Weekend observer 11-05-2013 by Nigerian Observer

THE WEEKEND

Weekend

SATURDAY, MAY 11, 2013

PUBLISHED SINCE OCTOBER 6, 1990 • Vol. XI NO. 3,183• SATURDAY, MAY 11, 20 13 • N100.00

WEEKEND DISCOURSE

Strategies For Development 15

Water To Flow At Igueben College Of Educ Soon - Rapid Response THE Managing Director of Edo State Rapid Response Agency, Engr. Mujaidu Dako has expressed satisfaction with the pace of on-going work across the state as the water project at Igueben College of Education reach advance stage. water project at Igueben Speaking during a College of Education will routine inspection of be ready in the next few projects in the state, weeks. Engr. Dako who led While commending management team of the students and manthe Agency to project agement of the institusites assured that the

tion for the enabling environment given for the project to go on, the Rapid Response Agency M.D assured that pumping of water will commence in the next one week, waiting for test run and commissioning. The Bursar of Igueben College of Education, Mr. Dan Ovbiagele who stood in for the Provost Continues on page 4

NOA Rallies Nigerians Against Terrorism THE National Orientation Agency (NOA) yesterday called for a pan

Nigerian alliance against all forms of terrorism in the country. Mr. Mike Omeri, the

MENTAL HEALTH 14

The Problems And Treatment Of Bipolar Disorder

Director-General of the agency, who made the call in a statement in Abuja, said a cohesive disposition was required in the fight against terrorism and violent expression of opinion in all sectors. Omeri said that the fight against terrorism should go beyond the narrow meaning of violent insurgency, adding that such attitudes had been Continues on page 4

PASSING OUT PARADE: L-R: Air Officer Commanding, Training Command, Air Vice Marshal Isyaku Umar, Deputy Governor of Kaduna State, Amb. Nuhu Bajoga and Chief of Policy and Plan, Nigerian Airforce, Air Vice Marshal Akinola Ogunaike, at the passing out parade of recruits of the Military Basic Training Course 30/2013 of Nigerian Airforce in Kaduna yesterday.

FOCUS Court Decision On Peace Corps Of Nigeria

Good For Our Democracy - Page 13

MOMENT OF SCRUTINY

Morality And Political Leadership - Page 5

THE WEEKEND

SATURDAY, MAY 11, 2013

NEWS

CRIME

Police Arrest 4 Over Killing Of Dep Comptroller Of Prison THE Sokoto State Police Command said, it had arrested four suspects over the killing of the Deputy Comptroller of Prisons, Sokoto Central Prison, Alhaji Zaki Gwandu, by gunmen in April. The Commissioner of Police, Alhaji Shuaibu Gambo, told newsmen in Sokoto that, the command was currently interrogating the suspects. “The command would do everything humanly possible to ensure that justice is done and those responsible are prosecuted.” Gambo said three armed

robbery suspects who had been terrorising the people of Sokoto metropolis were also arrested by the command. He said two locally made pistols and some rounds of ammunition were recovered from them. Gambo called for more support and cooperation from members of the public in the fight against criminals in the state. He said the command would continue to solicit for the support of the public in crime prevention in the state because it was a collective responsibility .

Lawyer Demand N26m Compensation For Loss N1.5bn Of Contract A LAWYER, Mr Isaac Imo, has urged an Abuja High Court to compel a businessman, Taiwo Adepoju, to pay him N26 million as compensation for allegedly making him to lose N1.5 billion contract. Imo told the court that Adepoju maliciously locked the door to his office on the day he was supposed to sign the contract. “I am claiming N15 million as consultancy fee which I missed, N10 million as general damages and N1 million as cost of action. I urge the court to compel the defendant to pay me immediately.’’ The plaintiff also requested the court to compel the defendant to tender an unreserved written apology to him for embarrassing him by his action. Imo said the apology should be read and tendered

openly in the presence of all the people who did business in the premises of the complex where he works, on the day the incident took place. Newsmen reports that Imo, a legal consultant to Joevins Global Resources Ltd, was engaged by the company to sell 36 hectares of land for N1.5 billion at Lugbe1 Extension, Abuja. The plaintiff said that Joevins was entitled to N150 million from the contract, while he was entitled to N15 million as consultancy fee. He said that when he got to his office at Plot 106, Ebitu Ukiwe St., Jabi, Abuja, to carry out the transaction, which was his sole business for the day, he was denied access by the defendant who shares the same office premises with him.

Mrs. Itohan Osahon Ogbede, welcome Deaconess (Mrs.) Endurance Odubu, wife of Deputy Governor, Edo State to the Local Government Secretariat, Idogbo, during the swearing-in of Council Supervisors

Insecurity: FG Establishes Army THE Federal Government has begun efforts to establish an army base in Ezillo in Ishielu Local Government Area of Ebonyi as part of measures to stem communal clashes in the area. The state governor, Chief Martin Elechi, announced the measure during a town hall meeting in Abakaliki to mark the end of his thanksgiving visit to the 13 local government areas. It would be recalled that Ezza-Ezillo and Ezillo communities have been engaged in communal clashes

POWA Protest Killing Of Spouse WIVES of policemen killed in Nasarawa State by a militia group took to the streets to protest the murder of their spouses. The Nasarawa State Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), DSP Michael Ada, told newsmen that the protesting women had blocked the Akwanga–Lafia Federal Highway at the Squadron 38 Mopol base axis in Akwanga. According to him, the women are demanding to know what actually happened to their spouses and had called on the government to ensure that justice was done and the killers arrested and brought to book. Adah said the Commissioner of Police, Mr Abayomi Akeremale, had directed the Akwanga Area Commander to appeal to the women to be calm. He said the death of the officers was a big blow not just to the police, but the country at large and assured their spouses that the

police would do all within its power to ensure that the death of the gallant officers was not in vain. According to eye

witnesses held in traffic as a result of the protest, the women, who came out in large number, set fire along the highway with many of them wailing uncontrollably and raining curses.

Base 4 In Ebonyi in the last three years leading to the loss of many lives and property. Elechi said the establishment of an army base in the area would bring peace in the area and forestall future clashes between the two communities. “Shedding of blood is a condemnable act and an abomination against God and humanity. “The army has also concluded plans to establish another regiment in Amasiri in the Afikpo North Local Government Area of the state all in an effort to ensure the security of lives and property of the people. “The two army bases will work in collaboration with the army cantonment in Abakaliki and the 82 Division, Nigeria Army, Enugu,”

Victim Forgives Man Who Injured Him

A man, David Ifedibe, 24, of Jikwoyi Phase 1, who was alleged to have cause grievous hurt on Chukwuma Ohinemelu’s private organ was forgiven by the victim. In an oral application brought before the court, the Prosecutor, Mrs Glory Iheanacho, said the victim told her to inform the court that he had forgiven the accused. “He said that he is a Christian and a child of God. “That he was coming from the sanctuary of God when Ifedibe and his accomplices assaulted him and used an unknown object to cut his private organ,’’ “He said that he is no longer interested in the

case,” Iheanacho told the court. Counsel to the accused Monday Obodoeze told the court that the victim had also contacted him via phone on same issue of forgiveness. The Magistrate, Mrs Hadiza Shagari, said that it was a good thing to have a forgiving spirit. “With both the prosecution and counsel agreeing to the fact that the victim has forgiven the accused, I hereby terminate the FIR. “The accused, David Ifedibe of Jikwoyi Phase 1 is hereby discharged and acquitted. “The police should not ar-

rest him on this same matter without a leave from this court,” she said. During the hearing of the bail application, Counsel to the accused, Obodoeze, had told the court that the victim had since been discharged from hospital. He added that there was, therefore, no need to continue to deny bail to the 24year-old accused. Reports say that during the mentioning of the case on April 15, the prosecutor had opposed bail for the accused. Following Obodoeze’s bail application then, the prosecutor said that the victim was in critical condition at the National Hospital under-

he said. The governor, however, called on the boundary communities of Ebonyi and Cross River states to live harmoniously as brothers and sisters. He used the forum to announce the dissolution of the management committees of the 54 development centres established by the state as the fourth tier of government. He said that the dissolution would take effect from July 31 to enable those who were interested to run elec-

tive positions to participate. “I thank the coordinators for their remarkable achievements. And I must say that some of you are worthy of higher offices. “What is important in governance is service rendered to bring about change in the political, economic and social life of both the government and the people,” the governor said. He thanked Ebonyi people for their support and encouragement for his administration to excel.

Court Adjourns Ikuforiji’s Aide Case To cused persons, Mr. T. A. AN Igbosere High Court in Abdulsalam, Lagos has adjourned till June 25 cross-examined an EFCC Investigating June 25, the corruption trial of Oyebode Atoyebi, an aide to Speaker Adeyemi Ikuforiji of the Lagos State House of Assembly. Atoyebi is standing trial along with Olayinka Sanni, a former Manager of the Intercontinental Bank (now Access Bank), and a company — Sidaw Ventures Ltd. They are facing an eightcount charge bordering on forgery and stealing to the tune of N130 million. It was reports that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) arraigned Atoyebi and Sanni on Febuary 8. They, however, pleaded not guilty, and were granted bail by Justice Deborah Oluwayemi. At the resumed trial of the case, Counsel to the ac-

Officer, Mr Hyacinth Obinna. Obinna told the court that Atoyebi was brought to the EFCC Office on Sept. 23, 2011, and that he made statements willingly. Obinna had earlier told the court that although Atoyebi denied the allegations, the commission discovered original cheques with which the funds were stolen. The EFCC accused Sanni of conspiring with Atoyebi to fraudulently transfer various sums of money from accounts of more than seven customers of the bank to the account of Sidaw Ventures Ltd. The EFCC said that the offences contravened Sections 312, 390 and 516 of the Criminal Law of Lagos State.

THE WEEKEND

SATURDAY, MAY 11, 2013

NEWS We Will Partner With Peace Corps - Agba By TESSY OTENE

INSPECTION: R-L: Edo State Governor, Comrade Adams Oshiomhole, the site Engineer explaining to the Governor on the Ogba Road Construction while the commissioner for Works, Hon. Osarodion Ogie looks on. Photo: CHARITY OZIEGBO-ESERE

THE Hon. Commissioner of Environment and Public Utilities, Prince Clem Abga has said that the Ministry will partner with Peace Corps of Nigeria to ensure that the goals of the corps are attained. Prince Clem Agba stated this during a courtesy visit of the State Commandant of Peace Corps of Nigerian recently to his office. He added that he would always support what is good adding that any group or organisation committed to the development of the state and human capacity building should be encouraged. He, however, thanked them for coming and urged them to liased with the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Major Lawrence Loye Rtd, so as to know how

PGMTF Boss Expresses Disappointment With Petrol Dealers

By ADAMS OYIBOKE

THE Executive Director Petroleum and Gas Monitoring Task Force (PGMTF), Hon. Chris Okaeben has expressed disappointment with petroleum dealers and marketers operating in OviaNorth-East and Ovia South West Local Government Areas of the state, yesterday during his assessment and sensitization tour of filling stations in the areas. He said that stations visited in the areas did not meet the requirements of DPR

and PPMC, stressing that the state government led by Comrade Adams Oshiomhole, is committed and determined to go out on all marketers and dealers who are not ready to obey the rules of the game. “The assessment and sensitization tour to filling stations has not met the average requirement of DPR and PPMC as far as we are concerned”, he said. Some of the petrol stations inspected were

Asgolite Service Station at Iguobazuwa, SOLMIC Filling Station at Okada junction and YOCOIL Petrol and Gas at Usen junction. Meanwhile, the state Task Force has warned petrol dealers and marketers in Ekpoma, Esan-West Local Government against under-dispensing and adulteration of petroleum products in the area. The operation officer, Timothy Osobor gave the warning during the inspec-

Eradication Of Polio Is A Priority DR Bridget Okoeguale, Director of Public Health in the Federal Ministry of Health, has said the ministry’s priority was total eradication of polio in the country. She said that the ministry intended to eradicate polio by limiting occurrence through vaccines and education Okoeguale told newsmen that the ministry also intended to achieve this objective through its National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA). She said that the ministry had embarked on routine and supplemental immunisation activities, campaigns and researches to reduce infectious diseases. According to her, a remark-

- Ministry Of Health able reduction in paralysis has been achieved, adding that the Wild Polio Virus (WPV) and the incidence of measles and other common vaccine -preventable diseases were on the decline. Okoeguale said that a new vaccine against cerebrospinal meningitis had been successfully introduced in the endemic states in the North in collaboration with NPHCDA alliance. She said that the NPHCDA had significantly stepped up its polio eradication drive because of the determination of the Federal Government to interrupt the transmission of WPV in 2013. She said that the agency

had carried out additional Immunisation Plus Days (IPDs) in 2011 and 2012. Okoeguale also said the National Immunisation Coverage Survey (NICS) data from 2011 showed that measles vaccine coverage had reached 63.55 per cent and 53.01 per cent for fullyimmunised children.

tion tour to filling stations to ascertain the level of compliance to government approved pump price. He said though, the cost of supply, distribution and other miscellaneous might be seen as exorbitant to dealers but were not enough to exploit transporters, motorists and other end users to the bone marrow. The operation officer, Timothy Osobor, called on marketers and petroleum dealers in the area to reverse to the approved pump price and shown all illicit deal as those caught would be made to face the music. The Task Force were at Ogala filling station at Iruekpen, Fuma filling station, Mapet Petroleum and Zeek Oil. Also visited were Esosarefe Petrol Station, Monsco filling station and MRS filling station, Market Square, all in Ekpoma.

well as my personal commiseration, to you over the passing on to Glory of your dearly beloved mother, Mrs. Merry Ehanire. “My thoughts and prayers are with you at this very difficult moment of grief, knowing how close you were to her. While we join you to

Witness Disputes 2006 Enumeration Figure For Council At Tribunal MR. Peter Akemu, an indigene of Ekpan in Uvwie Local Government Area (LGA) of Delta, has challenged the population figure credited to the council in the 2006 census. Testifying before Census Tribunal ‘A’ in Abuja, Akemu described the 188,728 declared for the council by the National Population Commission (NPC), as inadequate. Akemu noted that his entire family and some others were left out of the exercise and described the omission as a violation of “our fundamental human rights’’. He told the tribunal that he and some council members, who were not enumerated, protested to the Uvwie General Improvement Union (UGIU), which documented their names. Newsmen report that the union is the socio-cultural wing of the council, charged with ensuring peace and harmony within the area council. It also ensures that the rights of the citizens are not violated.

Akemu told the court that they also protested to the council secretariat, and tendered a list of 195 heads of household not enumerated during the census, before the tribunal. The list was accepted as an exhibit. Akemu told the court that if the 195 heads of household and members of the families were enumerated it would have boosted the figure declared by the commission. “I and my family members were at home throughout the seven days declared by the Federal Government for the 2006 National Population and Household Census, but we did not see the enumerators. “On March 28, 2006, I and some other people, who were not enumerated staged a protest to the Uvwie General Improvement Union, from where we proceeded to the council secretariat and the chairman assured us that we will be enumerated.’’ The Tribunal Chairman, Mr Abraham Yisa, however, adjourned the matter to May 23 for continuation of hearing.

Councillor Commits Victory To God By JOEL CHUKWUAGHONIM/ ODINAKAEZE NNENNA/ EGHWRUDJE PRAISE

THE newly Sworn-in councillor, Action Congress of Nigeria (A.C.N.)

Ward 10 Ekpon in Igueben Local Government Area of Edo State, Mr. John Idehenre, expressed his satisfaction over the conduct of the Local Government election in Edo State. Mr. Idehenre while addressing newsmen said,

Oshiomhole Condoles Senator Daisy Danjuma On remarkable legacy of comGOVERNOR Adams Mom’s Death munity service and most esOshiomhole of Edo State has commiserated with Senator Daisy Danjuma on the death of her mother, Mrs. Merry Ehanire. In a condolence letter, Governor Oshiomhole said “I write to convey the condolences of the people and Government of Edo State, as

the ministry can assist the corps as they solicited. Earlier, the State Commandant of Peace Corps of Nigeria, Patriot Mutairu Habib Odion told the commissioner that the Peace Corps of Nigeria Has embarked upon an alternative employment scheme, leading to the engagement of well over 60, 000 unemployed youth across the length and breadth of the Nation in 28 states, FCT inclusive. Patriot Habib added that the Peace Corps of Nigeria solicit for mutual partnership with the state government and the ministry of environment and public utilities in the area of environment management, sanitation

and fund generation to boost the transformation agenda of the Comrade Governor. The State Commandant noted that they are committed to National creativity, peace and youth development, “we are out with a vision and a mission to train, educate and re-orientate the youth of this nation on their future leadership role in the society, the art of nation building as well as to become good citizens of this country with due respect for constituted authorities, democratic norms and rule of law.” He said. He, however, applauded the State Government for the numerous developments going on in the state.

mourn her departure, we are certain that you will find consolation in the fact that your precious mum had lived a worthy life as a kind, wise and devoted Christian, deserving of celebration. “You must also be proud that she is leaving behind a

pecially the qualities of children she raised, among whom is your good self, a distinguished Senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. “We pray to our Heavenly Father to grant mama eternal rest as a befitting daughter of God. May God also comfort the family has left

that his victory came as a result of the prayers of A.C.N members from grassroots, which God answered. The manifestation of the answered prayers could be seen in the gubernatorial and local election, which he said, will extend to federal level, “for God wants peace and comfort for his children.” The councilor called on the people of Igueben Local Government Area to join hands and co-operate with him and the councillors in Igueben Local Government for the development of the local government area. Mr. Oshiemegbe

Magellan from Ogbe quarters, Ekpon, commended the A.C.N Ward 10 Chairman, Mr. John Idehenre for moving the ward 10 A.C.N political members forward and how he was able to organize all its members during the local government election. He prayed God to add more wisdom to the chairman and councillors of the local government of the state, particularly in Igueben Local Government Area, to pilot the affairs of the local government areas to greater height.

THE WEEKEND

SATURDAY, MAY 11, 2013

N ews Water To Flow At Igueben College Of Ohen Amufi Advises Investors spoke to newsmen at UpContinued from page 1 Against Encroachment Educ Soon per Owina, by Believers during the inspection of the installed overhead tanks, generator and water tap

heads at the various locations of the institution, thanked the State Governor, Comrade Adams Oshiomhole for extending water to the institution. The team was also at the Igueben town borehole project which was handed over to the local government council to run. It is already supplying water to the people. At the Holy Rosary Catholic Church road, Ugbowo, in Benin City, the residents who narrated their ordeal due to the flooding of the road commended the State Rapid Response Agency for the timely intervention. The Parish Priest, Holy Rosary Catholic Church, Ugbowo, Rev. Fr. Augustine Obazee who said the road was very bad to the extent that cars could not pass through. He disclosed that the church had to make representation to the Rapid Response Agency and they went into action. According to him, “the work done at the bad spot is unprecedented and the drainage system perfect. We commend the State Governor, Comrade Adams Oshiomhole for re-

leasing fund for the project which has made the residents happy.” The Rapid Response Agency management team also inspected failed portions that have been rehabilitated at Dumez Road, Obakhavbaye Street, Evbotubu Street, Agho Street Junction, First Eweka Lane by Dumez Road, Wire road, Aiguokhian Street off Technical Road, Isekhere Street between Ibiwe and Obakhavbaye junction, and Omwanruyi Street. Some residents, who

Ministry, Evbutubu, recalled that when it rains in the area, the road was not motorable before the rehabilitation work was carried out by the Rapid Response Agency. In the entourage of the Managing Director was the General Manager, Mr. Festus Edughele, Mrs. Maureen Eradajaye Igho, Secretary of the Agency, Elder Sam Eboigbe, Chief Abraham Jimawo, both directors and Hon. Austin Braimah, Senior Special Assistant on Media.

NOA Rallies Nigerians Against the country. Terrorism The director-general said it grand alliance of interests to was God’s plan to create Ni-

Continued from page 1 displayed in the media, among business owners and political players. He said, “What we are saying is that any manifestation of violent expression of your interest is an insurgency that we must reject”. “Every Nigerian, all men of good, will are called upon to join in the campaign for just, orderly society. We require a

succeed in this fight.” Omeri warned those whose penchant is to politicise chaos, and violent outbreaks around the country to desist from such acts. He said the nation required the cooperation of everybody to find solution to the shedding of innocent blood around

THE executive chairman of Etsako Central Local Government council, Hon Emmanuel Momoh has charged the newly appointed supervisors to be law abiding by shunning crimes and other vices that are inimical to the progress of the local government. The chairman stated this at the council secretariat in Fugar, the administrative headquarters of the local government while swearing-in the supervisory council said they should engage themselves in income generating activities that will improve the living standard of the people as well as fulfill their civic responsibilities to the people. Hon Momoh while congratulating the newly appointed supervisors said their appointment was based on their individual qualities, moral background, intelligent, integrity and absolute loyalty to the great party,

geria and its people with the diversity it had because “therein lies the greatness and the beauty of our nation”. According to him, Nigerians should demonstrate commitment to doing the right things always to realise the greatness in Nigerians.

