Sunday observer 29 09 2013 by Nigerian Observer

THE SUNDAY

The Sunday

SUNDAY SEPTEMBER 29, 2013

CMYK

PUBLISHED SINCE MAY 29, 1968

POLITICS & ISSUES

Pgs. 16/17

Why Calls For National Conference Persist

• Vol. XI NO.4,016 • SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 29, 20 13 • N 100.00

SHOWBIZ Tiwa Savage Exposes Her ‘Thing’ During Performance Pgs. 20/21

42 Dead, 100 Missing In Malili Boat Mishap

NO fewer than 42 people were at the weekend drowned in a boat mishap on River Niger close to Malilli village in Borgu Local Government Area of Niger State.

Reports indicate that 100 others on board were missing in the mishap which occurred at about 2

pm. on Friday The Public Relation Officer, Niger State Emergency Management

Agency, Malam Ibrahim Hussaini, confirm the incident to our correspondent in a

telephone interview yesterday. Hassaini said the incident occurred around 2 pm when the traders were returning from Malili village back to Tunga Illo village across the River Niger, after the day’s market. He said the details were

sketchy, but the boat which had over 150 passengers capsized midway and drowned 42 people, while 100 others were missing. The spokesman said that local divers from Malili village had recovered 42 corpses, while efforts were being intensified to rescue Continues on pg.2

Heavy Rains

Edo Advises Residents To Vacate Flood Prone Areas

L-R: Minister of Trade and Investment, Dr. Olusegun Aganga, ECOWAS Commissioner for Trade, Customs, Industry and Free Movement, Ahmed Hamid and Minister of Trade, Guinea, Salamatou Bangoura at an ECOWAS Ministers of Trade meeting in Abuja recently

INTERVIEW Christians Should Live By What They Hear - Rev. Fr. Enow

Pg. 25

MOTHERHOOD

EDO State Government has again advised residents in the low lands, river banks and other floodprone areas of the state to relocate to higher grounds as a preventive measure to avoid a repeat of the flood disaster of last year. The Government in a statement by Mr Peter Okhiria, Chief Press Secretary to the Governor also advised residents to shun indiscriminate waste dumping habits that end up

Success In Parenting Pg. 14

blocking the drains. The statement reads: “the Nigerian Metrological Agency (NIMET) in its seasonal rainfall prediction for 2013 has predicted heavy rainfall in the year and the likelihood of flooding in many states. “Edo State has consistently recorded an increase in rainfall volume, frequency and intensity. We as a people must not underestimate the power of weather again. We must Continues on pg.2

THE SUNDAY

SUNDAY SEPTEMBER 29, 2013

NEWS

Heavy Rains Continued from pg.1 take every preventive measure to avert the repeat of the disaster of 2012. “The good people of Edo State are hereby advised to collectively take precautions to forestall a recurrence of similar incident of flooding and its consequences in the state.” The statement urged the people to stop “indiscriminate waste dumping habits that end up blocking the drains which can result in the breeding of

mosquitoes, flies and other disease carriers that may eventually result in high prevalence of malaria, yellow fever, lassa fever and cholera. “Ensure to de-silt the drains in front of their houses and remove same. “People in low land, river banks and other flood-prone areas of the state are advised to relocate to higher grounds. “Because of the stormy nature of the expected rainfall pattern of 2013, residents are advised to

42 Dead, 100 Missing Continued from pg.1 possible survivors or the corpse of those drowned. “At the moment search and rescue is ongoing on the river. “I will make the details of the incident available later, but the agency has dispatched its officers to assist the villagers in the rescue efforts,’’ he said. Hassaini said the recovered corpses would be given mass burial close to the river bank, adding that neighbouring villages had been alerted to look out for floating corpses. The Secretary to the State Government, Alhaji Saidu Ndako, confirmed the boat mishap yesterday. “I received the information late in the night that a boat had capsized and 42 persons have drowned in the incident, while rescue operation is ongoing. “We believe that the boat was overloaded because the boat’s

capacity was put at 60 passengers, but over 150 passengers were said to be on board. “The debris in the swollen river may also have been responsible for the incident,’’ Ndako said. Ndako said that the government condoled with the family of those who had lost their loved ones, and pray that Allah grant them the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss. CHANGE OF NAME

IYERIMAH, I formerly Miss Jennifer Iyerimah, now wish to be known, called anf addressed as MRS JENNIFER OYATI. All former documents remain valid. Etsako West Local Government Area, Auchi and the general public should please take note.

Dolly Weds Charles The solemnization of marriage between former Miss Dolly Edewor and Mr. Charles Edoreh (Lagos based Businessman) took place on Friday 27th Sept. 2013 at the Oredo Local Government Council Marriage Registry in Benin City. Dignitaries present include family members, relations, friends and well wishers. Picture shows the couple at the Registry. Congratulations. Photo: SONNIE. E.

take a second look at the binding of their roofs to ensure that they are firm; “Government also hereby calls on the Power Holding Company of Nigeria (PHCN) to immediately take another look at all their distribution facilities within the state to ensure that they are firm and strong enough to withstand the expected stormy weather in 2013 in order to avoid electrocution-related but avoidable deaths.” Government commiserates with some residents in the state capital and other places who lost their valuables in the heavy rainfall of Monday, September 23. The Government of Comrade Adams Oshiomhole has done a lot in the area of erosion and flood control by building critical infrastructure in this sub-sector and we crave the understanding and cooperation of all to see the entire projects through. Government assures people of the state that everything is being done to avert a repeat of the ugly incident.

Register Your CDAs, Edo Govt Charges Communities COMMUNITIES in Edo State have been advised to ensure that they are registered with the Edo State Government as Community Development Associations. The Edo State Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Hon. Louis Odion gave the advice yesterday at the official presentation of certificate of registration to Evborhan/OkaUseni Community in IkpobaOkha Local Government Area of the State. The Commissioner explained that the purpose of registration of communities by the State Government was to streamline communities and reduce the incessant leadership tussles of development association in communities and to enable them speak with one voice. The Commissioner who was represented by the Chief Community Development inspector in the Ministry, Mr. Omorogbe Jonathan Osagie, expressed the hope that with the registration, the peace and

harmony the people of Evborhan/ Oka-Useni Community already enjoy would blossom and be sustained as no community can develop amidst conflict and crises. He, however, warned that the certificate does not give room to sell community land without reserve, rather it enables communities have a strong umbrella and a pivot for harnessing their common resources for the purpose of development. The Commissioner therefore implored the community to explore all avenues to pursue development at all levels. He assured them that the developmental programmes of the Comrade Adams Oshiomhole-led administration would be extended to Evborhan/ Oka-Useni Community, and enjoined the Community Development Association to key into the Edo – CDSP programme by paying the mandatory ten percent of any community – based projects envisioned in the community.

Earlier in a welcome address, the Chairman of the Community Development Association, Comrade Eddy Omo Osaghae, expressed gratitude to the Edo State Government for according recognition to Evborhan/OkaUseni Community. Comrade Osaghae expressed confidence that CDAs certificate would enable the community qualify for any assistance it may need from donor agencies to pursue its developmental projects. The CDA Chairman disclosed that the community had through self-help, carried out the sandfilling and grading of the twokilometre earth road leading to Evborhan/Oka-Useni and the electrification of the community with concrete poles and a 500kv transformer to boost electricity supply to the community. He, however, appealed to the Edo State Government to take over the construction of Okunwague/Evborhan/OkaUseni/Evbuabogun Road as well as establish primary and secondary schools in the community.

politicians can get the mandate of the people is to ensure credible leadership through public accountability. He identified lack of political will and insincerity as being responsible for the high level of corruption in the country. Hon. Ekeneza also decried the high level of infrastructural decay in Ovia South West Local Government to corruption leadership squabble and lack of political will of our politicians to be accountable to the people.

According to him, “those representing us at the National and State Assemblies must give good account of themselves by fulfilling their political promises so as to further sustain the mandate of the people”. He however called on the legislators to ensure that constituency funds are judiciously used for the purpose for which they are meant in terms of project implementation that will impact positively on the lives of the people.

He disclosed that the Ovia United Movement is a political organization aimed at effecting positive change in Ovia South West towards fostering progress of the people in terms of human capital development, infrastructure and economic development of Ovia South West. Membership of Ovia United Movement is drawn from all the ten wards of the Local Government Area and were fully represented at the meeting.

By MATTHEW OKAGHA

Ovia Clamours For Change, Accountability By DANIEL EDOBOR

MEMBERS of the National and State House of Assemblies from Ovia South West Local Government Area of Edo State have been called upon to give account of their stewardship especially in the area of constituency funds. Speaking after a recent meeting of the Ovia United Movement, the Leader of the movement, Hon. Samuel Ekeneza stated that the only way

Sonia Weds Pedro

The solemnization of marriage between former Miss Mayowa Sonia Alaran and Mr. Pedro Jackson Osagie (based in Germany) took place on Friday 27th Sept. 2013 at the Oredo Local Government Council Marriage Registry in Benin City. Amongst those present were Mr. Osahon H. Amadin, Mr. Edorodion Alaran, family members, relations, friends and well wishers. Photo shows the couple at the Registry. Congratulations. Photo: Sonnie. E.

Deborah Weds Kelvin The solemnization of marriage between former Miss Deborah Cheryl Akins (based in Florida USA) and Mr. Kelvin Asoro Ebose took place on Saturday 28th September 2013 at the Oredo Local Government Council Marriage Registry in Benin City. Amongst those present were Mr. Felix Ebose, Mr. Imatitikua Kelvin Amowie, Mr. Ebo Osunbor, Miss Tosin Ojo, family members, relations, friends and well wishers. Picture shows the couple at the Registry. Congratulations! Photo: Sonnie E.

THE SUNDAY

SUNDAY SEPTEMBER 29, 2013

NEWS

Commissioner Wants Education Board To Curb Indiscipline In Schools

The HOD, Environmental Department, Esan South East Local Government Council, Mr. Emmanuel Akhigbe, supervising the evacuation of refuse at Ubiaja market, yesterday.

Edo SSG Assures Revival Of Brick Making Machine

SECRETARY to Edo State Government (SSG), Prof. Julius Ihonvbere has assured the state’s Ministry of Housing and Urban Development that “steps will be taken to revive the brick making machine in the Ministry”. Speaking during a visit to the Ministry in Benin City, Prof. lhonvbere lauded the Ministry for its new and improved look as a result of the massive renovation works in the premises. Prof. Ihonvbere, who was conducted round the premises and offices in the Ministry by the Commissioner, Arc. Francis Evbuomwan, for on-the-spot assessment of the achievements and needs of the infant Ministry, expressed satisfaction with what he saw on ground, especially the physical changes in the building. He commended Hon. Evbuomwan for his professional dexterity and a good display of his architectural training in the renovation of the Ministry, thereby giving the hitherto derelict Edo State Development and Property Authority building a total make over. The Commissioner

acquainted the SSG with the efforts he had made within the short six month period of the Ministry’s existence and his assumption of office to include the on-going establishment of a Geographical information System Unit, facilitating the MoU signed in the setting up of a world class shopping mall in Benin City. Speaking further, Hon. Evbuomwan said the Ministry is authoring a draft law to facilitate the

administration of urban development, urban renewal, physical planning and development control in the state. He also

disclosed that the Ministry has taken over the project management of the Central hospital, Benin and the ongoing construction of Model Secondary Schools in the 3 senatorial districts of the State.

be firm and fair on their decisions on education no matter the persons or establishments affected. He said such firmness was the only way to bring sanity to the system, and urged the members to embark on unscheduled visits to schools in other to fish out defaulting teachers. M u o b o g h a r e congratulated the board members on their appointments, and advised them to take the reports from the field officers in the system seriously because it would assist them in their assignment. The commissioner commended them for visiting him to sympathise with him over an attack in August, by some persons alleged to be “hired assassins’’. Earlier, the chairman of the board said that they visited him to sympathise with him over the ugly incidence and thanked God for saving his life. Imevbore appealed to all defaulting teachers in the state to desist from the unwholesome acts, or be sanctioned.

SURE-P: FG Seeks Partnership With Firms

To Reduce Unemployment

EMPLOYERS of labour in the country have been called upon to key into the Subsidy Reinvestment and Empowerment Programme (SURE-P) of the Federal Government to reduce unemployment among the nation’s army of youths. The Project Director, SUREP Graduate Internship Scheme (GIS), Mr Peter Papka, made the call in Awka at a forum

organised by the team to sensitise employers of labour on the goals of the programme. He said that the scheme was aimed at reducing the level of graduate unemployment among youths between the ages of 18 and 49 years and to arrest youth restiveness in the country. According to him, the

obtained the amount from the complainant, Mr Olukayode Sodimu, on the pretext of selling a plot of land to him. “The accused showed the complainant a fake title document of a land and promised to handover the document to the complainant after payment. “Sodimu paid for the property but instead of handing over the title documents, the accused absconded,” the prosecutor said. Elemuoro said that the offences committed

contravened Sections 285, 312 and 409 of the Criminal Law of Lagos State, 2011. Section 312 provides that a person who obtains by false pretences is guilty of a felony and liable to 15 years imprisonment The accused, however, pleaded not guilty to the charge. The Magistrate, Mrs M.O Tanimola, granted the accused a N500, 000 bail with two sureties in like sum. The case was adjourned till October 21 for further hearing.

Traditional Ruler In Court Over A traditional ruler, Chief Alleged Fraud Wasiu Maiyegun, has appeared before an Ebute Meta Magistrates’ Court in Lagos, charged with duping a businessman of N3.3 million. Maiyegun, the Baale of Maiyegun Village in the EtiOsa Local Government Area of Lagos, is facing a threecount charge of conspiracy, stealing and fraud. The prosecutor, DSP Adeola Elemuoro, told the court that the offence was committed between August 3 and October 12, 2012, at the residence of the accused. He said that the accused

THE Delta Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Prof. Patrick Muoboghare, has charged the newly constituted Post Primary Education Board (PPEB) to fight against indiscipline in the school system. Muoboghare gave the charge when the Chairman and members of the board, Mrs Orode Imevbore, visited him in his residence in Asaba weekend. He attributed the lapses in the management and teaching in government owned schools in the state to indiscipline among some teachers, who he said, abandoned their duties for some private businesses. The commissioner said that until the unwholesome practice was eliminated from the school system, not much progress would be made in spite of the state government’s huge investment in the education. He admonished the chairman and other members of the board to

essence of the programme is to ensure employment of 50,000 graduates for one year and build manpower base in the drive toward attainment of national development goals. Papka, who was represented by Mr Aremu Olaniran, Assistant Director SURE-P, said that the scheme was being supervised by the Federal Ministry of Finance. He appealed to firms and organisations in the public and private sectors to help in the success of the scheme, saying: “the interns could be absorbed by their employers after one year”. He urged the employers of labour in the state to register with the Corporate Affairs Commission and related bodies for easy assessment of the firms in need of graduates by the programme. Papka said that it was only firms that are registered with the scheme that would benefit from the partnership with federal government. He said that tax rebates and other benefits would be given to the organisation for encouragement. He also encouraged graduates between the ages of

18 and 40 years to access the programme as way of getting a temporary employment for a maximum period of one year with a monthly stipend of N25,000. The director said that partnership firms and would-be beneficiaries of the graduate internship programme should process their registration online. Mr Chidi Ezeoke, Anambra Head of Service, thanked SURE-P for its laudable intervention in employment issues in the country. Ezeoke, who was represented by a director, Mr Uche Nworah, urged graduates to apply to fill the slots given to the state. A representative of Nigeria Labour Congress, Mr Innocent Ebekue, appealed to SURE-P to monitor some organisations in the country that may no longer be willing to offer permanent employment to workers. Ebekue also urged the federal government not to relent in its effort to improve infrastructure in the country to discourage shut-down of factories, which had led to the retrenchment of workers.

THE SUNDAY

SUNDAY SEPTEMBER 29, 2013

NEWS

Lecturers Defy Suswam’s Order To Return To Work

L-R: Permanent Secreatry, Ministry of Information, Dr. Folashade Yemi-Esan, Minister, Mr. Labaran Maku; Governor Rauf Aregbesola of Osun State and Osun Commissioner for Information, Mr. Sunday Akere, at the 44th National Council on Information in Osogbo recently.

THE Benue State University Chapter of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), has vowed to continue with the ongoing strike by the union in spite of the threat by Governor Gabriel Suswam to sack them. Dr Samuel Ikoni, Chairman of the state chapter of ASUU, told newsmen in Makurdi that only the national leadership of the union could call off the strike. “On the threat of sack,

Experts Call For Effective Control Of Lassa Fever

PROF. George Akpede, the former Provost, College of Medicine, Ambrose Alli University (AAU), Ekpoma, at the weekend called for public sensitisation and awareness campaign on the danger of Lassa Fever. Akpede made the call at a seminar organised by the Institute for Lassa Fever Research and Control Centre. The seminar, organised by the institute in collaboration with the World Health Organisation (WHO) was part of the activities marking Lassa Fever Day held in Irrua, Esan Central Local Government area of Edo. The theme of the seminar is: “Take Action Today for a Safe Tomorrow’’. Akpede called for concerted efforts of government at all levels and relevant agencies to enlighten Nigerians on the mode of

transmission and preventive measures against the disease. The theme of the lecture was: “Control of Lassa Fever in Nigeria, Overcoming Obstacles in the Quest for Success in Lassa Fever Control in Nigeria’’. Akpede said that lack of knowledge and awareness hindered effective control of the disease. “I wish to make case for effective advocacy in Lassa Fever control by talking to the hearts and minds of our leaders to create awareness on the danger of the disease. “The story of Lassa Fever has been that of official negligence. “The issue of awareness must be given sufficient attention as Lassa Fever control must start from the local government chairman,

the state government and the Federal Government,’’ he said. Dr Daniel Asogun, the Director of the institute, said that the country had continued to “witness spatial spread of Lassa Fever’’ across the country. Asogun said that the disease, which started in six states in 2009, had spread to 23 states due to lack of awareness on its prevention. “Millions of Nigerians are still unaware of the problem of Lassa Fever and cannot take preventive measures to avoid infection. “Access to right information can drastically reduce the incidence of the disease. “That is why today is set aside to commemorate the first diagnosis of the disease

and put an end to the pains and agonies caused by the disease,’’ he said. Dr Peter Okokheire, the acting Chief Medical Director, Irrua Specialist Teaching Hospital (ISTH), urged government at all levels to fund the institute for effective control of the disease. “The mission statement is to develop institutional capacity to diagnose, treat and control Lassa Fever and other viral infection diseases. “This is by establishing functional certify diagnostic centre, to train clinicians, researchers and health workers for the control and management of the disease,’’ he said. Reports say that the highlight of the event was donation of materials, drugs

polity if unchecked. Ohajuruka said the party was a firm believer in the sanctity of the ballot box, adding that “we shall join all progressives to resist any act capable of taking us back to the days of impunity. “The recent attack and disruption of APC stakeholders meeting in Isiala-Ngwa North Local Government Area of the state by some thugs might be a threat to a peaceful political climate if unchecked,’’ he said. He appealed to the

that would ensure that areas identified as flash points for election rigging were given serious attention. “Politics is about choice and not for one to interfere in the activities of an opposition party. “If a political party thinks they are doing well you should not fidget, but your activities would always transmit to electoral victory,’’ he said. He, therefore, appealed to politicians to uphold the spirit of freedom of association as enshrined in the constitution.

INEC Will Conduct A Credible Elections to institute A member of the All In 2015 -Abia APC commission some proactive measures Progressives Congress (APC) in Abia, Chief Stanley Ohajuruka, says the party is confident that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) will conduct a credible elections in 2015. Ohajuruka told reporters in Umuahia over the weekend that the electoral body had established itself as an “unbiased umpire’’. He said the activities of the body in recent times were a clear departure from what obtained in the past, adding: “this has increased the confidence level of the people. “We in APC have

implicit confidence that the 2015 general elections will be an improvement on the landmark so far attained by INEC,’’ he said. Ohajuruka, a former member of the House of Representatives, said that the party was particularly concerned with activities in Abia as the 2015 general elections beckoned. He expressed concern that some politicians in the state had become intolerant of one another and had posed as threats that would overheat the

and equipment by the World Health Organisation (WHO) to the institute. Wikipedia, the free encyclopaedia says, “Lassa fever or Lassa haemorrhagic fever (LHF) is an acute viral haemorrhagic fever caused by the Lassa virus. It was first described in 1969 in the town of Lassa, in Borno State, Nigeria. The Lassa Fever is a member of the arenaviridiae virus family.

we are waiting to be served, there is no problem over that,” he said. He also said the governor was at liberty to implement the “No work, No pay policy,” adding that members of the union would not be intimidated to return to work. Ikoni said that the issues that necessitated the strike in public universities across the country could only be resolved by the national executive officers of the union. It will be recalled that Suswam had ordered the teachers to return to work before October 2, or face the wrath of the government. Suswam had also threatened to invoke the “No work, No pay policy” to compel the lecturers to return to work.

