not what we had hoped for.

“We have to take the defeat in good faith so as to face the next game because we have to qualify to the next round,’’ the statement quoted Obuh as

saying. Reports say that in the other match in Group B played earlier on Friday, South Korea came from behind to beat Cuba 2-1.

Coach Urges F/Eagles To Step Of Game MR Godwin Bamigboye, the Chairman of FCT Coaches Association, says the Flying Eagles need to step up their game if they are to advance from their group. Bamigboye told newsmen on Friday in Abuja after the team lost its opening match that it would need to do better against Cuba and Korea Republic. Reports say that the Nigerian under-20 men football side had lost 2-3 to Portugal in their opening Group B match at the 2013 FIFA U-20 World Cup in Turkey. He said the team however performed very well because Portugal was a strong opposition in the group.

“I believe the team did well, considering the opposition, and will come up well in the remaining two matches to qualify for the next round. “They did not perform badly because Portugal is a very strong opposition in the group. “But the thing is when they (the Flying Eagles) equalised, I expected them to maintain that. Generally, however, it was a good game,’’ Bamigboye said. He however said the team needed to step up its game for it to qualify for the next round.

• John Mikel Obi

Super Eagles Aim To Shock Spain Again

SUPER Eagles will hope to again shock world champions Spain late today in Fortaleza at the 2013 Confederations Cup in Brazil.

• Flying Eagles skipper Ajagun controlled the ball past a Portuguese opponent in their Un-20 World Cup opener on Friday.

Nigeria shocked the world when they beat highly-rated Spain 3-2 at the 1998 World Cup in Nantes, France with Sunday Oliseh’s television goal a deserving winner. The first meeting between the two teams was at the 1968 Olympics when Spain thrashed Nigeria 3-0. Spain currently set the pace in the group with six points from two games, while Nigeria are third on three points with

Car Prize For Winners In Squash THE male and female would also serve as a build-up winners in the maiden edition of Tourney to the 2014 Africa Squash Winner Takes All Squash Tournament, slated for Minna from July 2 to July 6, will be presented a car each. Adamu Erena, the President, Nigeria Squash Federation (NSF), told newsmen yesterday in Lagos that this would be the first of such prize by the federation. “The newly-elected board of the federation is committed to keeping the players engaged in competitions to sharpen their skills. “We intend to organise this competition to keep the players busy and for them to perfect their game “That is why we are offering these attractive prizes to draw out established and upcoming players for the tournament. “So the competition will be thrown open for all squash players to participate. “In winner takes all competition, all top seeded

squash players are expected to come and display their skills on the court,’’ Erena said. The federation president said that the tournament would also to kick-start the federation’s programme for the year. He said that the tournament

Championships that would be hosted by the federation. According to him, Nigeria will host African championships next year and that the federation wants to ensure that its players are engaged in periodic competitions to keep them fit.

Gateway Dares 3SC In Fed Cup GATEWAY United Football Club of Abeokuta say they are confident about their chances as they prepare to face 3SC FC of Ibadan in the Federation Cup competition. Reports say that the match is billed to hold on June 23 at the Akure Sports Complex. In a statement by the club’s Media Officer, Biodun Alabi on Friday in Abeokuta, the club said “everything has been done to put the players in good shape

for the game, technically and in terms of welfare”. It also said the players were in no way intimidated by the status of the Oluyole Warriors, vowing to send the former African champions out of the tournament. Gateway United are the current Ogun FA Cup champions and are among the front-runners in the Nigeria National League (NNL).

Uruguay in second place. Nigeria will need a big win against Spain to reach the semifinals as Uruguay are expected to run up the scores against whipping boys Tahiti on the same day. Eagles defender Efe Ambrose told MTNFootball.com the world champions are beatable. “What is important to us now is to be focussed. It is a match we know we need to win and to achieve that we need maximum concentration,” Ambrose said. “Spain can be beaten, all we need do is play as a team and take our chances and remain united, We have a good chance to beat Spain. We are Africa number one and have no reason to be Afraid of any team. We will give our best.” Chelsea midfielder John Mikel Obi has shone in Brazil and said Nigeria can hold their own against any team in the world. He is particularly happy to be playing against his Chelsea teammate Fernando Torres. “We will do our best to salvage the situation,” he said. However, the Eagles are sweating in the fitness of Ahmed Musa, Kenneth Omeruo and Nnamdi Oduamadi after they received serious knocks in Thursday’s gritty loss to South American champions Uruguay. Ever impressive central defender Kenneth Omeruo has a deep cut just above his eyes and has been wearing a plaster

since after the game. Omeruo picked up the injury when he attempted a header at goal in one of his adventurous moves to salvage the game for the Eagles. Musa has a knock in the ankle that almost forced him out of the

game but for the fact that the Eagles had made the three allowed changes. Oduamadi is worst hit as he was forced out of the match with an ankle strain and as at Friday afternoon he was still limping.