Actual Age Of Omo N’Oba Should Not Be Stated - Palace By MERCY ONYENWELI/ UTI UDOH THE Omo N’ Oba Uku Akpolokpolo, Oba Erediauwa, Oba of Benin has directed all friends, re-

lations and well-wishers who wishes to congratulate him on his birthday anniversary coming up in June not to state his actual age. In a press statement

Hon. Momoh Charges Supervisory Councillors To Be Law Abiding By LAMAI CASSIUS/ ODINUKAEZE NNENNA/PRAISE EGHWRUDJE/UTI UDOH

THE Chief Priest of Amufi Community along Benin-Agbor road in Ikpoba-Okha Local Government Area of Edo State, Ohen Iyi Ewuare Asenoguan Egharevba has called on developers to utilize their allotted parcels of land in order to avoid encroachment and fast-track development in the community. The Chief Priest, who made the call in the community yesterday, while playing host to some investors in the community said it was not proper for any person to acquire land in the area and abandon it for so long in order to

Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) and urged them to reciprocate the good gesture by applying these attributes to the discharge of their duties as members of the policy making body in the council. The local government boss however expressed gratitude to the state governor, comrade Adams Oshiomhole for his commitment to the sustenance of democracy in the state especially with the conduct of the recent local government election. The chairman while soliciting for their cooperation to move the local government forward, said priority would be given in the areas of health care delivery, promotion of primary education, environmental sanitation and beautification of the local government to make it one of the best local governments in the state. “As the local government cannot wait for the state and federal government allocation alone, charged the supervisors to embark

on aggressive internal revenue generation to ensure the on-going projects in the local government are completed” he concluded. Responding on behalf of others, the supervisor for Health, Mr. Aludo Emmanuel thanked the chairman for the opportunity given them to serve in his cabinet, Promised their hundred per cent loyalty to the chairman and the party and to ensure they reciprocate the gesture. He said to whom much is given, much is expected, and that the supervisors will work with the chairman as a team to see that the local government is taking to the next level. Among the supervisors sworn-in by the chairman include, Mr. Okauso Felix Musa as supervisor for Information, Youth and sport, Mr. Oregbemhe Inakhu John for Works, Mr. Ogboanor Oshionor Anthony for Agriculture, Miss Ibrahim Sefiyyat, Education and Mr. Aludo Emmanuel for health.

signed by the secretary to the palace on behalf of the Oba of Benin, O. Oronsaye Guobadia said the actual age of the Oba should not be stated in either greeting card, print and electronic media, they should simply wish him happy birthday. The Oba further prayed God Almighty and his ancestors to richly bless all who will be celebrating with him on his birthday.

avoid encroachment by greedy developers. He enjoined the investors to save the community of stress and inconveniences, particularly in the areas of settling boundary disputes between developers, as the community was focused in bringing more investors to the area, even as he assured them of adequate protection. The Priest further told the people that he would rise above pettiness and distractions and bring about the desired unity and development to the community that had never been seen before in the locality. He therefore called on all sons and daughters of the community to cultivate the spirit of unity and allow peace to reign in the area, as he was prepared to make sacrifices to bring about peace among the inhabitants. According to him, ‘l wants to appeal to my brothers and sisters sitting on the fence and foment-

ing trouble in the community to sheathe their dagger and join me to develop the community’. He noted that development does not thrive in community devoid of peace, and urged every one of them for ponder over the need to sustainable peace, which he said is the current watchword in the community. The Ohen however, promised to use his influence to attract investors, government and publicspirited individuals to the community for rapid development.

Chief Priest Ohen Iyi Ewuare Asenoguan Egharevba

Jesus Breeds Ministries Int’l Inc Holds National Women’s Convention THE National Women’s Convention 2013, of Jesus Breeds Ministries, has kicked-off in Benin City. The Convention, which started on Wednesday, May 8, 2013 and will be roundedoff tomorrow, Sunday, May 12, 2013, is holding at the main auditorium of the church along 4 – 16 Osayi Street, off Ewah Road, Benin City. According to the programme of event, Pastor Omo Oni and Evangelist

(Mrs.) E.O. Osewengie are speakers at the Convention whose theme is: “A new thing”.

Rt Rev. (Dr.) Omoruyi Okundaye JP

FRSC Carries Out Assessment By NDIDI OJIEH Tour Of Burrow AS part of measures to der safety standards. During the tour, it was obensure that Tipper Drivers Responding, the Chairman served that Pit the level of comOperating in Edo State carry of Edo State Tipper Drivers out their business in accordance with safety standard, the Zonal Command of the Federal Road Safety Commission (Zonal Rs5) has carried out an assessment tour of burrow pits in the state. The assessment tour was sequel to a recent warning by the FRSC Zonal Commander, Assistance Corps Marshal, Wole Olaniran, on the dangers of conveying sand by tipper drivers without covering them properly, dumping of sand along the Benin-Sapele by-pass and the illegal dumping of refuse along major high-ways in the state. The tour which took the team to the Okhuae Burrow pit on the Benin-Agbor Road was conducted by Assistant Corps Commander Ben Chukwu alongside officials of Edo State Tipper Drivers Association.

pliance was high. It was revealed that the Edo Tipper Drivers Association has a monitoring team which checkmates the activities of the drivers with a view to ensuring compliance of the existing order. Speaking shortly after the tour, the representative of the FRSC Zonal Commander, A.C.C. Ben Chukwu, commended the leadership of the Edo Tipper Association for their high level of compliance and entrenching sanity in tipper driving operation in the state. He said the FRSC was concerned with the safety of lives on the road, adding that road crashes could be avoided or minimized when major road users adhere to stringent traffic rules. He said the Commission would continue to monitor the activities of tipper drivers to ensure that they operate un-

Association, Comrade Godwin Omoigiomwan thanked the FRSC for working hard to ensure safety on the roads. Comrade Omoigionwan pledged that the Edo State Tipper Drivers Association will continue to partner with all relevant agencies in the task of promoting safety on the roads. He disclosed that as a measure to entrench sanity in their operations, the Association has set up a disciplinary committee which sanction any tipper driver found wanting. Similarly, the St. Savior branch Chairman, Comrade Edigen Francis and the state Vice Chairman Comrade Friday Ighede said in separate interviews with our reporter that member of the Tipper Drivers Association have demonstrated high level of compliance to all safety rules.

THE WEEKEND

SATURDAY, MAY 11, 2013

THE term “moral” is used to indicate a particular problem in such circumstance as it relates to leadership either by an indi-

and established the culture of corruption in the nation’s psyche cannot be said to be ignorant individuals. Admittedly Socrates was a great man whose author-

leaders have nothing spiritual and eternal to offer us. They also have nothing temporal of the good life on the plains of the earth to

these days. Our leaders thrives on corruption across board, and they are held in high esteem by the ignorant society in which

Morality And Political Leadership

vidual or group of individuals who are entrusted with the values and sovereignty of any society. Now being trusted with certain rights and privileges also indicates certain responsibilities, duties and obligations which the individual or groups of individuals cannot shy away from. A question certainly arises here as one takes a reflective glance at the general scheme of things as it relates to the issue of morality among especially political leaders in Nigeria and Africa in general. And the question is if there are certain ways, attitudes, principles, concepts, ideals and ideas which the individual or group of individuals ought to believe and follow, or there are other ways in which they ought not to behave and follow? According to Socrates the great Greek philosopher of old, ignorance stems from wrong doing. For no man who knows what is wrong would do it, for no one does evil knowingly. Virtue, good and positive action arises from knowledge, while wrong doing is the result of ignorance. In sharp contrast to Socrates idealism, most Nigerian leaders both military and civilian regimes have constituted the culture of nauseating corruption into the nation’s life. Nigerian leaders who have looted the nation’s treasury

ity has robbed off the European mind. It is hardly expected for a European or an American leader or leaders to ever commit any singular act of corruption. They are known for their constancy, and would never do what is wrong, when they know what is right. This is in stark reality to what is obtained in Africa, home of the black race. African leaders, particularly Nigerian leaders are forever hell bent on doing evil even when they know too well that what they are doing is wrong and evil and yet choose to carry on doing it. It is ironic that most of Nigerian leaders professes to be religious, either Christians or Moslems, yet their various religions shun with absolute disdain such vices as materialism, corruption, lies, stealing injustices, oppression, suppression and all other acts of wrong doing and evil which are regarded as “sinful” acts. But these leaders undermining these injunctions just carry on with their evil manipulation, caring less of their sinful acts. For them is do what I say, and not what I do. Most of our leaders are deceivers, liars, charlatans, thieves and rogues, who would simply pretend to be saints, whereas they are nothing but hypocrites. In Nigeria, in Africa our

offer us except eternal suffering. In civilized climes world wide it is the government that embodies and exemplifies morality and moral authority, not the family nor the churches. For many decades or leaders have continually misled us, misdirected us, misruled us, misgoverned us, abused

we dwell. It is not surprising that the honest, the upright and patriotic citizens would find life rather very difficult in a country like Nigeria which is a corrupt and morally bankrupt nation, devoid of all that is good and uplifting to humanity. It is not surprising that in morally and corrupt society

advantage and not the benefit of the society or public good”. And Justice Akanbi warned thus “in the process (corruption) there is general discretion of societal and normative values, low level performance in both socio-economic and technological development and ultimately a putrefy-

Goodluck Jonathan

Tambuwal

us, suppressed us and repressed us. It seems most strange to me that wrong doing, evil and sinful acts are quite natural to our leaders in Africa. Think of such man as Idi Amin of Uganda, Sani Abacha, Samuel Doe, Mobutu Sesesekou and so on and so forth. In Nigeria, the tales of corruption is all encompassing

indicted ex-governors, ministers and party officials have remained the power brokers in the country, wondering how the war against corruption would work under their influence. As a former chairman of the Independent Corrupt Practices and other Related Offence Commission (ICPC), Justice Akanbi is

that Nigeria is, the moral crusaders, the human rights activist, the reformers, would be unpopular, hated and deprived, while the evil ones are regarded and praised for their ability to commit wrongful acts of misanthropy. Recently, “Justice Mustapha Akanbi, retired President of the Court of appeal had lamented that

well situated to know the debilitating consequences of public corruption in the country”. Thus the purveyors of corruption are the political godfathers, more often than not, mediocrity, incompetent and corrupt hands find their way to positions of power and authority which they use and manipulate to their own

ing decadence, the stench of which often pasts off or prevent other nations, with a record of transparence, and probity from wanting to interact or do business with a corrupt nation’s such as Nigeria”. To be continued.

“It is not surprising that in morally and corrupt society that Nigeria is, the moral crusaders, the human rights activist, the reformers, would be unpopular, hated and deprived, while the evil ones are regarded and praised for their ability to commit wrongful acts of misanthropy”.

THE WEEKEND

SATURDAY, MAY 11, 2013

F cus

Boko Haram Insurgency Appraising FG’s Amnesty Option By OBIKE UKOH

THE constructive engagement option, recently adopted by the Federal Government to tackle the Boko Haram insurgency, has generated a lot of controversy. While some citizens welcome the option, others consider it incongruous to dialogue with a group earlier described as faceless. However some analysts want the Federal Government to go ahead, saying that the dialogue option is not a “ surrender or capitulation but a bold step in conflict resolution’’. President Goodluck Jonathan on April 17 approved the constitution of a Presidential Committee on Dialogue and Peaceful Resolution of Security Challenges in the North, to constructively engage key members of the Boko Haram sect in a dialogue. A 26-member committee was inaugurated by Jonathan on Wednesday, April 24. The analysts urge the president to go ahead with the programme, even though a faction of the Boko Haram sect said that they had committed no offence to warrant the need for an amnesty. Supporting the president’s action, Mr Olisa Agbakoba, a former President of the Nigeria Bar Association (NBA), said it was in the interest of the citizenry to make the country safe. “Some say, why should the government go through all this trouble, in view of Boko Haram’s record. But I disagree. “It is in our enlightened interest to make Nigeria stable. You sometimes stoop to gain,” he stated. The Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) also hailed the decision of the president to set up a committee to dialogue with members of the sect. Mr Anthony Sani, the National Publicity Secretary of the ACF, said that the forum’s consistent position had always been that the insurgents be given amnesty to prepare grounds for negotiations with the group. He said that it was only logical for the Federal Government to explore other options to tackle the Boko Haram issue since the use of force had so far failed. “This is what we have been canvassing; we have been saying that since the use of force has failed, why not use other options, the option of amnesty,’’ he said. Sani, however, called on the government to put in place a mechanism to guar-

antee the security of the insurgents, saying that without due assurance about their protection, the insurgents might be afraid to come out. “ACF is fully aware of the fact that amnesty may not automatically end terrorism, especially when we know that some hard liners may not accept the offer. “But it will most likely mark the beginning of a process that holds the promise of bringing the tragic situation to an end,” he added. Gov. Babangida Aliyu of Niger, who also supported the amnesty programme, called on the 19 Northern states to support the programme. “President Goodluck Jonathan needs to be supported and encouraged by all Nigerians to succeed in the efforts aimed at finding solutions to the insecurity challenges, “ he said. Aliyu, who said that the proposed amnesty was a good step toward resolving the problem of insecurity, however, underscored the need to explore other avenues. He noted that there might be some international dimensions to the Boko Haram issue, urging the relevant authorities to look into that aspect. However, some stakeholders are not happy about the Federal Government’s decision to dialogue with members of the Boko Haram sect. For instance, the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) is not particularly happy about the amnesty option of the Federal Government in efforts to end the Boko Haram insurgency. Mr Sunny Oibe, the Public Relations Officer of CAN (Northern states and Abuja), condemned the government’s dialogue option. “If the government has decided to set up a committee to consider granting amnesty to Boko Haram under the watchful eyes of the National Security Adviser without compensating the families of those who were killed, it then goes to show that something is fundamentally wrong with our society and government. “How can President Goodluck Jonathan, who, not long ago said that he could not grant amnesty to ghosts, now decides to set up a committee for amnesty? “During the administration of his boss, the late Umar Yar ’Adua, he did not go about chasing the Niger Delta militants. “Rather, the citizens from

• President Goodluck Jonathan the South-South region went and talked to their boys to lay down their arms and engage the government constructively. “If the government is not careful, this amnesty for Boko Haram will encourage insurgencies throughout the country,’’ Oibe noted Also, Anthony Cardinal Okogie, the former Archbishop of Lagos, advised the government to be cautious in handling the country’s security problems, stressing the need to allow justice to prevail. Okogie, who condemned the wanton destruction of lives and property by members of the Boko Haram sect, advised the president not to rush into granting amnesty to the sect’s members without considering the implications of the action. “I am not against considering amnesty if the situation

warrants it. But as it is, on what basis are we calling for amnesty for Boko Haram? “We have to be cautious about the way we go about it. I have continued to ask these questions: Who are the members of this sect who thrive on human blood? Are they truly Nigerians? What exactly do they want? “Besides, how do we compensate all those who have lost their loved ones in the over two years of carnage? These are issues we need to address,” he stressed. Sharing similar sentiments, Dr Felix Omobude, the National President, Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN), advised President Jonathan to apply great caution in handling the amnesty option. He said that government should be wary of giving the impression that “it is honouring criminals and criminality’’, adding that vic-

tims of Boko Haram should also be compensated. “The Federal Government should be more concerned with ways of compensating the victims of the Boko Haram insurgency; so as to mitigate their grief and demonstrate that the government also cares about them,” he added. Afenifere, the Yoruba socio-political group, has also expressed some reservations on the government’s approach in tackling the insurgency. A leader of the group, Chief Reuben Fasoranti, said that the group’s stand was based on the fallout of the amnesty that was earlier granted to the Niger Delta militants. “For instance, we agree that granting amnesty in the Niger Delta region per se is in order. However, we find it hard to defend the monumental abuse going on, especially among the elite

managers of the scheme. “We are disturbed as to whether the scheme will bring a lasting peace, giving episodic restlessness still being experienced there. “Yet, we have created a set of emergency billionaires from the amnesty programme, while the conditions in the creeks virtually remain the same. “It is with this at the back of our mind that we have been so sceptical over the so-called amnesty for Boko Haram, which is a much more dangerous group than the Niger Delta insurgents who were known and whose demands were clear,” he said. Fasoranti insisted that it would amount to a tragedy for the country to embark on another money-sharing spree, all in the name of granting amnesty to another group “with all the blood that has been shed’’. Meanwhile, President Jonathan, on whose table the buck stops, has reiterated his determination to stop the excesses of the Boko Haram sect. He gave the assurance when he inaugurated the presidential committee mandated to facilitate a constructive engagement with members of the Boko Haram Sect “Nigerians are expecting this committee to perform magic and we pray that Allah should give you the wisdom to do so. This is because without peace, we cannot develop no matter how committed we are,’’ he said. The president charged members of the committee to establish a link with members of the Boko Haram sect, while developing a framework through which disarmament would take place. Jonathan also enjoined the committee to work out ways of granting amnesty to members of the sect, while developing a comprehensive victims’ support programme. “And as we try to address the issue of the Boko Haram, we must also comprehensively address the issues directly affecting the people,’’ he added. As there is no known alternative to peace; analysts stress the need for every Nigerian to join hands with the government in efforts to restore peace to the troubled parts of the country. “Government should also not take any action that will promote criminality and lawlessness,’’ they, however, warn.

THE WEEKEND

SATURDAY, MAY 11, 2013

H alth Infertility And Use Of Laptops

Any Medical Perspective? IN the modern world, one of the most important gadgets is the laptop computer, as the portable computer plays a vital role in people’s daily interactions nowadays. Historical records have it that one of the first commercially viable laptop computers was invented by Adam Osborne in 1981; it was then called the Osborne I and it cost 1,795 U.S. dollars. Nevertheless, Osborne I, which had a lot of programs, also had a tiny computer screen built into it was not really a laptop in the modern sense, as it weighed 23.5lb (about 10.6 kg). In recent times, laptop computers now weigh as low as 3.1lb (about 1.5kg) and they come in different shapes and sizes. Laptops are now very popular among the youth and even the elderly, as it is now becoming trendy to carry laptops. However, concerned analysts continue to wonder if there are any health or environmental implications that could crop up from the use of this innovative gadget. Dr Kayode Oladeji, a Consultant Gynaecologist at the Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH), insists that the placement of laptops on laps could cause infertility in men. He says that the practice tends to explain the rising wave of infertility among men nowadays, as a result of laptop use. Laptop computers are usually placed on people’s laps when in use and this trend worries Oladeji most, as he claims that the heat from laptops tend to affect men’s scrotum. He claims that the prolonged placement of a laptop on a man’s laps will trigger an increase in the temperature of his nether region (the area between a humans legs), stressing that this will consequently affect the quality of his sperm. “The heat emitted from laptops could increase the temperature in the scrotal area and affect the sperm; it could damage the male reproductive organ. “When you place your laptop on your lap; there is a huge heat emanating from it. “Within 10 or 15 minutes, the scrotal temperature can be above the level we consider safe because of the heat. “Under normal circumstances, the position of the

testicles outside the body is cooler than inside the body and this is necessary for sperm production. “If you want to keep things cool below the waist, you better start placing your laptop on the table instead of your lap,’’ Oladeji says. Sharing similar sentiments, Dr George Mark, a radiologist at the Living Spring Hospital, Lagos, says that placing laptops on the laps can be injurious to a man’s reproductive health. He stresses that the heat which laptops generate can hinder sperm production and

development, thereby making it difficult for a man’s sperm to fertilise a woman’s egg during copulation. Mark stresses that laptops should always be placed on the desk to prevent any form of harm to a person’s body. “While the laptop may be making us more efficient in the workplace, when it comes to expanding the family unit, laptops may make us inefficient by reducing our sperm count. “In the meantime, it may be worth placing your laptop on a table or moving it far away from your testicles so as to increase your chances of having children,” he says. Explaining the heat generation process in laptops, Mr Ahmed Omowale, a software and hardware engineer, insists that any device that uses energy of whatever form must definitely produce

By IFEANYI NWOKO

heat. Omowale says that in the case of the computer, the central processing unit (CPU), the graphic card, the motherboard, hard drives and the power supply are the main sources of the greatest heat. “The average laptop produces about 65 degrees Celsius of heat while in use but this figure varies, as some laptops can produce as much as 90 to 100 degrees Celsius.

“I don’t know the effects of this on the human genitals but I can assure that any heat above 60 degrees Celsius is not safe for the computer’s CPU; it burns out the CPU if not controlled. “Your computer should register around 60 degrees Celsius. If it generates around 80 to 100 degrees Celsius, you need to have your laptop checked,” he says. One then tends to wonder what the normal body temperature should be and what body temperature is required for sperm production. Dr Mathew Akagu of the University of Abuja Teaching Hospital, Gwagwalada, explains that there is no specific body temperature that is considered absolutely normal. He expatiates that the body temperature varies with respect to different areas of the body, the time of day and the

previous activity of a person before the temperature check. “Different parts of the body have different temperatures; rectal and vaginal measurements or measurements taken inside the body cavity are usually slightly higher than oral measurements. “Oral measurements are somewhat higher than skin temperature but the average body temperature taken within the body is 37 degrees Celsius. “Oral measurements are

will always be one degree less than the body temperature. “When you place your laptop regularly on your lap, there is huge heat emanating from the laptop, and this can adversely affect the male testes and scrotum, thereby leading to infertility.’ “The optimum temperature that is suitable for production of sperm cells should always be one degree less than the body temperature,’’ he says. Muhammed notes that testicles are in a flexible skin tissue, adding that whenever

usually cooler at about 36.8 degrees Celsius with a variation of plus or minus 0.4 degrees Celsius. “In healthy adults, body temperature fluctuates at about 0.5 degree Celsius throughout the day, with lower temperatures in the morning and higher temperatures in the late afternoon and evening,” he says. As a result, Dr Jawa Muhammad, a Consultant in Nuclear Medicine and Radiology, also underscores the need to exercise caution while placing laptops on the laps. Muhammed says that this is because the normal temperature required for sperm production should be one degree less than the body temperature. “Therefore, the body structure ensures the suspension of the testis outside the body so that the testis temperature

the temperature is extremely high, the skin of the scrotum becomes loose, thus allowing heat to damage the sperm. The consultant also says that the health risks are not limited to men alone, as the female ovaries are also very sensitive to heat. He emphasises that intense temperature could affect the development of eggs, as the process requires low temperatures. “Heat damages the eggs, causes deformity to the ovary and hinders fertility in women. “Exposure of pregnant women to laptop heat could also cause some congenital problems for the unborn child; such problems include absence of fingers, eyes or deformity in some parts of the body,” he says. Muhammad insists that the best way to ensure safety is

to put the laptop about 50cm to 100cm away from the genital area of men. He also warns people against the habit of spending too much of time on any electronic device because of the health implications. Also speaking on the potential harm which the heat from laptops could cause, Dr Chris Agboghoroma, a Consultant Obstetrician and Gyneacologis, says that the heat could damage a man’s testes. He, nonetheless, underscores the need for young men to undergo routine testicular check-ups, adding that such checks should entail physical examination of the groin and genital organs — the penis, scrotum and testicles. “These checks would help to detect the presence of lumps and swellings, as well as shrinking of the testicles, among others. “It could also help in the detection of testicular cancer in its early stages,” he says. Agboghoroma recommends that men should conduct self-examination of their groin during or after a bath, particularly when the skin of the scrotum is relaxed. He says that during such examinations, the testicles should be checked one at a time, by holding the testis with both hands and rolling it gently between the fingers. Dr Esele Samuel, a medical practitioner at the National Hospital, Abuja also warns men to desist from placing laptops on their laps because of the dangers inherent in such practice. He, however, insists that apart from the laptop heat, the wearing of tight underwear also heightens heat around the scrotal area and hampers production of sperm. While Dr Habeeb Tijani, a Consultant Urologist at LUTH, notes that cases of infertility is now on the increase, Dr Adeniji Adewunmi, a Consultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist, Lagos State University Teaching Hospital, attributes 40 per cent of infertility cases to men. In a nutshell, such claims tend to reinforce the need for people to refrain from placing laptops on their laps. Observers, nonetheless, stress the need for increased sensitisation of the people to the potential health risks of placing laptops on the lap.