Muslim Group Tasks Political Leaders On Nation Building AHEAD of Nigeria’s 53rd Independence anniversary, Alhaji Kamal’din Akintunde, the President of the National Council for Muslim Youths Organisation (NACOMYO), has urged political leaders to be committed to nation building. Akintunde told newsmen in Abeokuta that political office holders should have the fear of God and promote good governance. According to him, political office holders should ensure that the hopes and aspirations of all citizen are fulfilled. He urged political office holders to be accessible to the people as well as display sense of responsibility and accountability to justify the confidence reposed in them. “Our political leaders and political office holders should learn from the

attitude of past national leaders like Obafemi Awolowo, Nnamdi Azikwe and Tafawa Balewa. “They should look inwards and evolve ways to better the lots of Nigerians for Nigerians to enjoy the dividend of democracy. “I want to urge the electorates not to make unreasonable demands. Their request must be of interest to the people. “If we must address corruption, people must be discouraged from taking personal problems to political office holders. “Rather, people should come up with developmental issues of societal and general significance,’’ Akintunde said. He also advised public office holders and other political stakeholders to concentrate more on developmental issues.

THE SUNDAY

SUNDAY SEPTEMBER 29, 2013

WORLD NEWS UN Resolution Orders Syria Chemical THE UN Security Council Arms Destroyed unanimously passed a landmark resolution ordering the destruction of Syria’s chemical weapons and condemning a murderous poison gas attack in Damascus. The major powers overcame a prolonged deadlock to approve the first council resolution on the conflict, which is now 30 months old with more than 100,000 dead. UN leader Ban Ki-moon, who called the resolution “the first hopeful news on Syria in a long time,” said he hopes to convene a peace conference in midNovember. Resolution 2118, the result of bruising negotiations between the United States and Russia, gives international binding force to a plan drawn up by the two to eliminate President Bashar al-Assad’s chemical

arms. The plan calls for Syria’s estimated 1,000 tonnes of chemical weapons to be put under international control by mid2014. International experts are expected to start work in Syria to meet the tight deadline this week. Britain and China offered to finance the disarmament operation. “Should the regime fail to act, there will be consequences,” US Secretary of State John Kerry warned the 15-member council after the vote sealing a USRussian agreement. But Kerry hailed the resolution. “The Security Council has shown that when we put aside politics for the common good, we are still capable of doing big things,” he said.

Human Rights Watch however was not impressed with the deal. “This resolution fails to ensure justice for the gassing of hundreds of children and many other grave crimes,” said the watchdog’s UN director, Philippe Bolopion. Efforts to destroy Syria’s chemical weapons “do not address the reality that conventional weapons have killed the overwhelming majority of the estimated 100,000 people who have died in the conflict,” Bolopion said. “If the killing of civilians by conventional weapons continues unabated, the chemical weapons resolution will be remembered as an effort to draw red lines, not save civilian lives,” he said.

Britain’s Foreign Minister William Hague (L) and US Secretary of State, John Kerry (R) vote to approve a resolution that will require Syria to give up its chemical weapons during a meeting September 27, 2013 at UN headquarters in New York

Iranians Cheer, Protest Over Rouhan’s Chat With Obama HUNDREDS of Iranians cheered President Hassan Rouhani on his return from New York yesterday after his historic phone call with U.S. President Barack Obama but a smaller number of hardliners shouted “Death to America” and threw eggs and shoes at his official car leaving the airport, Iranian media reported. While an anticipated handshake between Rouhani and Obama at United Nations headquarters failed to materialize, they held a 15-

minute call on Friday at the end of the moderate new Iranian president’s trip for the U.N. General Assembly. Iranian media said hundreds of Rouhani supporters keen to see him make good on pledges of “constructive interaction” with the world to ease Iran’s international isolation and get punitive sanctions lifted turned up to hail his U.N. visit. But about 100 conservative hardliners also appeared and, shouting the “Death to America” slogan common since the 1979 Islamic Revolution, pelted his

Pakistan Quake Toll Reaches 515, Insurgents Hamper Aid Efforts THE death toll from an earthquake in southwestern Pakistan has reached 515, a provincial official said weekend as insurgent attacks threaten relief efforts and survivors complain of lack of shelter from the scorching sun. Babar Yaqoob, the Chief Secretary of Baluchistan, gave the updated death toll as he toured the destroyed region of Awaran, where the 7.7 magnitude quake struck on Tuesday. A 6.8 magnitude aftershock jolted the same region on Saturday, bringing down more buildings amid ongoing search and rescue efforts. Local officials said by telephone it was likely

the second quake had caused more deaths. Bodies are still being discovered in houses whose mud walls and wooden roof beams had collapsed. “My daughter was killed when my house collapsed - I was also inside my house but manage to run out,” said 70year-old Gul January “We are sitting under the scorching sun and need shelter.” In Labash village near Awaran, more than half of the 3,000 houses have collapsed and those still standing have wide cracks. “Everywhere we go people are asking for tents,” legislator Abdul Qadeer Baloch said.

official car with eggs and stones in protest at Rouhani’s diplomatic opening towards Washington, according to witness reports. The semi-official Mehr news agency ran pictures of groups of protesters holding up a Death to America placard and banging the sides of Rouhani’s limousine as it began to depart the airport. Mehr said one protester threw his shoes at the car, a gesture of deep insult in the Islamic faith. There has been little reaction so far from Iran’s political leaders but one senior parliamentarian tentatively welcomed Rouhani’s conversation with Obama as a sign of the Islamic Republic’s “position of authority”. “This (phone call) shows that Iran’s place in the world is of critical importance. That the president of America insists on a telephone call is a sign of sincerity,” Mehr quoted the head of parliament’s committee for national security and foreign affairs, Alaeddin Boroujerdi, as saying. The Iranian currency, the rial, climbed against the dollar on the open market by around two percent following the landmark phone call. Rouhani won election in a landslide last June, buoyed by many voters keen for steps towards moderation and reform after eight years of intensifying repression at home and isolation abroad under hardline predecessor Mahmoud Ahmadinejad.

E. A. ADEBOYE On Sunday

Dealing With Devourers MEMORISE: And I will rebuke the devourer for your sakes, and he shall not destroy the fruits of your ground; neither shall your vine cast her fruit before the time in the field, saith the LORD of hosts. blessing they will be Read: Malachi 3:8-11

ANOTHER area that restitution may required in relation with God instructions can be seen in His dealings with Joshua and the children of Israel. Earlier, in Joshua 1:1 -9, God promised to go with him and that no man would be able to stand before him throughout his life. So when they got to Jericho widely believed to be impregnable just one shout, the walls came crashing down. Then one day, they came against a little town. Ai, and they were defeated. This was contrary to what God promised him, so he fell on his face and enquired what went wrong. The Lord told him that some water had mixed his petrol (gas) and that until there was a separation, they were

on their own. Until the culprit - Achan- and his family were identified, isolated and destroyed and the stolen things were restored, victory continued to elude them. This tells us that restitution restores God’s presence in your life. It also sustains victory and ends defeat. So if you restitute, you are doing yourself a world of good. Moreover, restitution silences devourers. In Malachi 3:8- God said all His children who are robbing Him in tithes. and offerings have violated His covenant, and therefore are under a divine curse. However, He says if they will restitute their ways, He will personally rebuke the devourer for their sakes and open the windows of Heaven and give them a

unable to contain. There are two types of devourers, the ones sent by the devil (John 10:10) and the ones sent by God. To deal with the devourers sent by the devil, simply resist him and he will flee from you as long as you are in right standing before God. But to deal with the devourers sent by God, it is through restitution. You will have to cry to God for forgiveness and thereafter undo what made Him to send devourers in the first place. Do you owe God in tithes, o f f e r i n g s , thanksgiving or Vows? Ask for forgiveness and go ahead and pay what you owe. If it is in tithes, also add 20 percent interest being the penalty for eating your tithes (Leviticus 27:31).

KEY POINT If you tolerate devourers, God will do nothing about them.

“Restitution restores God’s presence in your life. It also sustains victory and ends defeat. So if you restitute, you are doing yourself a world of good”.

THE SUNDAY

SUNDAY SEPTEMBER 29, 2013

New Nose Grows On Head A new nose has been grown by surgeons on a patient’s forehead, so it can be transplanted to replace his original one. Xiaolian, 22, didn’t look after his badly damaged nose following a traffic accident in August, 2012. The infection corroded the cartilage of his nose, making it impossible for surgeons to fix it.

They then decided to grow him a new one at a hospital in Fuzhou in Fujian province, China. It was grown by placing a skin tissue expander onto Xiaolian’s forehead, cutting it into the shape of a nose and planting cartilage taken from his ribs. The surgeons said that the new nose is in good shape and the transplant surgery could be performed soon.

Afghanistan after undergoing a risky procedure to have the head removed. Only a few months old, Asree Gul was discharged from a hospital in eastern Afghanistan after doctors successfully removed the extra head from her scalp, reports the BBC. Born to farmers in the Chaparhar district, Asree also

in which an underdeveloped twin is attached to its fullyformed counterpart. One of the most famous examples of craniopagus parasiticus was Egyptian Manar Maged, who had the head of her twin removed in 2005 when she was 10 months old, reported The Telegraph. While that operation was initially successful, the girl developed a severe brain

has a twin sister, who was delivered without complications. Asree’s unique condition, however, made it difficult for her to sleep. The hospital’s chief surgeon, Ahmad Obaid Mojadidi, told the Agence France-Presse that the complicated operation performed on Chaparhar was the first of its kind in the region. Asree, whose name means “new flower,” was not in good condition after the procedure, according to the AFP. Her father, Nematullah, said he had not expected his infant daughter to survive the surgery. “The doctors saved her life. I thank them,” Nematullah told AFP. Doctors believe Asree’s birth defect is caused when a baby, in this case Asree’s potential triplet, does not develop correctly in utero, according to the BBC. While not officially confirmed, this case appears similar to a rare condition called craniopagus parasiticus,

infection and died about a year after the surgery.

Baby Born With Extra A baby born with an extra Head head is recovering this week in Woman Protest Over Scarcity Of Husbands NO fewer than 8,000 women matched the Zamfara Hisbah Examtohall Commission, seeking the state government’s assistance to enable them to get married. Led by the Chairperson of the Zamfara Widows Association, Hajiya Suwaiba Isa, and the patron, Alhaji Sa’idu Goshe, the women said they were not living a normal life and needed husbands to become whole. “Many of us cannot afford two meals in a day because there are no men to support us,” they said. The patron said the association had over 8,000 women,

comprising 5,380 divorcees, 2,200 widows, 1,200 orphans and 80 others, whom he said, were looking for men to marry. He said the women also needed assistance to purchase household items such as beds,mattresses and other basic necessities needed to move to their husbands’ houses. Goshe appealed to the commission to assist the association in screening suitors for the women. He said the screening would determine the suitors’ health status, source of livelihood and ability to maintain a family.

American Bank Fined $2m For Racial Discrimination THE U.S. Department of Labor fined Bank of America $2.2 million in back wages and interest, after 1,147 AfricanAmerican job seekers claimed to have dealt with discriminatory hiring practices by the lender at their Charlotte, N.C., headquarters from 1993 to 2005, according to CNN. The case, which was first filed by one AfricanAmerican employee back in 2005, quickly grew to 1,200 class representatives. Court documents specify that the presiding judge over the case, administrative law judge Linda Chapman, found that “the bank applied unfair and inconsistent selection criteria resulting in the rejection of qualified African-American applicants for teller and entry-level clerical and administrative positions.” For the most part, the majority of those looking to secure a career with Bank of America’s Charlotte facility were reportedly never even considered.

Chapman also ordered Bank of America to extend job offers to ten former job applicants who had been turned down previously as soon as positions become available. The lender argued for a lower settlement amount, stating that they could not take advantage of missing records they had failed to keep. The bank’s pleas fell on deaf ears and Chapman’s ruling remained. A Bank of America spokesperson told CNN the lender is reviewing the court decision. The decision comes on the heels of a $160 million settlement over racial discrimination charges against Merrill Lynch that was considered to be one of the largest in history. Merrill Lynch, the investment banking and wealth management division of Bank of America, was sued by black financial advisors who felt the company’s culture was toxic for them. The two settlements are not related.

Odd News Compiled By EJIROGHENE ONOJETA

Plastic Surgery For Pets By Owners PLASTIC surgery for pets is the latest craze among obsessive animal owners who spent £2million on nose jobs for dogs in America last year alone. It may sound ri-dog-ulous but nose reshaping for a range of canines and Botox for bulldogs and other breeds is now all the rage.Tummy tucks, face and eye lifts are other popular procedures not just in the States but right around the world for posh cats and dogs. Looking good also extends to exercise for animals with dog yoga, known as doga, and Pilates for pets also catching on with plenty of classes, videos and equipment available to keep your animal well toned. We now spend more on our pets than ever (£50billion worldwide last year) with part of that going on such unlikely services as pet psychics, acupuncturists, masseurs and even swimming coaches but cosmetic surgery is the fastest growing area of the business. Hollywood producer and blogger Kristen Hansen Brakeman got cosmetic surgery for her German Shepherd Buddy: “Age had not been his friend,” she says. “Buddy looked old and worried because his ears had folded back down the side of his head and that made him less attractive. I checked with my vet and found there was surgery that could alter his ears to their alert, happy position but it was expensive. I sent my children down to the local pet store with a picture of cute Buddy and a collection

bucket. They stood in the store, their cuteness did the rest and eventually we had the cash. The vet worked his magic and after a few weeks of painful healing, Buddy looked great.” Brakeman may have been pleased with the outcome but her stance has infuriated many.The Humane Society and The American Veterinary Medical Association oppose cosmetic surgery on pets, the only exception being when it is medically necessary, for example improving breathing ability or sight. The world’s richest dog is Gunther, he inherited a £230million fortune. He is so rich he even bought Madonna’s old house A dog with a big nose or a flat one might have conprivate part breathing problems and nose jobs can help them breathe more clearly.Due to intense breeding, breeds such as bulldogs have so many skin folds it can lead to infection and discomfort and a face lift is required. If a lot of skin is sagging from a dog’s face, an eye lift can allow the animal to see better. Yet owners who opt to put their animals under the knife commonly tell vets they do so to improve their pet’s “self esteem”. The extremes people go to for their animals are examined in a new TV special, The World’s Most Pampered Pets. One of the featured guests is Aubrey O’Day, an American reality TV star, who started a trend by getting her dogs’ fur dyed vivid colours at LA pet spa Bubbles, one of many emerging extreme pet colouring boutiques.

globe showing off his gift. Superhands has no idea why he can do what he does, but he’s just happy it brings more and more customers for his business, every day. Kann Trichan first discovered his unusual gift seven years ago, when he accidentally got hot oil splattered all over his body. While attending his giant woks, he noticed a squirrel eating a mango on a branch just above him. The squirrel dropped the big fruit right in the oil splattering it all over Kann’s body and head. A taxi took him home and when he got up the next day ready to go see a doctor, he took a look in the mirror only to see he had no burns. The redness was fading away and his skin was practically intact, so he just decided to go back to work, to

From there on, his reputation grew, and everyone wanted to see the man who survived a shower of hot oil without a single burn. Trichan began experimenting and noticed he was able to use his bare hands to handle the pieces of chicken in hot oil so he decided to use it to attract customers. They were loving it and business was booming. Seven years later, Kann Trichan is still operating his food stall in front of the Chang Mai technical college, surrounded by curious tourists wanting to see his hands dipped in boiling grease. Kann Trichan also holds the Guinness Record for picking 20 pieces of chicken from oil heated to 480 degrees Celsisus, in just one minute. He says he can feel the oil is hot when he dips his hands in it, but it simply leaves no mark. Scientists have yet to unravel this peculiar gift.

Cook Fries Chicken With Bare KANN “Superhands” Trichan the astonishment of his fellow Hands got the cool nickname for his street vendors. incredible ability of scooping pieces of chicken from burninghot oil with his bare hands. The 50-year-old Chiang Mai-

based street cook can sink his fingers into 480 degrees hot grease without getting so much as a blister on his hands, and his amazing ability has won him international fame. People from all over the world come to his “Fried Chicken Iron Hands Man” food stall to see Kann use his hands to scoop out the chicken and he and his wife travel the

THE SUNDAY

SUNDAY SEPTEMBER 29, 2013

POLITICS

Battle For Late Ewherido’s Seat At The Senate

THE stage is now set for the Bye-Election in Delta Central on October 5 with the emergence of candidates for the political parties to fill the vacant seat at the National Assembly. The Delta Central Senatorial seat became vacant following the sudden death of Senator Pius Ewherido, who was a member of the Democratic Peoples Party (DPP). According to the Delta State Resident E l e c t o r a l Commissioner, Dame Gesila Khan, the election would be held in 1,263 polling units, 85 registration areas and eight local government areas in the senatorial district. Three major political parties, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), All Progressive Congress (APC) and Democratic Peoples Party (DPP) have nominated their candidates for the battle. A former Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) Chief Emmanuel Aguariavwodo

emerged the PDP candidate after a primary election held in Sapele last week. Though most of the heavy weight aspirants were prevailed upon to step down during a last minute arrangement, a mock primary election was still held to obviously fulfill all righteousness. It was gathered that key contenders, like Chief Ighoyota Amori who took a shot for the position but lost to late Ewherido, Chief Fred Majemite, Political Adviser to Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan, Former House of Representatives member, Hon. John Halims Agoda and former Secretary to Delta State Government, Obarisi Ovie Omo-Agege were among those asked to step down for Chief Aguariawodo, a directive from above. Even though some political pundits in the state say this may not be to the advantage of the PDP in the bid to reclaim the senatorial seat which was won by the DPP, others are optimistic that with the

By EUBALDUS ENAHORO

federal might and the incumbency factor of the PDP in the state government house,

and they were obviously defeated, even though one of the three other

functionaries who were paid to do the bid of a higher authority.” It was learnt that at Ughelli, the DPP candidate, Chief Ede

Late Senator Pius Ewherido there is nothing to be afraid about. But there were some dissenting voices who decided to go ahead with the primaries against the PDP anointed candidate

aspirants Chief Solomon Edojah publicly disputed the results. In the words of Chief Edojah, “the delegates were replaced with g o v e r n m e n t

Dafinone emerged after defeating Chief Napoleon Gbinijie, a former member of the House of Representatives and Chief Richard Odibo. While in the All

Progressive Congress, Chief Ortega Emerho, a renowned banker and insurance magnate clinched the ticket. The DPP candidate, Chief Ede Dafinone, a philanthropist, is the son of renowned Chartered Accountant, Senator David Dafinone. A former member of the PDP, but cross carpet to DPP to contest the primaries with late Ewherido and lost, he is from Sapele, Okpe and Uvwie federal constituency. There are speculations that this young man who has age on his side will give the duo of Chief Aguariavwodo and Chief Emerho a run for their money as well as having the advantage of five local governments. They are Sapele, Uvwie, Ethiope West, Okpe and Ethiope East, the home of Chief Great Ovedje Ogboru, the leader and governorship candidate of the DPP. The PDP and APC candidates who are both from the Ughelli axis may have the disadvantage of splitting their votes, but however, in politics anything can happen.

“Even though some political pundits in the state say this may not be to the advantage of the PDP in the bid to reclaim the senatorial seat which was won by the DPP, others are optimistic that with the federal might and the incumbency factor of the PDP in the state government house, there is nothing to be afraid about.”