NRA Threatens Legal Action Against Restive Fans THE Nigeria Referees’ Association (NRA) on Friday threatened to take legal action against any individual or groups of persons that harasses any referee in the course of their duties. The NRA’s President, Ahmed Maude, told newsmen in Lagos that referees should be allowed to do their job without let or hindrance. Maude also appealed to the League Management Company (LMC) to ensure that referees were paid their indemnities as at when due. “In the first stanza you will realise that we had lots of away victories even in the face of fans hostility, match officials should be encouraged in all ramification. “We want the LMC to do more in this regard, also paying referees indemnities is essential for our welfare, and probably a review of officiating fee. “And LMC has given us the go ahead whoever beats

up our referees will go to court, we intend to curb this menace. “And we need to beef up security at match venues before the second stanza kicks off,’’ Maude said. NAN reports that the 2012/ 2013 season is currently on a two-week break, after the conclusion of the first stanza on June 16. In terms of the fitness level of the referees, the NRA president told newsmen that the association would use the break period to organise fitness training before the second stanza resumes. “Come June 26 we will organise a training workshop for our referees to check their fitness if they are fit to officiate and after Ramadan we shall have more of such training. “The first day will be for medicals and the second day will be for fitness. “We are also optimistic that FIFA will have some programmes lined up for referees,’’ the NRA chairman added.

CMYK 32 SUNDAY, JUNE 23, 2013

Tourism Expert Advocates Power For NIHOTOUR MR. Wale Odeyemi, a tourism expert, has advised the National Assembly to grant the National Institute for Hospitality and Tourism (NIHOTOUR) powers to regulate the activities of private investors in tourism. Odeyemi, Head, South West Campus, NIHOTOUR, told newsmen in Lagos that over the years, the industry had not been professionally-regulated. He said that the industry was dominated by quacks. According to him, a professional tourism body should be instituted to coordinate the ethics of the members as done in other professions like the legal, medical and accounting. “In the tourism industry, there is a trade association like the National Association of Nigeria Travel Agents (NANTA), but they don’t have a clear-cut guidelines to guide the private sector tourism business. “We should have a private sector professional association in the industry like the Nigeria Bar Association that can discipline individual members

and guide their operational conduct. “NIHOTOUR is up to the task under the present leadership to take the industry to an enviable level as regards the United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) regulations,’’ Odeyemi said. He said that the professional body would also regulate the activities of expatriates in the industry who were ready to practice. He suggested that such a body would have the power to conduct examination to be taken by anybody who did not study in the country, just as it is done in other countries like South Africa. “This body would regulate the activities of foreigners who wished to open any tourism business concern by ensuring that they sit for examinations before they can practice. “If this measure is put in place, there will be efficiency of services and quality service delivery in the industry,’’ Odeyemi said.

Publish States Performance Of UBEC THE Minister of Information, Maku that were doing well in basic

Mr. Labaran Maku, at the weekend urged the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) to regularly publish the performance of states on the utilisation of funds for basic education. Maku said this in his closing remarks at the ongoing Ministerial Platform at the National Press Centre, Abuja. He said the move would encourage competition amongst states and increase the rate of enrolment in basic education in Nigeria. The minister said some states had made remarkable achievements in basic education while others were still lagging behind. “The problem with primary education is that it is driven by the state and local governments, the Federal Government can only make interventions. “What I will like to see basic education to do is to advertise state by state, those states that have failed to take their children to school, we need to know them. “There are states that are doing very well, there are states that have almost 100 per cent enrolment, in which state do we have low enrolment, we need to advertise and publish them,’’ he said. Maku said important sectors in some states such as education, health and basic infrastructure were receiving little attention because governments of such states had abdicated their responsibilities. He said that publicity of states

education would spur those lagging behind to work harder. On the performance of the Tertiary Education Fund (TETFUND), the minister said that the increase in interventions in universities through the TETFUND was as a result of improvements in the economy. The minister said that Nigeria’s model of educational intervention through the TETFUND had become a model in Africa and beyond. Maku called on the Nigerian media to redirect its attention to issues of development, noting that there was much that was not being reported in the media. He said more parastatals would be invited to feature on the ministerial platform to make important clarifications about the various progress and challenges in the economy.