THE WEEKEND

SATURDAY, MAY 11, 2013

I sues

Developing Local Manpower For The Power Sector EXPERTS have identified shortage of qualified manpower in the power sector as obstacle to the country’s quest to generate 40,000 megawatts by the year 2020. The manpower shortage is both in the engineering and nonengineering departments. According to Mr Reuben Okeke, the Director-General, National Power Training Institute of Nigeria (NAPTIN), the sector currently has about 3,000 engineers, but needs the services of 8,500 engineers to meet the 40,000 megawatts generation target. Okeke says that out of the 3,000 serving engineers, 1,000 are due for retirement in 2015. “The Vision 20:2020 of the Federal Government entails that by the year 2020, Nigeria should be among the 20 most developed economies of the world. “Without power, we cannot achieve that, so, government has given itself a target and those targets are being set with the operators in the power sector in mind. NAPTIN is to ensure that we have a credible and skillful workforce that will manage the infrastructure that will enable Nigeria to generate and sustain the 40,000 megawatts.’’ Okeke says that workers of Power Holding Company of Nigeria (PHCN) are in a better position to handle the situation, because they were already in the system. The Director-General explains that they require little training, and in turn will be in a position to train others across the country. The institute has upgraded its infrastructure, including construction of more classrooms capable of accommodating up to 350 participants. It has been modernised to meet world standards, while simulator and equipment for engineering training laboratory are

to be acquired to handle all technical courses in the power sector. With the equipment in place, there will not be any need for overseas training for personnel of the power sector, Okeke remarks. The Director-General lists the training courses to include power system protection, electrical fittings, distribution line maintenance, district sub-station operation, cable jointing and maintenance of transformers. Okeke says that NAPTIN’s trainings are open to technical and non-technical personnel, like journalists, auditors and lawyers to ensure that they understand the terminologies used in the sector. According to him, the institute has dedicated a centre in Lagos for the training of non-technical personnel. In his explanation, Prof. Barth Nnaji, former Minister of Power, says the 40,000 megawatts is realisable and lists the power plants capable of generating the energy. He said that the gasfired plants will be expected to generate between 25,000 megawatts and 30,000 megawatts, while the Mambila, Gurara and Zungeru hydro power plants are to generate a total of 3,660 megawatts. Nnaji also said that other hydro power plants are capable of generating 6,000 megawatts at installed capacity. “The coal-fired plants in Enugu, Kogi, Gombe and Benue will produce 5,000 megawatts, and renewable energies such as solar, wind, and biomass will produce 1,000 megawatts in 2020,’ he said. Emergency power plants planned for Egbin and Ijora in Lagos State are also expected to generate 800 megawatts by 2020. The Independent Power Producers such

By GREGORY MMADUAKOLAM (NAN)

as Aloji, Omotosho, Olorunshogo, and Geregu will soon start generating power to complement power generated by other power plants, according to the former minister. Mr. Dairus Ishaku, the Minister of State for Power, wants local man-

power development for the power sector to be strengthened. Ishaku who spoke recently at the launching of Graduate Skills Development Programme by NAPTIN, said huge investments had been made in the power sector. According to him, the

establishment of NAPTIN in 2009 and the passing into law of the Electricity Power Reform Act 2005, set the machinery in motion for the development of the required human capital. “The establishment of an engineering training laboratory at Kainji, Power System

vices, said that the Graduate Skills Development Programme is established in order to sustain manpower development in the power sector. Jibril said that statistics from PHCN successor companies, puts the technical manpower deficit in the power sector at 8,400 skilled workers. According to her, in the

she said. Jibril explains that NAPTIN is ready to partner with institutions for the training of students under the Graduate Skills D e v e l o p m e n t Programme, where raw technical capacity is transferred to provide solid technical ground

Training Simulator at Ijora, Enugu, Jos, Kaduna and Port Harcourt by NAPTIN, are pointers to the readiness of NAPTIN to move engineering training to a higher level.’’ he said. Another stakeholder, Mrs Fatima Jibril, NAPTIN’s Director of Business Ser-

next five years, a total of 17,441 additional skilled technical manpower would be required, adding that demand for skilled manpower would continue to rise annually. “And there is the urgent need to arrest the trend through an intensive structured programme,’’

that will make them become authorities. Government has already taken the bull by the horns by establishing NAPTIN. The institute should be adequately funded to enable it to deliver on its mandate, stakeholders advise.

“It has been modernised to meet world standards, while simulator and equipment for engineering training laboratory are to be acquired to handle all technical courses in the power sector.”

THE WEEKEND

SATURDAY, MAY 11, 2013

V ewpoint Poverty: A Bane To National Growth And Development POVERTY is a disease that has eaten into the very core of the third world countries. It is a nightmare, a bad omen, a dilemma that has affected man from time immemorial. Over the years, families have been trapped and suffered, businesses have crumbled, and societies have been cursed by poverty. People in poverty go through each day with thoughts such as; what to eat, what to wear, how to pay their rent, how to pay their debts, and where to get the money? Living a poverty life is like a trap to a person, with the mind playing various tricks on the person. Poverty, over the years has led to various problems such as; corruption, theft, kidnapping, pipeline vandalism and other maladies. Poverty has become a global phenomenon that occurs in every society. It brings about an inability to think, plan or dream beyond the daily struggle to survive. According to the Scottish Poverty Information Unit, “poverty is defined relative to the standards of living in a society at a specific time. People live in poverty when they are denied an income sufficient for their material needs and when these circumstances exclude them from taking part in activities which are an accepted part

of daily life in that society. About half of the people living in poverty are of working age (15 and 64 years). Fiftyfive percent of the World population lives on less than one dollar per day, one of the highest poverty rates in sub Saharan African. Nigeria which is the most populous Black Country has been ravaged by poverty, and it has progressively remained a major problem to economic growth and development in Nigeria over the past decades. After china and India, Nigeria has the largest number of poor people. Despite this trend the Nigerian government have put very little effort in tackling poverty which itself has proved futile and ineffectual over the years. About two-third of the Nigerian population lives in abject poverty. Statistics shows that poverty rate moved from 27% in 1980 to 66% in 1996. And from 1999 to 2005, poverty rate has continued to increase. This statistics shows that majority of the masses and the Nigerian youths are poor. This has caused many of the nation’s problems. It is a disease that has to be treated before a nation can experience socio-economic growth. Many families in Nigeria cannot afford one meal let

By UTI ANIEKAN UDOH

figure that have risen over the past 3 years. Also in 2010, the figure of 112.47 million Nigerians were confirmed to be living in poverty. Yet in January 1st 2012 the government removed the subsidy on fuel, which led to the increase in the price of fuel, thereby puffing more burdens on the poor. Given the rate of poverty in Nigeria, it has been foreseen that, if this trend continue Nigerians should consider themselves to be getting poorer. The World Bank Vice President for Africa, Dr. Mukhtar Diop, on his visit to Nigeria some time ago addressed the press in Abuja. According to him Nigeria is moving in the right direction with a consistent growth of about eight percent for the recent years. But he advised the government that in order to reduce poverty, the issue of power shortage should first be addressed, because

constant power supply would go a long way in improving the daily lives of the ordinary Nigerians. He also pointed out that the educational, health and other productive sector should also be improved, and that the government should invest in long term projects that would lead to human capital development. Let us sit for a minute and imagine a nation where there are more average and rich people, than those living in poverty. A nation with a low cost of living, and a high standard of living. It is simply bliss. However, in spite of the efforts of the previous and present administration in poverty alleviation in Nigeria which is minimal, the rate of poverty in the country is increasing rapidly. Poverty is indeed a cancer, and until this disease is treated, our beloved country Nigeria may likely lose her heart.

• President Goodluck Jonathan

alone three square meal. Even with this, funds gotten from the export of resources are mismanaged, and this money gets into the hands of a selected few. Poverty is as a result of structural failure and ineffective economic and social systems. Resources mismanagement and economy’s reliance on oil for export earnings and government revenue has been

greatly felt by the poor, because the money gotten from foreign exchange is circulated among a selected few (the rich and powerful ones), while the poor are left to sweat out just to put food on their tables. In 2010, The National Bureau of Statistics stated that 60.9% of Nigerians were living in “absolute poverty”. A

“Despite this trend the Nigerian government have put very little effort in tackling poverty which itself has proved futile and ineffectual over the years.”

p inion

Living Within The Ambit Of The Law

A SOCIETY without laws is a society in a state of chaos. A state without laws and government would be in anarchy. By definition anarchy is a state of disorder due to the absence or recognition of an authority figure. Life without some type of rules to control us would literally be a state of disorder. We are humans and by human nature, we have flaws. If these flaws are not well managed or controlled in some ways, they can get out of hand and wreak havoc upon a person and the people around such person. A place where there are no laws, people do what they like and this could lead to many evil on daily basis like rape, murder, theft, and other crimes. A nation where there is no law, lawlessness becomes inevitable. The society becomes a battlefield and survival of the fittest, where only

By EGHWRUDGE PRAISE

the strong survives. The weaker people of a society who could not survive in a battle either dies or bend to serve the strong in order to fend. The weaker people in a completely free state suffer and diminish because their rights would in no way be protected. There would be no justice where there is no law, the weak suffers, and even the natural laws are snatched from them. Natural laws such as right to live and to own properties, as against this, the weak are killed and properties taken without questions. The impact of life without law in our lives, societies, mostly the negative impact, cannot be qualified. It is important to know that life without law brings maximum oppression. Without laws, we would live in terror. The biggest, strongest, or most powerful person or group of

people would be in control of our society. Good laws keep us safe and healthy. They protect all citizens in a community. Laws make things fair for all group of people, laws are not different or special for one group. It does not matter what race, religion, age or sex you are, or how much money you make. Laws can be found all around us, even in our different religion, there are laws to direct and guide us, in order to prevent chaos. All that is required from us is simple obedience and we will all live in peace. Local or international laws are made for the good of all the people. These laws are made by representatives who have been elected or chosen by the majority of people (democratic society) sometimes laws are voted on by all of the citizens of the state

or community in referendum. No matter how the laws were made, it is important to make sure the laws are fair and are applied fairly to everyone and that is the job of the government. In the area of education, it is required by law that one should have at least 10 years of education, if not for this law, there is a possibility that most graduate today would not have gone to school. And a person without education would not develop the common sense that is required for a normal lifestyle. These set of persons could be living a very backward and primitive lifestyle based solely on intuition. This is a bad situation because when a person relies on intuition many things may go wrong. They could misinterpret their intuitions and in turn hurt someone because they think

they are right. Education teaches one to understand and control one’s emotions. Everything that is done in this life has positive and negative sides. A lot of people might support life without law just because they will be free to make any decisions of their own and live their lives as it pleases them, without another person interfering. The idea of a person being able to make his or her own choices would also be positive facet that could turn out as a negative facet. Making your own choices based solely on selfish desires could lead to very horrible situations such as being robbed. Also in a situation whereby everyone is making decision by themselves, one person might want to do something in a certain way this, but another wants it the other way, this will lead to conflicts and maybe to war.

In the world today, every country, nation, society has it own laws but despite the laws, murder rates is high, theft, oppression and other crimes are still high, now consider a world without law, how will the lives of men be? If you imagine a life without law, you will see a world where everyone wants to say something at the same time, in different languages and different patterns. This is a world in total chaos. In conclusion, I will say a society without laws is a society in a state of mayhem. Such a state is referred to as anarchy and a state of disorder due to lack of order. The law is an order that controls people’s behaviours for their own good. This is a call to everyone in every given society, whether rich, poor, strong, weak, big or small to wake up from lawless lives and become a patriotic citizen of its society.

THE WEEKEND

SATURDAY, MAY 11, 2013

N ws Analysis IT appears that the pains undergone by the millions of Nigerians who sat for the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination; UTME annually is continuous, endless and torturous. The just concluded UTME Paper Pencil Test, PPT mode across 3,168 centres in 378 examination towns in the country and the releasing of the results of the test recently revealed the on-going pains endured by the candidates who in their large numbers struggled to secure the limited admission vacancies in the tertiary institutions across Nigeria put together, including universities, polytechnics and colleges of education, and recently the innovative institutions. In less than twenty-four hours before the PPT mode of the UTME was conducted, a tragic motor accident was recorded involving nine candidates who were travelling to the towns of their UTME centres. The accident which occurred in Awka, Abia state, according to media reports claimed the lives of nine candidates travelling from Port Harcourt to Aba for the exams. According to the reports, the items recovered from the accident scene gave clue to the identity of the candidates, as the items were said to be examination materials. Similarly, in Lagos, a national daily reported that the UTME was held amid delay in capturing the candidates’ biometric data, malpractices, and shortages of question papers. The delay in capturing the candidates’ biometric data resulted to delay in the start of the exams long after the official time of 9:00 AM the exam was supposed to have begun. While some of the candidates were left in doubt after the examination without capturing their data. That has generated much controversies as results of the test are been released by Joint Admission and Matriculation Board, JAMB, the body saddled with the responsibility of conducting the test. Many candidates are yet to access their test scores via the result checking portal online. This has generated protests by the thousands of candidates who sat for the examinations and whose results are been withheld by the examination board across the country. Achanya Isreal who sat for the test is finding it difficult to check his test score online. He disclosed to Weekend Observer that despite the fact that his biometric was captured in the centre where he took the test, he is unable to check his result. According to him, whenever he goes to a

2013 UTME: The Verdict By INNOCENT OMOAKA cyber café to check his score on JAMB’s result portal, he gets a response that indicates his biometric was not captured on the day of the examination. JAMB on its part gave reasons why some of the candidates’ results were not released. According to the Registrar of the board, Prof. Dibu Ojerinde while speaking in a news conference on the release of result in Abuja disclosed that the board had withheld 12,110 results for possible disciplinary actions. That was after thorough processing of answer scripts of the candidates who sat for the examination were discovered to have been involved in some forms of malpractice during the conduct of the examination. In a related development, in some centres in Lagos state, it was also reported that some candidates were seen shortly before the commencement of the examination, copying supposedly answers from their cell phones into small sheets of papers, and hiding it in secluded parts of their body to avoid the security checks. Others, who proved to be smart, entered the examination halls with their cell phones, making it easier for them to cheat in clear breach of the examination rules and regulations. This gives clue to the screening of results of 68,309 candidates from various centres across the federation to ascertain the culpability of the 12,110 results of candidates withheld by the board. During the examination, there were instances where candidates do not have all their subjects’ combination in one booklet, and there were also situations where other students were left with no questions papers as there were no left over questions papers across the subjects’ combination. Supervisors at some of the centres, where shortages were reported had to managed the situations through instructing affected candidates to switch the question papers with those who had theirs complete. For some of the candidates these create a kind of chaos and anxiety for those affected by lack of adequate examination materials. According to Adesina Sam Oluwasegun, “it is high time the federal government scrapped JAMB, as the exams lacks credibility and end up frustrating candidates who struggles to gain admission into the limited spaces in the higher institutions of learning.” Adesina said, out of the 40,692 candidates results that were announced by the

board as invalid because of multiple shading or no shading at all, it is possible that those affected by the shortages of materials were among the numbers af-

tice would not be used by the board in conducting its future tests. Therefore, it was clearly evident during the 2013 UTME, that most candidates employed diverse means to gain them the chance of scoring higher marks, for

spaces in the tertiary institutions across the country. Before the release of the tests results Vanguard Learning disclosed that these candidates, unlike the others who preferred to cut corners, put in extra efforts in their private studies, improving on strat-

Hajia Raqquayatu Rufai, Hon Minister of Education fected because the incident must have create anxiety in them, which in turn must have resulted in them shading multiple or forgetting to shade at all. Sam added that most candidates in their bid to outdo the other go extra mile to have access to questions for the exams long before the actual commencement of the UTME. He also added that invigilators also aid the candidates in cheating during the exams. There were reports of exams centres, where candidates were arranged according to their sitting position to favour them in cheating during the exams. At some other centres, candidates were asked to pay sum amounting to minimum of a thousand naira before been allowed entrance into the examination venues. For those centres where such incidents were recorded to have taken place, the registrar of JAMB disclosed that the centres would be screened to ascertain their culpability and centres found culpable in aiding malprac-

qualifications for the PostUTME tests and subsequent admission. Aside the wide cases of reports of malpractice revealed during the test, large numbers of candidates’ results are been withheld and screened by the examination board. Despite the high rate of most candidates cutting corners to gain advantage of been admitted by ensuring that they score higher marks in the exams, other candidates had put in extra efforts to ensure that they are also admitted for the limited

egy in beating time in answering questions during the exams. Chinere Ijeoma, a candidate who sat for the recently conducted UTME Paper Pencil Test, disclosed to a national daily before the exams, that she read extra hard and read till daybreak, to ensure that she scored high points in the test. For her, she had developed that strategy so as to avoid cheating during the exams. The strategy according to her had become part and

parcel of her, as it has taken centre-place in her life. Another candidate, Idowu Oreoluwa, disclosed to the national daily that he had prepared very hard by attending tutorial classes and ensuring he study privately as he is desirous of wanting to be among the limited number of student that would end up been considered for admission. Bukola King, a candidate sat for the examination the second time, had perfected her timing in order to beat the time that was allowed for answering questions during the UTME Paper Pencil Test. She believed that strategy would contribute in her scoring high points in the test, which would bring her closer to gaining admission in this year UTME. In a bid to curtail examination malpractice during the 2013 UTME, the Joint Admission and Matriculation Examination, JAMB secured the services of security operatives to man the centres across the country. While media reports suggest that in some centres the security operatives aided the malpractice, 82 candidates in Ogun state were arrested by men of Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, NSCDC, for engaging in various form of examination malpractice. Therefore, attentions are been focused on how JAMB, the board saddled with the responsibility for conducting the UTME would respond to the cases of irregularities and shortages of logistics experienced during the PPT mode of the examination, while screening the withheld results of candidates suspected of cheating during the examination. That would go a long way in ensuring that the pains undergone by candidates who genuinely prepared and sat for the test are rewarded by scoring points that would give them the chance(s) to be among those admitted into the tertiary institutions of their choice. Also, it would assured those who are waiting to take the Computer Based Test of the exams of the UTME from May 18 to June 1, the preparation for logistics in conducting the pilot scheme of this mode of the UTME, which if successful would be the only mode of the examination as from 2015, in replacement of the manual mode of the Paper Pencil Test, known to the 36 years history of JAMB.

“There were reports of exams centres, where candidates were arranged according to their sitting position to favour them in cheating during the exams.”

THE WEEKEND

SATURDAY, MAY 11, 2013

P rspective

Examining Post-Bomb Explosion In Madalla

FROM all indications, Madalla, a town in Niger State, has yet to recover fully from the December 25, 2011 bombing at St. Theresa Catholic Church, in which about 43 persons were killed. The ever-busy Madalla Market is now a ghost of its former self, with several stalls empty, while the few traders there often complain of low sales. Apparently, the traders are now always on edge, wary of a possible attack by members of the Boko Haram sect who perpetrated the Christmas Day bombing. Although security has been beefed up in the area, most residents still live and move about in fear, while many people have relocated from the neighbourhood. Miss Medinat Yakubu, an electronic dealer, says that Madalla was very conducive for business before the December 25 terrorist act. “Doing business in Madalla had been profitable until the bomb explosion which scared many people away from the town; resulting in the relocation of many residents and even businesses to safer settlements.” “Before the explosion, our daily sales were in the region of N1.3 million but shortly after the explosion, there was a lull in the market. Nowadays, we hardly record more than N150, 000 daily,’’ she adds. Mrs Chinedum Igwe, a fish seller who has been living in Madalla for over 10 years, complains that “even when we are at the market, we are always afraid because we have been attacked there before. “In fact, there was a time when some people came to the market and started shooting sporadically. So, once it is 5 p.m., traders start packing their wares, unlike before when we often stay in the market for longer periods. “Even when it rains in the evening, people leave immediately after the rains because we don’t know what may happen after the rain,’’ she says. Besides, Rev. Fr. Linsmary Daniel, an assistant priest at St Theresa Catholic Church, says that the population of worship-

pers at church has decreased by about 60 per cent after the December 25, 2011 episode. “Many of our parishioners left; in fact, there was

By FOLASADE FOLARIN

• Vice President Namadi Sambo

someone who was running a printing press here but he left because of Boko Haram. “His workers are now jobless; one of them, who incidentally is my friend, has gone back to his village to begin from the scratch. “I know of someone else who relocated to Abuja for fear of losing his business to the Boko Haram insurgents. So, you can imagine if the economy of Madalla is slowly dwindling, what will happen in a place like Maiduguri that happens to be the hub of the Boko Haram insurgency,’’ he asks. Buttressing Daniel’s viewpoint, Mr. Nelson Nwosu, an economic and political analyst, says the current security challenges facing Nigeria have had grave socio-economic, political and geographical impact on the nation. He says that geographically, the problem has led to a sustained migration of the people which, in turn, brings about overcrowding of some areas. “People tend to leave the places of conflict to go to places where there is relative peace; this leads to overcrowding because people will desert a particular area and move to places

that politically, the government would not be able to focus its attention on some development areas, as appreciable resources would be deployed to solving the country’s security problems. Economically, he says that productivity will be low in areas facing serious security challenges. “Unemployment in places like Yobe is rife because banks had to wind up and many workers in such places are now jobless. Apart from that, lives and properties that have been destroyed in these places are not quantifiable,’’ he adds. Nwosu explains that the crisis has even taken its toll on the existing infrastructure, adding that putting up new structures later may not be feasible. “Banks, police stations, schools, markets and telecommunication masts have been burnt down,’’ he notes. He laments that most of the infrastructure in use to-

• Dr. Babangida Aliu, Niger State Governor

where they feel there is relative peace. “And one of the effects of overcrowding is that there will be a rise in vices such

as prostitution, drug abuse, armed robbery, among others, in the overcrowded places,’’ he says. Besides, Nwosu stresses

day were provided over 10 years ago, stressing that it would be extremely difficult to replace the ones that have been destroyed.