THE SUNDAY

SUNDAY SEPTEMBER 29, 2013

Climate Change

THE threat of climate change which to many is a mirage and a figment of some scientists or scholars imagination, in the time past, is gradually gaining ground among the people in our country today, due to recent happenings around their immediate environment, but most especially the great flood that wreck havock across the country in 2012 and in Edo state. The recent flooding within Benin metropolis and other towns across the state during the past week, speak volume of the enormous threat of climate change to man’s continuous survival in his environment and the conservation of such for generations yet unborn. Climate change is simply a change in the world’s climate due to man’s numerous activities which have negative impact in it’s environment. In other words, it is a large scale, long-term shift in the planet’s weather patterns or average temperatures. Since the last ice age which ended about 11,000 years ago, Earth’s climate has been relatively stable at about 140C. However, in recent years, the average temperature has been increasing. Although many might not be aware of this gradual change but there are evidence that shows that the threat of climate change is real, these evidence are discussed thus: High Temperatures Scientific research shows that the climate- that is, the average temperature of the planet’s surface has risen by 0.890C from 1901 to 2012, compared with climate change patterns throughout the earth’s history, the rate of temperature rise since the industrial revolution is extremely high. Hence the increase in temperature with our environment are evidence of climate change. Changing Rainfall There have been observed changes in precipitation, but not all areas have data over long periods. Rainfall has increased in the midlatitudes of the northern hemisphere since the beginning of the 20 th

century. There are also changes between seasons in different regions. An example is the great flooding that happened in Nigeria in 2012 that rendered million homeless and properties worth billions of naira destroyed in the wake of the great flood, not to mention the number of lives lost in this disaster. Another example is the flooding which wreck havock across Benin city and other neighbouring towns in Edo state in the 23rd of September, 2013, destroy houses and properties worth millions of naira. Changes In Nature Changes in the seasons (such as the United Kingdom (UK) spring starting earlier, autumn starting later) are bringing changes in the behaviour of species, for example, butterflies appearing earlier in the year and birds shifting their migration patterns. Sea Level Rises Since 1900, statistics suggest that, sea levels have risen about 10cm around the UK and about 19cm globally, on average. The rate of sea-level rise has increased in recent decades. Retreating Glaciers Glaciers all over the world in the ALPs, rockies Audes, Himalayas, Africa and Alaska are melting and the rate of shrinking has increased in recent decades. Sea Ice Arctic sea-ice has been declining also, since the late 1970s, according to reports, it has been reducing by about 4 percent (%) or 0.6 million square kilometers (an area about the size of Madagascar) per decade. At the same time, Antarctic sea-ice has increased, but at a slower rate of about 1.5%

Environment With ANTHONY AIBANGBEE

decade. Ice Sheets The Greenland and Antarctic Ice Sheets, which between them store the majority of the world’s fresh water, are both shrinking at an alarming and accelerating rate. The causes of these changes in climate in our world today are due to green houses gases emitted into the atmosphere, most especially carbon (IV) Oxide,

electricity, heat buildings and transport people and goods. More so the continuous felling of trees (deforestation) posed as a double blow for the climate, as trees help to regulate the climate by taking up CO2 (carbon dioxide) from the atmosphere, and immense amounts of carbon are stored in the world’s forest. When forests are cut down,

been warnings from NINETH (Nigeria Meteorological Agency) on the imminent flooding coming this year and just few days back Benin city, the Edo state Capital had her fair share of the anticipated disaster as citizens are still counting their loses. With what we have seen and heard about climate change and foreseen threat of climate change, the time

environment a safer place to live. It is high time citizens wake up and be alive to their responsibility, speak up against deforestation, illegal dumping of waste in our water ways, blocking of gutters and drainages with silt, dirts and polythene, indiscriminate excavation of the soil, gas flaring, oil spillage and many other unwholesome human

methane, Nitrous Oxide, fluorinate gases. Man’s activities in the environment also leads to the release of these poisonous gases into the atmosphere especially carbon IV oxide, which is responsible for some 63% of man-made global warming due to use of fossil fuels (coal, oil and gas). Over the past couple of centuries, our societies have burnt increasing amounts of fossil fuels to power machines, generate

the carbon stored in the trees is released into the atmosphere as CO2, adding to the green house effect, also when a forest is destroyed, it can no longer absorb CO 2 from the atmosphere. These growing threat of climate change has become a global challenge and in our local environment, the major climate change challenges are flooding and erosion. With last years flooding in mind there have

for government, organizations and citizens to act, is now. “Those who already feel the effects of a changing climate do not have time to deny it” according to President Barack Obama. Even as government make and implement laws, civil societies advocate and enlighten the populace on the devastating effect of global warming, the citizens as well should contribute their quota in making our

practices which are dangerous to the environment and serve as catalysts for climate change. According to Barack Obama “we will be judged - as a people, as a society and as a country – on where we go from here.” There is the need to act now and educate others, friends and colleagues alike on the dangers of climate change due to these activities, for to be forewarned is to be forearmed

“Climate change is simply a change in the world’s climate due to man’s numerous activities which have negative impact in it’s environment.”

THE SUNDAY

SUNDAY SEPTEMBER 29, 2013

Benefits Of Breathing Properly

ACCORDING to Andres Carvajal of positivemed.com, deep and slow breathing techniques are commonly used in the treatment of a variety of disorders, conditions, and s y m p t o m s . Psychological, medical, and health care specialists have integrated varied yogic and breathing techniques evolved into relaxation exercises as a daily routine or integrated into treatments because of the effectiveness of slow, deep breathing for anxious, depressive or pain disorders. Disciplines such as Yoga, Tai-chi, and Gijong integrate breathing techniques as the core of any relaxation exercise. The Importance Of Breathing Well Most of us are bad breathers, it is not deep enough, and we have a tendency to hold our breath in stressful situations. The result of holding the breath is elevated tension. When people become aware of how they breathe they can see how often they hold and inhibit their own respiration. Inadequate pattern of breathing leads to anxiety, irritability and

and stressful events, often short and spasmodic breaths which do not let oxygen flow through your body. How To Breathe Deeply

exhaling. When you inhale, first fill your stomach with air like inflating a balloon, and then fill the upper part of your chest. The hand that is situated on your upper chest remains still while the hand over your diaphragm will be constantly in motion, inflating and deflating. When

If you are not used to slow, deep breathing you can first try lying flat or sitting in a comfortable position on a couch. You can use a pillow under your knees or bend the knees at 90 degrees. Place your right hand just below your ribcage and your left hand over your chest. In this position you will feel how the air passes from the diaphragm to your chest. After placing your hands correctly start breathing through your nose, inhaling and

exhaling, first expel the air from the upper chest and then deflate the stomach, very slowly and naturally. Focus on your breath, slow and deep. You can count 5 seconds while inhaling and another 5 seconds exhaling, or you can try different combinations, 5 for inhaling and 10 for exhaling. It is always recommended to exhale more than you inhale, letting go more, relaxing and gaining conscience of proper breathing. You can do this two

By OKOGBA EMMANUEL O.

tension. These symptoms are the base of agoraphobia, claustrophobia, and other anxiety disorder. With claustrophobia, people feel the inability to get enough air in closed spaces, while the agoraphobic is afraid of open spaces because it stimulates their breathing. Every breathing difficulty can create anxiety, if this difficulty is severe, it can lead to panic or terror. Why do so many people have difficulties breathing and living easily? Breathing can create feelings and emotions and many people are afraid of feeling. We often get scared when we feel sadness, anger or fear. As children we may have held our breath to avoid crying or feeling s o m e t h i n g uncomfortable or to stop us from crying. The effect of repressing your feelings is to limit and reduce breathing. As adults we often inhibit our breathing to keep these feelings repressed. We learn by continuous exposure how to breathe in tense

ealth Watch

With ANTHONY AIBANGBEE

times per day for 5-10 minutes. There are many other techniques, more advanced, or for specific purposes like heating the body, detoxifying the body or getting into sleep relaxation states. Stay

aware, like in any other techniques there are some precautions that should be taken, especially with the risk of hyperventilating. If you feel any dizziness or lack of air, just focus on breathing normally. Healthy and normal breathing involves the whole body. The inspiration begins with a movement towards the outside of the abdomen, while the diaphragm gets shorter and the abdominal muscles relax. There is an expansion wave that

â&#x20AC;&#x153;When people become aware of how they breathe they can see how often they hold and inhibit their own respiration. Inadequate pattern of breathing leads to anxiety, irritability and tension. These symptoms are the base of agoraphobia, claustrophobia, and other anxiety disorder.â&#x20AC;?

goes up until it hits the thorax. This pattern is not interrupted halfway like in disturbed breathing. Expiration is a movement of letting go and then going down with a contraction to the pelvis. It produces a flow of sensation that will end near your genitals. When we breathe correctly the anterior part of our body moves in a wave like motion. This kind of breathing can be easily seen in children and animals whose emotions are not blocked, it involves the whole body, and any tension in any body part will disrupt this movement. The head is also involved in the breathing process. Along with the throat, they suck in air in the transportation of oxygen to the lungs. If the throat shortens, this absorption is reduced. When the air is not absorbed well, breathing is not deep at all. In toddlers, any perturbation in the sucking reflex affects their breathing. The relationship between sucking and breathing can be seen clearly in the act of smoking. There is a temporary feeling of satisfaction when the smoke gets into the throat and the lungs, the person feels alive. Breathe in, breathe out, suck some air and expand your healthiness to unexpected levels.

THE SUNDAY

MANY singles feel that they are incomplete until they get married. They feel that way because of the popular saying that “one plus one is one” and so automatically, they conclude that though they are one, they are actually incomplete until they get married. But the truth is that God did not create any man (male or female) incomplete. The society nowadays believe that you need to get married once you are of marriageable age, which is not a bad thing, it is actually a blessing from God. But in the case whereby you hurry to get married because of what the society expects of you, then that is wrong, totally wrong. Being single does not make you less human, neither does it mean that you are incomplete until you find your “better half”. The hurriedness to get married before you get to your menopause, is just the reason why divorce rate in the world today increases by the day. If you had gotten married to your “better half”, why then did you divorce that half and now making yourself half again which half can you choose again when the better one has been separated from you. Which can be better than the better? The anxiety caused due to the issues of marriage is what kills the productivity in a person’s life. After getting married, you start having problems and the partner you thought was the one made for you is suddenly the devil himself/ herself. Being single gives you enough time to plan on yourself and the kind of life you want to have when you eventually get married. The more you concentrate on getting married, “who it is when it is where you will meet the one” etc, the more frustrated you become. You need to concentrate more on the things that would rather improve your spiritual, mental and physical health. e.g doing God’s word (practicing His Word), learning how to save up money and manage your finances, dedicating much of your times at work and in church, etc. It is not what you have that makes you who you are. In other words, it is not by getting a husband or wife that can help you improve yourself, it is you and only

SUNDAY SEPTEMBER 29, 2013

you, that can make that decision and improve. I have often heard people say what they want in their spouses. “I need him to be God fearing, tall, handsome, rich, not too

need a gigantic husband. It does not really work like that let these things not be the basics on which you wish to get married. You have a nasty character and you want a very respectable and well

need to change, then work hard to change for yourself and not for anybody. You must be diligent to change. A sluggard (someone who is not diligent) can only bring problems to his/her marriage

BRIO With Francis Odupute

Wholeness In Singlehood Are You Really Incomplete?

slim or fat, loving and understanding”, or “she must be respectful, submissive, caring, God-fearing, hard working, loving, etc, but the truth of the matter is, have you checked yourself to know if you are what such a person would want. You want a good housewife, does she want you? We often state out our wants and desires and things we want to achieve but what about the other person involved? What if you find that person and he/ she does not like your characters because it does not correspond with his / hers. If you want someone that is nice, you strive to be nice and make it your character not by pretence. If you want a God-fearing lady or gentleman, become Godfearing by choice and mean it. If you want a beautiful or handsome partner, if you feel that you are too ugly, facially, then compliment your face with your character. Many people wants to get married to a person with a beautiful heart, and not their facial looks. If you want a hardworker, become hard working. There is no two ways about it. Many people believe that the spouses they choose is the ones whose characters completes their. For example, if they are hot tempered, they want a very calm wife, or if you are lazy, you want a hardworking wife, or if you are short, you

By NKECHI KALU

behaved spouse? Think again. Because what goes around eventually comes back around. If you want to get married and have a life time marriage, not that there wouldn’t be quarrels and disagreements, but it can be easily resolved, you need to firstly, work on yourself. You need to be determined to be better in those areas where you find yourself to be at faults and also areas where your friends and family members complain about that you believe you

union. Being single, you are never incomplete but you may not be whole. Being whole means, someone who is attractive to others, not by their physical appearance but by their characters and understandings. When you are ‘whole’ you have all the attributes of a person that can make a successful union. Two whole persons make one successful union. A sluggard is not whole because the Lord loves a diligent man and rewards the work of his hands. A

sluggard always wants to receive and not work to make his own income. He wants to always be given

and has nothing to give or offer to others. The one who would always want to receive has a problem. Now that you are single, it is an opportunity for you as a Christian to give yourself wholly to God and his work, you are single, you have no one to please, why not please the Lord. Even the bible in 1 Cor 7:32, Paul made his understanding of being a married Christian and a single Christian know to the Corinthians. He went further in the thirty third verse through to the last

verse in the chapter. Also in the book of 1 Peter chapter three from verse one to verse eight, Peter talked about the relationship of a Christian couple and how they ought to live together, in peace and unity and of one mind, having compassion one to another. Another character of a single Christian that attracts a partner is your diction, how you speak. So many people dress and look responsibly and are respected by the people that sees them but that respect turns to disapprovement once they open their mouth to speak. You are know by your words and so you should be careful what you want to be know for. The book of Ephesians chapter five also teaches of the kind of love and life a couple is supposed to have as Christians. And as a single, it is adviced that you learn these things now and study and practice it so that your marriage life can be easy to handle for you and your spouse. God will see your diligence and sincerity to learn how to be better and He will assist you, lift you up and give you your right partner. All you have to do is trust God, do His will and be diligent in your work and your learnings. GOD BLESS YOU ALL! Courtesy: Heritage Assembly Singles Ministry.

“It is not what you have that makes you who you are. In other words, it is not by getting a husband or wife that can help you improve yourself, it is you and only you, that can make that decision and improve.”

THE SUNDAY

SUNDAY SEPTEMBER 29, 2013

What Have You To Say On The Apo The recent killing of some persons unthinkable killing. The Killings? suspected to be members of the dreaded security agents found to Boko Haram sect in Apo quarters in Abuja has continued to generate controversy as to how genuine the claim by the Nigerian security operatives are. Naked Truth went to town to seek the divergent views of Nigerians over this controversial issue which is not the first of its kind in the country. Their responses are presented for your reading delight. Excerpt. Security Issues Should Be Left To Security Agents -Odekhe M. O. We are too quick to draw conclusion on certain vital national issues, most especially when it has to do with destruction of life, property and security. It’s a pity for the people who are affected in the recent Apo killing in Abuja, but we should be careful enough not to allow our dear nation’s image to be tarnished among the comity of nations. A major security issue of this kind should be left in the hands of the Police, State Security Service (SSS) and other special or private investigators to handle. The police especially should be able to find the culprits and prosecute them accordingly. If I may ask, what makes people think that the action was carried out by Boko Haram? If it was in the Niger Delta zone, I am sure the same people will say Niger Delta militants and if it was in the SouthWest, maybe they would have say OPC. My argument is that, its high time we grew above this level of jumping to irrelevant conclusion on any national issue of this kind. One day, we will be attacked by a foreign body and the police authority will be chasing Boko Haram or Niger Delta militants or OPC depending on the affected area. There Is Need For Good Intelligence Gathering By Security Agents

-David Onimisi Lawani The Apo, Abuja killing was a sad and pathetic killing totally uncalled for. It shows clearly that Nigerian security agents are not on the same page in diligently trying to fight crime and criminality. Intelligence ought to have been gathered before opening fire on the innocent traders squatting in that uncompleted apartment. It further demonstrates the low and primitive approach employed by Nigerian security agents in trying to crack alleged criminal gangs. No wonder the Chief Justice of the Federation, Miriam Aloma Muktar recently decried weak and thoughtless ways deviced in prosecuting criminal cases in our law courts. “A situation where somebody is charged to court and later the prosecutor will start looking for evidence is totally unacceptable”, she said. The owner of the uncompleted building should be duly invited for questioning. The man or woman who supplied the information about the persons living in that uncompleted apartment should never be allowed to escape justice because he/ she was the one who created the wrong impression that led to the dastardly attack. Independent investigators should be urgently constituted to look critically into the issue so as to help unravel the circumstances leading to the gruesome and

have carried out the attack must never be allowed to go scot-free. Nigerian government must evolve measure in order to help sanitize and orientate our security agents on the importance of intelligence gathering before any invasion of perceived criminal hideout so as to forestall incidence of wastage of lives and

Ernest Quite frankly, the unfortunate disaster is a pointer to a serious deficiency in our consciousness to maintain peace in a crisis-ridden society. It is no longer news that everybody now live in the fear of the unknown as the next victim of kidnapper, robbery, rapist cannot be

Inspector-General of Police, Mohammed Abubakar

properties. There should be close synergy among security agents in the fight against groups with criminal intention to perpetuate evil Discipline among security agents should be seen to be enforced so as to serve as deterrence to would be careless and negligent security agent. It Is A Pointer To A State Of Lawlessness In The Society -Ikhureigbe

ascertained as these agents of darkness even roam about openly during the day with impurity. The Apo killings could be seen as a high degree of insensitivity to the lawlessness that the state has graduated into. Nonetheless, it is necessary for security apparatus in the state to be more responsive and alive to the responsibilities they are saddled with. Careless killing is never

Naked Truth With CITIZEN EMMA KOLA OKHAKHU accepted or tolerated any where in the world. It stands condemned! It’s Unfortunate -Okogba Emmanuel O. The issue of the Apo killing is still something that is not clear. While some are saying those killed are not terrorist, there are some others saying they are members of the dreaded Boko Haram sect. the thing is that if they were truly members of this sect, then it is a welcomed development because the rate at which they terrorize Nigerians is really alarming and nothing short of a similar treatment would be right for them. But if the reverse is the case, that is, they were innocent citizens, then it is quite unfortunate. It Shows Insecurity Going Out Of Proportion - Innocent Omoaka The killing goes further to attest to the fact that the insecurity in the country is growing out of proportion by the day. Until a full scale of investigation is carried out to ascertain the identity of those killed and if they were terrorists, was the killing necessary or were other options open to the security operatives other than the killing? If this questions is not answered, then one can only say that there is no guarantee for the protection of lives of Nigerians. Also, it goes to show that the wave of insecurity in the country has gone to the extent that

“The Apo killings could be seen as a high degree of insensitivity to the lawlessness that the state has graduated into. Nonetheless, it is necessary for security apparatus in the state to be more responsive and alive to the responsibilities they are saddled with.”

the security operatives treat every individual and group as suspect and treated with impurity. A Wicked And Cruel Attack - Praise It was a wicked and cruel attack. It was inhuman and barbaric; what reasonable human can do that to his fellow humans. It really shows what the bible described as “the heart of man is desperately wicked: who can know”? What is worse than being attacked when in deep sleep and not just ordinary attack but with sporadic gun shots? I can imagine what happened that night, I can see people running towards the gun shots inviting them from sleep to their deaths. What happened in Abuja; Apo that Friday night can be said to be the junior brother to what happened in Kenya the following day. A Wicked And Inhuman Treatment To Man -Osaretin Okhomina This is another clear case of man inhuman treatment to man. It is the highest height of tyranny, wickedness and utter lawlessness. Why kill innocent souls and brand them Boko Haram suspects? Why open fire on defenseless citizens of this country, and tell the whole world they are enemies of the land, without concrete reasons? Before any man can be punished there must be a proof of his culpatrility and must be certified to be so. My country, Oh my country. What is wrong? Does it mean morality is no longer our watchword? Let the federal government look into this matter with a view to ascertaining the veracity, that the victims were indeed Boko Haram and if not the perpetrators of this heinous crime against humanity should be brought to book. God bless Nigeria.

THE SUNDAY

SUNDAY SEPTEMBER 29, 2013

VOX POP

The Proposed Scrapping Of The Minimum Wage Clause IN one of it’s constitution review sittings, members of the National Assembly sought to move the minimum wage from the Executive list to the concurrent list, an idea both the NLC (Nigeria Labour Congress) and TUC (Trade Union Congress) frowned seriously at. In view of this, SUNDAY OBSERVER interns: Clementina Ukiri, Nosakhare Evbu Favour and Aigbe Davidson went to town to seek people’s opinions on this. Excerpts.

They should think of increasing the minimum wage, not removing it from the exclusive legislative list - Nkechi Unaegbu Concerning the eighteen thousand naira minimum wage, I don’t think it’s right for the National Assembly to decentralize the minimum wage, because everything in Nigeria especially monetary things like this is suppose to be in a standard form. If it is decentralized, at the end of

the day, state governments will end up paying anything that they like to workers and civil servants.

So, I feel they should think of increasing the minimum wage. It won’t help the current poverty rate that is spreading throughout the country – Osaigbovo Grace. The proposed removal of minimum wage from the exclusive legislative list in my opinion means each state will deliberate on her workers’ salary. The essence is to punish the Nigerian workers more. I am strongly against it because if they

give the room for that, some state government will pay as low as N2,000 as minimum wage. Even

some states find it very difficult to fulfill the payment of the current minimum wage to workers, Workers in most cases have to go on strike to get the government to fulfill their part. Rich and influential people would be at an advantage – Ogbemudia James The removal of minimum wage cannot work in Nigeria even if it has worked elsewhere, it is only in capitalist system that removal of minimum wage from the exclusive legislative list can be realistic. Why then lump the minimum wage they cannot pay -Johnson Joy In my view, it is yes, it has to be removed and replaced on the list, it rightly belongs, which is the concurrent list, some states earn more revenue than others. It will increase the poverty level in the country - Nosakhare Felix Why would the federal government decide on minimum wage for the state in the first instance, as if there is a specified allocation from the federal government to the state governments, to pay their workers. To me, it is absolutely irrelevant. I think they want to use that against the workers, our leaders are still looking for a way to cut-off, so that they can keep exploiting people and paying them as low as N5000 minimum wage. If there is nothing like minimum wage,

workers would not have any choice than to receive what the federal government presents to them and there would not be any bargaining or strike. I think the leaders of this country need to set their priorities right, removal of minimum wage is a no go area for me, it is just a way of breaking the not too long wings of civil servants. If that happens, the so called rich and influential people would be at an advantage - Omuruyi Ogbemudia

“I think the leaders of this country need to set their priorities right, removal of minimum wage is a no go area for me, it is just a way of breaking the not too long wings of civil servants.”