L-R: Acting Director-General, Nigeria Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Mr. Ezekiel Agaba; Flag Officer Commanding, Naval Training Command, Rear Adm. Azubike Ajuonu; Navy Hydrographer, Rear Adm. Abdullahi Inusa; representative of the Chief of Naval Staff, Rear Adm. Ibok-Ete Ibas; Commodore Joe Abulu (Rtd), representative of Chief Surveyor-General of the Federation, Mrs. Theresa Asein and representative of Chief of Defence Staff, Rear Adm. Gabriel Okoi, at the 2013 World Hydrography day celebration in Lagos weekend.

Nigeria Fertile For Investment - Ex-Lawmaker

SENATOR Benneth Birabi, a former member of the National Assembly, says Nigeria has immense potential for investment in spite of some challenges. Birabi, who represented Rivsoon be resolved,” he said. ers South-East Zone in the Birabi, however, urged Third Republic Senate, made political leaders in the country the observation in an interview not to allow their disagreements with newsmen in Port Harcourt last longer because it would not at the weekend. be in the interest of the He urged investors to come to Nigeria because the potential is there in all sectors, saying they should consider the fact that some countries had challenges and overcame it. ALHAJI Bature Masari, the “There is no country in the Director-General of Small and world that is a bed of roses. This Medium Enterprises political situation is temporal. Development Agency One thing is definite, these (SMEDAN), has advocated for problems will soon be over. youth empowerment to combat “Nigeria still remains a fertile rising unemployment and land for investment. Investors reduce poverty among the should not be discouraged by group. the recent political Masari stated this at the misunderstandings amongst the inauguration of youth leaders, which I believe would

laws were made was to guide society and keep it safe,’’ he said. Birabi lamented the fact that many Nigerians have refused to obey the laws of the land in spite of the abundance of laws, saying there was bound to be crises in view of this.

Director-General Harps On Youth Empowerment

Flood Submerges 6 Communities waste disposal in order to SIX communities in Andoni In Rivers reduce the devastating effects Local Government area of Rivers were submerged in a flood after a heavy rainfall, an official told newsmen. The communities are Oronija, Ngo, Ajakajak, Iwogoni, Otundong and Oyorokoto, all fishing settlements. Mr Ekemini Robert, Media Officer, South-South zone of National Emergency Management Agency, said in Port Harcourt yesterday that

country’s economy. The former senator urged Nigerians to obey the law to avert future misunderstanding in the polity. “Nigerians should read what the laws say and respect the laws of the land. The reason the

the flood was as a result of constant rainfall in the state. Robert said no life was lost but that property, especially homes, schools, hospitals, markets and farmlands, were destroyed in the flood. He advised the people to stop blocking water channels to avert flooding. Robert also advised the people to avoid improper

of flood. “I am advising the public, especially those living in the coastal area, to steer clear of building close to shorelines due to the upsurge of coastal flooding. “People should stop building on natural and man-made water channels and avoid wading through flood water,” he said.

empowerment through entrepreneurship for wealth creation and sustainable development programme in Uyo. A statement issued at the weekend in Abuja by Ibrahim Mohammed, Assistant Chief Information Officer, SMEDAN, said Masari expressed worry over the high rate of unemployment among youths. The director-general expressed the need to empower youths for them to start, grow and sustain their own businesses. He said youth empowerment would also help in addressing problems of restiveness and militancy in Nigeria. The SMEDAN boss noted that the youths have potentials to play a key role in the mainstream economy through the ownership and control of MSMEs. “I have come to appreciate that in order to combat unemployment, especially among the youth, they must be empowered to start, grow and sustain their own small

enterprises. “This will definitely reduce the level of poverty among youths, address problems of restiveness and militancy in Nigeria,” he said. Masari noted that there is clear evident that only countries with robust, competitive and dynamic MSMEs sub-sector stand the chance of sustainable and equitable growth, with positive impact on job creation, poverty alleviation and diffusion of innovation. He said that recent data provided by the National MSMEs survey put the number of MSMEs in Nigeria at 17.3 million with total employment put at 32.5 million. The DG said, “deliberate efforts must therefore be made to grow these numbers if we must achieve the transformation agenda of the present administration and our national vision of being among the 20 most industrialized nations by the year 2020”.

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