Nwosu moans that the current security challenges in the northern part of the country and the wanton destruction of property there will further impoverish the region. He argues that while the South would be striving to forge ahead, the North would be busy rebuilding the destroyed infrastructure. Dr Dominic Ogbeche, a psychiatrist at the National Hospital, Abuja, says that incidents like the December 25, 2011 Madalla bombing could induce psychological trauma, otherwise known as Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), among the people. He expatiates that PTSD is a traumatic condition that can crop up after a person has undergone a harrowing experience caused by physical, sexual or psychological injury or death. “People respond to such stressful situations differently; some respond to the situations with symptoms of depression and anxiety, including fear, worry, irritability, poor concentration and poor sleep. “After that, such people try to avoid thoughts, feelings, conversations, activities, places or people that remind them of the trauma,’’ Ogbeche says. Concerned citizens have repeatedly expressed concern that the economic activities of many towns in the northern part of the country have been crippled due to the Boko Haram insurgency. However, the Federal Government has been making designed efforts to tackle the crisis by setting up a committee to dialogue with members of the Boko Haram sect. Observers, nonetheless, insist that the committee needs the support of every Nigerian for it to succeed in its assignment.

“. . . the current security challenges in the northern part of the country and the wanton destruction of property there will further impoverish the region. He argues that while the South would be striving to forge ahead, the North would be busy rebuilding the destroyed infrastructure.”

THE WEEKEND

SATURDAY, MAY 11, 2013

T lecommunication

Saka Phenomenon And Porting

ORDINARILY, Saka, a familiar name among the Yoruba speaking people of South West Nigeria, has nothing that makes people turn their heads when mentioned. But in more ways than one, the moniker has become an interesting subject among the country’s telecommunication observers. For all its worth, the name has become the newest operational vocabulary in the sector following directives for GSM network providers to embark on number portability. Incidentally, the involvement of Hafeez Oyetoro, one of the country’s quintessential dramatists and former brand ambassador to Etisalat, a giant in the sector, is the subject of a simmering stand-off for being the lead character in a trail blazing portability sensitization advertisement. For Etisalat, it appears, is miffed at Oyetoro’s unceremonious (invectively pregnant I-don-upgrade-o) exit from its stable as one of her brand ambassadors. For Etisalat therefore, Oyetoro’s action for jumping ship to a rival is comparable only to Brutus’ dagger on Julius Caesar. It obviously is the “unkindest cut...,” that cannot be wished away. The feeling is understandable if claims by one Kehinde Bademosi, that Etisalat should be given credit for birthing Saka, the character that launched Oyetoro into prominence, is anything to go by. Specifically, Bademosi insists that he actually created the character for the telecommunications giant. According to him, Saka “was a character we at CentreSpread designed for an ad company that has come to take on a life of its own.” That done, he proceeded to even belittle the character by his claims that before the Etisalat ads, it was too nondescript to be worth any notice at all. Hear him.

“First, Saka was not a celebrity used for etisalat. Rather, he was a character we at Centrespread designed for an ad campaign that has come to

take on a life of its own. When we did create the character bible, we needed a talent that could act the role and he came in for the casting like any other person. Looking at the screen test later on, we had no doubt that Saka was the man we were looking for. You must give credits to etisalat to have approved of our direction and choice.” Perhaps unconsciously, Bademosi gave out the reason he appears to be in a hurry to lay claims to Saka as a character he created. He was, he wrote, in a meeting with some bank executives of a certain bank and the advertisement was aired. The executives, obviously bent on creating a monster hit of the same magnitude were, according to him, so enraptured with the character that they, almost literally, fell over themselves in adulation. Some of them, he continued, declared there and then that they were indeed porting to MTN without delay. As a creative individual obviously on hand to negotiate a

By ERNEST OMOARELOGIE

deal, he sought to know why they were so taken in by the character and the answer, he quoted them as saying was, “we just love this Saka.” Little wonder he decided to sell them the dummy that he created the character ostensibly to land a hefty job from the bank. A close examination of Bademosi’s reason for claiming ownership of the Saka character reminds one of the choice a hungry man would make in order to address both the pangs of hunger threatening him but also his idea of a good meal. He does not need any persuasion to head in the direction of IjeshaMama-Put restaurant if, rather than Amala and

Ewedu with Tolotolo, Iyan and Ogbono soup, complete with Ogufe, serve the purpose. Of course, he must be convinced that in particular, she has the best recipe for the combination. Will it not appear stupid for the same man to turn around and claim responsibility for creating the recipe afterwards? Does Bademosi’s claim on Saka not appear reasonably similar to a man claiming ownership of the recipe of a meal he ate to satisfy a craving? About the same time Bademosi’s claim appeared, those who knew how the Saka phenomenon evolved, particularly his colleagues in the

Thespian industry, proved that they were not asleep. Clearly, they told anyone who cared to listen that the character is

a carefully crafted and nurtured brand that has been in existence long before Etisalat even realized that Nigeria is an ample telecommunication business hob. According to them, the character became television drama enthusiasts’ delight around 2004 long before the telecommunication outfit came into the country. Since then, they posited, it has won and continues to win laurels for its exploits. They cited examples and dates to back up their claims. If nothing at all, their projections tend to lend credence to facts of ownership Bademosi probably chose to ignore. I am talking about the fact that

people usually associate with characters they know and share affinity with. For instance, it can hardly be disputed that they find Saka, as brand ambassador for Etisalat, the same unassuming but compelling figure that epitomized everything they have always associated with him on television. That, arguably explains why in his appearances for the outfit, he drew customers’ interests to its outlets, the reason being that they know him as their soul mate. Would this measure of trust be possible if they have not known or related with him before? In other words, was the Saka character new to them? There is indeed, something to learn in the evolution of Saka as a character. I expect both Etisalat and Bademosi to be familiar with this fact that people tend to love and relate with characters rather than adverts. To that extent, rather than attempt to lay claim to creating the character, they will do better accepting the fact that it upgraded because they did not appreciate its value. For crying out loud, Saka has moved on and by Jove, it did so with a bang. “I Go Port o” is a damn good copy to watch on tv if one needs to relax. Like the bank executives, I just love this Saka, not Etisalat, not MTN and certainly, not those others who want credit for a character they never created.

“There is indeed, something to learn in the evolution of Saka as a character. I expect both Etisalat and Bademosi to be familiar with this fact that people tend to love and relate with characters rather than adverts. To that extent, rather than attempt to lay claim to creating the character, they will do better accepting the fact that it upgraded because they did not appreciate its value.”

THE WEEKEND

SATURDAY, MAY 11, 2013

o Good For Our Democracy

F cus Court Decision On Peace Corps Of Nigeria: DESPITE its imperfections the Nigerian judiciary is making sure that the Nigerian Constitution is not only standing out as a framework for good governance but as the guarantor of the right to freedom, the right of speech, and the right of association that every person or institution must understand. The new Judiciary, as recently unfolded in the decision of Justice Evon Chukwu of the Federal High Court, Abuja on the Peace Corps of Nigeria (PCN), serves to educate our public institutions such as the Nigeria Police and the State Security Service that the nation, at least since 1999, is a system of democracy that is progressively moving forward. Our democratic system, like that of every other nation that went through political development, is a system of democracy that is fashioned to pursue openness, freedom, and accountability. Justice Evon Chukwu’s decision is a guide for truth and justice, which shows that the old mindset of institutional abuse and organizational tyranny as uncovered by the Court will slowly be erased from the gradually progressive Nigerian society. The Court saved these national security agencies from being continuously defined by many, both nationally and internationally,

By JOHN EGBEAZIEN OSHODI Ph.D

• President Goodluck Jonathan

as partly anarchistic, partly wayward, and partly barbaric. As simply defined in the Nigerian Constitution, law abiding individuals and groups have the right to form, express opinions, and establish associations of whatever kind among groups of likeminded people in order to foster and spread such opinions. The Court took it upon itself to educate the Nigeria Police and the State Security Service about the implicit rights of persons and groups in a growing democracy like Nigeria. Any view by our highly challenged security and law enforcement agencies about the Peace Corps of Nigeria as controversial, unusual, intolerant, or just too bold is meaningless as the constitution gives civic groups such as the

• Mohammed Abubakar, IG-P

P C N s p a c e and time to stand out under the rule of freedom of association and its rel a t e d rights of thought, expression, and m o v e ment. In essence, what the Court ex• Justice Aloma Mukhtar, CJN pressly showed to message that volunexecutive agencies tary associations like like the Nigeria Police the PCN must be reand the State Security spected as long as Service is that it will they follow the law of cost you great punitive the land. On a psychodamages, huge fines, logical basis, the Nigeand clear public shame ria Police and the State if you try to screw up Security Service saw the legal rights of oth- the PCN as a possible ers. rival group because of The Court sent a plain their international sta-

tus, official outlook, a n d charming influence, as well as their expansive appearance. This sort of institutional resentment or envy is a great slip in the psyche of these sec u r i t y agencies, especially w h e n groups such as the PCN are generally civic, preventive, devoted, development driven, and unifying, as well as a collectively intrepid guardian of our constitution. In other words, the PCN, through trial and error, could continue to grow

and strengthen itself as a democratically peaceful, nonviolent, caring body as most of its work has shown in and across the nation and internationally. In these trying times the Nigerian Courts should continue to follow the call of our Republic in terms of ongoing contributions to strengthen our democracy. The courts by nature can at anytime exercise almost unlimited power as long as it is done healthily; therefore, it should make sure that our young system of democracy, through its public agencies, rests solely on the ideal of genuine respect and protection of democratically placed private organizations or groups like the Peace Corps of Nigeria.

THE WEEKEND

SATURDAY, MAY 11, 2013

M ntal Health THE last time I saw my old self, I was 27 years old and living in Boston. I was doing well in graduate school, had a tight circle of friends and was a prolific creative writer. Married to my high-school sweetheart, I had just had my first child. Back then, my best times were twirling my baby girl under the gloaming sky on a Florida beach and flopping on the bed with my husband — feet propped against the wall — and talking. The future seemed wide open. I don’t think there is a particular point at which I can say I became depressed. My illness was insidious, gradual and inexorable. I had a preview of depression in high school, when I spent a couple of years wearing all black, rimming my eyes in kohl and sliding against the walls in the hallways, hoping that no one would notice me. But back then I didn’t think it was a very serious problem. The hormonal chaos of having three children in five years, the pressure of working on a Ph.D. dissertation and a genetic predisposition for a mood disorder took me to a place of darkness I hadn’t experienced before. Of course, I didn’t recognize that right away. Denial is a gauze; willful denial, an opiate. Everyone seemed in league with my delusion. I was just overwhelmed, my family would say. I should get more help with the kids, put off my Ph.D. When I told other young mothers about my bonewearying fatigue, they rolled their eyes knowingly and mumbled, “Right.” But what they didn’t realize was that I could scarcely push the stroller to the park, barely summon the breath to ask the store clerk, “Where are the Pampers?” I went from doctor to doctor, looking for the cause. Lab tests for anemia, low blood sugar and hypothyroidism were all negative. Any joy I derived from my children was now conjoined with grief. I couldn’t breathe the perfume of their freshly shampooed hair without being seized by the realization that they would not always be under my roof. While stroking their backs, I would mentally fast-forward their lives — noses elongating, tongues sharpening — until I came to their leave-taking, until I reached my death and, ultimately, theirs. I lost my sense of competence. If a colleague remarked on my intelligence, I mentally derided him as being too stupid to know how dumb I was. If someone asked what I did for a living, I would say, “Nothing” — a remarkably effective conversation stopper. I couldn’t bear the thought of socializing; one night I jumped out of the car as my husband and I were driving to a party.

The Problems And Treatment Of Bipolar Disorder

Despite having these feelings in my mid-30s, when my kids were 8, 5 and 3, I was thriving professionally: I had recently completed my Ph.D. in geography, had just finished co-teaching a semester at M.I.T. as a lecturer and was revising my dissertation on spec for a respected uni-

versity press. Yet several nights a week, I drove to the reservoir near my home, sat under a tree and, as joggers and their dogs ran past, thought about ending it all. There was a gun shop on the way to my poetry group; I knew exactly where to go when the time came. My day, once broken by naps, gradually turned into lengthy stretches of sleep, punctuated by moments of wakefulness. My husband and I didn’t explain to the kids that I was depressed. “Mommy’s a little tired today,” we would say. A year or so earlier, a therapist told us to tell the children. “But they’re just kids,” we said. “What do they know?” “They know,” she said. When we eventually spoke to them, my oldest daughter came to me and asked: “Why did you keep it a secret? I thought all mothers were like you.” After a few weeks of stopping at the reservoir, as suicide eclipsed all other thoughts, I finally told my husband about my worsening psychic pain. The next day I was hospitalized. It was June 1989. Even though we were living in Boston, we decided I should go to Chicago to work with the psychopharmacologist who, 15 years earlier, restored the health of

By LINDA LOGAN my father, who had also been hospitalized for depression. As the cab pulled away from our house, I turned and saw three

I dragged myself to the shower, pulled on a pair of clean sweat pants and a fresh T-shirt and ran a streak of lipstick across my lips,

children’s hands pressed against the screen of an upstairs window. This is the way the world breaks. The moment the psychunit doors locked behind me, I was stripped of my identity as wife, mother, teacher and writer and transformed into patient, room number and diagnosis. I couldn’t open a refrigerator without permission. If I were on suicide watch, I had to ask before going to the bathroom. I was told when to sleep and when to wake, when to eat and when to go to group. My routine, which at home had cleaved so closely to my children’s, now revolved around the clattering sounds of the food trays being brought three times each day from the service elevators into our unit. With my husband and children nearly 1,000 miles away, I was severed from my fixed stars. I missed my children’s smells, the way they used to wrap their bodies around my legs when I was on the phone. I brought my son’s comforter to the hospital for my bed. I remembered him with one leg thrown across the covers, a small foot peeking out from his pajamas. When my children visited, I had to resuscitate my maternal self, if only for an hour.

hoping to look like a reasonable facsimile of a mother. My doctor used my first hospitalization as a socalled washout, a period during which he planned to take me off the medication I was on and introduce several drugs in several different combinations. The prospect of polypharmacy — taking many drugs at once — seemed foreboding. I read about Prozac’s giving some people entirely new personalities: happier, lighter, even buoyant. “Who are you going to turn me into?” I asked my doctor. “I’m not turning you into anyone,” he said. “You’ll be yourself, only happier.” “I don’t think I even have a self anymore.” “We’ll find your self.” I was wary. “Just don’t turn me into Sandy Duncan.” How much insult to the self is done by the symptoms of the disorder and how much by the drugs used to treat it? Paradoxically, psychotropic drugs can induce anxiety, nervousness, impaired judgment, mania, hypomania, hallucinations, feelings of depersonalization, psychosis and suicidal thoughts, while being used to treat the same symptoms. Before getting to the hospital, my daily moods ranged from bad to worse,

each state accompanied by a profound depth of feeling. The first drug I was given was amitriptyline (Elavil), which, in the process of reducing my despair, blunted all my other emotions. I no longer felt anything. It was like going from satellite TV to one lousy channel. While some medications affected my mood, others — especially mood stabilizers — turned my formerly agile mind into mush, leaving me so stupefied that if my brain could have drooled, it would have. Word retrieval was difficult and slow. It was as if the door to whatever part of the brain that housed creativity had locked. Clarity of thought, memory and concentration had all left me. I was slowly fading away. I would try to talk to my doctors about my vanishing self, but they didn’t have much to say on the subject. Instead they focused on whether I could make eye contact or how much expression I showed in my face. They monitored my lithium and cortisol levels; they took an M.R.I. of my head. I received an EKG, was exposed to full-spectrum lighting and kept awake all night for sleep-deprivation therapy. Nurses jotted down their observations; my scribbled lines in art therapy were inspected. Everything was scrutinized — except the transformation of my self and my experience of its loss. My current psychiatrist, William Scheftner at Rush University Medical Center, says this is typical when treating patients with acute mental disorders. The primary goal at the height of a mental-health crisis is symptom reduction. That means monitoring patients’ sleep patterns, appetites and responses to medications — not worrying about philosophical questions like who they are and who they will become. “The issue of self just isn’t there,” he told me, “because you’re so preoccupied with whether someone is actually improving or not. By August 1989, I was back in Boston with my husband and kids, having been discharged from the hospital almost three months after I was admitted. My children, like many people, mistook “discharge” for “recovery.” “Why did they let you out if you’re not better?” my daughter asked. I didn’t know how to explain the welter of factors that go into discharge: poses no threat to

self or others; is functioning at a high-enough level to participate — however minimally — in the tasks of daily living. Recovery was not an end, I told her, but a process. The trees were starting to change colours. Acorns dropped and exploded like tiny bombs. My car was in the driveway; my clothes were in my closet. But things felt ill fitting and unfamiliar. “Whose kids are these?” I wondered. “And when is their mother coming to pick them up?” Nowhere was my otherness more keenly experienced than at the driveway at the grammar school. Everyone knew that I had been “away,” and why. I tried to imitate the other mothers, their relaxed camaraderie, their confidence, the way they threw their heads back when they laughed. Around Halloween, as our neighbors made wild-eyed pumpkins with crooked teeth, my children noticed that there were frightening things in our house, too. I had my first hypomanic episode. This was how my doctors confirmed that my depression wasn’t just depression — I had bipolar II disorder, like my father. With bipolar II, unlike bipolar I, the upward swing from depression stops at hypomania, not mania. Mania is having five grand pianos delivered to your house; trying to buy the Sears company; sleeping with the local baseball team. Hypomania is mania with a tether, and, while it might avert some of the financial and interpersonal disasters that unchecked mania may engender, it can still feel like a runaway train. By that point my vestigial self had grown used to my depressed self, with her somber mood and tenuous hold on life. Now a newcomer arrived. I seemed to have split into three: my shellshocked self, my depressed self and a brazen hypomanic self. We could practically hear the new girl sizing us up, cackling. Under her reign, we slept two hours a night. We ate half a sandwich and two potato chips a day. We packed the children’s lunchboxes at 3 a.m. We began to study for the MCATs (the fact that we had never taken a biology or chem class seemed irrelevant). We telephoned long-lost friends. The hypomanic self’s activities, from relentless lunch dates and impulsive spending sprees, left my tattered and depressed selves saying, “That’s not us” and “We don’t do that.”

THE WEEKEND

SATURDAY, MAY 11, 2013

W ekend Discourse

Strategies For Development

SOME social scientist have argued for a long time, along two principal lines on the strategies of development necessary for the third world countries. Each of these groups insists that their own strategy would create or generate the development badly needed in the third word I intend to look at them briefly before proffering what I view as the qualities necessary for a well organized strategy for dev e l o p m e n t . (1) Modernization School — According to Wendell Bell (1981), the societies of the world are divided into two namely; the developed and the developing countries. Bell and others in this school of thought reason that ‘modern’ societies tend to be urban, literate and driven by technological advancement in all sectors of their economy. For instance, ‘modern’ societies are heavily equipped with state of the art transportation. media, automobile systems. Cutting edge technological advancement in health, agriculture, education, e.t.c.. Also, this school emphasize that the family or population is structured or organized within the nuclear family setting, while the traditional sources of authority (such as parents and priest) has now shifted allegiance to newer authorities like the government officials. The proponents of this school strongly believes that for the third world to attain the feats of the developed nations, they must over come their laziness, in ability to take risk, ignorance, illiteracy, socio cultural and

By ABRAHAM INOSEZILO OBODE

• President Goodluck Jonathan traditional values inimical to development e.g. the unnecessary wastage of money Capital in burials, marriages, etc. that is badly needed by investors and developers. Wendell and others also argue that it would be very difficult for the third world nations to attain the developed status of the western world, if they do not overcome the factors high lighted above as well as other characteristics the west used to attain their present height of development. In essence, the third world must look up to and rely solely on the west for guidance, supervision and co-ordination. This is because he believes the third world is weak subservient to core industrialized nations and their multinational corporation hence the need for them to follow

their footsteps. (2) Dependency SchoolAs for this school of thought, they vehemently argue that the third world does not need to depend on the developed nations for them to attain the developed status. According to the scholars here, the third world must progress gradually, at its own pace and time. They strongly argued that it was the developed world that caused the poverty suffered by the developing nations in the first place. The colonialization by the west and their recent neocolonialization have continued with the exploitation of the third world through their multinational corporations such as Coca-Cola, Shell, Chevron est. creating a situation of severe or continued de-

• Manmohan Singh, India Prime Minister pendence on foreign domination of goods and services. They also argue that while the developed nations are gradually reducing their consumption on agricultural products so as to force down the prices of the African products, a growing share of the human and natural resources of the developing nations are being re- distributed to the core industrialized nations through the heavy debts incurred by the so-called third world nations as a result of foreign aids, loans, and trade deficits. Of recent, most third world countries are falling on themselves to export their agricultural products to the west without thinking of how to develop service industries for such products. The west in turn consumes, process, and ex-

“. . . the third world must progress gradually, at its own pace and time. They strongly argued that it was the developed world that caused the poverty suffered by the developing nations in the first place.”

ports the processed and finished products back to the third word. The global debt crisis has even worsened their dependence on the industrialized nations, making international financial houses to take over the financial control of their economy, forcing them to adopt oppressive austerity measures to meet their interest payments, devaluation of their currencies, freezing workers salaries, increase privatization, of industries and reducing government policies on the services! Welfare of workers. These hiccups has made this school of thought to insist that the only way the third world nations can survive, is to detach themselves from the industrialized nations and begin their developmental process on their own timing and pace. For example countries like China, Russia, and Japan, never relied on the west for development but today they are waxing stronger by the day. Past monarchs of Japan such as Meiji, Togukawa and some others, helped to greatly advance development in their nation states, by embarking their youths on an espionage i.e. sending them abroad to study and bring back the knowledge to their home countries. (Probably the study of the

history of the role played by these different State leaders should be taught as history lessons for our present not-so-good- I don’t- know —what to do leaders in Nigeria). These scholars has also insisted that the establishment of a new world economic order, where the developed nations would still be in charge and dominate, would only lead to the strangulation of the economies of the third world through the entrance of financial bodies like the Imf. Paris! London Clubs or the WORLD BANK. These bodies persuade nations to borrow so as to occupy them with the servicing of the debts, a strategy to hinder development. As far as these scholars are concerned, the third world must internally generate their resources, resist outside influence even though the world is now a small village and the strategies of development must come from within so it can be more effective. The dependency school concluded that, the third world nations need to be restructured with an ideological initiative, based on re-engineering their structure whether in the area of social organization or in the political sector in Continues on Pgs 16 & 17