Well, it is not something that can work in Nigeria. If it has worked elsewhere, it is only in a capitalist system that the removal of minimum wage from the exclusive legislative list can be realistic. Some State governments ill Pay As Low As N2,000 As Minimum Wage - Lawal Ibrahim It won’t help out the current poverty rate that is spreading through out the country. Even some state, find it very difficult to fulfill the payment of the current minimum wage to workers. Workers in most cases have to go on strike to get the government to fulfill their part. Their monthly budget will drastically reduce Edoleyi Charisma The proposed removal of minimum wage from the exclusive legislative list will affect civil servants adversely

especially in the area due, to the removal of the minimum wage. However, civil servants have children in higher institutions and the standard of living in the country today is very high and as such, minimum wage should not be removed from the exclusive list. Concurrent and residual list cannot meet the demand -Iyere Samuel If the proposed removal of minimum wage is removed from the exclusive legislative list which the federal government controls, it will bring about unbalanced situation upon civil servants because of minimum wage. The federal government should constitute a body that will be in charge of the minimum wage instead of removing it from the exclusive legislative list.

THE SUNDAY

SUNDAY SEPTEMBER 29, 2013

NEWS EXTRA

Ondo Employs 8,000 Youths For Fadama Programme THE Ondo State Government has said that it had employed 8,000 youths under the Fadama III programme to boost agriculture in the state. The Ondo State Commissioner for Agriculture, Mr Lasisi Oluboyo, said this at the inauguration of a Fadama youth village at Supare, Akoko South West Local Government Area. Oluboyo said the move was part of the efforts of the government to address unemployment in the state and encourage young people to take to largescale farming. “Job creation for our teeming unemployed youths through the Fadama youth empowerment scheme is the most potent

FRSC Sensitises Motorcyclists On Use Of Crash Helmets THE Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC) says it has sensitised commercial motorcyclists in the Kwale area of Delta on the need to use crash helmets while riding. Mr John Malomo, the Unit Commander of FRSC’s Kwale Unit Command in Delta, said this in a statement issued at the weekend in Ozoro. He said the unit embarked on the sensitisation campaign because of the high rate of fatal injuries resulting from crashes involving motorcycles in the area. “Some crashes leading to the death of motorcyclists could have been averted, if the victims had used crash helmets while riding on motorcycles,’’ Malomo said in the statement. He observed that crash helmets had air and dustprotecting shade or glass which made the riders look smart, apart from protecting the head or skull from being broken in case of a crash. The unit commander reminded motorcyclists in the area that there was no remedy for a scattered or smashed head, urging them to heed the warning against non-use of crash helmets. “In order to protect riders from head injuries, it has been suggested that use of standard helmets be made compulsory,” he added.

means by which unemployment can be reduced among our youths. “The state government vigorously adhered to the financial obligation which has contributed to the huge success of the project. “The role of fadama in the A g r i c u l t u r a l Transformation Agenda (ATA) is very important as the state government has committed enormous resources into achieving maximum output in rice and cocoa production. “Fadama farmers will be assisted in a great way to meet the agricultural targets of the state government,’’ Oluboyo said.

L-R: General Manager, Federal Radio Corporation, Mr. Bola Agboola; Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Information, Dr. Folashade Yemi-Esan; Acting Managing Director, News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), Otunba Jide Adebayo and Executive Secretary, Nigerian Press Council, Mr. Bayo Atoyebi, at the 44th National Council on Information in Osogbo recently.

Small And Medium Scale Industrialists To Access Loans From CBN

THE Kebbi Chapter of National Association of Small Scale Industrialists (NASSI) at the weekend said it had formalised arrangements for members to benefit from the N420 billion loans being provided nationwide by CBN. This was disclosed in a statement signed by the Secretary of the association, Alhaji Smaila Kangiwa, and made available to newsmen in Birnin Kebbi.

The statement said the association would collaborate with the apex bank to explore the economic potential of the state. It said the Kebbi branch of the CBN recently organised an interactive session with small scale industrialists where the facility was announced to them. The statement quoted

Alhaji Ahmad Waziri,who represented CBN Branch Controller, Hajiya Asamau Baba, as saying that N200 billion of the loan had been earmarked as Small and Medium Scale Credit Guarantee Scheme. According to the press statement, this amount is meant to assist small and m e d i u m - s c a l e entrepreneurs for them to

add value to the economy. The statement said that the CBN had also set aside N220 billion as development fund for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises aimed at revamping the micro economy by reactivating micro finance institutions nationwide. It said that plans were underway for the

implementation of Nigerian Incentive-Based Risk Sharing System of Agricultural Lending (NIRSAL) and establishment of Entrepreneurship Development Centre (EDC) in the state. NASSI said that it had so far registered 5,200 interested members, adding that the exercise was a continuous one.

Etsako Central Distributes Free Exercise Books

AS part of efforts to boost Education in the Local Government, the Chairman of Etsako Central Local Government Area. Hon. Emmanuel Momoh as assured the people of the local government of his administration commitment to qualitative

primary education. Hon. Momoh stated this at Ebidi Primary School, Fugar, while flagging off the distribution of free exercise books across all the primary schools in the local government. The council boss said the occasion was unique and symbolic stressing that the distribution exercise was

in line with the Comrade governor’s revolution agenda in the education sector adding that he will not want a situation whereby a child did not go to school as a result of lack of writing materials. The Council boss asserted that he is ready to

match his words with action adding that his administration believes in the people and will continue to carry the people along in the running of the affairs of the local government council; He expressed satisfaction with the increased enrollment of

Iraokhor Community Gets Free Medical Attention

IN line with the Administration’s commitment to qualitative Health care delivery, the Executive Chairman of Etsako Central Local Government Area, Hon. Emmanuel Momoh has flagged off free medical treatment at Iraokhor. Addressing the participants at the exercise, the council boss said the need of the people of

Iraokhor community were paramount in his administration. He promised to build a new maternity at Iraokhor and equip it with modern facilities. He thanked the Corp members and the people of the local government for their cooperation stressing that

the exercise could be a synergy between the Corp members and the government. On his part, the Medical Doctor in charge of the maternity, Doctor Emmanuel Egwuatu said the free medical treatment will go a long way in meeting the Health needs of the people of the community. He

thanked the council chairman for the good gesture and promised to ensure a hitch free exercise. Also speaking, the matron in charge of the maternity, Mrs. Florence Lamai commended the local government chairman for the initiative and called on the people to cooperate with the doctors so that the essence of the exercise can be achieved.

pupils in public primary schools across the local government and commended the state government and the local government area for building the confidence that is required for people to return back to public schools. The council chairman promised to send the local government Engineer to carry out a reassessment of the school buildings adding that the local government is already taking delivery of chairs and desks to be distributed across the primary schools in the local government and promised to build an administrative office for the local Government Education Authority for proper supervision.

THE SUNDAY

SUNDAY SEPTEMBER 29, 2013

Success In Parenting

PARENTING we all know is a life of producing or recreating oneself, supporting and promoting the physical, social, educational, emotional and spiritual development of children, it involves caring and nurturing of the overall well being of children. That is why parents put in so much time, money, effort, love and sacrifices in bringing up their children. It is a life long process that aims at raising productive, responsible and spiritual individuals that will be of benefit to the family, society and the world in general. Parenting also also show them in the involves setting Bible. These characters yourselves as a role or behaviours should be model for your children. trustworthy in words It is not about “do as I deeds and in actions. say and not what I do”, we all know that children learn by watching, imitating, copying, following others’ steps. That is why as a parent, you must and should live a godly lifestyle before your children. More often, we live by what has been passed to us by our parents, the mindset we formed while growing up, what we were exposed to, either negative or positive. But time have changed a lot from where we are coming from, our generation is quite different from our children’s generation which is why as a parent, you must realise that you are not living for yourself any more, the decisions you take can either make or mar your children in life. There are certain mindset we should birth Taking a critical look at in our children through your lifestyle before our actions, words, and becoming a parent is

very important in order for you to be successful. If there is any defect, correct immediately, so that you can have

example. Thank God that He has given us the ability and opportunity to be parents, the role is

Motherhood With Chelson SMS 08023457637

to give as parents on our own, but giving them a mindset based on God’s

work in their academic work will definitely go very far in their lives

“There are certain mindset we should birth in our children through our actions, words, and also show them in the Bible. These characters or behaviours should be trustworthy in words, deeds and in actions.”

enough strength to correct through motivation, impact by

awesome, challenging and is a leadership one. We may not have much

solid foundation, having the fear of God, and a foundation of hard

making us (parents) proud and God blessing them.

“Thank God that He has given us the ability and opportunity to be parents, the role is awesome, challenging and is a leadership one. We may not have much to give as parents on our own, but giving them a mindset based on God’s solid foundation, having the fear of God, and a foundation of hard work in their academic work will definitely go very far.”

THE SUNDAY

SUNDAY SEPTEMBER 29, 2013

Mistakes Women Make When Dating (2) MOST times, in a relationship, women usually feel or assumed they know the men and their psychology more than the men themselves. But in actuality, men are very different from women, this is a fact that every woman should accept and deal with. When a woman sees a man, she quickly picks certain things about his style, status, character and body language that immediately tell her all kinds of things about the man. Most women do this unconsciously because the process is so obvious and simple for them, they intend to use n o n - v e r b a l communication and their emotional awareness and intuition in relating with the man, but men don’t usually understand these nonverbal communication, signs, they have their own attraction mechanisms triggered by things other than looks, though looks matter to a sizable percentage of men as a means of attraction. Looks can be a guide in search of other better qualities. Men are c o n s t a n t l y communicating how they feel about a woman and give away secrets about themselves but

Relationship With Chelson SMS 08023457637

women don’t pay attention to these signs or recognize them for what they really are. And these signs come out accidently in a chat, discussing their direction in life or the state of things in his life,

Though, both sexes have their own secret ways of saying things, you can only see these secret communicate with hints, body language sarcasm and flirting when entering a relationship. They either

meaningful relationship. Apart from their sexual interests, men send very indirect signal about themselves, allowing personal selfish interest to override interest of them both.

Another big mistakes made by some women is hoping, expecting a relationship to make her happy and fulfilled. Sure, there are situations and relationships where this happens, these are the exceptions not the rule. When a woman

his readiness for emotional matters, how and what may have attracted him to you as a lady. You need to learn to recognize these signs, read in between the lines. Women should know that men are not easily figured out.

directly or indirectly let the man know if they are open to something more serious. This is maturity. While men, very rarely honesty communicate whether or not they are ready or capable of developing a

Getting the wrong messages from men causes women more pain and heartache than any other issue in life, but you can avoid this by learning to identify and u n d e r s t u d y communication signs.

communicates that she is looking for a guy that would take care of her, complete her and make her whole, it has a very negative effect in what the man will think of her, for nothing gets a man running fast than hearing

or sensing that a woman wants him to take care of her immediately. The best you can do as a woman is to get the man interested and involved in your life in a more natural way, where he will be motivated to make you care about

your happiness and fulfillment on his own. Self motivation is much stronger than external motivation. That is why you need to know how to create this situation with a man and it rarely happens by accident or force.

“Men are constantly communicating how they feel about a woman and give away secrets about themselves but women don’t pay attention to these signs or recognize them for what they really are.”

THE SUNDAY

NIGERIA as a federation with 36 states populated by people from diverse background and interests has been

SUNDAY SEPTEMBER 29, 2013

have been won by business mogul late MKO Abiola of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) had ignited series of

came from a particular geographical area. As a response to the calls and the vehemence displayed by advocates of the

Politics And With

HAMEED BRAIMAH

Why Calls For National

• President Goodluck Jonathan

living with the demands for the convocation of a National Conference where in every issue affecting the nation and its people can be directed and made to function in the overall interest of the people. The call for the national dialogue became much topical in the post June 12, 1993 presidential election annulment and the struggle for its actualization. The annulment of that election believed to

protests principally in Lagos and other parts of Southern Nigeria. The protests most of which were violent were spurred by the despondency among people from that part of the country that they might have been skewed off the power equation of the country Nigeria. This particular feeling could not be controverted particularly when all the preceding helmsmen in the country whether civilian and militant

National Conference, the then maximum ruler who was a direct beneficiary of the annulment decided to set up the political reform conference (NARECOM). This process was rejected by radical activist like late Anthony Enahoro, Gani Fawehimi, Fred Rawane and lots more who had insisted on the convocation of a conference with sovereign powers, which in their thinking would be free from the fetters of those in

government. Their positions on this critical issues has been vindicated as s u c c e s s i v e governments had not allowed the people to discuss freely when ever the conferences, some of which were given constitution colouration were conveyed. One thing becomes clear to all, that the country since this call gained currency during the post June 12, presidential election annulment has sank deeper into the problems that necessitated the call in the first instance. Nigeria today is confronted with problems of brazen corruption, communal clashes, extremist violence, no thanks to Boko Haram, mass poverty and the growing citizens lack of faith in government, owing to its failure on its deliverables and the attendant social mishaps as signposted by the pervasive social ills in our modern society. This perhaps informed recent reinforcement of the call for National Conference by the Senate President, David Mark. Senator Mark who is also the chairman of the National Assembly

and number three citizen in the Nigerian hierarchy made the call while welcoming his colleagues to the first plenary session after some months of duty at the upper legislative chambers. According to Senator Mark steps should be taken to convene a national conference of ethnic nationalities taking advantage of the extant provisions of the 1999 Constitution as amended, which guarantees freedom of expression and of association. W h i l e acknowledging the essence of the National Conference,

given the current perceived structural distortions in the polity, Senator Mark admitted that we live in very precarious times, and in the world increasingly made fluid and toxic by strange ideologies and violent tendencies all of which currently conspire to question the very idea of the nation state”. The revered senator however admitted that the time was now for the state to confront the perceived or alleged structural distortions and alienation in some quarters, noting that this sense of discontentment and

• Senate President, Senator David Mark

alien extrem even catast nation This patrio for w look out o probl Sen postu that area” disco anyth sugge disme count attem confe const powe In a

THE SUNDAY

SUNDAY SEPTEMBER 29, 2013

Issues

C o m m i s s i o n (NARECOM) and the Chief Olusegun O b a s a n j o ’ s Constitution Review Committee which was

attention from the real issues of poor governance and massive corruption, a situation that has led to mass poverty and

decide who their representatives should be. This readily throws up another issue as to who determines the

the ordinary people at the driver’s seat. The people must be made to own the process to make it credible. But there are those

l Conference Persist

nation has fueled mism, apathy and prediction of trophe for our dear n. s indeed gives every otic Nigeria cause worry and in unison for plausible way of our collective ems. nator Mark in his ulation had averred the only “no go ” in the proposed ourse should be hing that could est or lead to the emberment of the try as well as any mpt to clothe the erence with tituent or sovereign ers. as much that many

would agree with senators Mark on his concerns and suggested way forward, others feel that a mere national conference without sovereign powers will only return the country to its cyclical tradition of talk without consensus and political to tacle the real issues confronting the country. The question on the lips of analysts is that, how would the Senator Mark’s version be different from the Abacha era N a t i o n a l Reconciliation

largely self serving and lack the compelling powers to enforce what has been agreed upon?. There are concerns of possible adverse consequences of conferring sovereign powers on a national conference not subject to any government authority. To this class of people, to do that is to sign off the unity of Nigeria with adverse consequences on the citizenry. There are also concerns of a national conference as proposed by the Senate President diverting attention from the real issues of mass poverty, corruption in governance and the integration of the people’s interest into the affairs of state to superficial selfish and parochial regional interest of resource allocation and control, as opposed to resource generation and power sharing etc. It is a well known fact that hunger and poverty know no ethnic boundaries as we have as much poor people in the oil rich Niger Delta as we have in the solid minerals and agro rich Northern parts of this country. The problem has been the elites diverting

despondency in the land. Their thinking finds expression in Senator Mark’s call for the conference about a week after President Jonathan had told members of the Nation Political Summit Group that his administration was not opposed to national dialogue and the seeing debate the Comments tend to generate in our national discourse. They perceive the call as another make belief attempt by the elites to deceive the mass of Nigerian people of having genuine concern towards solving our national problems. But Senator Mark himself a super class elite deserves some commendation for his bold remarks on thorny national issues such that combine to threaten our collective aspirations as a nation. Besides, questions arise as to who the delegates to such a conference should be and how would they be appointed? Would the people accept nomination to such a conference by the same government they do not trust to midwife the process? Some have argued that the various ethnic nationalities should

• Late Gen. Sani Abacha

number of representation each ethnic groups get, and how representative the number would be in relation to the population of each of the groups. This is where opponents of a sovereign conference appear to have a point, as the convocation of the conference would of necessity require minimal government involvement to make it work. They believe that for the process to be seen to be credible, all issues for deliberation and representation at the conference must emerge via a referendum. To this class of people, the process besides being transparent, must be seen to be such that has

who feel that what Nigerians need is not a conference of ethnic nationalities with a view to discussing modalities of our coexistence, but a moral rebirth. To this group, attention should be focused on the reformation of the character of the average Nigerian. To them, the problems of this country stems from the low patriotic spirit amongst the populace resulting in indiscipline, corruption, inter and intra ethic squabbles some of which had led to serious conflicts and even deaths such that we are witnessing today thereby necessitating the endless calls for national conference.

THE SUNDAY

SUNDAY SEPTEMBER 29, 2013

Peace With God And

THERE is no peace, said my God, to the wicked” (Isaiah 57:21). The tragedy of the wicked. They are like the troubled sea. It cannot rest. But those who are anchored by faith in God are not restless and troubled. They have PEACE. meaning “Peace I leave In Isaiah 9:6, one of the with you, my peace I give names given to the coming unto you, not as the world Messiah is, “the Prince of giveth, give I unto you. Let Peace”, Remember, peace not your heart be troubled, also means the absence of neither let it be afraid”. trouble, quietness, and rest. (John 14:27). Surely our In Luke’s account of the lord was a perfect birth of Jesus the angel example of one who could announced to the live without restlessness shepherds that the Saviour even in the midst of great was born and the heavenly trial of affliction. hosts said, “Glory to God After His resurrection, in the highest and on earth He came to the disciples peace, good will toward unexpectedly in the upper men”. (Luke 2:14) room and greeted them, Jesus sent out the “Peace be unto you”. This disciples with this is especially significant instruction to say, “Peace because John 20:19 be to this house. And if the informs us that they had son of peace be there, your gathered in the room with peace shall rest upon it, if closed doors because they not, it shall turn to you were afraid. again”. (Luke 10:5,6) As the disciples went out Before he was crucified, to preach the Gospel, Jesus spoke to the disciples peace was on their lips. with deep feeling and Peter spoke to Cornelius at

Fellow Men

his invitation- “the word which God sent unto the children of Israel, preaching peace by Jesus Christ (He is Lord of all)” (Acts 10:36). The Apostle Paul writing to believers in Romans 5;1 makes it so clear“therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ”. We have rest and quiet through Him. The word in Ephesians 2:14,15 declares, “for He

is our peace, who hath made both one, and hath broken down the middle wall of partition between us. Having abolished in His flesh the enmity, even the law of commandments contained in ordinances, for to make in Himself of twain one new man, so making peace”. We need to praise the Lord that every reason for distress, for restlessness, has been abolished Jesus Christ by His death on the

eflections

With MOSES EVBUOMWAN

cross and His precious blood will bring peace to those who trust Him. There are many other scripture texts explaining what it means to be at peace with God and at peace with one’s fellowmen. Surely God desires for us first of all to be at peace with Him and then in our families, with our neighbours and in our communities. We are to live peaceably as much as possible, with all men. We praise the

Lord that through the cross of Jesus Christ, God has made possible tranquility, wholeness, quietness. It is finished. Praise God. “Finally, brethren, farewell. Be perfect, be of good comfort, be of one mind, live in peace, and the God of love and peace shall be with you”. (2 Corinthians 13:11). Great peace have they who love thy law and nothing shall offend them. (Psalm 119:165).