THE WEEKEND

SATURDAY, MAY 11, 2013

W ekend Discourse

Strategies For D

Continued from Pg 15

other to create meaningful development. Although the proponents of these schools of thought can be said to be right when viewed separately, my main concern / focus is the proper strategy of development for the third world nations and indeed Nigeria, to have a sound policy on the strategies that can invoke a sustainable development. According to Theodora (1974), development is a multidimensional process, involving changes in structure, attitude, institution, the acceleration of economic growth, the reduction of inequality and the eradication of absolute poverty’. This definition by Theodore has made development to be a very broad issue and so it would be wise that I view it from different perspective, for instance; (1) Law And Development - We can look at development through the ideological base with which the society is operating, the role of the judiciary, the people’s attitude to law and the equitable distribution of justice. Development must be seen from the dispensation of justice, since the law is meant to control peoples’ actions which are geared towards development. One of the ways to create cohesion and development in any society especially in Nigeria is (a) to create a sense of belonging (b) equality. The way law is dispersed can either enhance this two or destroy them. So when the law is in favor of some, for example the political class or the bourgeois whereas it is not friendly to the masses, the effect or consequence would be reduction in commitment to the society and social solidarity would disappear in no time. So, development must always be associated with law which must be dispersing with equitability. Law therefore must be enforced so as to command

obedience from people which will invariably create development. (2) Leadership And Development - Leadership is that group or sector in which authority is vested which can also be called legitimate authority when it is voted for and accepted by the generality of the society. Leadership as far as development is concerned has a major role to play; for instance, (a) leadership gives direction, (b) motivate the group, Society, (c) determines the nature or solidarity in a group and (d) exercise certain rights including the authority vested on the person(s). For leadership to induce development, these four factors high lighted above must be vigorously pursued. But the leadership that lacks these is sure to lack insincerity and determination, and the resultant effect would be retardation and crisis. For example, some world leaders (whether past or present), are rotten and are always after the state or national cake rather than development hence the breach of trust between them and the citizenry. When many of the politicians are awarding contracts, they think of how the project will fail, in other for them to progress financially. As a result of this, the nature of a nation’s leadership is one of the most important factors to achieve development. So, leadership must motivate, have collective interest, rather than personal and must determine the nature of solidarity. (3) National Integration And Development The national integration orientation of any society would go a long way in affecting its development. For the purpose of this article, I would like to see national development as that which has to do with the collective orientation of the citizens viz- a- viz their nation state. By this, I mean that the society or state must be collective and communal or have a

very strong social consensus solidarity and not one with a foundation of conflict oppositions. The orientation of the members of the state, their attitude and macro loyalties create room for development rather the micro sentiments, identifications loyalties in some quarters which recreates destructive negative consequences. For development to be initiated, improved upon and sustained our social values (whether abstract! physical), must attract a significant proportion of the population to which they must subscribe to. This is because social values also contribute to the type of social behaviours that exist in a given state as well as guide the people’s aspirations. Such value consensus would guide the nation state to have a normative congress which will always help to re enforce a collective conscience and hence increase conformity to societal laws. The 3rd world and Nigeria in particular must work towards the development of value consensus and attain a level that can be sustained and surpass subsequently, through peaceful and moral persuasion such as been promoted by the National Orientation Agency (NOA), rather than through compulsion coercion. When the Nigeria national orientation integration become very high, the citizens would not need a prophet to preach peace or conformity to them. Nigerians on their own would do what is expected of them, for instance there would be no need for the road safety corps to parade the high way to enforce the speed limits nor would their be a need for the constant reminder of the contagious ethnic clashes. Though the national integration should be voluntary acceptance, it must however be guided by legitimate au-

thority that must lead by example. When this is not attained, then there would definitely be political instabilities, ethnic groupings, civil wars, coups and counter coups, regional/ ethno-cultural nationalism, widening gap between ethnic groups, between management and workers, the rich and poor, rulers and the ruled, youths and adults federal and state authorities, gender/racial problems, and general retardation

which encourage and intensify underdevelopment. For the nations of the 3rd world to promote national development, they must (through constituted authority), embark on an orientation and restructuring that will sweep through the entire nation. Members of the society must be properly integrated into the system in order to first of all reprove members of the society’s

parochial sentiments (i.e. those that identify with micro units or ethnic groupings). The Nigerian government must work hard to eradicate that policy of ethnic identity that are evident on the common forms we fill for various activity e.g. schools, banks, bureaucratic organizations, est. The policy of mediocrity entrenched and disguised in the Federal Principal Character, must

“The 3rd world and Nigeria in pa development of value consensus a tained and surpass subsequently, suasion such as been promoted by (NOA), rather than through compu

THE WEEKEND

SATURDAY, MAY 11, 2013

W ekend Discourse

Development

be discarded and abandoned for the policy of meritocracy as canvassed by the late Dr Nnamdi Azikiwe. Once again, the Nigerian citizens must be taught to identify with macro rather than micro settings and though this policy must toll the line of the people’s culture, the national identity must and should not be compromised. (4) Population And Development - Human re-

sources is one of the greatest asset a nation must have to attain development. It is common knowledge that development involves planning, evaluation and execution of such planned strategies. The success of it however depends on the developmental plan, implementations and objective/ evaluations of such plans; while the quality of evaluation and execution, depends

largely on the human resources (population). So therefore, the quality of a population (whether literate, illiterate, functional illiterate, corrupt political class, uncommitted to national identity or not cohesive). determine the indications of developmental qualities. That is the nature of population has a direct link consequences to the quality of development in a nation. For instance when the po-

articular must work towards the and attain a level that can be sus, through peaceful and moral pery the National Orientation Agency ulsion coercion.”

litical class either intimidate or under false consciousness/ pretence deceive the population, the resultant effect would be retardation, underdevelopment due to the nature of the population but when the population is concise, well educated and functional, progressive and positive development would result. As stated earlier, there is no way the population of a state would be ignored when considering strategies of development. Although there are many debate centered on population in relation to development, I am of the view that population greatly determine the quality of d e v e l o p m e n t . According to Theodore, poor countries are blessed with abundant resources but lack the population to harness these resources, he argued that a large population would help in mass production of goods protect their environment and also make people to struggle so as not to allow their standard of living to fall. Theodore however insisted that some 3rd world countries deliberately increase their population statistics probably to get more revenue allocation or sympathy from the industrialized countries. For instance in Nigeria, different regions ethnic groups deliberately inflate their population statistics in other to get more allocation. Another group (Marxist), argue that there is no relationship between population and development, insisting that inequalities in the society is what hinder development, especially in the 3rd world. However, I will like to pitch my tent with the school that believe that a large population is detrimental to development because the more the population, the greater the expenses and the lesser the standard of living. It is my opinion that reducing the birth growth rate of the 3rd world Nigerian population in particular, would help to

stimulate rapid development since increase in population would cause so many hiccups such as: (1) Savings And Investment - A man who cannot save cannot invest. This is due to too much pressure expenses that growth in population has created. Investment creates development while expenses caused by over population create problems. (2) Population And Food Supply - A renowned economist known as Thomas Marcus was very unhappy in his time with the high rate of population. His main concern was that the population if not checked would over run the food supply which is the situation Nigeria and other 3rd world nations are heading for. Although this man proposed measures like abstinence from sex, using of contraception, postponing the age of marriage among others, the government still need to have a sound population policy that would help to regulate this trend. People must be made to understand that shortage of food can cause disease, malnutrition, thefts, crisis, death and other problems the Niger Republic, Bangladesh are battling right now. (3) Health Problems Increase in population can create health problems which can also be caused by congestions, when the population is not healthy, other vital things such as our industries, education, and economy est. will suffer. Growth in population has created shortage in health facilities, drugs and even the medical personnel. (4) Shortage In Educational Facilities — The high population growth rate can over stretched the educational facilities which have seriously become under funded in a country like Nigeria. The facilities meant for only a few people before now, has now been invaded by

students and staff alike, due to the rapid population growth rate. According to the report of the south commission published in 1990, the 3rd world is referred to as the ‘south’ and it covers the majority of the earth surface. Its people who are in the majority of the earth surface that are hundreds of millions in population, are faced with hunger, malnutrition, preventable diseases, illiteracy, lack of quality educational skills, portable water, good housing needs, what have you. The third world as it were, exists on the periphery of the developed countries of the n o r t h . Even though the world is made up of seven continents, which is home to over 235 nations, there are only two classes or types of countries, the Rich—made up of the developed nations and the Poor— which constitute the developing 3rd world. Now, though the 3rd world is heavily infested with poverty, Africa is worst hit with only a quarter of her population living above the poverty line; no wonder it is the only continent that is seriously in need of healing. The 3rd world in general is 78 percent of the world population but has only l6 percent of the world’s wealth; this is in sharp contrast with its’ counter part (the developed world), that is just 1/ 3 of the world population but control or consume 80 percent of the world food. This statistics makes one to ponder on the conditions of the third world nations which include lack of economic power, inequalities, corruptions, food shortages, poor social amenities, etc. As at the 1990s, the total population of the third world stood at 3.5 billion people i.e. 75 percent of the world population but in the 21st century, it is now pushing up to 80 percent making it to be occupying 2/3 of the earth’s surface; this means only a small proportion of the entire world population actually live in prosperity. However, the principal problems of the developing nations, is how to organize their resources in relation to their ever growing population. As individuals and as a Continues on Pg 18

THE WEEKEND

SATURDAY, MAY 11, 2013

W ekend Discourse

Strategies For Development Continued from Pg 17

group, we constantly face problems, so from India to South Africa, Venezuela to Pakistan, Bangladesh to Haiti, the developing nation’s problems vary from one country to another but below are some characteristics similar to them: (1) Democratization— there are still very few developing nations that are still under the grip of a military junta, guerrilla warfare or ethnic crisis, religious intolerance of varying magnitude. Though there are those under democracy, the system is not run the way it should as few bourgeois have hijacked the machinery of government through the kangaroo electoral process with heavy god fatherism. Countries like Togo, Mozambique, Zimbabwe and many others like Nigeria are now struggling to be part of this phenomenon in order not to be left out; all these nations constitute part of this problematic democratization. Out of all the 3rd world, India is the only balanced, progressive and steady growing country though with a little cultural hiccups occasioned by their caste system. (2) Disease — this is one of the biggest problems threating the 3rd world from possible extinction. Disease such as malaria, yellow fever, polio, meningitis, laser fever and the almighty HIV, has become a nightmare to the various government authorities and the world in general. Worse of all is the poverty state of these nations, making it a very difficult challenge to overcome it. Even South Africa, the most developed nation in Africa is now shouldering the cross of being home to the highest number of HIV carri-

ers in the world. (3) Political Instability — this phenomenon has successfully turned many 3rd world nations into war zones, hardships, woes and alarming refugee’s crisis. Countries like Togo, Ivory Coast, Liberia, Rwanda, Burundi, Haiti, Somalia, and etc. are just few examples of this phenomenon. (4) Environmental Degradation— this is another challenge that is being faced by the 3’’ world nations. Most leaders pay less attention to this; while others are enable to tackle the problem. Degradation such as flooding, pollution, desertification, deforestation amongst others, is closing in on them by the day. Due to the carelessness of handling it or the inability to solve the problem, the aquatic life is under serious threat, houses/ properties have been erased either by flooding, deforestation, or desert encroachment. In Nigeria, places like Gombe, Nassarawa and the Niger Delta has become chief host to this lingering menace. (5) High Debt Burden — although almost all the nations of the world are indebted, the 3rd world, Africa in particular has been crushed by the servicing of their debts making it difficult for development to take place. (6) Historical Origin — Although the 3rd world has no uniform origin, some experiences such as slave trade, colonialization, military incursion, are some common phenomenon many of them share in common; even though their duration, purpose and method varied. (7) Technology — this is another major chal-

lenge of the 3rd world nations. Though each of these 3rd world nations vary in technology, it still remain a big problem to them since many of them rely so much on that of the west to function and run their economy. Countries like China, Singapore, North Korea, and few others that have been able to record a big technological break through, still have the manipulation of the west to contend. (8) Population — The west has a very stable population as in, low birth rate and low death rate, but the 3rd world communities have the reverse. Though in Nigeria and other 3rd world nations death rate is reducing because of technology, these countries are increasing in birth rate in an outrageous proportion. This has made the 3rd world nations unable to feed their population, making the western nations to invade the 3rd world with their products, thereby raising the cost of living, unemployment,

“It is imperative to note that for there to be meaningful strategies of development, policies and methodologies initiated and adopted must be free from personal, sectional interest such as religion, gender, classes! Status groups and based only on the macro identities! “

crime, poverty, starvation, etc. Population Policy In Nigeria Population policy refers to the deliberate government actions such as laws, regulations and administrative programs intended for population growth size, distribution and composition. Such actions are intended to facilitate the achievement of its population growth or objectives. The population policy of any responsible government is geared towards such variables as the fertility, mortality and migration rate. The first national population policy of the Nigerian government was put together in 1985 under the IBB administration but was finally published in 1988. The main goals of the policy then were, (a) to improve the standard of living and quality of the people, (b) to promote your health and welfare and (c) to achieve a more even distribution of population between the urban and rural areas. The policy also had such objectives as; (1) Promoting awareness among the citizens on the effect of rapid population growth and development. (2) Provision of information to every one the necessary information! Education on the value of reasonable family size. (3) Educating all young people on population

matters. (4) To provide cheap family planning needs and services and make it easily assessable to all couples and individuals. (5) Provision of fertility management programs that will attend to the needs of sterile and sub sterile couples. (6) To improve demographic data collections and analysis on regular basis. (7) To enhance integration between the rural and urban development so as to improve their living conditions and slow down the constant migration from the rural to urban. However, though the Ibrahim Babangida population policy is commendable, it had many flaws as it was not properly monitored, co-ordinate, or inherited by successive government (whether military or democratic).Also, the policy was centered on religious and gender affiliations with the rope of family planning tied round the neck of the women, according to them, the right to have only four children, whereas their male counterpart was at liberty to have more than 30 by simply marrying seven women as it implies. It is imperative to note that for there to be meaningful, strategies of development, policies and methodologies initiated and adopted must be free from personal, sectional interest such as

religion, gender, classes, status groups and based only on the macro identities. Loyalties which alone can produce the needed positive results. Though the four points highlighted above are all important in the drive towards development, the population and the national integration orientation, of a nation state, in my own opinion; determine to a large extent, the success and failure of the various strategies adopted by any nation s t a t e . Conclusively, as the Nigerian nation prepares for the forthcoming national population census, state governors, local government chairmen, senators, Reps, traditional leaders and all other political leaders or bourgeois nursing political ambitions should be called together and given a sound and effective orientation on the goals objectives of the census exercise because they are the ones that need it more than the masses since the masses do not have the political, economic wherewithal to influence, manipulate the census statistics. The government must also hire sound demographers, statistician that will collate and interpret the statistics in relation to our onward march towards development which will enable the government to roll out a standardize strategy towards development.

THE WEEKEND

I sues

THE need to create cattle ranches for Fulani cattle rearers cannot be overemphasized as these nomadic people and animals are posing serious health hazards and danger to indigenes of their host communities. About a couple of weeks back, two brothers met their waterloo along Sapele Road due to a mad cow who ran into their motorbike. Edo Broadcasting Service (EBS) television footage showed the cow that caused the accident and the bereaved family. In a bid to seek greener pastures for grazing, their animals are moved from the nook and crannies across Benin metropolis and beyond. Consequently, in this endless migration, the animals defecates in all their foot path. Researchers have proved that animals waste, contain similar bacterial as human waste. So, indiscriminate dumping of cattle waste by the river banks could mean portable water supply could fast track bacterial mobility. About 80% of Nigerian population today is without safe dependable water and the consequences are enormous. No fewer than a thousand people are killed annually through water related diseases, such as Bilharzias which afflict so many people. infiltrates the world biggest cause of blindness that affects so many people in the northern part of Nigeria. Dysentery, cholera and typhoid continue to de-

SATURDAY, MAY 11, 2013

Need To Create Cattle Ranches For Fulani Rearers stroy human lives, occasioned by contaminated water. It had been confirmed by the United Nations in a survey carried out in many developing countries that about 95% of all infant mortality could be avoided through safe water utility and a good hygiene of refuse disposal. About 90% of the people in the rural communities across the country are daily consuming water. The house hold, animal wastes and pit toilets of over 100 million rural dwellers abide in their backyard. The UNEP report states that three quarter of world population is constantly exposed to diverse disease as a result of contaminated water. “At Orogho village in Orhionmwon Local Government Area of Edo State, the incessant burning of forest by cattle rearers is turning some part of the land to look like a semi-desert said Dr. Umweni, a Geologist at Ambrose Alli University (AAU) Ekpoma. These Nomadic Fulani cattle rearers will soon be laying claim to the ownership of the land just like their Ijaw counterpart at Gelege and other coastal areas in Bight of Benin. Mr. Oarugue a farmer who hail from the area said, “apart from the in-

By EKAIWE IGINUA OSEMWENKHA

cessant burning of our forest by these nomadic cattle rears, so many cases abound where our women going about their legitimate farm

meat could have become a culinary delight of the down trodden masses in Nigeria if they were privileged to lay hands on such

work have been sexually molested by Fulani cattle rearers and very often go free with out arrest on certain occasions the youths have to mobilize a hot chase, but the problems had remain a recurrent activities in the neighbourhood. In the U.K. about a decade ago, millions of cattle were destroyed for what vetinary doctors referred to as mad cow disease. The animals were buried because they were not fit for human consumption. But this type of

meat. “Diseases no de kill African man” This is very correct because without accurate diagnostic equine for an autopsy for the demised we tend to attribute death of this nature to the handiwork of a warlock. It is a common scenario in the rustic community to find farms that have been invaded by Fulani cattle rearers and the resultant consequences is destruction of crops and economic trees. The law abiding, hard working farmers remain the looser because there is no way of seeking redress by bringing these animals to book. Motorist on our high ways are vulnerable to mad cow who simply jump on the vehicle cruising at about 120 M.P.H. and before the driver knows what is happening there is a fa-

“Motorist on our high ways are vulnerable to mad cow who simply jump on the vehicle cruising at about 120 M.P.H. and before the driver knows what is happening there is a fatal accident thereby causing several vehicles to run into one another.”

tal accident thereby causing several vehicles to run into one another. A particular scenario that is still very fresh in

my memory was when three cows ran into a moving petrol tanker lorry at Benin – Ekpoma Road in Benin metropolis. The three cows were annihilated on the spot by the moving trailer but the petrol tanker somersaulted and busted into flames. So many vehicles plying the road lost their lives in the inferno. Cruelty to animals by some cattle traders from the northern part of the country who transports these animals on big lorries for two or three days without food or water, is totally unacceptable to people who are animal lovers. So, by the time they arrived Benin, Lagos or Calabar, they would need to graze for at least three days before gaining strength. Very often some of the animals do not recover and die before getting to

their destination. Mr. Ogieriakhi who had wanted to join the cattle business from Benin said “I suffered two major obstacles, first there is a monopoly

by the owners of these animals who do not welcome the idea of intermediaries, secondly, the risk of transporting animals without water or food for three days is very high. However I was able to purchase 10 cattle from the black market and three died on the way I could not afford to throw the dead cow away because of the huge capital employed, so the animals were slaughtered and dried with the heat of the sun. This type of meat is called tiko culinary delight of the downtrodden. In the light of the above, it had become imperative for the three tier of government to put in place cattle ranches in all the local government areas in Nigeria in order to curb the challenges occasioned by nomadic cattle rearers.

THE WEEKEND

SATURDAY, MAY 11, 2013

V ewpoint

Youth Unemployment In Nigeria

ACCORDING to Oxford Advanced Dictionary, unemployment occurs when people are without work, and actively seeking w o r k . Additionally, unemployment rate is a measure of the prevalence of unemployment and it is calculated as a percentage by dividing the number of unemployed individuals by all individual currently in the labor force. Furthermore, according to survey, Nigeria unemployment rate averaged l4.60% reaching an all time high of 23 .90% in December 2012. Therefore, unemployment is a situation a vast number of people really dread. Being jobless, can be shameful and embarrassing to tell to people especially relatives and f r i e n d s . Despite the various programmes, launched by the government, there is still persistence in the in-

crease in unemployment among Nigerians, especially the youths. Though, President Goodluck Jonathan recently launched a programme which he titled “Youth Enterprise with Innovation In Nigeria” popularly called “YouWin” so as to reduce the rate of unemployment among graduates. “YouWin” is a collaboration of the Ministry of Finance, the Ministry of Communication Technology, the Ministry of Youth Development and the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development. Its major aims are to attract ideas from young entrepreneurial aspirants from universities, polytechnics and colleges, to provide one time equity grant for I ,200 selected aspiring entrepreneurs to start their businesses and also to encourage expansion, specialization etc. Additionally, on April 12,

By ODINUKAEZE NNENNA 2012. 1 ,200 “YouWin” awardees were celebrated at the Presidential Villa. Though, ‘YouWin has recorded sonic successes, it still has its shortcomings. It is an elitist program, and cannot capture the large majority of rural unemployed youths. Its target of 1,200 jobs is biased and in appropriate providing jobs to a few individuals and leaving the others jobless roaming the streets of Nigeria. Right from the era of independence to the Shagari’s administration the unemployment rate was not that high because the go eminent then as mainly concerned about the welfare graduates by providing instant employment. Furthermore, unemployment is rampant in Nigeria. as a result of certain factors. These include

bureaucratic factors, poor grades, non-implementation of governmental policies etc. In Nigeria, it is so sad and pathetic that before jobs are given to qualified graduates they are made to pay stipends and those who cannot afford such is dropped without given much consideration. Also, jobs are given to those who have great connection in government and other top organizations. ‘Long leg” as it is called. Moreover, poor educational qualification can also hamper their opportunities of getting good jobs. A graduate with a first class degree will certainly have an edge over his third class counterpart. In addition, government has not done much on its part by establishing industries and more job oppor-

t u n i t i e s . Every year, Nigeria universities churn out graduates who simply end up among the unemployed. For some, it could be their course of study is not compatible with the jobs available. Many graduates end up working in clerical positions and fast food. Unemployment in Nigeria has assumed another dim e n s i o n . Youths now engage in various crimes as a result

through school, and also the society, they engage in destructive acts, wasting l i v e s . Youth unemployment has really affected the social psyche of families. It has led several youths embarking on dangerous journeys through the hot Sahara desert all in the name of’ traveling abroad. Girls are the most hit, as they resort to prostitution. Records prove that Nigeria accounts 83% of

Emeka Wogu, Minister of Labour

“The future of the Nigerian youth is at stake. Youths are one of the greatest assets a nation can possess. It is not palatable to come out of the university after the rigors and challenges encountered without a just compensation of ones hard work”.

of idleness. Terrorism is now a major stake in Nigeria. In the northern part of Nigeria, unemployed youths, are now members of an army of “Almajiris” and “Boko Haram”. Furthermore, the unemployed youths are used as tools by politicians to foment electoral troubles or violence and also to cause religious disturbances. As the saying goes, “an idle mind is the devil’s works h o p ” . The youths are also used as hired killers, political thugs and drug couriers. Rather than contributing positively to their families who labored to see them

women trafficking in Afr i c a . The future of the Nigerian youth is at stake. Youths are one of the greatest assets a nation can possess. It is not palatable to come out of the university after the rigors and challenges encountered without a just compensation of ones hard work. The hope and fate of the Nigerian youths, are in the hands of the government and it is left for the government to make the youths happy and also to inspire other youths who do not see the relevance of education as a result of unemployment, a must.

THE WEEKEND

SATURDAY, MAY 11, 2013

E counter Sir, what is your vision for the College of A g r i c u l t u r e , Iguoriakhi? My vision for the college of agriculture Iguoriakhi is in line with the vision of Governor Adams Oshiomhole which is to transform and re-position this institution as a centre for moulding people in terms of character and academic excellence. I have been a lecturer here for several years and I clearly understand the dynamics of this institution. Since I came on board as the provost of this institution, I have had several meetings with both academic and non academic staff and in these meetings, we have extensively discussed the way and manner of moving this school forward. I have also fashioned out strategies towards achieving Governor Oshiomhole’s vision for this school. What are the challenges that you met on ground when you became provost of this institution? I meet some challenges when I assumed duty as provost of this institution. Many people were irregularly promoted above competence and qualification and this is capable of promoting mediocrity over meritocracy. I also met the challenges of inadequate infrastructures and lack of facilities as well as other challenges. As I speak with you, we are working assiduously towards addressing these challenges. When I came on board, I invited some staff of Ambrose Alli University, University of Benin and representatives of the Ministry of Agriculture and Natural Resources

Governor Oshiomhole Is A Born Leader - Dr. Obasogie

COMRADE Dr. Friday Osamuyimen Obasogie is the Provost College of Agriculture Iguoriakhi. An academician by profession, Dr. Obasogie was a lecturer at the college and rose steadily within the ranks before his elevation to the post of provost of the institution. the implication of this is that Dr. Obasogie has always been part of the College of Agriculture, Iguoriakhi and as such understands the terrain and this would enable him fulfill governor Oshiomhole’s vision of re-positioning the school. Highly determined, result-oriented and intelligent, weekend observer interacted with him recently. Excerpt:and we set up the staff verification panel with a mandate to properly place staff in this institution by academic qualification and publication. Based on the contents of the verification report, we are now placing staff appropriately. Before now, we were not having fish pond in this institution we now have 5 tanks as fish pond. We have also set up a standard poultry and the poultry we had before setting up the standard one has been renovated to accommodate 5 thousand broilers. We have opened up 50 hectares of land for farming. We are presently in partnership with the management of Ose Rubber River Estate and Rubber Research Institute of Nigeria in lyanomo in order for them to assist us with seeds and technical know-how to enable us take the school to enviable heights. All these are geared towards accreditation. Before you were el-

• Dr. Friday Obasogie

evated to the rank of provost of this institution, what occupation or endeavour were you involved in? Before this appointment, I was a lecturer in this college. I was a senior lecturer in the department of general agriculture. I was one time

head of Department of General Agriculture, one time Dean of Academics, one time Higher National Diploma (HND) coordinator of the college. I have over 20 publications all in local and international journals to my credit. I have done several field works in

conjunction with my colleagues in other institutions on environment impact assessment within and outside the state. We brought lecturers form other institutions and appointed them as adjunct lectures also to facilitate accreditation. What are your views on Governor Oshiomhole’s style of leadership? Governor Adams Oshiomhole is the best man to have govern Edo State. He has a great vision for our dear state and he is leaving no stone unturned to achieve this vision. His impact cuts across the entire facet of the state. In the educational sector, he has done wonders thereby re-building our schools to world class standard. He has re-built our roads to world class standard, salaries are now paid as at when due, security challenges are being well addressed; people in Edo sate go about

their business without fear of molestation, employment opportunities have been provided for our youths and there is prudent management of resources in our state. What is more, our Governor is receiving commendation and awards from both local and international organizations. I am very proud of him and happy that I am part of this history making administration. How would you describe the conduct of the just concluded local Government Election? The just concluded local government election in Edo State was conducted on a “One Man, One Vote basis. People came out en-mass to vote for candidates of their choice. The election went on smoothly. What are your views on the Nigeria Democracy? I believe that we are making progress in the practice of democracy in Nigeria. We may be making mistakes and many people have said that we are slow but we must remember that we have made tremendous progress since the attainment of independence. What is your message to Edo People? My message to the good people of Edo State is that they should continue to be law abiding and should always pray for Governor Oshiomhole to enable him continue the good work.

“Governor Adams Oshiomhole is the best man to have govern Edo State. He has a great vision for our dear state and he is leaving no stone unturned to achieve this vision. His impact cuts across the entire facet of the state.”

THE WEEKEND

SATURDAY, MAY 11, 2013

C unselling

Enhancing Human Adjustment

What You Project: When people become problem people, the thoughtless negative reactions of people around them tend to provoke and then reinforce more of the same. If you want to have a positive influence, thoughtful responses are required. It is in your interest to assume the best by giving them the benefit of doubt. It is also, in your interest to help them break their associations to negative behaviours and limiting self concepts and reinforce-their association to the behaviours you want them to engage in. If you do this habitually, difficult people may come to see you as a valued ally rather than an enemy and surprisingly fulfill your positive expectations. Tell your truth: Honesty can be effective, no matter what difficult behaviour a person engaged in. if you tell your truth in a way that builds someone up rather than tearing someone down. The more trust you have with a person, the more likely it is that you will be heard. So, you may want to spend a few weeks or even months, building up the trust level with blending behaviours before you attempt an open and honest conversation with your difficult person. Remember to tell the person, why you are telling your truth before you actually tell your truth. State your positive intent and why you think it is in the person’s best interest to know. Appreciate criticism: If you are one of those people who has a knee-jerk reaction to criticism, particularly when it seems unfair, perhaps, you have noticed that defending yourself tends to make things worse. Do not protest too much. The implication is that your defenses are an admission of guilt and anything you say may be used against you. So the more the criticism seems to stick. Here is a simple short circuit to rapidly bring criti-

cism to a close without internalizing it or fighting against it. Verbally, appreciate the criticism as a way of ending it. No defense, no explanation, no justification. A simple “thanks” is all that it takes and it’s over said the band. When you verbally appreciate someone who is criticizing you, you are letting go of the need to defend, ex-

down but in exchange for some critical appreciation, you’ll receive a big peace dividend in the long run. Making workout playful: “No pain, no gain” may at last be on its way to the graveyard of outdated health slogans. Human beings didn’t evolve to run 26 miles at a time, but to walk. We didn’t evolve to bench

plain or justify your behaviour. You simply hear the other person out and thank the person for communicating. You do not have to ask any questions about what you are hearing unless, you think it might be valuable and want to find out more if you don’t resist it, once critical people have had their say, they are done with it. Say: “thanks for being honest or “thanks for taking the time to let me know how you feel,” or “thanks for caring so much”. Simple, subtle and sweet. The next time someone critises you, try this strategy. You may initially find it hard to keep that knee

press 2001b, but to carry 201b to 301b long distances so ease off. You don’t have to kill yourself to save your life. The exercise necessary to be healthy is much less than most people think and doesn’t have to involve burden some regimens. It should be part of life. Gardening alone –hoeing digging, pulling weeds and pushing lawn mower can boost heart rate – by 20 – 23 percent. For a sedentary person that may be enough to improve health. More importantly, gentle exercise makes you feel terrific. When you begin an exercise program you improve your mood and boost

your confidence and sense of self mastery. Start by looking for opportunities to include more physical activities in the everyday things you do. You may not have time to “exercise”, but you can build energetic activities into your life. Take the stairs instead of the elevator. Climb a hill. Walk through the park. Instead of driving to the store all the time, walk and carry

science is proving the value of napping. When people in a laboratory are allowed to sleep without restriction, an interesting pattern develops. In addition to normal hours of night sleep, they begin to prefer a midday nap. Outside the laboratory, napping is quite common among college students and the aged, two groups often liberated

a bag of groceries home. Take seriously dancing, bowling, gardening, playing with children or golf. If you do enjoy the feeling of strenuous workouts, fine. But remember this is supposed to be fun. Life-saving Siestas: Winston Churchill, a confirmed napper, wrote: nature had not intended man to work from eight in the morning until midnight without the refreshment of blessed oblivion, which even if it lasts only 20 min-

from work-time demands. The napless day we usually experience is probably an unnatural, fairly recent invention. Our early ancestors may have slept through the darkness of the night, hunted in the early morning, then escaped the midday heat by napping in a shady spot. Our biological rhythm appears programmed for a midday rest. A cat nap can refresh – relaxing the body, clearing the mind and offering a break from the pace and stresses of daily life. You probably don’t have to sleep to get the rejuvenation from an afternoon lie down. A group of students were invited to either nap, rest quietly in a

utes, is sufficient to renew all vital forces. Most people imagine the natural sleep pattern is a single long people at night, but

darkened room or watch a video program on nature for one hour. After either napping or resting, they reported being more alert and clear-headed and less anxious and fatigued. All Pleasures – Great and Especially Small: Which frames of mind and experiences really make human beings happy? Is it necessary to have intense movements of pleasure or are little pleasures more important? Is happiness built up from many small occurrences or does it spring from a few fantastic events, such as one’s first “love, a long – awaited job promotion or a once-in- a life- trip to Europe? The answers may surprise you. In one study, a psychologist asked people to observe their moods over six weeks. Each person carried a keeper that recorded how he or she felt at any movement and also, rated happiness over the six-week period. Happiness it was concluded springs from how much of the time a person spends feeling good, not from momentary peaks of ecstasy. Simple pleasures – hour spent walking on a Sunny day, gardening, running with the dog or helping someone less fortunate are more allied with happiness than strong feelings. Don’t bet your whole life on the big events – winning the lottery, becoming president of the company or doubling your income, instead, make sure you attend to the daily healthy pleasures of smells, tastes and sounds, rewarding relationships and meaningful work. The good feelings are likely to add up to a more optimistic view of your future and perhaps, a longer healthier life. Remember, our thoughts create the context that determines our feelings. In thinking about health and especially, in trying to change the consequences of an illness or the behaviour that leads to it is crucial.

“Nature had not intended man to work from eight in the morning until midnight without the refreshment of blessed oblivion, which even if it lasts only 20 minutes, is sufficient to renew all vital forces”.

THE WEEKEND

SATURDAY, MAY 11, 2013

“When dealing with your kind of spots it is important to know what you have got and how it got there or you could end up treating it wrongly” UNEASY they say lies the head that wears the crown so also is the face that wears the spots. It is so disheartening waking up one morning to discover an unwelcome lone spot at the end of the nose. This lone spot can multiply in no time making the face very unattractive to behold. It is no respecter of any skin, normal, oily or even dry skins can break out in the kind of sensitive rash that knocks spots off their oily skinned counterp a r t s . When dealing with your kind of spots it is important to know what you have got and how it got there or you could end up treating it wrongly. Here are some of the more common and most tedious blemish. See how they arise and how you should tackle them. Pimple. The straightforward spot happens when your sebaceous glands produce greasy sebum which travels up the tube (follicles) that your facial hair comes out from to form a thin oily surface, which protects your skin. But over activity can result in too much greasy

Same starting off point as a pimple, but this time sebum ‘Mug’ gets to the surface and turns black not with dirt from grime (so there is no need to feel blackheads), the change takes place within your skin where melanin (your natural pigmentation) turns it b l a c k . If your blackheads are large and looks ready to

Going Spotless

sebum, or the sebum may simply become too thick. Either way, it blocks the follicles or pores and it is when the sebum lies trapped under the skin’s

surface that the skin becomes inflamed and you get a pimple. It may go away again or it may come to a head. B l a c k h e a d

pop out, then you can squeeze. It go about it the right way, gently place tissue or cotton wool over your fingertips firstly, if it doesn’t come

No need to go around showing off your spots when there are plenty of camouflage sticks around to match your skin tone. If you want a layer of foundation get your doctors okay first if your skin is really bad. Oil free foundations are best. Go for natural wonder fresh face make-up, cover liquid make-up, apply with clean figures. If you have done a good job, no one will know your spots are there and that is what it is all about really.

Shop

Beauty With Gloria Omoruyi

out straight away leave it. Pressure could inflame the surrounding area. Or worse damage the skin and lead to permanent s c a r i n g . White Heads There are white heads. For example what you think is a white head could easily be your prime pimple coming to a head. It can be treated in the same way as a blackhead, by gently squeezing. Then there are the white ‘acid spots’ or Milia (Latin for millet seed) which aren’t part of a grease condition so should never be bled or squeezed. They are tiny hard white cysts, formed sometimes by damage in the sweat glands, or in other ways. Distinguishable because they aren’t caused by tendered skins. They sometime go away on their own, but if you have quite a few (usually they are around the eye area) a beautician will remove them. Boil. You’ll know you have got one because it hurts. It is a hot painful spot caused this time by an infection in the hair foll i c l e . Boils are often an indication that your health is below par; if you are anemic, run down or getting over an illness your resistance is low and you are more susceptible to inf e c t i o n . Your boil will come to a head more often than not, then discharge. You can help it on its way by applying heat. Doesn’t have to be wet heat, so you don’t need to prepare hot poultries. A

w a r e m m m mmm; – ed metal spoon placed on your boil is as effective. But if it hangs around for a long time or get worse, or if you have several that aren’t just clearing up see your doctor. He will probably prescribe a course of antibiotics. Itchy Rash A mass of blotches that either start off red, or redden and spread as you scratch them. They are sensitive spots. Dry skins having a less oily protective barrier, are more vulnerable, so use moisturizer to prevent your skin drying out too much. Such see your doctor if you do break out in a rash, he may prescribe antihistamine pills and a soothing cream to take care of the itching. Warts, cold sores, bites, naturally enough, there are many, many more varieties of spot that can turn up on your face and elsewhere but these are usually caused by infections from outside which you can do very little about. Your doctor has the right treatment to send them packing. Skin Cover-Ups No need to go around showing off your spots when there are plenty of camouflage sticks around to match your skin tone. If you want a layer of foundation get your doctors okay first if your skin is really bad. Oil free foundations are best. Go for natural wonder fresh face make-up, cover liquid make-up, apply with clean figures. If you have done a good job, no one will know your spots are there

THE WEEKEND

SATURDAY, MAY 11, 2013

N tion MAN by nature is resistant to any form of segregation that alienates him from the resources of his environment. He wants his voice to be heard and his fundamental rights respected in the society. Hence, every group seeks to be fully incorporated in the benefits of a system of the society which it is tied to by geographical/political determination. However, a critical assessment of the situation in our country shows that injustices in forms of violation of human rights and abandonment of groups in socio-economic and political matters are paramount occurrence. Today, many groups in our country are crying for attention and others are craving for a total liberation from all ties binding them to the existing Nigeria State. The extreme quest for this has necessitated various forms of reactions. Hence, our country continues to witness a nightmare of violent rebellions. The situation on ground shows that we cannot rightly attest a claim to nationhood. This is because, a political structure (state) may be forcefully organized, but a nation can only be built by the collective desire of her citizens to be associated with her. Contrary to this condition for nation building, ethno-religious affiliations continue to serve as the primary identity recourse of Nigerian citizens, thereby threatening the survival of one Nigeria. In the light of these challenges, our country yearns for peace and nationhood with no serious attempt to alleviate the woes of the oppressed. In the words of Peter Tosh, “everyone is crying out for peace but no one is crying out for Justice.” Instead of attending to the root causes of our national problems, our attention has been on eliminating those who dare raise their voices in defense of the oppressed. The hanging of Dr. Ken Saro Wiwa and his colleagues (the Ogoni Nine) on November 10, 1995 and other subsequent military assaults in the

Sectional Violence

Confronting The Niger delta region are notable examples. This shows that, we are yet to realize that the long-term oppression of groups in our country is the root cause of the problems we live with today. As such, all attempts on nation building continue to prove abortive. It is against this backdrop that this piece appeals to the basic principle of justice as an attempt to proffer solutions to our barriers to nation building. Conceptual Clarificat i o n s Violence The term Violence has a multifaceted understanding. Commonly, it is understood as the use of physical force, with the deliberate intention of causing damage to property or injury or death to people. This implies cruelty. However, its usage in this work implies the refusal to accord to an individual or a group, her fundamental rights and means of livelihood, thereby posing a threat to her survival. This is the sense in which Festus Iyaye wrote that “when such men of poor and limited opportunities react, they are only in a certain measure, answering violence with violence.” The Phenomenon Of Sectional Violence In Nigeria Nigeria harbors various forms of sectional violence which is evident in all aspects of our cooperate existence. There is tension between the various groups that make up the country and this is evident in the complaints of marginalization of the various ethno-communal groups about the current scheme of things. The major source of concern is usually on the political and economic sphere which at its peak led to the 31st May, 1967 declaration of the Biafra Republic that was followed with the unfortunate Nige-

By DAMISA DANIEL ETSEZEOBOR

• Aminu Tambuwal

ria civil war. Though the Biafra bid failed and the Eastern part of Nigeria was “forced” back to the country, the peoples claim of political marginalization seems not to have been addressed long after the war. Tension was again heightened in the aftermath of the June 12, 1993 Presidential election. The south west of Nigeria felt intimidated by Babangida’s refusal to hand over power to Abiola having won the presidential election. This was interpreted as political marginalization of the Westerners by the Northerners who were believed to have a dogged cling to power. This agitation grew by the day until it was somewhat laid to rest with Obasanjo’s ascension to Aso Rock. The pendulum of national struggle for survival has swung to the

South-South zone. Not even the emergence of Goodluck Jonathan as the president of Nigeria has been able to lay the social and economic agitations of the people to rest. It remains a puzzle to many how a State could have exploited and neglected her wealth producing region for so long. While “the oil obtained from this region now sustains the country’s revenue earning which has been used to transform other areas of the country, the whole region is today nothing

but a Sahara desert of poverty. The atrocities committed in the NigerDelta ranges from the ecological devastation of the oil-producing communities, the economic and political exclusion of the people, and the complete underdevelopment of these communities. Yet the government has refused to halt these devastations and rebuild these communities. Rather, she has contributed to the destruction of peace in the region with the constant attacks and militarization of the re-

i o n . While it is easy to think that the North is excluded from this national epidemic, having held on to power for long, the truth remains that the country has done nothing remarkable for the average citizen of Northern origin. The vast availability of uneducated youths in this region has been hijacked by nasty criminals to perpetuate both “politically inspired” and “criminally motivated” militancy. While both the actions and ideologies of these rebellions can be rightly condemned, it may also be plausible to ask if anything different should be expected from a uneducated mind. The group perspective to the issues poses even greater astonishment. Fundamental group discriminations exist in our Country. The issue of women emancipation is generating wave in Nigeria because we seek to associate with the current trends in advanced societies. As unserious as we are about the issue, so minimal is its impact in society. On a different note, our goverment appears to be careless about the fact that over percent (50%) of Nigerian youths are unemployed and the state is not making meaningful effort to assist them to stay alive. Also we have the enduring problem of child right violations by the state of which the most basic is their privation from quality health care and education. FiContinues on pg. 25

“Nigeria harbors various forms of sectional violence which is evident in all aspects of our cooperate existence. There is tension between the various groups that make up the country and this is evident in the complaints of marginalization of the various ethno-communal groups about the current scheme of things.”