“Surely God desires for us first of all to be at peace with Him and then in our families, with our neighbours and in our communities.” The Only Way Out Of unday Diet Hardships And Challenges

With ERNEST IKHUREIGBE

IT is often said that challenges are inherent part of life experiences but the way out is not given the desired attention hence many ended-up a failure for ignorance or carelessness. Life, itself, entails a lot and it can either be meaningful or meaningless depending on how one allows himself or herself to be guided by the underlining principles of life. It is no longer news that life has the good and the unbearable bad in it, but, it is essentially determined on the level of compliance of the rules as laid down by the giver of life;- the Lord Jesus; John 14:6 states, “I am the way, the truth, and the life, no man cometh unto the father, but by me”. Beloved, the one, who declared that he is the way,

the truth and life must never be disregarded if one desires a life denied of avoidable hardship and plaque. No wonder in Isaiah 1:19, it states that “if ye be willing and obedient, ye shall eat the good of the Lord”. It is the willing and the obedient children of His that deserve what they desire from Him. God has made it a choice to take your decision as to what you want in life. It is also important to remind ourselves that there is nothing He cannot do to give what you desire, as long as you acknowledge Him and give heed to His instructions. What He desires from you is to acknowledge Him as the Lord, who has all the Power and Authority to deliver you. He could also use his anointed children to

deliver to you what you desire of Him. No wonder, when Naaman, was given the Breaking News that he could be healed of Leprosy by a man of God in Samaria; 2Kings 5:3. the king of Syria, without hesitation drafted a letter to the king of Israel for prompt action. Not knowing that the power of healing was neither in the king nor in the prophet in the city but in God. Elisha, the prophet sent a message to the man of valour, Naaman “GO and wash in Jordan seven times and thy flesh shall come

again to thee, and thou shalt be clean”. Naaman was not moved by the prophet’s instruction, for the Bible recorded that “Naaman was wroth, and went away and said, Behold I thought he will surely come out and stand, and call on the name of the Lord, his God and strike his hand over the place, and recover the leper. 2Kings 5:11-12. but, for the persuasion of his own servant to willingly obey the man of God; His disobedience would have been an obstacle to his breakthrough of healing. Whatever is the

prevailing situation of your life; there is a solution and it is in the obedience of His instruction. 2Kings 15:14 recorded that when he obeyed prophet Elisha’s divine instruction, “his flesh came again like unto the flesh of a little child (baby) and he was clean”. That ended the plaque of a life time! It will also interest you to note that Elisha became a double carrier of his master’s anointing for diligence and commitment to the divine cause. 2Kings 2:10: as a matter of fact, Elisha remained focused till the time he knew not when his request would be

“The only lead way out of the struggles of life is in Jesus Christ. We all need to call on Him and live a humble life.”

granted came. And when the time came, he was endowed with the power as requested. A manifestion was evidenced as the sons of prophet acknowledged his feat to cross the Jodan on foot. 2Kings 2:13-15: when they saw him they “bowed themselves to the ground before him”. Finally brethren, the only lead way out of the struggles of life is in Jesus Christ. We all need to call on Him and live a humble life, it is also very important that you eshew uncultured and carefree life style. At all time, we should allow our thought to be free from wicked schemes and manipulations that can lead to regret at the end. God does not close his mercy gate against anyone who decides to retrace his/ her step unto Him. Rev 3:20. Have a rethink now and drop that garment of shame and reproach associated with you. Remain blessed.

THE SUNDAY

SUNDAY SEPTEMBER 29, 2013

“Fragrances can decide the mood of a person. So it is very important to choose the correct type of fragrances for different occasions. Fragrances have an intense effect on the perception and behavior of a person. Some fragrances can enhance the sexual drive, some can instigate supportiveness, some can make you feel artistic, and sophisticated.”

Fashion & Style

With ROSE ORHIBHABOR

·Fruit or citrus – These are the extracts of fruits and citrus fruits. These can be used on graduation days in your schools and on New Year’s Eve. ·Oceanic or ozone – This can also be used in weddings and dating, where sexual

be the suitable one for you. Your own instinct is very important. Feel the smell and you will know the depth of instinct it has caused within you. ·You can consult a perfume expert about the best suited fragrance for your body

instinct is necessary. This is a chemical mixture of floral and fruit bases. · Gourmand – These resemble the food or edible flavors like, vanilla, Tonka bean, etc., these are also synthetic fragrances. These can be used during Christmas or any other family occasion. How to choose your particular fragrance? ·If you love the fragrance at first sniff itself, then it may

chemistry. ·Put the perfume on the wrist and smell it. You can get body lotion in many different fragrances. Select one that is best suited for you. Read the ingredients on each of the cosmetic products. You can find out fragrance oils by what that product is made of. Chose a body lotion, powder and perfume of the same fragrance.

What The Scent Of That Fragrance Means To You By CLEMENTINA UKIRI

PERFUME or parfum is a mixture of fragrant essential oils or aroma compounds, fixatives and solvents used to give the human body, animals, food, objects, and living spaces “a pleasant scent.” Perfumes have been known to exist in some of the earliest human civilizations, either through ancient texts or from archaeological digs. Modern perfumery began in the late 19th century with the commercial synthesis of aroma compounds such as vanillin or coumarin, which allowed for the composition of perfumes with smells previously unattainable solely from natural aromatics alone. According to the piece, ‘All Fragrance is one of the about perfumes’ There are building blocks of scents, several different perfumes body lotions, soaps, air available and each one has a fresheners, foundation creams different fragrance. They are and many other cosmetic made up of different products. 2000 years ago ingredients. They can be people started utilizing the made of natural resources, fragrances of fruits and flowers to reduce body odor chemicals or a combination. Most perfumes use a blend and enhance the sexual of aromas that are usually instinct. Our human body found in concentrated produces a chemical which is essential oils. There is a very unique by itself. Each formula that goes with each and everyone’s skin has a perfume in order to reach that specific chemistry. The body particular scent that you are temperature affects the fragrance in skin. So it is trying to get. Essential oils can be either important to choose the natural or synthetic, which perfume with the fragrance, will affect the result of your which suits our body fragrance. Natural chemistry. One perfume ingredients cost a little more which suits one woman may but it is worth it when you get not suit another woman. How to Choose the Right the natural scent to combine Fragrance to make the best fragrance. It is helpful to recognize that Marshangel’s Beauty the three notes of fragrance Community also has this to are the top note, heart note say about fragrance.

and the base note. Each of which have different durations and when sprayed for the first time, the fragrance in the perfume must be strong. This is the base note. So check for base notes during the purchase of perfumes. Fragrances can decide the mood of a person. So it is very important to choose the correct type of fragrances for different occasions. Fragrances have an intense effect on the perception and behavior of a person. Some fragrances can enhance the sexual drive, some can instigate supportiveness, some can make you feel artistic, and sophisticated. Some may even make you feel young and playful. Perfumes help to increase the confidence level within you. Different types of fragrances ·Green – This is extracted from the Chypre family. This is a lighter fragrance and gives a cooling effect to your mood. You can use for picnics, outings, mother’s day, etc.. ·Bright floral – Floral bouquets or single floral smells are combined to form

this fragrance. This can be used for birthday parties and night parties. Light floral perfumes can also be used for wedding functions.

Sourced from the net

“Most perfumes use a blend of aromas that are usually found in concentrated essential oils. There is a formula that goes with each perfume in order to reach that particular scent that you are trying to get.”

THE SUNDAY

s h o W b i z

SUNDAY SEPTEMBER 29, 2013

Music

Tiwa Savage Exposes Her ‘Thing’ During Performance IT was more than what the fans bargained. They paid to watch singer but surprisingly she added a clinker. She bared it all for her fans. Tiwa Savage got busted by the sharp

lens of a photographer and she was filmed with her ‘thing’, which should have been an exclusive view of her man, exposed during a performance. According to

Movies

reports, she was performing at an event and her ‘Aso Rock Villa’ was busted. According to the reports it did not deter her from giving her best as the yelling b e c a m e unprecedented.

Funke Akindele Set To Launch Funke with the latest Perfume Line feat joins the likes of POPULAR Yoruba actress, Funke Akindele will in few weeks launch her own perfume line, Jenifa. The perfume which

we gathered has been in circulation will in few weeks be officially launched and introduced to the general public.

Jennifer Lopez, Sarah Parker and Nicki Minaj who also own their own line of perfumes.

• Tiwa Savage with her ‘thing’ exposed

Nollywood Actress Princess Chineke On Ex-President’s Lap FOR fast-rising Nollywood actress,

• Funke and her perfume

Okoroji Tasks Govt Owned Media To In his words, “They MEMBERS of the Respect Artistes have very little chance of National and State House of Assemblies have been charged to make sure government–owned media houses respect Nigerian artistes. This call was made by the chairman of the Copyright Society of Nigeria (COSON), Tony Okoroji, at a recent event held in Lagos.

•Tony Okoroji

Okoroji said this was necessary because of the way some government owned radio and television stations treat Nigerian artistes. He also advised the lawmakers to make state-owned media houses comply and

respect the Nigeria copyright laws. Okoroji noted that the significant success recorded by COSON in the few years since its approval in 2010 cannot be fully comprehended if proper efforts are not made to ensure that music users across the country respect copyright laws. “Today, we call on the National Assembly to ensure that forthwith, clear provisions are made in the budgets of all Federal government owned broadcast stations for the payment of copyright royalties. We refuse to accept a situation where the stations continue with the open stealing of the intellectual property of innocent creative people simply because there is no budget for the payment for the key raw material they deploy in their operations.”

generating proper revenue. Meanwhile, they sustain their operations by freely using the intellectual property of innocent citizens who have invested in creativity with hard earned money.”

Princess Chineke, there might not be anything better than being with one of Nigeria’s powerful men, who also is an ex-President of the most populous black nation in the world, Nigeria. She was recently in New York, USA, at the United Nations General Assembly meeting, which President

• Princess Chineke on Obasanjo’s lap

Goodluck Ebele Jonathan attended. Ex-President Olusegun Obasanjo was also at the meeting and the actress hooked up with the Ota farmer. She was said to have sat on Baba’s lap for a photograph. Is there anything brewing between them? Don’t ask me because I don’t know.

THE SUNDAY

SUNDAY SEPTEMBER 29, 2013

Theatre

Uche Jombo: My Hubby Not

Living Off Me NOLLYWOOD actress Jombo has vehemently denied that her husband is living off her. The Nollywood actress who recently got married to Puerto Rican dude said those publishing such information on Nigerian blogs are mischievous people

who have no respect for the institution of marriage and personal dignity. Uche Jombo disclosed that it is very painful that some people are using blogging as a platform to write u n v e r i f i e d information about others just to gain traffic to their

websites. “it is not good to write such rubbish on Uche Jombo and her husband. Imagine, the sisterin-law saw the report and had to call some people attention to it. People should not dabble into my family affairs in all the rubbish they put up”, she warned.

Concert

Dr. Sunday Onairhia

GLOBAL BUZZ Nicki Minaj Flashes THE richest female Boobs

•Uche Jombo and hubby

Musicians In Orhionmwon To Partner State Government Area basic MUSICIANS in partner with the state require Govt Orhionmwon Local have resolved to government and amenities such as other stakeholders towards the development of Orhionmwon Local Government Area. Speaking in an interview with The S U N D A Y OBSERVER, the Chairman of Orhionmwon Musician Association Elder’s Council, Evangelist Mochico Bay said that the development of Orhionmwon Local Government is of p a r a m o u n t importance to the people of the community who

With FELIX OMOH-ASUN GSM: 07060576600

water, light, assessable road, health care and other social amenities. Evangelist Mochico Bay started that, the Orhionmwon M u s i c i a n s Association Elder’s Council has a blue print for the development of Orhionmwon Local Government Area. “We intend to use our musical talent to uplift the lives of the people of Orhionmwon Local Government and ensure that m e a n i n g f u l

Members of the Orhionmwon Musicians’ Elder Council in a group photograph with the patron of the Council, Dr. Sunday Onairhia

development is ongoing in the Local Government. Orhionmwon Local Government deserves rapid transformation and we are determine to ensuring that the people of the community live comfortable lives that will impart positively on the rural community. Evangelist Mochico Bay also disclosed that, the Orhionmwon M u s i c i a n s Association Elder’s Council will use their musical talents to promote the image of Orhionmwon Local Government Area. He however called on indigenes of Orhionmwon Local Government to assist in building the local government. The Patron of the Orhionmwon Musicians Council, Dr. Sunday Onairhia lamented the encroach of producers and marketers into the music industry but however promised to set up record stores to stop the activities of marketers and producers.

hip-hop artist in the world, Nicki Minaj showed off side boobs in this daring boob-baring top and leather trouser pants as she headed to the Ellen DeGeneres show to promote her brand new scent, Minajesty. She shared some of the photos on her Instagram page.

•Nicki Minaj

Elton John: Cyrus ‘A

Meltdown Waiting To MILEY Cyrus is “a Happen’

meltdown waiting to happen” according to

• Miley Cyrus

music veteran Elton John. “And she’s so young”, he added. “But she’s got two records in the Top 20, so who is going to stop her. Cyrus has made headlines for her sexually charged performances and baring a lot of skin in photos and videos The “Rocket Man” singer cited troubled actress Lindsay Lohan as another example and also said he predicted things wouldn’t turn out well for Michael Jackson.

Jason Derulo Puts ‘Near Death Experience In Tattoos’ AFTER Jason Derulo narrowly avoiding being paralyzed after fracturing his neck during tour rehearsal, many thought his career would suffer a major setback. Fast forward 17months and Derulo is hotter than ever. His single “the other side” was a staple on radio stations Derulo who spoke with a source said ‘I went through a near-death experience and that opened my eyes to a lot of things, falling in love, and also just seeing life in a different light, being able to spend more time with my

family and writing about all those different things”. Derulo released “tattoo” which is his third album on Tuesday, September 24.

• Jason Derulo

Idris Elba Fathered Another Man’s Child WHAT is it like to claim a child that isn’t yours? Idris Elba knows. The actor recently sat down to talk about his experiences of gushing over a little boy who turned out to be fathered by another man. The year was 2010, and Idris was dating a woman out of Florida. The young lady became pregnant and gave birth to a boy during her and Elba’s courtship and the actor just assumed

that the child was his. Idris told family, friends and media about his son before discovering that the precious little one belonged to another. Although knocked down, Elba refused to be knocked out. The actor learned to move on from the incident and decided to share his story with the world. Compiled By OKOGBA EMMANUEL O.

THE SUNDAY

SUNDAY SEPTEMBER 29, 2013

SOCIETY IT has become so disheartening and appalling to know how people define success and the way to go about it. Success has now become a commodity many are not willing to work for. It has come to the level where people who are working diligently to achieve success, are laughed to scorn. Everybody today wants to live a comfortable life. A life that is filled with wealth and all the goodies of life; but no one wants to work. It is very glaring now that they say; “the end justifies the means”, is fully operational in this country. The situation is getting messier by the day. When a little boy is heard saying; “I want to own aeroplane when I grow up” and yet refuses to look up himself in studies, then certainly the story is gory. At various campuses across Nigeria, those that work hard by studying and taking their academics seriously, are seen as “mugus” and “jumen”. This is because the lazy ones would one way or the other lobby or bribe their way into getting good grades. A scenario where those that have worked hard are marked down just because they failed to “water the ground” is indeed a nasty one that has lent more power to the belief that there is a short code to success. Now, nobody wants to start small. Every individual wants a fivestorey building without thinking about how to work to get that. The saying that the days of little beginnings must not be

The Short Code To Success

dispised, has now become clichéd. There was time people saw success as a ladder that one can only climb step by step. The get-rich-at-all-cost syndrome has resurfaced. There is no limit to where some persons can go to get the “ever elusive” success. Looting, kidnapping, arm robbery, thuggery and many other nefarious acts have taken centre stage just to accumulate wealth that is believed to measure the level of one’s success. Today, the country is reaping the harvest of years of looting by the so called leaders who are still in the “lottery” business till date. Leadership positions are contested for not with the mindset of changing or affecting the lives of the led (ruled) but to get a taste of the national cake. Little wonder why a local government councilor will build a mansion within few months of getting into office. No one wants to sow but wants to reap. Again, that Rome was not built in a day. If a sentence is not written today, there cannot be a book tomorrow. If the seeds of destiny are not planted now, there is certainly not going to be a harvest in the future. Sometimes, doing those things that lead to success is like chasing shadows and that is why a proper understanding of the MUSTARD SEED PRINCIPLE must come to play. This seed is definitely a small one but it is one that grows and turns out to be a gigantic

tree. Those “little little” things that are done in those small corners may look and feel simple but it

not numerous people that have achieved success through hard-work? Can one sow corn and reap

been lost in their quest to achieve success via shortcuts. Many young people have lost track of their lives all because they want to “hammer”. Daily news of people caught with

will in no time yield dividends. Of course, many people will argue that in a country as Nigeria, attaining success can never be possible through hardwork. But there are certainly questions that need to be asked. Are there

mango or cashew? For every action that is taken, there is certainly a reward. Although those that pass through shortcuts to gain success, seem to run away from the effects of their action, the law of karma will surely catch them. So many destinies have

hard drugs while trying to smuggling them to other nations, hug media headlines. It is better left to be imagined what a 17year old person would need money for that he/she even takes to cybercrime or any other nefarious acts. People should bear in

By EMMANUEL EGOBIAMBU

mind that the success they so desire cannot last if it is gotten through shortcut. Trying to rest before or without labouring, amounts to putting the cart before the horse; altering

nature’s rule which is not possible. There is no achievement without commitment; no success without passing through a process; no progress without express finesse. One cannot feature in a future picture that he/she has not captured!

“A scenario where those that have worked hard are marked down just because they failed to “water the ground” is indeed a nasty one that has lent more power to the belief that there is a short code to success.”

THE SUNDAY

SUNDAY SEPTEMBER 29, 2013

PERSPECTIVE

Promoting Reading Culture In Nigeria By BINITIE ROSELINE

THERE is a very popular saying that Nigerians lack reading culture, how true? You can hardly see an average Nigerian man or woman reading for the fun of reading, Nigerians have been known to read only when they are preparing for exams or reading Christian, God’s plan for us, business and self help books. Is it the economy that is depriving them from cultivating such habit? we shall find out. According to google icon, reading few selected books, the economy has not but it should be a way of life prevented us from reading among Nigerians especially but only prevented us from students and professionals reading literature and as an avenue of building because our religiousity is individual, we have neglected social consciousness. Economy and religion is not the only reason people don’t read, there are other reasons, such as poverty, illiteracy, lack of enlightenment, poor writers, the use of English which many find difficult to understand, some problems youths face, poor infrastructure etc. which are as complex as the society. But religion is central because it has been observed that poverty is not a major cause of our poor reading culture even the rich in our country don’t read more books than the poor. Much premium is not placed on literature and humanities in Nigeria, all we want after secondary school is get into university, and empowering get a job and start making themselves with knowledge money. Our writers deposited in books by sometimes don’t help various authors. It should matters. Some write just to be seen as an activity that make money to earn a one does with desire and living, because there is having a stimulating effect nothing else to do or go into on our minds. It is not writing business only to strange to read for fun as worsen the already most people in Nigeria deteriorating situation. view it as a major reason, When talking of reading they find it necessary to culture we are not only read when they are referring to the love for

preparing for exams. Some have termed it a boring academic task and not a hobby. Merely reading an autobiography or literary play during one’s spare time might be viewed as a strange habit too. There is too much emphasis on paper qualification and passing of exam instead of reading for fun, inventions,

Coupled with the above reasons, Nigerians find it difficult to read for fun as the emergence of the internet and home videos together with other technological gadgets in the Nigerian society have put paid to this; many people find it very easy to watch home videos, films or connect with folks online in place of reading for fun or

or creativity, the reverse is the case in our educational system. The system of forcing student to read, craming and pouring out what they have read in the exam is not helping matters and does not go down well with reading as a culture. It is a culture that sends a wrong message about the value of reading outside of academic works.

at their leisure hour. They can chart with their mobile devices which is very common among the youth and kids, and this encourages and increases the ugly use of abbreviations or text languages which further worsen students’ spelling and grammer. The internet which is suppose to be used as a rich source of getting

“Nigerians find it difficult to read for fun as the emergence of the internet and home videos together with other technological gadgets in the Nigerian society have put paid to this; many people find it very easy to watch home videos, films or connect with folks online in place of reading for fun or at their leisure hour.”

information is now being used by many young Nigerian to perform other negative, non profiting, self destructive activities like face book, twitter and downloading of pornographic films etc. instead of children and youths doing their assignments, seeking for knowledge online, they keep up to date with current news and gossips. The internet that is suppose to serve the purpose of

entertainment, education and information, is only perceived as a source of entertainment to youths of today. As long as reading is being perceived negatively, chances are, there won’t be any improvement in Nigerians’ reading culture anytime soon, to verify this, visit any book shop and ask the sales person the average age of their patrons. They are mostly the middle age and the old. The reading medium has simply shifted from the library to the internet, hence Nigerians need to be enlightened, the readers and the writers needs to know how to use the internet in a way that would benefit them. Nigerian writers need to get to grips with the 21st century because a lot of our youths and kids are so much addicted to the internet.