THE WEEKEND

SATURDAY, MAY 11, 2013

N tion

In Nigeria:

Challenge To Nation Building Continues from pg. 24

nally and most seriously, we can talk of the violence against the poor in our society. What justification can we find for a situation where a state puts about N30, 000,000 or more at the disposal of one man every month and finds it difficult to pay Nl8,000 to another after toiling strenuously for a whole month? Unfortunately, only a few Nigerians have access to these peanut salaries. Hence, many Nigerians die of starvation every day; in a country blessed with mineral resources, capable of helping to at least put food on everyone’s table. Consequences Of Sectional Violence In Niger i a The basic threats to our bid for nationhood and the sources of our many unpleasant experiences today are consequences of sectional violence and group discriminations in our country. The spirit of rebellion has been cultivated in the minds of Nigerians and its effects are evident in the activities of the various militant groups we now struggle with. Though their activities constitute security threat with political and economic effects on the entire Nigerian State and occasionally slackening the foundation of our corporate existence,’ Bishop Kukah insightfully noted they are not our problems but symptoms of our p r o b l e m s . The consequences of sectional violence in the social life of Nigerians are obvious. Social mistrust, social displacement, ethnic suspicions, etc., have become evident in the lives of the teeming Nigerian populace. The natural inclination today is for citizens to relate on ethnic bases and view people of other ethnic backgrounds with suspicion. Hence, the national identity fades while ethnic affiliations

are fostered. Consequently, Nigerians are increasingly and consistently voting for separation; since our national values have been aban-

doned. In the final analysis, “Nigeria remains a nebulous entity, a hazy concept or a mere geographical expression”. Recommendation The way forward is to address the fundamental issues affecting the corporate existence of the Nigerian state. The peace and unity we long for cannot be achieved with programs like the Niger Delta Amnesty which attempts to address the symptoms instead of the causes of our national destabilization. Hence, there is need to proffer solutions which will go beyond providing temporal succor to our malady to provide integral peace and unity. I. An improved system of leadership The government of our country has to live up to its responsibility. This can be achieved with a careful and sincere choice of candidates during elections. Every constituted government must ensure a fair-play in all areas of the country. The popu-

lace on their part must not remain silent when this is not evident. Rather, they must look for fruitful means to make our leaders live up to expectations, not of the individual citizens, but responsibilities they assume by virtue of the offices they occupy. 2. De-centralization of wealth World Bank Report 1998 states that “Nigeria has the potential to build a highly prosperous economy, to reduce poverty significantly and provide the health, education and infrastructural service of its population needs.” It added that “uneven distribution of this

wealth and unaccountability has placed the country among those with the highest rate of poverty.” Thus, there is urgent need to restructure the State Salary Scheme, which is currently at the service of a few Nigerians, constituting the political class, to the increased dis-advantage of the poor earning Nigerians. Also, the principle of accountability has to be awakened in our country. (3) A Review of the Nigerian Education System The education system has to be repositioned to serve our aim of nation building. The new cur-

riculum must begin from the elementary stage to focus the attention of the Nigerian children on what can unite us as a people rather than exposing them to unfounded sentiments and prejudices against other groups. The State need to make accessible to every Nigerian child, a compulsory education with the goal to produce not just informed but sound minded men and women with a trained will and conscience to be at the service of truth, justice, freedom, peace and unity. Thus, all unfair educational policies (like the quota system) that are not serving our vision of

“Elimination of all forms of sectional violence remains the root way to peace and integral unity in our country. For, “We cannot talk of building peace, happiness and harmony on injustice.”

unity need to be reviewed. (4) Public Reorientation and Sanitization The consciences of the Nigerian citizens need to be sanitized to rise and speak out in defense of the oppressed. They need to be groomed and firmly established in the words of Alexander Hezan that “to shrink from saying a word in defense of the oppressed is as bad as any crime”. They need to be encouraged to channel the energy used in causing social trauma and agony towards the advocacy of integral unity. Influential persons and institutions, especially religious leaders and the media houses, have an unquantifiable role to play in this regard. Conclusion This article has tried to establish that unjust victimization is inherent in the Nigeria entity and this has rendered integral peace and unity impossible but rather paved way for violent rebellion and criminal militancy. To have peace and unity, “what may have to give way is not the voice of those denied their rights, but the economic and political structures which make justice impracticable.” Otherwise, the Nigeria project will at best continue to remain a forceful conglomeration of ethnic groups with great divides and at worst will collapse. Elimination of all forms of sectional violence remains the root way to peace and integral unity in our country. For, “We cannot talk of building peace, happiness and harmony on injustice. Our vision is in one future co-existence. Let justice be our watchword and our proclamation of “one nation bind in freedom, peace and unity” will then be realized. • Culled from the Nigerian Catholic Encounter

THE WEEKEND

SATURDAY, MAY 11, 2013

G nder Issues Nigerian Spinsters And Ideal Husband THE question that hits my mind most times when this type of topics crop up is, is there really an ideal husband? Because in every human, there are flaws which spinsters are not excluded but our ability to manage each other’s excesses is what matters. A single lady and a man are meant to come together for completeness, i.e, to form a whole. Humans are dependent beings and therefore, everyone needs a relationship (not necessarily a husband and wife relationship), in order to be comfortable. Presently, individuals, tend to insist on personal values, goals and gains in selecting a suitable mate, this mainly has lead to the term ‘‘spinsterhood and bachelorhood’’. But for the sake of this article, I will be considering the Nigerian spinster. Who is a spinster? According to Oxford Advanced Learner’s Dictionary, a spinster is a woman who is not married especially an older woman who is not likely to marry. Spinsters are category of women whose experience of singlehood differs qualitatively from the experience of other single women. Furthermore, spinsters are ladies whose age are from 30 years and above and are unmarried. Marriage remains the important marker of adult status in Nigeria. Prolonged non marriage is essentially disapproved in any Nigerian setting and permanent non marriage for women has no place in Nigeria’s socio-cultural system, except women who are espoused to ‘‘spirit’’ as priestesses. Stigmatisation and marginalisation are still the dominant mark in singlehood in most societies because non-marriage is still seen as defying the norms of femininity which is marriage and motherhood. In this type of society, where m o d e r n i s a t i o n , globalisation and western cultures are forcing their ways through, spinsters are faced with many challenges which includes: economic empowerment, individual mate selection preference, cultural practices and beliefs, marital experiences of other women, marriage of

significant others such as parents, siblings etc., difference in religious affiliation, personal factors, urbanisation and aversion for polygamy. At the course of interviewing spinsters for this work, some gave their personal experiences, why they are yet single and their idea of an ideal man. Some said they want economic empowerment and this has made some of them reluctant about getting married to men who will not be equal or higher contributors to family economic resources. A 37 years old spinster emphatically said she would not dare enter into marriage with a man who has no sure means of livelihood, ‘‘I cannot see a man that is not working and he say he wants to marry me and I will agree, because I know that I would not cope. Not that he must be a millionaire or something, but he must be doing something to earn a living. He must be doing something that I can see and that if I enter he can take care of himself and me. It’s not that he will bear the whole burden anyways ’’. Nigerian Spinsters are found to confront other challenges such as pressure to marry, inadequate finance. A female singer from AkwaIbom, once told me how as a first daughter, her husband must buy a very big cow or three goats for her mother, before she would be married out to him. And any time men come around, and hear about this they just move on out of her life. Another problem is the insistence on value such as erotic love. Emotional and physical wellbeing are receiving more attention in mate selection than communal or kinship goals. Difference in religion and tribe have also proven to be a contributing factor to spinsterhood, as some men refuses to propose marriage to ladies who are not from the same tribe or who have a different religious belief. A lady also said, that she will never marry a Yoruba man because she does not just like people from the west-

By EGHWRUDJE PRAISE

ern part of Nigeria, that she rather remain single than for her to marry from that tribe. In the aspect of religion, a lot of people still hold tight to their different religions; Christian ladies are scared of settling down with a Muslim man and this applies to other religions. Below Are Some Of The Response From Some Nigerian Spinsters And Their Views Of An Ideal Husband My ideal husband must be intelligent. A man that is intelligent would know how to handle things that would build our relationship. As a Nigerian spinster, my ideal husband must not be tribalistic, someone that has not been culturally brainwashed. A man that is not attracted to me because of sexual attractiveness, because if it is

on that bases, sooner, he would be chasing another girl, who is more sexually attractive than me. A Nigerian spinster expects her ideal husband to propose marriage to her, pay her dowry, with a proper traditional ceremony, (‘and not the opposite where ladies propose to men’), which is the traditional pattern in Nigeria. My ideal man must be a spiritual and matured Christian, he must be able to understand me and tolerate my excesses. He should be out going and interesting person, who will take his family out ones in a while. He should be able to take care of his family, protect the family from external influence. A man that believes in his wife, he should be able to put a defence for me and trust me even if not

completely. I want my ideal husband to be God fearing, should not be a smoker, drinker or drunkard. He should not be a lion of the tribe of himself that is a man who takes decisions on his own, and whose words are final. I want a man, who will include me in his decision making. I am not looking for a tall, rich and handsome man, although if I see one, I will grab him. I am more careful about character because that is what I will live with not physical appearance. I want a God fearing man, who loves God with all sincerity because if he has these attribute, he will treat me right. I want a husband who is ready to help me fulfil purpose, because some men cannot stand success-

ful women. My ideal husband must understand. In my own view, there is no perfect person but some can possess some characters which you like and can live with, that person automatically becomes your ideal man. I have seen ladies with list of the attributes they want their ideal man to have but when they can’t find all that they keep waiting, before they realise time has gone and they suddenly give up on the list. I think they are other important things a lady should look out for when considering who their ideal man should be. Nigerian spinsters should look out for the following attributes: Intelligence: the man should know what he is doing at every given time. He should have a good sense of reasoning and be decisive, not some that can easily be pushed around. Humble: he should be humble in the sense that, he should be able to share ideas with the lady and not just take decisions on his own at all times. He should listen to the woman’s view and not just conclude that she does not have anything to offer. A giver: when I say a giver I don’t mean he should provide everything the lady needs but he should be ready to share what so ever he has with the lady. A man that is tight fisted might continue in that light forever. That does not mean the lady should burden him with every of her needs. He should be learned or well skilled: he should have attained certain level of education or should be skilled in any handiwork that could fetch both of them means of livelihood. Generally, every woman needs a caring man, someone that is patient and tolerable. A man that can contain their excesses and give them the opportunity to be what they want to be. In conclusion, it can therefore be said that Nigerian spinsters wants their ideal husbands to be caring, loving and a man that will bring them limelight.

“A Nigerian spinster expects her ideal husband to propose marriage to her, pay her dowry, with a proper traditional ceremony, (‘and not the opposite where ladies propose to men’), which is the traditional pattern in Nigeria.”

THE WEEKEND

SATURDAY, MAY 11, 2013

o day’s Diet

. .

His Decrees Stand Memorise: for he spake and it was done; he commanded and it stood fast. Psalm 33:9 Read: Psalm 33:8-9 Bible In one year: 2 Peter 1-3. saw one baby,

ACTS: 5:18 says God already knows everyone He has created even before the foundation of the world. Sometime ago, a lady was told by the doctors that she could never have a child because her womb was too small. Whenever she conceives, on the fifth month of her pregnancy, she experiences a miscarriage. So she wrote us and we prayed for her and the Lord said we should tell her that she will have a child. We knew God cannot lie so we expected that He would fulfill His word by giving her children one at a time. But when she became pregnant, at delivery time, she delivered four children — two boys and two girls. While we

God had already seen four. Are you poor today? God is seeing you in great wealth. Are you marginalised or treated as someone very insignificant today? God is seeing you as a very important personality — one that cannot be ignored. Pray that the good future that only God can see concerning you should come to reality in your life. Moreover, when the Lord Jesus heal the man at the pool of Bethesda recorded in John 5:2-9, He said, Rise! This tells us that God rules by dec ree. Thank God that He is not a democrat. If God were to consult your friends before saving, healing, or blessing you, their

Action Point: Pray that every negative decree against you and everything yours would be cancelled and that God’s good decree over your life will come to pass.

feedback might have stopped Him. How many people want their friends to join the club of billionaires while they are still living in penury? Not many! And because God rules by decree, He does not ask if the unpleasant Situation is ready to let you go. He simply commands it to go. According to today’s reading, when God commands, it is done. When He says rise, nothing and nobody can keep you down. When He says let there be light, no darkness can prevent the light from coming to be. Today, the Lord is saying this to you: Arise, Get up from that wheel chair! The Lord is saying, Arise from obscurity! Get up from sorrow and shame! Rise up from your down trodden position! It is your season of joy!

PRESS RELEASE I am directed by the Omo N’Oba N’Edo Uku Akpolokpolo, Oba of Benin, to re-issue this press release for the information of the public that in spite of the earlier press release issued some weeks ago, the Palace have continued to observe that some media houses, especially electronic media, have formed the habit of calling Streets/Roads, named after Oba Erediauwa, as just “Erediauwa:, without adding the word “Street” or “Road” to the name. The Palace therefore consider it more appropriate and will appreciate that each time a street or road named after Oba Erediauwa is mentioned, the word “Street” or “Road” should be added, and that is, Erediauwa Street or Road. The Palace will appreciate if this directive is strictly adhere to, please. Signed: O. ORONSAYE-GUOBADIA Secretary to the Oba of Benin

THE WEEKEND

SATURDAY, MAY 11, 2013

I sues THE local government election on April 20, 2013, marked another history in the lives of the newly elected local government chairmen in Edo State as that was the day the electorates in the state determined who becomes their chairman in the 18 local government council areas in the state. Having been declared winners by the Edo State Independent Electoral Commission (EDSIEC) and then subsequently sworn-in by the state governor, comrade Adams Oshiomhole on the 22nd of April, 2013, the stage is now set for the chairmen to actually display who they really are to the people. The question is not really whether some of these local government chairmen are not qualified or accepted by the people or whether there was election or selection, this is not the issue, or that they were able to hide under the canopy of the comrade governor to achieve their political ambition. But rather, how well they will perform in their new task ahead? It would only depend on how they are able to effectively manage and discharge their primary responsibilities to the people without thinking of their selfish interest. It is a common thing that politicians do not consider their campaign promises upon getting into office. It will be left for them to fulfill all the promises made during their campaign hence they do other things outside their promises to the people. The newly elected chairmen must

As Local Govt Chairmen Settle Down

pledge their readiness to make the much needed sacrifices in the interest of the progress of their constituency. If these chairmen are to succeed in office, there must be implementation of projects so as to compliment the activities of the state government. It is very obvious that the governor comrade Adams Oshiomhole has carved a good name in the state, so the governor now leaves it for them to walk in his path or destroy the good legacy built by him. They should be aware of their statutory duties and responsibilities as the need for them to become council chairmen arose just for the sole aim of facilitating development at the grassroots as they are seen to be closer to the people. The creation of sense of belonging to the people, safety and satisfaction among the local populace, should also be their main focus as governance is about the people and development. Moreover, the local government chairmen should advocate a bottom-top approach to rural development as a strategic tool in getting the local government out of the challenges of underdevelopment, which incidentally has become rooted in the rural areas. They should use their offices to stimulate meaningful g r a s s r o o t s , infrastructural and human development through participatory governance at that level

BY LAMAI CASSIUS/ODINUKAEZE NNENNA

â&#x20AC;˘ Governor Oshiomhole

by constantly interacting with the people through town-halls meetings. It should be noted, that lack of transparency and accountability in resource management hampers the growth and development of the local government councils. A local government council chairman is expected to be closer to the people, as the purpose of governance is to have an easy flow of communication with the people at the grassroots. Since the citizens of Edo State defiled the scorching sun just to elect their

local government council representatives, it will be proper for the chairmen to stay close to the people in their respective local government council areas, through which they will be able to attend to the urgent need of the people as â&#x20AC;&#x153;one good turn deserves anotherâ&#x20AC;?. Would-be successful local government chairmen should start planning policies and how to implement such, as any one who fails to plan, planned to fail and it will be foolish for any local government chairman to think that the three years tenure is long

enough to execute any project. Such is deceiving himself or herself whereas in a twinkle of an eye it will be over. The local government chairmen should be in haste to deliver the dividend of democracy to the people especially in the areas of education, health care, roads and electricity. They should live up to expectation with a view to making life better for the people as to whom much is given, much is expected. The local government chairmen should try as much as possible to take a clue from the

comrade governor developmental stride in the state and try to compliment it at the grassroots so that the rural dwellers will also be benefiting from governance. They should have a cordial relationship with the traditional rulers in their respective local government as they are the custodial of the culture and values of the people and they understand the people better. They should as well kick against tribal sentiment instead of being a chairman of a sectional area; they should be chairmen of all irrespective of political party affiliation or tribe. The chairmen should also have the political will to stand against the so-called leaders in the area who never seem to be satisfied rather waiting for the council monthly allocation to be shared among themselves to the detriment of the common man at the end. Despite the fact that corruption is like a cankerworm that has eaten deep into the fabric of our society, it can not be totally eradicated but can be reduced to the barest minimal at the local government level. The local government chairmen should strive to work hard to the admiration of the people because that will serve as their report card when they eventually leave office and to enable them aspire to higher levels in their political career.

The local government chairmen should strive to work hard to the admiration of the people because that will serve as their report card when they eventually leave office and to enable them aspire to higher levels in their political career.

THE WEEKEND

SATURDAY, MAY 11, 2013

Pantilimon Lining Up Man City Exit Ibrahimovic, Thiago Silva Head Ligue 1 Player Short-List

COSTEL Pantilimon has said he will seek a move away from Manchester City after he has made what could be his last appearance for the club at Wembley this weekend. Pantilimon, 26, signed for City from Politehnica Timisoara in 2011 but has failed to make a Premier League appearance for the club since the switch due to Joe Hart being the club’s No. 1. The Romania goalkeeper has, however, been used in

Boateng Back For Roma Outing MILAN will welcome back Kevin-Prince Boateng in time to qualify for the Champions League if they defeat an inconsistent Roma on Sunday evening at the San Siro Stadium. The Rossoneri took an important step in ensuring they are the favourites to clinch third place on the Serie A log by defeating the already relegated Pescara side 4-0 on Wednesday evening. It was one-way traffic at the Stadio Adriatico as a brace by Mario Balotelli and goals from Sulley Muntari and Mathieu Flamini made certain that Milan maintained their four point difference over fourth-placed Fiorentina. All they need now is just three points out of their two remaining games to make sure they will feature in, at least, the qualifying rounds of the Europe’s prestigious continental tournament. “It was an important victory, we are happy. We scored four goals and it is good that way. It was my first goal of the season but it is a pity that I am only improving now at the end of the season. This win will give us a great boost and the game against Roma will be difficult but we want to win,” Muntari told Milan Channel after the win. There was a tremendous amount of African flair in the Diavoli’s victory over Pescara and more will be added to the mix when coming up against Roma as Boateng will return after serving a one-match suspension. Meanwhile, Roma’s hopes of finishing fourth took a turn in the midweek when Chievo managed to edge them out 1-0 in their own backyard of the Stadio Olimpico. They now sit in seventh place and six points off their respective target, but coach Aurelio Andreazzoli believes they didn’t deserve the defeat. “We didn’t deserve to lose the game, we could have wrapped it up in the first half through Osvaldo. We didn’t show what we’re capable of. The players wanted it, we just lacked that cutting edge: we should have taken the lead,” said the coach.

the FA Cup this season and this week manager Roberto Mancini confirmed he will start in Saturday’s FA Cup final at Wembley. “I am happy here but it is normal that I want to play regularly,” Pantilimon said in the Independent. “The technical staff knows that after the season is finished I want to leave. Those discussions will come after the season. I don’t know if Saturday will be my last game; it depends on what happens.” Pantilimon explained that he needs regular first-team football in order to remain in the thoughts of Romania manager Victor Piturca. “The manager of the national team tells me every time I speak to him: ‘Please try to play more’,” Pantilimon said. “It is important for my country as well as my career. I am young – not 35 and waiting to finish. My agent will discuss it with the manager and we will see what happens.” Despite his failure to make a significant impression at the Etihad, Pantilimon insisted he has no regrets about joining the side. “You get one chance and when a club like Manchester City wants you, you have to take it,” he said. “I knew Joe was a very good ‘keeper, the England No 1. I took the risk because it was an opportunity to be at a top club.

“I still think it was a good choice. I have been waiting for my chance and now I am in an FA Cup final.”

PARIS St Germain duo Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Thiago Silva have been named on a four-man shortlist for the French Ligue 1

player of the year award alongside team mate Blaise Matuidi, the players union UNFP said on Thursday. St Etienne striker PierreEmerick Aubameyang, the league’s second top-scorer behind Ibrahimovic, is also in contention to succeed Chelsea midfielder Eden Hazard who won the award the last two seasons when playing for Lille. Sweden striker Ibrahimovic and Brazil centre back Thiago Silva, who both joined the wealthy capital club last year from AC Milan, have been key figures in putting PSG on the brink of their first title since 1994. The Ligue 1 leaders have a seven-point advantage over second-placed Olympique Marseille with three games left and could win their third domestic title this weekend. Ibrahimovic has scored 27 goals, a total no Ligue 1

FA Play Down Terry CHELSEA defender John Terry will not be considered for the England national team until he comes out of his self-imposed international exile. That is the word coming from Football Association chairman David Bernstein

Return

Zlatan Ibrahimovic

Martinez Linked With Everton Job

ROBERTO Martinez could be the frontrunner to replace David Moyes at Goodison Park should the Everton manager become Sir Alex Ferguson’s replacement at Manchester United. The Wigan manager, who is likely to leave the DW Stadium in the summer if Athletic were relegated, has admirers in the Everton hierarchy. Had Moyes left last year, when Everton feared Tottenham were going to appoint him, they were interested in Martinez. And while Wigan face going down to the Championship, the Spaniard’s

achievement in reaching the FA Cup final, together with the pleasing passing football he has played, means his reputation is intact. Martinez’s willingness to work with a small budget also qualifies him for the job at Goodison Park, where Moyes has broken even in the transfer market over the past four years. The 39-year-old, who

joined Wigan from Swansea in 2009, turned down the Aston Villa job two years ago and was interviewed by Liverpool before they appointed Brendan Rodgers in June. Chairman Dave Whelan admitted he will leave Wigan at some point - although on Thursday it was claimed no contact has been made by Everton - but urged Martinez to look for a bigger club. “It’s a battle that I will lose and Wigan will lose [at some point], I’ve no

question on that,” Whelan told BBC Radio 5 Live. “It’s [a case of] would Roberto choose to go to Everton or would he wait for one of the really big clubs? “I’m not degrading Everton in any way, shape or form - they’re a great club with great supporters - but is Everton regarded as one of the top European clubs? Well, unfortunately they’re not.”

Fabianski Ready For Goalkeeper Battle

LUKASZ Fabianski is ready to engage in battle with Wojciech Szczesny for the Arsenal No. 1 jersey. Szczesny began the season as manager Arsene Wenger’s No. 1 but a midseason dip in form saw the ‘keeper replaced in goal by his fellow Pole. Fabianski did his cause no harm with a string of solid displays, being particularly assured in the

player had achieved since former France striker JeanPierre Papin in 1992. Thiago Silva has marshalled the best defence in the league with only 21 goals conceded from 35 games. PSG coach Carlo Ancelotti has made the list for the manager of the year award and Italian midfielder Marco Verratti was one of four nominees for the young player prize. Ancelotti will compete with Elie Baup, who has led Olympique Marseille to second spot after a disappointing 10th-place finish under Didier Deschamps last season, St Etienne coach Christophe Galtier and Claude Puel of Nice. All Ligue 1 players and coaches are to take part in the poll with the awards to be handed on May 19.

Champions League second leg against Bayern Munich, but a rib injury handed the starting spot back to Szczesny who has looked back to his confident best in recent weeks. Fabianski is aware he has work to do, but is prepared to battle hard to win his place back in Wenger’s side.