This is why our writers should make their books available on the internet even if it means people having to pay before reading. Kids can be encouraged to read when books that are in the library are made available online and can be read through their phones or computers, we have many good story tellers in Nigeria but most of these stories are narrated only in English which many do not understand. If these same stories can be narrated in language simple enough for many to understand, this would also motivate many to read. Books should be made cheap so that those that have the interest to read but don’t have money can be able to read, because when these books are affordable, many will develop interest in reading if not for knowledge but for fun. The kind of writers we have in this country can also make people have interest in reading. If a writer can write very well an article that is readable and understandable, people will love to read such an article. Then we have a huge percentage of the country that is illiterate. How is it possible for an illiterate to buy a book to read? This is where education comes in, education should be made available and affordable to all in every nook and cranny of the country as a way to make reading a culture in the lives of people in this part of the world. It is only an educated person that can read things that are not picture or graphic with ease and understand it. In addition to putting books online, making education available and affordable, producing good writers, enlightenment, is the provision of social infrastructure and basic amenities like good roads, well constructed schools, electricity, bore holes, good hospitals and computers for easy access to the internet, this would make people read more. It is only when one has peace and comfort, that he or she would think of reading.

THE SUNDAY

WHEN he returned to the Water JuJu’s house he told him everything that had happened, and the Water JuJu said“As you are now in high favour with the king, you must go to him tomorrow and beg a favour from him. The favour you will ask is that all the country shall be called together, and that a certain case shall be tried, and that when the case is finished,

SUNDAY SEPTEMBER 29, 2013

Story Time chief ’s daughter?” And the people replied that she was worthy of being any one’s daughter, even the king’s. Then he called his mother Adiaha, and she came out, looking very beautiful with her best cloth and beads on, and all the people

to throw himself and his sister into the river, which, as they all knew, had been done, but the Water JuJu had saved both of them, and had brought them up. Then the boy said—”I leave the king and all of you people to judge my case. If I have done

then embraced his wife and daughter, and told all the people that she, Adiaha, was his proper wife, and would be the queen for the future. When the palaver was over, Adiaha was. dressed in fine clothes and beads, and carried back in state to the palace by the king’s servants. That night the king gave a big feast to all his subjects, and told

The Woman With Two Skins (3) By CLEMENTINA UKIRI

any man or woman who is found to be in the wrong shall be killed by the Egbos before the people.” So the following morning the boy went to the king, who readily granted his request, and at once sent all round the country appointing a day for all the people to come in and hear the case tried. Then the boy went back to the Water JuJu, who told him to go to his mother and tell her who he was, and that when the day of the trial arrived, she was to take off her ugly skin and appear in all her beauty, for the time had come when she need no longer wear it. This the son did. When the day of trial arrived, Adiaha sat in a corner of the square, and nobody recognised the beautiful stranger as the spider’s daughter. Her son then sat down next to her, and brought his sister with him. Immediately his mother saw her she said“This must be my daughter, whom I have long mourned as dead,” and embraced her most affectionately. The king and his head wife then arrived and sat on their stones in the middle of the square, all the people saluting them with the usual greetings. The king then addressed the people, and said that he had called them together to hear a strong palaver at the request of the young man who had been the victor of the wrestling, and who had promised that if the case went against him he would offer up his life to the Egbo. The king also said that if, on the other hand, the case was decided in the boy’s favour, then the other party would be killed, even though it were himself or one of his wives; whoever it was would have to take his or her place on the killing-stone and have their heads cut off by the Egbos. To this all the people agreed, and said they would like to hear what the young man had to say. The young man then walked round the square, and bowed to the king and the people, and asked the question, “Am I not worthy to be the son of any chief in the country?” And all the people answered “Yes!” The boy then brought his sister out into the middle, leading her by the hand. She was a beautiful girl and well made. When every one had looked at her he said, “Is not my sister worthy to be any

cheered, as they had never seen a finer woman. The boy then asked them, “Is this woman worthy of being the king’s

wrong, let me be killed on the stone by the Egbos; if, on the other hand, the woman has done evil, then let the Egbos deal with

them how glad he was to get back his beautiful wife whom he had never known properly before, also his son who was stronger than all men, and his fine daughter. The feast continued for a hundred and sixty-six days; and the king

hildren’s World

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POEMS

Above The Bright Blue Sky There’s a Friend for little children Above the bright blue sky, A Friend who never changes Whose love will never die; Our earthly friends may fail us, And change with changing years, This Friend is always worthy Of that dear name he bears. There’s a home for little children Above the bright blue sky, Where Jesus reigns in glory, A home of peace and joy; No home on earth is like it, Nor can with it compare; And everyone is happy, Nor could be happier there.

A Light Exists In Spring A Light exists in Spring Not present on the Year At any other period — When March is scarcely here A Color stands abroad On Solitary Fields That Science cannot overtake But Human Nature feels. It waits upon the Lawn, It shows the furthest Tree Upon the furthest Slope you know It almost speaks to you. Then as Horizons step Or Noons report away Without the Formula of sound It passes and we stay — A quality of loss Affecting our Content As Trade had suddenly encroached Upon a Sacrament. - Emily Dickinson

wife?” And a shout went up from every one present that she would be a proper wife for the king, and looked as if she would be the mother of plenty of fine healthy sons. Then the boy pointed out the jealous woman who was sitting next to the king, and told the people his story, how that his mother, who had two skins, was the spider’s daughter; how she had married the king, and how the head wife was jealous and had made a bad JuJu for the king, which made him forget his wife; how she had persuaded the king

her as you may decide.” When the king knew that the wrestler was his son he was very glad, and told the Egbos to take the jealous woman away, and punish her in accordance with their laws. The Egbos decided that the woman was a witch; so they took her into the forest and tied her up to a stake, and gave her two hundred lashes with a whip made from hippopotamus hide, and then burnt her alive, so that she should not make any more trouble, and her ashes were thrown into the river. The king

made a law that if any woman was found out getting medicine against her husband, she should be killed at once. Then the king built three new compounds, and placed many slaves in them, both men and women. One compound he gave to his wife, another to his son, and the third he gave to his daughter. They all lived together quite happily for some years until the king died, when his son came to the throne and ruled in his stead.The End. Folk Stories From Southern Nigeria, by ElphinstoneDayrell, (1910), at sacred-texts.com

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Joke

Q: How do you make holy water? A: You boil the hell out of it Q: When does “B” come after “U”? A: When you take some of his honey Q: What do you call a snowman with a sun tan? A: A puddle Q: How much does it cost a pirate to get earrings? A: A buccaneer Q: What 3 inventions help man up in the world? A: The elevator, the ladder and the alarm clock Q: What has four legs and can’t walk? A: A table Q: What do elephants have that no other animal does? A: Baby elephants

THE SUNDAY

SUNDAY SEPTEMBER 29, 2013

INTERVIEW

Christians Should Live By What They Hear - Rev. Fr Enow REVEREND Father Paul Enow is the Parish tackle challenges by Priest, St Paul Catholic Church Benin City. A drawing myself close Camerounian national, he was ordained a to God, His work not priest fourteen years ago. In this interview with the SUNDAY OBSERVER, the reverend gentleman bares his mind on his call to the priestly ministry and other sundry issues. It was anchored by Ukiri Clementina and Salami Blessing for your reading pleasure. Excerpts How did you become a priest and what influenced your decision to become one? Well, I went through a normal process of seminary training. I felt like God was calling me and therefore went through a course of seminary training. I went for HND, and after finishing my Higher National Diploma in accountancy, I answered God’s call. The decision was influenced by a letter which Blessed John Paul II wrote in 1979. I read that letter and my life was never the same, as I kept thinking about the letter. What is your fulfillment as a priest? My fulfillment is leading people to God

and that has been my number one aim of becoming a priest. Heaven is our goal and as many people that I can get into the kingdom of God, I will be very happy. What are the challenges you face being a priest and how do you tackle them? The challenges of a priest are so many. For example, the parish priest, I have to attend to people, how to face different people with different problems and also do my pastoral work. Before coming to the office today, I went to bless a grave, I went to celebrate mass and now, I’m back to the office. So, the work is very demanding, as it were, you are almost on duty for 24 hours. So you just have to make yourself available. I

accesssment of the administration of G o v e r n o r

Gradually, Benin City is looking more like a city now.

Oshiomhole? Oshiomhole has done so well. There’s a great gulf between his administration and the previous one.

Father, can you please comment briefly on the N i g e r i a n Government and your advice to the

Rev. Father Paul Enow

mine. I pray to God to give me strength, so I rely on Him. Prayer is the key to whatever I do in the priesthood. What is your

leaders? Well, Nigerian politicians should go into politics to serve, not to a amass wealth for themselves. Since they go into power by the people’s mandate, they should be mindful of the needs of the people. They should pay attention to security issue now in row in the country, because we are at the mercy of hoodlums that kidnap people. Our leaders should try to tackle that, it is a serious problem. Father, do you have any regret being a priest? Ah! I have never had any regret at all. I love being a priest. If I come back in the next world, if there is anything like reincarnation, I will love to be a priest. What is your message to C h r i s t i a n s generally? I advise Christians to put the word of God which they hear into practice. On Sunday you go to church, and from Monday to Saturday, you are something else. We should be doers of the word, not hearers only.

“I advise Christians to put the word of God which they hear into practice. On Sunday you go to church, and from Monday to Saturday, you are something else. We should be doers of the word, not hearers only.”

THE SUNDAY

SUNDAY SEPTEMBER 29, 2013

PERSPECTIVE

Learn To Give Thanks In Every Situation

APPRECIATION is all about understanding. Appreciation and thanksgiving go hand in hand as both are signs of gratitude. When you show your appreciation to someone, you are thanking him or her; you are also telling him or her that you understand what he or she has done. Those who have the ability only right to appreciate the to be grateful are the ones giver because he is who have the ability to subtracting from himself and achieve greatness. adding something to you no Appreciation triggers the matter how small what you release of more as it spurs the get is. A popular American doer to do more. TV host, Oprah Winfrey once It was as a result of the said “Be thankful for what appreciation shown by King you have; you will end up Solomon through his having more”. sacrifice to God, that he Further more, how many of became the wisest and richest us appreciate God in the man that ever walked the face morning when we wake up? of the earth. We carry on with our normal I believe you must have duties forgetting that little witnessed this in ceremonies thing that means so much. where those spraying money When you rise up in the at most times outdo morning, think of what a themselves just because the precious privilege it is to be Master of Ceremony (M.C) alive, to breathe, to think, to keeps singing their praises enjoy, to love, then spend and appreciating them. Every some quality time with God doer would want to do more giving thanks because it was when appreciated because (I not everyone who slept the stand corrected) I have never night before that woke up to seen or heard that there was see that day with you. You a person who got tired of need to understand that every getting “thank you”. day is a gift from God since At times, those little things you didn’t work to merit you think don’t count are waking up. what really count most. For Make it a point of duty to every little thing you get, it is thank everyone who does

By OKOGBA EMMANUEL something for you in a day. It wouldn’t cause a sweat to use the words “thank you’ more frequently than you are used to. You can start each day by thanking God first for waking you up and then go ahead to thank your neighbour who wished you a good morning and then extending it to the

a long list of things he would have spent the money on but decided not to. Thank him even when you are so loaded with cash and probably wouldn’t have noticed the missing money. The ‘thank you’ you tell your co-worker after returning his pen you borrowed could go a long

bush” is still very functional in our society. Start appreciating the fact that you have a man who at least stands up to take responsibility (for men who really do stand up to take responsibilities) and stop pushing him farther away from you by over-flogging trivial issues. Make him feel at home when he is at home.

“Make it a point of duty to thank everyone who does something for you in a day. It wouldn’t cause a sweat to use the words “thank you’ more frequently than you are used to.” bus driver who carried you safely to where you are going ( though it is` God who keeps us safe). The least you can do is to appreciate him for not driving rough and giving you and other road users a scare. Thank that little boy who saw your money drop and decided to give it back to you. Don’t look at him crookedly. He probably had

way from changing his mood away from the problems he probably came with. Don’t you also think that person who held the door opened to allow you in deserves a “thank you”? That wife who nags to a fault and picks quarrel with her husband should be reminded that the saying that “a bird in hand is worth two in the

That house he is staying should meet the purpose for which he built or rented it. Don’t turn your home to a cinema where people get tales from or WWE (World Wrestling Entertainment) and make your neighbours your referee else you lose him and blame it on the devil. As students, have you thanked your parents for

allowing you to go to school, to get Western education even when they had the option of imitating other parents who preferred their children farming or learning a trade than sitting in a classroom? Appreciate the air you breathe, the water you drink, the food you eat, the clothes you wear, the figure and body size God gave you, the colour of your skin, the friends and people around you, irrespective of their negative or positive contribution to your life. There are those who truly wish they had what you have right now. Don’t be one of those who won’t appreciate what they have until it’s gone. Your parents might not be the wealthiest around but for the fact that they didn’t abandon you when you were some weeks old shows that they need appreciation. Your spouse might not be the most attractive around but he or she stands for you when the need arises, so they deserve your appreciation. Let us live the kind of life that is exemplary of what the Bible says: “In everything give thanks”.

When Will Tomorrow Come For Today’s Youths?

WHEN we were in primary school we were always told that we (children) are the leaders of tomorrow. This popular song by children being the leaders of tomorrow was a regular anthem. This song was the dreams of the cradle, intending to lead the country. The last time, I guessed this notion worked was more than 60-70 years ago. The government of our However, the present day country is influenced by adults who sang that song the gods and the chief when they were younger priest. The gods have set are now beginning to down those who will rule wonder when that the country in the next 20 tomorrow will come. The years. This mythological same actors have been symbolism of the Yoruba recycled in our political historical gods and chief turf over the years that the priest is a part of supposed leaders of monarchical system of tomorrow have waited so government. There are long to take over the clique of people who mantle of leadership to no represent this myth in Nigeria. I wonder where avail. The culture of Nigerian children and youth would politics is ‘civilian feature when the political monarchy’, in leadership is already juxtaposition. This means decided. The men who have been being in a civilian rule and ruling us for years are ruling the people via the chief priest who consults people we read about in from the gods of the land. primary and secondary Just as the Yoruba school even in the mythology of Oduduwa university and they are still Obatala Soporno Ogun ruling us, they use their and the rest of the gods. tutelages and puppets in

By EJIROGHENE ONOJIETA

ruling us. The circle of leadership does not leave the island of these gods of the land. Gerontocracy and Mugabe system of government is in use in Nigeria. 1983, Bamanga Tukur was the governor of the defunct Gongola state (now Adamawa and Taraba state) and 30 years later, he is today the chairman of the ruling party, the PDP. Dr Bello Halliru was commissioner in the old Sokoto state (now Sokoto, Kebbi, Zamfara States) and 33 years later, he is

today minister of defence. Major General David Mark (rtd) was the military governor of Niger State in 1984 and 28 years later, he is today Senate President. Governor Murtala Nyako was the Governor of Niger State in 1976 and 36 years later, he is now the governor of Adamawa stsate. Ogbomaya Onu was the governor of Abia state in 1992 and 20 years after he is the national chairman of ANPP. Governor Jonah Jang was the governor of Benue state in 1985 and 27 years

later he is today the governor of Plateau state. Martins Elechi the Ebonyi state governor is over 80 years. Only in Nigeria is this possible where the youth, the present day leader don’t have a chance in their cradle dreams of being tomorrow leader. 1985, IBB was the military president of Nigeria and our teachers told us that Buhari was also a head of state……our teacher called us “leaders of tomorrow” 27 years later IBB and Buhari are still contesting for election. It is either our teacher lied to us about being the

leaders of tomorrow…. Or tomorrow is yet to come…. Some of us ran abroad for greener pasture and our former president who ruled us three times and still wants fourth time chance Obasanjo, went abroad and told them to deport Nigerian youths. It will be a solution to form a youth alliance, a political party for youths and we will fight to take this country if this continue, I am speaking the mind of yearning youths aspiring to move this country to conform with a new world. If we cant lead this country. Teachers stop teaching us nonsense! I love Fela!

“The men who have been ruling us for years are people we read about in primary and secondary school even in the university and they are still ruling us, they use their tutelages and puppets in ruling us. The circle of leadership does not leave the island of these gods of the land. Gerontocracy and Mugabe system of government is in use in Nigeria.”

THE SUNDAY

SUNDAY SEPTEMBER 29, 2013

INSIGHT

A Platform For University Excellence (2)

Campus Fellowship: Contd from last week

MOREOVER, I will like to share on the importance of the campus fellowships to the proper and effective running of the university, with little use of my experience to drive home the points. The transformation brought to my life by virtue of the activities of CU- NIFES with the help of the almighty God has been breathtaking (it is still taking me time to grasp the dimensions). I will not labour my readers with details on the spiritual part, since some of them might not be Christians, but logical and cogent points will be touched on how important this semi society is. The CUNIFES is about 43 years old, with the present deputy Vice Chancellor, Administration, UNIBEN, Prof. Okhuoya among the early members. And since then it has produced very excellent minds that visit the fellowship at different intervals to encourage the younger generation that being in fellowship is not an excuse for mediocrity. Examples of these people include the Dean of Faculty of Agriculture, Prof, Ogboghodo, Provost of Medicine; Dr. Iyawe, former Deputy Vice Chancellor, Admin, Prof Onibere, Dr. Omokhoua Adeleye, Prof Aisien, Dr Omadeli Boyo, Venerable Makun of the ALL Saints Chapel, Dr. and Mrs Kingsley Akhigbe, Dr. Festus Akhime, Dr. Clint Uwadie, Engineer Hope Onwah, Dr. Braimoh Bello etc. The names I have mentioned above are just a tiny particle of the large chunk of excellent people that I have had the opportunity to come across based on my membership of this great house; but for the sake of time and space, I just have to mention a few. In addition, their presence in services had made us understand the fact that fellowship activities are not excuses for us not to be

excellent in our field of study, because some of them are at the top echelon of their disciplines. Without doubt, this has helped in promoting hard work amongst the younger generation, of which I am a part.. Fellowships on campus have staff advisers to put their members through, when they have difficulties and the fact that these students have a common ground with the staff advisers, it is easier for them to approach them for help, when there are academic challenges. Campus fellowships organise academic seminars to power up the engines of their student members to make them focus on their studies. One of such I will never forget was when Dr. Braimoh Bello (Beyond Tomorrow), a renowned motivational speaker, educationist, consultants for WHO, UNESCO and some other International organisations came in from South Africa for an academic seminar hosted by the CU-NIFES. It is a seminar that is still reaping its dividends in the life of so many students that attended, as the participants cut across members of other fellowships. And hence, the campus fellowships fully aware that the university is an academic environment, has continued to put effort to bring up excellent students in learning and character, moulded by the love of Jesus Christ. I am aware of a number of students who would have dropped out. If

By OPEYEMI OLUGBEMIRO .M.

not for encouragement by their fellowship leaders and friends, who later went on to become “A” students. Also, the campus fellowships have helped in making sure some students remain in school by

bond that cannot be built in any other environment except the fellowship. Besides, leadership positions given to the various students in their various fellowships help develop leadership

campus, their activities curb cultism, prostitution, and many other social vices, and they ensure this through CTY (Catch Them Young) evangelism and Prayers. Campus fellowships are values and human capacity builders. Almost all the activities of the campus

providing financial assistance to students who are having difficulty financially. Some fellowships even provide welfare packages for orphans and students from financially troubled homes, so as to make them comfortable and focus on their academics. This is one of the reasons why we have welfare secretaries among the executive committee offices in fellowships. Also, the love and family living, built in the environment of the fellowships help to strengthen developmental

capacities of great impact. An example can be seen in the tenure of Kingsley Oboh, who became the Student Union Government (SUG) President after serving in the executive committee of the CU-NIFES as BSS (Bible Study Secretary). His achievements during his tenure are there to speak for him: new hostel, student shuttle services etc. Although, personal development and attitude played a big role in his success, but the role of the fellowship in building some aspects of his leadership skills cannot be overemphasised. In addition, speaking with a fellow student who has also enjoyed his stay in school through the fellowship, he had this to say: “I do not want to talk about the spiritual values of fellowship because it cannot be overemphasized, if I try it, it will be the biggest book ever. Campus fellowship is the security and peace of d

fellowship have great values to impact. Campus fellowship is a youth thing and students are challenged by their mates to be exceptional...” And so many other people will have plenty of good things about their experiences. However, we are not oblivious of the fact that some have abused the opportunity provided by this blessed platform to do all manner of things that are not in conformity with the tenets of the christian faith. Some have seen it as opportunities to establish and become big churches and ministries. At some other times, there have been clash of interests between the academic and religious engagements, and the proliferation of churches happening in town is gradually finding its way into the school, thereby constituting nuisance. But the merits or advantages of campus fellowships are so many, that inhibiting them may cause more harm than

“Campus fellowships are values and human capacity builders. Almost all the activities of the campus fellowship have great values to impact. Campus fellowship is a youth thing and students are challenged by their mates to be exceptional...”

good to the school environment. Measures could be taken to regulate the activities of the fellowships, just as how the Student Union Government comes in when matters that affect the student general welfare are talked about, the organisation of christian body should be strengthened to perform an oversight function with the assistance of the school to curb the

excesses. I believe, the regulation should still be a student thing, because student understands themselves better. But like any other organisation or association formed in the school, the organisation of christian body, Christian Community on Campus (CCC) as it is called in UNIBEN should be accountable to the school as regards her operations, while also having the interests of the christians in the school at heart. The Christian Community and the school have a very symbiotic relationship, for proper development to occur, and it is my sincere prayer that this platform for sustainable development is effectively utilized. My story about the University of Benin will never be complete without mentioning the unquantifiable impact of the CU-NIFES and this is the same thing for those that had wonderful families to fellowship with during their periods in school.

THE SUNDAY

SUNDAY SEPTEMBER 29, 2013

Getafe Sign Caprian Marica GETAFE have signed former Schalke striker Ciprian Marica on a free transfer. Marica, 27, was out of contract and moves to the Primera Division side despite interest from Arsenal, Italian sides Inter Milan and Lazio, as well as his former club Shakhtar Donetsk. Marica’s representative, Ioan

Becali, had said earlier this month that the Romania international was close to joining the Gunners but Arsene Wenger has since said he is happy with the options at his disposal. The deal was confirmed on Getafe’s official website on Friday.

THE Colombian joked that the Blancos defender taught him a lesson in judo during Wednesday night’s Liga encounter at the Martinez Valero Carlos Sanchez has claimed that the penalty awarded against him during Elche’s controversial 2-1 loss to Real Madrid should have been a free kick in his favour, with the midfielder claiming that Pepe nearly took his arm off. The game at the Martinez Valero was tied at 1-1 when referee Cesar Muniz Fernandez caused uproar by firstly penalising Sanchez for an alleged pull on Pepe’s shirt and then dismissing the Colombian. Cristiano Ronaldo converted the subsequent spot-kick to claim all three points for los Blancos but Martinez still cannot believe that the decision did not go in his favour. “No way was it a penalty,” the 27-year-old told AS. “As

the ball was played over, Pepe grabbed onto me then let himself fall, taking me down with him. “I didn’t know very much about Judo before Wednesday night. Now I know a little more about it. Pepe almost took my arm off. I never expected him to do that.” Sanchez was reluctant to publicly criticise Muniz Fernandez’s decision, but he did admit that it sometimes feels that the officials favour the bigger sides. “A lot of things spring to mind but that game is over now and I don’t want to talk any more about the referee,” he stated. “But sometimes you just feel powerless, it shouldn’t be that way. All teams should be treated the same. It only demonstrates that not everything is perfect in football.” Elche will be hoping to pick up their first win of the season when they face Celta on Sunday afternoon.

Pepe Almost Took My Arm - Sanchez

Balotelli Fan Salami In Eye Of The Storm Yet Again

OLD habits die hard and so Mario Balotelli fan Gbolahan Salami has again come under the slammer for a ball boy attack. Salami has been banned for the rest of the Nigeria league season, which ends next month, and has also been fined 100,000 Naira for an incident with a ball boy during an abandoned league match between his club 3SC and Sunshine Stars. The goals and class of the onetime Julius Berger prodigy, who has been capped by Nigeria at U20, Olympic team and B levels, have ensured Shooting Stars stay

up in the top flight for the past two seasons. Salami told MTNFootball.com it was an unfair ruling against him as he did not do anything wrong. “I’m not pleased with the decision of the NFF to ban me for the remaining matches of season especially at a time that my club need me to help move them out of the relegation zone,” he said.

Mario Balotelli

Martino Not Afraid To Rotate Stars BARCELONA’S coach Gerardo Martino insists he was not fazed by Lionel Messi and Neymar’s

reactions to being substituted in Tuesday’s win over Real Sociedad and will continue to rotate his squad for their

JUVENTUS coach Antonio Conte insists that he is taking the threat of Torino seriously ahead of today’s Serie A showdown at the Stadio Olimpico. The reigning champions have made a strong start to the season and currently sit fourth, having won four and drawn one of their five games thus far. The Bianconeri are also unbeaten in the Turin derby for 18 years, but Conte is taking nothing for granted against a Torino side that currently sits eighth in the standings. “We’ve got great respect for them,” the 44-year-old told reporters on the eve of the game. “They’re an excellent side and have good players. “We know the derby is always a different type of game. I remember the year (1994-95) when we won the title but lost both games against Torino. “We know we need to improve but there are also plenty of positives from our start to the season. “It will be tough this year. Whomever we face will try and stop us from playing and make life difficult. “The form book goes out of the window in derby games and we

need to stay on our guard. Anything could happen.” Mirko Vucinic had been expected to miss the derby with a knee injury, but Conte revealed that the Montenegro international could feature against the Granata. “We’ve got one more training session remaining and we’ll make our assessments on the players’ condition,” he explained. “Vucinic has trained and his condition is improving.”

Conte Wary Of Torino Threat

Antonio Conte

benefit. There were reports of a rift growing between Martino and Messi after the Argentine was brought off, but those doubts have since been allayed. Although Martino admitted Messi was disappointed at being taken off, he has no plans to change his tactics and is not afraid to make controversial decisions. When quizzed on his relationship with Messi, Martino said: “I see him as very well. I have no disagreements with him nor comparisons with other seasons, this is the first that I am working with him. “Against Rayo he did not score but for me it was his

best performance. Leo does not like being changed nor does Neymar, Xavi, Cesc and Iniesta. But I was hired to make decisions that relate to the health of the team and the players over the season, so that they are all fit at the decisive stage of the season. “I’m going to do that and I am aware that no-one likes to be taken off, I reflect that and understand. Traditionally it happens with any player, but we are managing the minutes with a view to everything, we cannot divert our attention if we want the full squad in the final stretch.” Martino also detailed his plans for Neymar as he expects the Brazilian to require rest following the next international break. “Since August he is the player, bar Victor Valdes, to have played the most minutes in the team and he has been called up for two friendlies,” Martino added. “If he maintains his current line of recent games with Brazil, he will play a lot. I understand that and must protect him and take care. “At some stage he will have to rest because I do not want him to be exhausted by the end of the season. He has played eight games in 28 days and that’s a lot for anyone, if you are 30, 28 or 21.”

“What was my offense? I did nothing wrong to have deserved this sanction because all I know was that I tried to get the ball which the ball boys were keeping away from us and we were down with a goal. That was all I did and now it has been termed something else. “I would like the committee to revisit their decision because I need to be part of my team for our remaining matches. I did not attack the ball boy for me now to be banned and pay a fine of 100,000 Naira. They should rather try and save my career.” 3SC appeal Salami year ban Salami’s latest travail comes at a time when Shooting Stars are bottom of the league standings and look doomed for the dreaded drop. Shooting Stars goalkeeper Laide Okanlawon has defended Salami and told MTNFootball.com is a very misunderstood player. “He is top player and we can’t afford to lose him in our remaining four matches. He’s a very good player and he has truly changed his ways. It is just that a lot of people don’t seem to really understand him,” said the former Nigeria U17 shot stopper. Shooting Stars die-hard fan Olorunlanbe said Salami is a crowd puller and he should now not be singled out because he admires Mario Balotelli. “He has done nothing to deserve this harsh decision by the NFF. As a fan of the team, I’m not happy that he will not play again this season. He pulls crowds and it should not be because he identifies with Balotelli, he should also be seen as a bad boy,” said the angry fan. ‘Bad Boy’ Salami in hot water 2010 - He is axed for two matches for verbally assaulting his former coach Gbenga Ogunbote during a game between 3SC and Sunshine in Ibadan. 2011 – Salami is banned for a year for attempting to attack a referee during a league game against local rivals Crown FC. The ban was later quashed on appeal. 2012 – He is let go by Shooting

Stars after he is accused of “gross misconduct” against constituted authorities. He will later rejoin the team after he formally apologised and promised to be of good behaviour. 2013 – He is banned for four matches and fined 100,000 Naira for attacking a ball boy during a league game between 3SC and Sunshine Stars.

Osanga Resurfaces In Belgium EX-NIGERIA U20 star Osanga King is trying to get his career back on track in the Belgian second division with White Star Bruxelles. He joined the club this summer from Etoile du Sahel of Tunisia and things are looking bright for the Golden Eaglet Class of 2007. Osanga career has not flourished as expected since he left Nigeria in search of greener pastures in 2012 to Etoile du Sahel, but he is now back on track in Belgium. The Jos-born winger has played four games in the league for White Star Bruxelles, started one and the rest as a substitute. The diminutive winger had a most forgettable experience with French club Sochaux last season as he failed to make his debut and had to settle for four appearances on the subs’ bench. The former Akwa United and Nasarawa United player has represented Nigeria at U-17 and U-20 level. He has played for Etoile du Sahel in Tunisia, Al Nasr Benghazi of Libya, Heartland as well as Sochaux.

Osanga King

Kalou Open To EPL Return SALOMON Kalou says is considering a return to the Premier League, despite revealing he turned down an offer to join West Ham in the summer. The former Chelsea forward was strongly backed to join West Ham in the summer, but he chose to remain at French club Lille for another season. Although Kalou has three years remaining on his current contract, the Ivory Coast international is likely to move abroad at the end of the season and suggested England would be his next destination.

Salomon Kalou

THE SUNDAY

SUNDAY SEPTEMBER 29, 2013

Tennis: Kvitova

CZECH Petra Kvitova overcame a second set meltdown to dispatch Angelique Kerber 6-2 0-6 6-3 in the final of the Pan Pacific Open in Tokyo yesterday to claim her 11th WTA tour title. focus on today. I just want to The 2011 Wimbledon enjoy.” champion sealed victory on The match up between the her fourth match point when duo, who both ousted former Kerber could only find the net world number ones in the last after the Czech lefthander had four, was the first all-left forced her back with a handed WTA final since 2009 customary deep forehand. and first in 20 years at a It was Kvitova’s second ‘Premier’ level. WTA title of the year Seventh seed Kvitova, 23, following her success in made a fast start by using her Dubai in February and the win bludgeoning ground strokes to is expected to move her up wrap up the opener 6-2 before from 11th to seventh in the the momentum shifted heavily rankings as she closes in on a in favour of the German. spot at the WTA Kerber, 25, began to find her Championships in Istanbul range and broke Kvitova three next month. times in the second set to level “It’s always a great feeling the contest but was unable to if you win a title at a carry that momentum into the tournament. It means a lot for decider. me. I’m glad I have some The German, seeded five in points toward the Tokyo and ranked ninth in the Championships,” Kvitova world, double faulted to hand said after her win at the Kvitova a key break in the $2,369,000 (£1,466,000) hard second game of the third set court tournament. as the Czech raced into a 4-0 “I still have some lead after another booming tournaments left but I want to forehand gave her a second

Berdych Eyes First Title Of 2013 In Bangkoko

TOMAS Berdych closed in on his first title of the year when he rallied from a set down to beat Gilles Simon in their Thailand Open semi-final yesterday. Berdych, the only member of the world’s top 10 without a title this year, lost an openingset tie-break against the Frenchman but recovered to

Tomas Berdych

win 6-7(5) 6-2 7-5 in Bangkok. The Czech served 20 aces in the near three-hour contest and will need to serve well again on Sunday against Canadian powerhouse Milos Raonic who beat defending champion Richard Gasquet 3-6 7-5 6-4. Having worked his way to the brink of victory against Simon, who had won their last three encounters, Berdych stumbled when serving for the match, going 0-40 down. He got the benefit of a tight line call at 30-40 and went on to complete victory in a touch under three hours. Raonic is bidding for his second title this year and a strong end to the season could put him in the frame for a place in the ATP World Tour finals. World number six Berdych is already well-placed to qualify.

Down Kerber To Win Tokyo Title

break. But Kerber refused to give

Luiz Felipe Scolari who led the 2002 vintage which included Ronaldinho to glory in Japan. But the veteran is keen to add

“I was just lucky I did a good job at the end,” Kvitova said. “Of course, I was feeling a little bit tired. Angie came back in the match and I just tried to focus on the point at hand.”

Petra Kvitova (left) of Czech Republic and Angelique Keber of Germany pose with their trophies after Tokyo final

Racial Prejudice Forcing Me Out Of England - Campbell

EX-ENGLAND and Arsenal star Sol Campbell believes racial prejudice will force him to start his coaching career abroad. The former defender, who won 73 England caps from 1996 to 2007, said “archaic” attitudes towards black player mean he will have to go overseas when he completes his coaching qualifications. Campbell, who retired from playing last year, told The Guardian: “I want to start abroad. “There are no opportunities for me here, not until attitudes change anyway. Everyone has to ask themselves why there are not more black managers in this country and why the likes of

Ronaldinho’s World Cup Hopes In VETERAN Brazilian a major club honour having in Ronaldinho’s hopes of playing in Balance July already helped Atletico to December’s Club World Cup are in the balance after he picked up a thigh injury in training, his club Atletico Mineiro said Friday. Club doctor Rodrigo Lasmar told reporters the 2002 world champion had suffered the injury on Thursday and an IRM showed a torn muscle. However, he expessed hope that the 33-year-old would return in time for the December event in Morocco. “We must be careful in talking about time frames when it comes to a muscle injury — it depends much on the player,” Globo Sports quoted Lasmar as saying. “It is a serious injury and the recovery time is not short. He could be back in three months, three and a half, two and a half. “I think it is possible he will play the World championship.” The former Barcelona star is unlikely to make next June’s Brazil World Cup squad under

up and she broke back in the fifth game when Kvitova netted a backhand and then

held serve to make it 2-4. However, eventually Kvitova’s power and accuracy told as her forehand came up trumps after being to blame on the three previous match points.

their first Libertadores title at the expense of Paraygauan threetimes champions Olimpia.

Ronaldinho

Brian Deane have to go abroad (to Sarpsborg in Norway) to get a chance. “I’ve spoken to other black players who want to coach and they feel the same, that attitudes here are archaic. I hope and pray the environment changes.”

Ukraine To Play Behind Closed Door FIFA has ordered Ukraine to play their next World Cup qualifier in an empty stadium after their fans hurled racist abuse during a match against San Marino. FIFA said in a statement Friday that “several racist and discriminatory incidents were apparently perpetrated by local supporters during the match, in particular by displaying neo-Nazi banners and by making ‘monkey noises and gestures’ as well as Nazi salutes.” The sanction means Ukraine will host Poland on Oct. 11 in an empty stadium for a game that could be crucial in deciding the top two spots in Group H, which also includes England. FIFA also said there were “several incidents involving pyrotechnical devices” that violated safety regulations. Ukraine, who won the September 6 match 9-0, was also fined 45,000 Swiss francs (36,800 euro).

Only four of the 92 Football League managers are black – Chris Hughton (Norwich), Chris Powell (Charlton). Paul Ince (Blackpool) and Chris Kiwomya (Notts County) – a ratio that pales in comparison to the number of black players. However studies suggest the problem is not limited to England. A November 2012 study by Sporting Intelligence showed that Hughton was the only black top-flight manager in Europe’s five biggest leagues – England, Spain, Italy, Germany and France.

Campbell went on to criticise the FA for not bringing him in to their coaching setup, instead appointing his former defensive colleague Gary Neville to Roy Hodgson’s England staff. He said: “I gave my heart and soul for the national team but the FA were not there for me when I had problems. “Even after that, I still wanted to do something with the England setup, and they said they were interested, but the interest went cold. Suddenly, Gary Neville pops up as assistant manager. “It’s obvious they want nice people who won’t cause them any problems. I put out an olive branch and it got broken, but whatever, I’m ready to move on.”

Hackers Stole Over £50,000 From Gascoigne PAUL Gascoigne has claimed thieves stole up to £50,000 after hacking into his bank account. The former England football star said his account was hit 23 times in two days. Gascoigne said he knew who had taken the money but did not know exactly how much had gone, valuing the loss at between £9,000 and £50,000. Speaking outside his home in Bournemouth, Gascoigne told The Sun: “I know who did it. I know how it f****** happened, there were 23 hits in f****** two days. It was quite a lot of money. “It wasn’t that much. F*** knows. I don’t know. Website, internet, I’ve not got a clue.” The 46-year-old was once worth a reported £14 million, but avoided bankruptcy in 2011 after agreeing an out-of-court deal over an unpaid £32,000 tax bill. Gascoigne, who has publicly

battled alcoholism, recently relapsed after several sober months following a spell in rehab earlier this year. He was apparently pictured drinking gin in an off-licence in July, and this month was seen stumbling around an betting shop. Ealier this week he told an ITV documentary: “I hope I don’t die through it (drink), because I won’t get any sympathy because, well, he was warned. “I know probably in the future I am going to drink again. I just don’t know why I f***ing pick up the drink.” Gascoigne, widely acknowledged as the most talented English player of his generation, won 57 England caps between 1988 and 1998. His clubs included Newcastle United, Tottenham Hotspur, Lazio, Rangers, Middlesbrough and Everton.

THE SUNDAY

SUNDAY SEPTEMBER 29, 2013

Ref Boycott Averted

B/Ball Growth In Nigeria Depends On Encouragement

A boycott of Nigeria league matches planned for today has been averted, officials have informed MTNFootball.com Nigeria Referees Association (NRA) chairman Ahmed Maude told MTNFootball.com there was an issue, but they have resolved it with the league body. There was an issue no doubt, but we have resolved it. We will officiate the league till the last game,” Maude told MTNFootball.com “I must say kudos to my referees for doing wonderfully well this season, as you can see on the league table, no team is sure of winning the league or escaping relegation. That is why we told LMC our mind.” League Management Company (LMC) top official Salihu Abubakar told MTNFootball.com they have reached an agreement with the referees. “There was issue but we have talked about it and settled it, so no problems,” Abubakar disclosed. A referee who does not want his name in print told MTNFootball.com that they

- Awonuga

DELE Awonuga, the Coordinator, Del Basketball Academy, yesterday said that the future of the sport in the country depended on how much the youth were encouraged in their teens. Awonuga disclosed this to newsmen at the end of the Del Academy’s three-day clinic tagged: “Its In You,’’ held at the Mobolaji Sports Centre, Yaba. According to him, the clinic was organised to discover new talents from ages nine to 16 and expose them to the fundamentals and the prospects of the game. “Developing kids through basketball has always been our motive at the Del Basketball Academy. “We have a desire to develop kids through basketball; we go to their schools and try to encourage them by inviting them to come to our camps, where they can learn the game. “We look for kids that have the prospects of growing very tall and try to engage them on how Bolaji Abdullahi, Sports Minister basketball can transform their lives,’’ he said. The coordinator added that academy also teaches children good morals and cautions them against bad and unproductive issues that could cause them to derail. “We are an organisation that focuses primarily on developing the child and transforming them to responsible adults. We are THE Minister of Sports, Bolaji Abdullahi, on Friday in Ilorin charged supported by internationallybased companies like the Nigerian youths to fully utilise sports’ advantages to develop themselves Germany-based VEF RIGE and physically and economically. 2000-Europe. which was aimed at developing Abdullahi, who was “They kit our over 100 players talents at the grassroots. in camp with sportswear and we represented by Caleb Gidado, a He then called for such also have the support of the Director in the National Sports attention to be given to other Lagos-based ‘Samaritan Feet,’ Commission (NSC), gave the sports. who gave us 13 sporting shoes for charge at the finals of the NorthKazeem said the AllCentral Zone U-15 Badminton this year’s edition. Secondary Schools Volleyball “The Lagos State Basketball Championships. Competition would hold in “The Federal Government will Association (LSBBA) has also November in Ilorin while the continue to provide an enabling been of great support by Omolewa Ahmed Table Tennis providing us, free of charge, the environment for Nigerians to tournament would come up in use of the basketball courts at the exhibit their talents, especially in October. Mobolaji Johnson Sports Hall,’’ the area of sports,’’ the minister Reports say that Olalekan who is also the NSC chairman he said. Titiloye and Zainab Alabi Reports say that resources said. respectively emerged Also speaking, the Kwara person at this year’s event were champions of the boys singles Gbade Olatona, Bolaji Fashola Commissioner for Sports and and girls singles events at the Youth Development, Hajia and Abimbola Faniran from the badminton championships. Lagos State Basketball Ramat Adesina-Abaya, charged Titiloye beat Moses Babalola Association and the Nigerian athletes to shun doping as it could in two straight sets to emerge ruin their career. Basketball Federation. the boys singles champion, In his own speech, the state Also present were George while Alabi defeated Teniola Befeore from the Zion Academy Director of Sports, Tunde Babalola also in two straight and Yemi Latona from Youth Kazeem, praised the NSC for sets to emerge the girls singles organising the championship, Alive.

Minister Urges Youths To Fully Utilize Sports Advantage champion. The boys doubles event was won by the pair of Taiye and Kehinde Adebayo, while Alabi paired with Teniola Babalola to win the girls doubles event. Newsmen report that more

than 90 players from Kwara, Benue, Niger and Kogi participated in the three-day championship held at the Indoor Sports Hall of the Kwara State Stadium.

Athletics Association, said yesterday that the state was determined to emerge winners of the maiden National Youth Games, scheduled for Abuja, from December 5 to December 15. Abiodun told newsmen in Lagos that the state would be featuring not less than 128 athletes during the Games. He expressed their readiness, stressing that the possibility of finishing tops was achievable because of the quality of athletes currently at their disposal.

“We are ready for the Games. What we are doing at the moment is building up the intensity of our training by working on the technical areas. “We have selected the bulk of the athletes we will need for the Games and the number we have will be good enough to achieve our objective. “Our target is to come out as overall winners. I believe it can be achieved because we’ve assembled some of the best youths for the Games,” he said. Abiodun, however, noted that the state’s overall objective was

D’Tigress was too far to give up and won two quarters in the second half, and posted an 18-17 scoreline in the third period. The team, however, fell 23-28 in the final quarter, which turned out as the decider. Some of the pundits said that D’Tigress had fallen in Maputo because the expectations were not properly set, and the team was hurriedly put together. Former national team coach, Ganiu Otenigbagbe, praised the Scot Nnaji-led team and charged the Nigeria Basketball Federation (NBBF) to consider the female team as well. “A little attention was given to the women’s team, as compared to the men’s team. The men’s team had several camps in Lagos and Abuja. “They also played international

competitions in China, Europe and in the U.S., in preparation for their Afrobasket Championship earlier staged in Abidjan. “The question is why was the female team not given the same treatment, for them to be able to prove themselves?’’ he noted. Coach Chris Okoh of Union Bank of Lagos, said that D’Tigress should not be blamed because the game of basketball in nature was a team game and not an individualised one. “The time frame the team had to prepare and blend as a team was too short, hence we should see this as what led to their defeat in Maputo,’’ he said. Coach Sina Wahab of the Lagos Islanders, said that it was a painful loss, considering how the team tried hard to win and lost in the final minutes of the

Pillars Appeal Enyimba Decision

KANO Pillars have announced they will appeal against a decision to award title rivals Enyimba their abandoned Week 31 match. On Thursday, the organising and disciplinary committee (O&D) of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) awarded Enyimba three points and three goals after their away match at Kano Pillars was abandoned after crowd trouble. NFF O&D also banished Kano Pillars to Lokoja for the remainder of the season and they will also pay a fine of two million naira. . Media officer of Pillars, Idris Malikawa, told MTNFootball.com they will appeal the decision. “We have received the NFF O&D verdict. It is obvious we are going to appeal the verdict because it was very harsh on us. And we believe the appeal committee will give us justice,” Malikawa said.

Kwara To Emerge Overall Winners JOHNSON Abiodun, the Head Coach, Kwara State Of Maiden Youth Games

D’Tigress 2013 Afrobasket Loss, Another game. BASKETBALL pundits in “It is very unfortunate, the Lagos on Saturday blamed the Lesson For Nigeria team almost achieved a semifinal elimination of the national female basketball team, D’Tigress’, in the quarterfinal of the ongoing 2013 AfroBasket championship in Maputo, Mozambique, as a lesson. They said it would teach Nigerian sports administrators the essence of early preparation of their teams and athletes for international competitions. The pundits disclosed this to newsmen while reacting to the team’s 74-77 quarterfinal ouster in the hands of hosts, Mozambique’s women’s national team on Friday. Newsmen report that although D’Tigress had surprised their opponents with an 18-13 lead, the Mozambique team came up strong in the second frame. They recorded a 24-10 scoreline against D’Tigress in the first quarter.

wanted to boycott the league because they are been neglected by LMC. “Actually we wanted to stop officiating from the next game to tell LMC our mind, we are the ones at the receiving end at match venues, being harassed, molested and beaten up by fans. And at the end LMC will ask the team to pay hefty fines with nothing getting to us the referees.”

ticket; they should be commended for their efforts, given the circumstance that they were hurriedly put together,’’ he said. Geoge Befeore, the Proprietor, Zion Basketball Club, however, decried the loss, saying that the team was relatively not known and not much was expected from them. “The team was not known; they only had a short time together in camp, where they were yet to know themselves as a team, hence we should not blame them. “We were not also unable to assess the team’s competence because the matches were not televised, but this should, however, serve as a lesson for future purposes,’’ he said.

to nurture the athletes, who would re-discover their potentials, for bigger roles in the future. “Although our intention is to finish tops, our overall objective is to monitor the development of these athletes by ensuring that they can move on to higher grounds in future,’’ he said. The coach commended the Vice President of the Athletics Federation of Nigeria, Tunde Abdulkareem, saying that he had been crucial to the progress of the state.

Injury Hit Etuhu Back In Training NIGERIA midfielder Dickson Etuhu has returned to training

Dickson Etuhu

after he was sidelined for eight months by a knee injury. Etuhu returned to training during the week for Blackburn Rovers and Rovers manager Gary Bowyer was delighted to have the hard working midfielder back. “Dickson has been back in training this week, so we are delighted with that. So, we are happy enough with it, it adds competition to the squad,” Bowyer told the club’s official website. Etuhu joined Blackburn Rovers from Fulham in the summer of 2012 for a fee of +1.9 million. He last played for Blackburn December 2012 against Middlesbrough.

THE SUNDAY

SUNDAY SEPTEMBER 29, 2013

Moyes Wants New Deal For Vidic

Agger Returns To Boost Liverpool DANIEL Agger is set to ease Liverpool’s defensive injury problems by returning at Sunderland today. Agger, 28, has been struggling with a rib injury sustained in a gymnasium accident on September 16, the day before Liverpool’s 2-2 Premier League draw at Swansea. The Denmark international missed that game, then struggled through 57 minutes of a 1-0 defeat at home to Southampton last Saturday before sitting out Wednesday night’s Capital One Cup tie at Manchester United. Manager Brendan Rodgers said: “We hope that Daniel Agger will come back into the reckoning. He’s trained over the last couple of days.” Liverpool have suffered with a number of defensive injuries this season — right-back Glen Johnson and left-back Aly Cissokho are both out with ankle trouble. And Jose Enrique, the firstchoice left-back ahead of Cissokho, has had to manage a knee problem this season. In addition, centre-back Kolo Toure missed the 1-0 Premier League victory over Manchester

My Liverpool Career Is Over - Reina PEPE Reina has told the Daily Mail that he is resigned to the fact he is unlikely to ever play for Liverpool again after being loaned out to Serie A outfit Napoli. Reina signed a season-long loan deal with Rafael Benitez’s side and has featured prominently for the Partenopei — a contrast to what he could have expected at Anfield following the summer signing of Simon Mignolet. Although Benitez is likely to request a permanent contract for Reina, the Spain international expressed his disappointment at the realisation his Liverpool career could be over. When asked if he expects to play for the Reds again, Reina said: “No. At the moment it’s difficult to think about being a Liverpool player next year. They have a young goalkeeper in Simon Mignolet and the manager prefers him to me. That’s the reason why I’m here and he will be at the club next year as well. “There’s no reason to think I’ll be a Liverpool player from now on but we’ll see where the future takes us. It’s been a good move so far and I don’t regret what happened. I would have preferred to say goodbye in a different way.” The 31-year-old begrundingly spoke of his swift exit from Liverpool and revealed he wasn’t consulted by Brendan Rodgers about the move until terms were already agreed. “It did come as a surprise,” Reina added. “It was the club [Liverpool] who made the move. I was on my holidays and nobody told me anything. Suddenly Napoli called and said they were agreeing terms with Liverpool and Liverpool just rang me two days later and said the same. They probably had their own reasons.”

United on September 1 with a groin strain, although he has since recovered. All those injuries have forced Rodgers into a number of defensive reshuffles this season, giving Martin Skrtel a run at centre-back. The 28-year-old, who lost his place to Jamie Carragher last January, was behind Toure and Agger in the pecking order at the start of the season. But with Toure shifted to rightback to cover for Johnson’s absence, the Slovakia international has started each of Liverpool’s last four games — including the 1-0 cup defeat at Old Trafford on Wednesday. Rodgers said: “I thought Martin was brilliant the other night. I called him into the office the other morning just to recognise him for his excellent performance.” Skrtel has had to adjust his game to cope with the possession-based style of football introduced by Rodgers since he replaced Kenny Dalglish in the summer of 2012.

Chelsea’s Spanish Striker, Fernando Torres (right) is shown the red card for a second bookable offence during their premier league match at Tottenham yesterday.

Torres Sees Red As Chelsea, Spurs Draw

THE first managerial meeting between former colleagues Jose Mourinho and Andre Villas-Boas ended in stalemate yesterday as Chelsea drew 1-1 at Tottenham Hotspur in the Premier League. the visitors fresh impetus, Spurs manager Villas-Boas however, and the Spain saw his side take a first-half lead midfielder teed up the equaliser through Gylfi Sigurdsson, but in in the 65th minute with an a frenetic and keenly contested inswinging free-kick that was second half, Chelsea equalised headed home by Terry. through John Terry before Torres played a key role in having Fernando Torres sent off. Chelsea’s second-half revival, The point nudged Spurs above but having earlier appeared to Arsenal at the top of the table, scratch Jan Vertonghen in an offwhile Chelsea climbed one place the-ball incident, he was sent off to third ahead of the rest of the in the 81st minute after being weekend programme. shown a second yellow card for Icelandic midfielder leading with his arm in a Sigurdsson gave Spurs a 19thchallenge on the same player. minute lead at White Hart Lane Sigurdsson and Jermain Defoe when he rode a challenge from both went close to claiming a late the sprawling Terry to gather winner for Spurs, but VillasRoberto Soldado’s lay-off before Boas was denied a victory over steering the ball past Petr Cech. his former mentor at Porto, Mourinho’s half-time Chelsea and Inter Milan. introduction of Juan Mata gave

A week on from their 4-1 derby humiliation at Manchester City, champions Manchester United will hope to return to winning ways at home to West Bromwich Albion later on Saturday. Fourth-place City visit Aston Villa, having followed up their rout of United by putting five unanswered goals past second-

tier Wigan Athletic in the League Cup in mid-week. Arsenal, meanwhile, will have their eyes on reclaiming top spot from Tottenham when they visit Swansea City in the tea-time game. Southampton, who began the weekend in seventh place, host Crystal Palace, Cardiff City visit Fulham, and Hull City are at home to West Ham United.

MANCHESTER United veteran Ryan Giggs says he is trying to keep quiet about his impending 40th birthday, for fear of becoming the butt of changing-room jokes.

Giggs reaches the milestone in November and is set to become only the fourth outfield player aged over 40 to appear in the Premier League after Gordon

Giggs Keeping 40th Birthday Under Wraps

Sunday Pools GuideIn Week 12Race Chelsea Lose Ground Title

Brentford, Walsall For “X” Says DR. J.K. POOLS

A thorough examination of this week 12 matches scheduled to be played on 5th and 6th October, 2013, I have soft spot for an “X” between these two encounters. Brentford vs. Rotherham and Walshall vs. Bradford C both in League Division one. They are Number 21 and 31. In the same vain,Bury vs. Newport at 34 and Scuntrope vs. Chelteham at 40 for an “X”. In summary, number 21, 31, 34 and 40 for at least two draws. Scanning through the whole fixtures of this week. I predict at least a dozen of draw. A look at the premiership, Tottenham vs. Westham at number 8 and Southam vs. Swansea at 6 for one draw. A visit to the championship, Bourmouth vs. Millwall at 10, Doncaster vs. Leicester at 15 and Sheffwed vs. Ipswich at 20 for one draw. In Division one, Brentford vs. Rotherham at 21, Shrewbury vs. Carlisle at 28, Stevenage vs.Covenry at 29 and Walsall vs. Bradford C at 31 for two draws. A visit to English Division two, I fancy about three draws. the most likely draws are those at Bury vs. Newport at 34, Exeter vs. Plymouth at 35, Scuntrope vs. Chetenham at 40 and Wycombe vs.

DAVID Moyes is keen for Manchester United to give Nemanja Vidic a new contract and has described his captain as the finest central defender he has coached. Vidic’s current deal, which was signed in 2010, expires next summer but manager Moyes wants to keep the 31-year-old at Old Trafford for longer. The Serb, who joined United from Spartak Moscow for £7 million in 2006, has made 271 appearances for the Premier League champions, and Moyes believes he can carry on playing at the top level for several more years. He told British daily newspapers: “I didn’t know about Vida’s contract. I have not looked into it yet. I am sure the chief executive and the club will be doing that. “He’s not old. He is a really top centre-half. The best I have worked with, that’s for sure.” Moyes has kept faith with the established central-defensive partnership of Vidic and Rio Ferdinand and has been impressed with them, despite last week’s 4-1 derby defeat to Manchester City. He added: “They are two top centre halves. Vida is probably the best centre half I have ever worked with. He is that good, he really is. “Rio has really impressed me with how fit he has been. He has not missed a day’s training since we have been back. If you took away the City game you are finding it hard to pick faults in any of them.”

Burton A at 42. In the Scottish Division the best inseparable pair of the week is Dundee utd vs Kilmarnock at 44 and Hearts vs Stmirren at 45 All those who want to be happy this season should try as much as possible to keep weekly records of OBSERVER. 07039275802. 8 TREBLE CHANCE 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8.

Tottenham Boumouth Derby Doncaster Brenford Walsall Exeter Scuntrope

vs vs vs vs vs vs vs vs

Westham Millwall Leed Leicester Rotherham Bradford C Newport Cheteham

0-0 0-0 1-1 1-1 2-2 2-2 3-3 3-3

Strachan, Kevin Phillips and former team-mate Teddy Sheringham. “Apparently 40 is the new 30, so I am looking forward to it,” Giggs told the United match-day programme ahead of Saturday’s home game with West Bromwich Albion. “I know it is quite daunting for some people, but you just have to embrace it, not worry too much about it and just enjoy yourself. I’ve never really put too much stock in my age — to me it is more about how you feel and I feel pretty good at the moment. “That said, I might try and keep my birthday a secret from all the lads when it comes round. That might prove tough though.”

3 HOT PAIRS (A) 21 - 31

(B) 14

- 15

Good luck, says Dr. J. K. Pools Box; 34, Irrua Opposite Police Station Irrua, Edo State.

Ryan Giggs

THE SUNDAY

CMYK

SUNDAY SEPTEMBER 29, 2013

Security Agencies Must Maintain Unity - Army Chief

L-R: Members, Tiv Professional Women Initiatives, Mrs. Dorcas Ajikwa; Mrs. Annas Shaoba; Secretary, Mrs. Grace Aondoakaa; President, Mrs. Shom Ashilumun and Mrs. Msurshima Kighier, presenting a package for Donors to the Donor Care Manager, National Blood Transfusion Service, Mrs. Jane Akubuiro (3rd right) in Abuja recently.

MAJ.-GEN Ahmed Jibrin, the General Officer Commanding, 2 Division, Nigerian Army, Odogbo, Ibadan, says security agencies have the responsibility of maintaining unity in the country. Jibrin spoke after the quarterly joint route march organised by the Division in collaboration with other security agencies within Ibadan metropolis. He said the exercise was aimed at maintaining physical fitness and fostering unity of purpose between security organisations in the state. Jibrin said security agencies were the main symbol of unity in the country, adding that the current fight against

ASUP Wants NASS To Fast Track Polytechnic Amendment Act

THE Academic Staff Union of Polytechnics (ASUP) has called on the National Assembly to fast track the amendment of the Polytechnic Act to meet modern reality. The ASUP National President, Mr Chibuzor Asomugha, made the call at the weekend at its 75th National Executive Council meeting at the Federal Polytechnic, Bida, Niger. He said that the last amendment was done in 2004, adding that it had become obsolete and unusable to meet the challenges of the times. The president said the House

of Representative had conducted public hearing on the amendment, adding that it should be sent to the Senate. Asomugha said government had to face reality and understand that working under pressure would not help the tertiary sector. “Government had objective at the onset for polytechnic education but attention is not

A DIETICIAN, Ms Yemisi Olowookere said that the adoption of a healthy lifestyle could control high blood pressure, which could cause damage to the veins and arteries. Olowookere told reporters in Abuja that the repair of the damage caused by high blood pressure could not be perfect. She said that efforts should be made to avoid anything that could cause plaque buildup in arteries, adding that the range of blood pressure could be used to have a quick picture of one’s health status. Olowookere said that blood pressure was one of the most important measures of ensuring one’s long-term health, adding, therefore, that people should adopt a healthy lifestyle to

avoid developing high blood pressure. “It is important to understand blood pressure and what lifestyle choices one could adopt to keep blood pressure within a safe range. “Blood pressure is the measure of force against the blood vessels, the passages that transport nutrients and keep one alive. “Measurements of blood pressure are reported as two numbers: Systolic pressure, or pressure when your heart is beating and Diastolic pressure, or pressure when your heart is at rest. “Normal blood pressure is when your blood pressure is lower than 120/80mmhg (millimetres of mercury) and hypertension is when your

being paid to the objective set for the sector. “It appears the government has lost sight of its responsibility to the sector. “We are prevailing on the government to develop a will power and return to the part of onset agreement of the polytechnic education,’’ he said. He decried the discrimination against HND graduates in the public service, adding that the demeaning of their career progression was a huge challenge to the sector. Asomugha said out of 15

Life Style Can Control High Blood Pressure - Dietician

blood pressure is 140/90mmhg or above most of the time. “If your blood pressure numbers are 120/80, or higher, but below 140/90, it is called pre-hypertension,’’ she said. Olowookere said that atherosclerosis was the thickening of the arteries to allow smaller passages of blood, which resulted in an increasing blood pressure and blood vessel damage. “Through this arterial damage, high blood pressure can lead to strokes, heart attacks, heart failure, arterial aneurysm and chronic renal failure,’’ she said. Olowookere said that blood pressure could be controlled by maintaining healthy body weight, eating balanced diet and using medication appropriately, if prescribed by a doctor.

issues they tabled before the Minister of Education in 2011, only two had been met partly. This, he said, include the migration of Consolidated Tertiary Institution Salary Structure (CONTISS) 15 which government refuse to release the circular for implementation. He stressed that polytechnics should not be short-change for universities, arguing that the cut of marks for polytechnics should be at par with universities. According to him, there is no different cut of mark in the school certificate for entrance into tertiary institution. “Government should give us a level playing ground to admit students the same time with the universities and the same cut off

marks. “By so doing, people will know that technical education is not for people that are less endowed academically,’’ he said. The chairman said people could be brilliant and pursue technical education to have a place in the development of the nation. “The polytechnic and technical schools are fading away because students don’t want to go because government policies are saying that they should not go there.’’ The ASUP Chairman, Federal Polytechnic Bida chapter, who spoke earlier task the union to ensuring that academic allowances was enshrined in the budget as agreed with the government.

terrorism must be the concern of all security operatives. “ The issue of terrorism is not a normal situation. We must all be stakeholders in the fight against it. Security is everybody’s business,’’ he said. “We thank God we did not record any casualty in this exercise, we must remain on top of all situations in all our dealings, “ Jibrin added. 1,500 security agents participated in the joint march which started at 7.00 a.m. The exercise commenced from the Maj.-Gen John Inienger Sports Complex, Adekunle Fajuyi Cantonment, proceeded through Ojoo and the University of Ibadan gate as well as the Amusment Park and back to Odogbo. The distance covered during the march was 15 kilometres. The agencies that participated included the Nigeria Army, Air force, Navy, NDLEA, Nigerian Customs Service, Nigeria Police, Nigerian Immigration Service and Man’ O War. Others were the National Security and Civil Defence Corps, Nigerian Prisons Service, Federal Road Safety Commission and National Youth Service Corps. Air Commodor Olusesan Idowu, the Commander, Air Force Detachment, Ibadan, and the Deputy Controller of Prisons, Agodi, Ibadan, Mr Sunday Ogungbemi, both lauded the exercise.

Veterinary Doctors Calls For Compulsory Anti-Rabis Vaccination TWO veterinary doctors at the weekend called for compulsory anti-rabies vaccination to reduce the risk of rabies in the country. They made the call in separate interviews with our correspondent in Lagos ahead of 2013 World Rabies Day on Sept. 28. World Rabies Day is an international campaign observed annually to mark the death of Louis Pasteur, who with the collaboration of his colleagues developed the first rabies vaccine.

The theme for 2013 World Rabies Day is “ Rabies: Understand it To Defeat it’’. Dr Tayo Williams, a veterinary doctor at Paws and Claws Veterinary Clinic, Lagos, said that rabies is a deadly disease. “World Rabies Day aims to raise awareness about the impact of rabies on humans and animals. “It is an excellent time to take steps that can help prevent and control rabies. “Rabies is a zoonotic

disease; that means it can be transferred from rabid animals such as dogs to humans. “If a rabid dog bites someone, the person can come down with rabies. “It is viral disease which causes acute encephalitis that is the inflammation of the brain in warm-blooded animals. Rabies is quite sinister. “The rabies virus infects the central nervous system, ultimately causing disease in

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