“I’m hoping that it’s going to go my way,” he told Arsenal Player. “I’m feeling really positive about it. I feel that I’m a better ‘keeper than I was, I feel really confident in myself. “I put in a lot of work to be fit again, to be stronger. I’m not worried about anything and I think I’ve made a statement that I’m up for it.”

John Terry

who believes that, until Terry says otherwise, the 32-year-old “stays retired”. Terry quit the Three Lions after he was stripped of the captaincy and given a four-game ban for racially abusing Queens Park Rangers defender Anton Ferdinand. However, it has been reported in recent weeks that Terry was considering an international comeback just in time for the next World Cup in Brazil. But Bernstein has poured cold water on the story, telling The Sun that Terry will not make a return to the England fold until he officially declares his international return. “He has not announced he’s coming out of retirement — and if he did the initial decision would be down to the manager,” Bernstein said. “John Terry has always taken his football very seriously. “Therefore, I take his retirement seriously. Until I hear to the contrary, he stays retired.”

THE WEEKEND

SATURDAY, MAY 11, 2013

Man Arrested Over Abuse Of PFA Chief

Spanish La Liga Today’s Fixtures Athletic Bilbao v Mallorca Real Valladolid v Deportivo La CoruÒa Osasuna v Getafe Espanyol Tomorrow’s v Matches Real Madrid Rayo Vallecano Real Betis Atletico Madrid Malaga

A man has been arrested on suspicion of sending racist tweets to two footballers, including PFA chairman Clarke Carlisle. The 25-year-old was arrested in Gloucestershire on Wednesday night during an investigation into abusive messages sent to Carlisle and his Northampton Town teammate Adebayo Akinfenwa. Inspector Phil Kings of Northamptonshire Police said a man had been arrested on suspicion of committing a racially aggravated offence in a joint

v Valencia v Celta Vigo v Barcelona v Sevilla FC

Genoa To Use Inter Troubles For Salvation With the stars seem to be lining up in the opposite direction for Inter; it will be no easy task heading to the port city to take on a struggling Genoa side who linger just four points above the drop zone. And the Grifoni will no doubt be hoping to use Inter’s troubles to their benefit as they seek a win to potentially secure them a spot in next year’s Serie A campaign. “It was a game that you cannotcomment technically about. Today there was something more important: the ranking and the results of the other games. Now we are only lacking a small stepfor mathematical salvation,” said Davide Ballardini after their goalless draw to Torino on Wednesday.

GENOA will be hoping to take advantage of Inter’s turbulent situation in order to help save themselves from possible relegation. The match will be played on Sunday afternoon, at the Luigi Ferraris Stadium, with kick-off at 15h00 (CAT). Just when it seemed it couldn’t have gotten any worse for Inter, it did. They slumped to yet another defeat on Wednesday evening when they were hit by Lazio’s pacey attacking play to lose 3-1 at the San Siro. If that wasn’t bad enough, Andrea Stramaccioni lost Johnathan and Andrea Ranocchia to injury, while the yellow cards to Alvaro Pereira and Juan Jesus meant they will be suspended for this weekend’s outing. “It’s not easy to comment on a game like this, because we lost 3-1 and even Vladimir Petkovic will confirm Inter deserved to get something out of it,” said Inter’s coach Andrea Stramaccioni. The scoreline may have suggested little about Inter’s display but it was a game in which, even with over a dozen players ruled out to injury, they kept on fighting to the very end. “We suffered yet another injury, a missed penalty, we hit the woodwork and then Eddy Onazi scored a stunning goal. Even in our current condition, we tried to play the game and take the initiative right to the end. I saw an improvement in terms of performance,” he concluded.

BORUSSIA Dortmund general manager Michael Zorc has hit back at Schalke 04 over the future of Julian Draxler. Draxler, 19, had been linked with Borussia Dortmund as a possible replacement for Bayern Munich-bound Mario Gotze. The attacking midfielder still has three years left on his contract at Schalke 04, Dortmund’s biggest and longest rivals in the Bundesliga.

Diego Costa

REPORTED Arsenal target Diego Costa says he hopes to stay and continue his development at Atletico Madrid.

Spanish Liga Table PTS Man Utd 36 Man City 75 Chelsea 36 Arsenal 36 Tottenham 66 Everton 36 Liverpool 55 West Brom 48 Swansea 46 West Ham 43 Stoke 41 Fulham 36

Dortmund Slam Schalke Over Draxler

Diego Costa Pledges Future To Atletico

Costa, who made his senior Brazil debut against Italy in March, is contracted to Atletico until the summer of 2014. but speculation in Spain has recently linked him with a +25 million switch to the Premier League. After scoring the first goal in Wednesday’s 3-1 Primera Division win at Celta Vigo, the 24-year-old said he was not

27 36

4 22

5 9

42 5

85 31

20 19 36

9 10 19

7 7 9

34 31 8

69 67 18

15 36

15 14

6 13

14 9

60 25

-8

-10

-11

operation with Gloucestershire Police. The man remained in police custody and would be questioned by officers, he added. Last month Carlisle, who is an ambassador for campaign group Kick It Out, told the BBC that he found the FA’s lack of concrete measures to counter racism in football “embarrassing”, and last year made a television documentary about the issue in the runup to Euro 2012.

planning to move onto pastures new. “I am working so that I grow and improve every day,” Costa said. “There are great players here and I want to fight to be in the first XI. I

hope to keep growing here. At Atleti.” The result at Balaidos plunged 19th placed Celta further into relegation trouble, while ensuring direct qualification for next season’s Champions League for Atletico. Colchoneros coach Diego Simeone said this was the result of the hard work put in by all at the club in the 18 months since he arrived.

Rafinha Ban Doubled After Dortmund Red BAYERN Munich rightback Rafinha has been handed a two-match ban and fined +15,000 by the German Football Association (DFB), following his sending off against Borussia Dortmund at the weekend. The Brazilian right-back, deputising for Bayern captain Philipp Lahm in the dress rehearsal of the Champions League final, was sent off for two bookable offences during the second half of the Bundesliga game, which ended in a 1-1 draw. When walking off the pitch, Rafinha poked his finger in the face of Dortmund’s Jakub Blaszczykowski, whom he had elbowed only moments before. The incident led to heated discussions on the sidelines between Dortmund boss

Jurgen Klopp and Bayern general manager Matthias Sammer, on the day that marked the 11th anniversary of Sammer winning the Bundesliga title as Dortmund coach. On Wednesday, the DFB announced that an extra game had been added to Rafinha’s one-match ban. With only two games left to play in the 2012-13 season, this means the Bayern defender will not be able to add to his 13 Bundesliga appearances this season. Meanwhile, his future at Bayern remains unclear. According to a report in kicker earlier this week, the Brazilian could be looking to leave during the summer in his quest for more playing time. Rafinha’s current Bayern contract runs until 2014.

“To get into the Champions League was one of our objectives,” Simeone said. “I want to highlight the work of everyone at Atletico. When we arrived in December [2011] we set out to become one of the best in Europe, and after six months we were close to fourth place. “Then we won the Europa League and the European Super Cup and we worked hard to achieve this objective. What the players do is incredible. We must look at the huge amount of points that we have achieved which, possibly, has only been bettered when we were champions. This is a very important day for Atletico.”

Some two weeks ago, Draxler had rubbished all talk of a switch to Dortmund and explained he would never wear Die Schwarzgelben’s colours if he wasn’t “brainwashed”. When the dust had settled, Schalke general manager Horst Heldt upped the ante earlier this week. Speaking to SportBild he claimed Dortmund had been flirting with Draxler for a long time, which was no surprise to him “since Julian is one of Germany’s top players”. On Wednesday, Dortmund general manager Michael Zorc hit back at Schalke. “I don’t know who is having the hallucinations over there,” Zorc said. “At no time during the Gotze transfer have we made an effort to sign Julian Draxler. Just like I would never work for Schalke, I respect that Draxler is a Schalke diehard.” Ahead of the 2010-11 season, Dortmund had been trying to lure Draxler, who was then aged just 16. But talk of a transfer cooled when Felix Magath gave Draxler his Bundesliga debut on January 15, 2011 in a 1-0 defeat to Hamburg. Since that day Draxler has made over 100 appearances for the Royal Blues.

Michel Platini

THE WEEKEND

SATURDAY, MAY 11, 2013

Okpara Rape Victim Contemplated Suicide

Mikel Glad To Welcome Back ‘Greatman’ Mourinho NIGERIA star Mikel Obi has told MTNFootball.com he will be glad to welcome back Jose Mourinho as Chelsea coach by the end of the season. The Super Eagles midfielder was one of the players during the Golden Era of ‘The Special One’ at Chelsea and he said he will gladly embrace Mourinho’s return to the Stamford Bridge even though such a decision is the responsibility of the club’s board. “Mourinho is a great man, a great coach on and off the pitch. I will welcome him back if he is employed. He brought me here, the bond is there,”

Maigari Upbeat On Beach SocAMINU Maigari, the Presicer dent of the Nigeria Football Association (NFA), says the just concluded Beach Soccer course will help the country to participate effectively in the game. Maigari made the remark in Abuja on Thursday at the closing ceremony of the oneweek course on beach soccer. “The actualisation of this initiative is part of the efforts of this administration to develop all sectors of Nigerian football with the potential of bringing glory to the country. “Since the executive committee has just approved the commencement of the Beach Soccer League, we deemed it fit to request FIFA to hold this course. “This will be a plus to the country as far as beach soccer is concern and to all football loving Nigerians. “This is because these are the people who will champion the cause of the league when it starts and it is good now that they have been equipped. “With this course, the future of beach soccer in this country is very bright and we hope to see more improvement in the game,’’ he said. FIFA Coaching Instructor from the U.S, Eddie Loewen, said his mission was accomplished with what the coaches had learnt. “I can categorically say that my mission here is accomplished because I saw it in the participants that they can take the game to higher places.

Mikel told only. “I have worked with different managers here and all are good. It will be nice to have him back, but the board and the owner will decide that. “We are just concentrating on a top-four finish as well as to win the Europa League and will leave the appointment of a coach to the board.” Mikel said Mourinho will lift The Blues’ again. “If he is employ, it will be a massive boost for us. Mine is to put in my best as a player when on the pitch,” said Mikel, who reportedly cried when the Portuguese coach was sacked by Roman Abramovich. “He knows what to do to bring out the best in his player even when one’s morale is at its lowest point. He is a good listener. “Mourinho is a no-nonsense man. He is tough when it comes to work. He pushes you very hard to get your best at all times. There can never be a dull moment with him on and off the pitch.” He also told he is out of Saturday’s English Premier League trip to Aston Villa. “I am not back yet. I will miss the Villa game. It is a very important game for us. I am wishing the lads a victory,” Mikel said. Mikel has been sidelined by a hip injury he suffered at training ahead of a Europa League semi-final clash against Swiss side FC Basel.

Akpala

Akpala Replaces Injured Emenike WERDER Bremen striker Joseph Akpala has been picked by Nigeria as a replacement for injured Emmanuel Emenike ahead of a busy month of June. The 26-year-old Akpala was picked ahead of Turkeybased striker Michael Eneramo. The powerful, direct-playing former Club Brugge of Belgium striker last featured

for Nigeria in 2010 after he made his long-awaited international debut in September 2008 against South Africa. He has scored twice for the Eagles including the winner against France in a friendly

in June 2009. Incidentally, Akpala has just returned to training with his German Bundesliga side after a long-term knee injury. Nigeria face Kenya and Namibia in 2014 World Cup qualifiers in June as well as also feature in the 2013 FIFA Confederations Cup in Brazil.

Akinjide Reaffirms Commitment To Sporting Coaches React To Death Of THE Minister of State for the sustained by the FCT AdminFCT, Ms Olajumoke Akinjide, Activities In FC istration. SOME top coaches have Jossy Lad the championship, held in May 2012. Akinjide said that 26 states and the FCT were represented in this year’s edition of the competition. The minister noted that the growing interest and acceptability of the championship was attributable to the integrity and level of organisation of the annual event. “And hopefully, the 11th edition might have participants from the 36 states of the federation, the FCT and participants from other countries of the world.’’ Akinjide recalled that the championship was initiated in 2004, adding that it would be

has reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to promoting sporting activities in the FCT. Akinjide made the pledge on Thursday at the opening ceremony of the 10th Aso Table Tennis Club National Championship in Nyanya, Abuja. The minister, who was represented by the FCT Director of Sports, Mr Alim Musa, said that the championship was supposed to include participants from the 36 states of the federation and the FCT. She said, however, that available statistics showed that 189 players from 10 states and the FCT participated in the ninth edition of

She urged stakeholders to assist government to develop youths in the country. “I urge the private sector in particular, to support events such as this one for the benefit of Nigerian youths,” she said. She also urged participants to be focused, disciplined and to ensure that they played according to the rules of the game. The minister also urged the officials to identify talented players who could be nurtured to represent Nigeria in various competitions.

NPFL Table Team MP Enugu Rangers

W 9

D 5

L 2

GF 2

GA 16

+/7

Pts 9

Sunshine Stars

Kano Pillars 1 Bayelsa United Nasarawa United 2 Gombe United Dolphin 10 14 Nembe City FC

Amin Maigari

THE teenage girl who was raped and molested by exNigeria star Godwin Okpara and his wife has revealed she thought of taking her life. “I thought of killing myself, but I was also hoping someone will rescue me,” revealed Tina Okpara, who was featured in a special CNN news story about modern-day slavery on Friday. She was adopted and brought to France by the Okparas, who later raped and sexually molested her. The Okparas have been serving serving long-term jail terms since June 2007 as a result of this, while Tina has become a ward of the French state. She said she was held captive for five years at the Paris suburb home of the Okparas as she was barred from attending school and was instead used as a house help. “I was in prison and a slave,” said Tina, who has now grown into a young lady. Central defender Okpara, one of the shinning lights of the Eaglets Class of 1989, featured for Nigeria at the 1998 World Cup. He played for several top clubs in Belgium and France including Paris SaintGermain. He recently lost his young son to cancer.

Lobi Stars -3 Heartland 9

reacted to death of a former coach of the National female team, the Super Falcons, Joseph Ladipo, popularly known as ‘Jossy Lad”. The coach, aged 72, was said to have died on Thursday at the University College Hospital, Ibadan after a brief illness. Paul Hamilton, a former colleague in the Super Eagles team, in a reaction told reporters that the death of Ladipo was ‘devastating’. Hamilton said that it came as a shock to him because that was the least thing he was expecting. “He contributed a great deal to the coaching fraternity of the country and football as a whole. “The vacuum which his death has created will be felt so much and would take a while before it can be filled’’. Adegboye Onigbinde, a

former Super Eagles Coach said it was unfortunate that he finally died. Onigbinde said that Ladipo contributed so much to the development of football in the country, both at state and national levels. “I am torn apart by this news and it is saddening that another hero in the country is gone, but his legacy will linger,’’ he added. Dapo Sotiminu, one of the Coordinators of the Female Football Interest Group (FFIG), expressed sadness at the sudden death of Ladipo. Sotiminu, a Lagos-based Sports Editor of The Compass Newspapers, told reporters on telephone that the death was a sad development for someone who served the country both as a player and a coach.

NPFL Fixtures Sunday

Sunshine Stars

-3

-1

Sharks Heartland United Rangers United Nasarawa United Tourists Enyimba

ABS F.C.

3SC v

A k w a

Bayelsa

W i k k i

Kano Pillars

THE WEEKEND

SATURDAY, MAY 11, 2013

Odemwingie Hits Out At Hodgson PETER Odemwingie has blamed Roy Hodgson for starting the chain of events that has led to him becoming public enemy number one at West Bromwich Albion, the striker told the Birmingham Mail. Odemwingie, 31, said the last four months at The Hawthorns - the time since his transfer deadline day embarrassment at Queens Park Rangers - have been the “worst” of his life. But the Nigeria international, who claims he had been prepared to pay £1 million of his own money to secure a move to Loftus Road, has traced the breakdown of his West Brom career back to England boss and ex-Baggies chief Hodgson. He claimed his heart had not been in the club since Hodgson publicly questioned his commitment ahead of a game against Tottenham in November 2011. Odemwingie has been fined four times for outbursts on Twitter about his situation at Albion, and risked further punishment with comments in an interview with the Birmingham Mail. “I’ve had probably the worst four months of my whole life,” he told the paper. “At the moment, I don’t know what the future is. “The truth is, I wanted to revive my career because things were never the same after the interview where Roy blasted me. “After Roy doubted my commitment things were never the same for me at the club. In the summer, I felt it was that bad for me that I was ready to quit top-flight football to just go.

Fergie Best Of His Generation

Wayne Kooney

Rooney To Pursue United Exit

WAYNE Rooney is expected to pursue a release from Manchester United, despite the club’s claims he is “not for sale”, the Press Association reports. Rooney, 27, has been linked with a number of European teams after a season which saw him pushed into the midfield by the arrival of striker Robin van Persie, with reports suggesting he is unhappy in his role at Old Trafford. Following the appointment of David Moyes as Sir Alex Ferguson’s successor at United, rumours suggested

EPL Table PTS Man Utd 85 Man City 75 Chelsea 69 Arsenal 36 Tottenham 66 Everton 36 Liverpool 55 West Brom 48 Swansea 46 West Ham 43 Stoke 41

ROBERTO Mancini has hailed the retiring Sir Alex Ferguson as the greatest manager of his generation and said his achievement of coaching Manchester United for almost 27 years will never be repeated. The Manchester City manager believes his United counterpart is a complete one-off but does not feel the Premier League champions will fall into decline after Ferguson is replaced by David Moyes. Ferguson, who took over from Ron Atkinson in November 1986, won 13 Premier League titles, two Champions Leagues, five FA Cups and four League Cups in his time at Old Trafford. And Mancini says it is the former Aberdeen manager ’s longevity that makes him unique. “Everyone can have his opinion but [when] one manager who stays

19 36

10 7 19

31 8

15 36

15 6 14

14 13 9

13 12

10 15

-8

14 13

-10

18 25

Rooney would fast track his exit from the club after a somewhat tenuous end to his Everton career under Moyes. A United spokesman confirmed to Press Association Sport that

“Wayne Rooney is not for sale”, but sources close to Rooney told the Association that his representatives will take a tentative approach to Moyes’ appointment and wait until the Everton boss joins the club before making a decision on the player’s future. Rooney has two years

remaining on his current contract and PA reports United will offer the England international a new deal in the coming weeks, although his wage demands act as a potential barrier. Rooney is reported to earn around £250,000 a week on his current deal, and the club would be reluctant to increase it, although the sources suggest the 27-year-old would not be willing to accept a pay cut.

Chelsea Eyeing Champions League Spot CHELSEA will look to secure their spot in the top four of the Premier League standings when they visit Aston Villa at Villa Park on Saturday. The Blues are currently in third place with 69 points from 36 matches and a win would guarantee their place in the top four and with it qualification for next season’s Champions League. Rafa Benitez’ men could have achieved this

on Wednesday night when they hosted Tottenham Hotspur, but they gave away their lead twice before playing to a 2-2 draw. Aston Villa on the other hand will be looking to guarantee their stay in top-flight football as they are not yet safe from relegation. The Villans are currently in 13thplace with 40 points, five ahead of relegation-threatened Wigan Athletic with two

matches left to play. Paul Lambert’s side go into the game on the back of morale-boosting wins as they thrashed Sunderland 6-1 before edging Norwich City 2-1 in their last outing. When Villa visited Chelsea at Stamford Bridge earlier this season the Blues romped to an 8-0 victory but Gabriel Agbonlahor, who has scored three goals in the last two matches for his side, says there is no chance of a repeat. “We do regret that game as a team,” he Aston Villa v Chelsea said. “It was the lowest point but it is long gone Tomorrow’s Fixtures now. Stoke City v Tottenham Hotspur “We are better players Everton v West Ham United and better characters Fulham v Liverpool now. Stamford Bridge Norwich City v West Bromwich won’t be in the back of our minds. It was a oneAlbion off.” Q PR v Newcastle United

Today’s EPL Match

Sunderland Manchester Utd v

v Southampton Swansea City

for 27 years in the same club and won every trophy for 27 years it is an incredible situation. I don’t think there will be another manager like him,” he said. Mancini stopped short of proclaiming Ferguson the finest manager in football’s history but believes the Scot is the outstanding coach of his era. “In Europe, there are other big managers,” he

Mancini

said. “It is difficult to say Sir Alex is the best [ever] but he is the best manager in the last 27 years.” Mancini has been Ferguson’s immediate rival during his threeand-a-half years as City manager and won the 2012 Premier League title at United’s expense.

...Says Cup Win Would Cap Good Year For City ROBERTO Mancini believes victory in Saturday’s FA Cup final against Wigan would cap a fine season for Manchester City. But the manager admitted that, having lost the Premier League title to Manchester United and been eliminated from the Champions League in the group stages, City have not achieved their major objectives and that last season had been better. City face Wigan at Wembley on Saturday looking to win the FA Cup for the second time in three years. Mancini said: “When you start the season, you

want to win the best trophies or the most trophies that you can, but sometimes it is not possible. “I think we did a good season but not like last year, because last year we won the Premier League. “It is very important because it is the final, the second final in the last three years. The FA Cup is the second trophy in England after the Premier League. It is an important trophy for everyone. “We have the chance to get another cup, and we want to do a good job. We know it will be difficult.”

Bale Sees Future With GARETH Bale insists Spurs he is happy at Tottenham and has suggested he is unlikely to seek a move away from White Hart Lane, even though the club are in danger of missing out on qualification for next season’s Champions League. PFA Player of the Year Bale has carried Tottenham’s top four charge in recent months, with his 20 Premier League goals giving Andre Villas-Boas’s men hope of beating Arsenal to a prized place in next season’s elite European competition. Now the Welshman has moved to promote the virtues of Tottenham’s long-term future, even though he continues to be linked with a summer move to the likes of Real Madrid and Manchester United. “At the end of the day, I want to play at the highest level possible and be playing against the best teams in the world, but the club is going in the right direction,” Bale told the Daily Mirror. “All our objectives are the same, we just have to try and achieve them now. “We’ve had a taste of Champions League football and that’s where we

want to be again. That’s where the club needs to be to get to the next level and what we’ve been trying to do this season to lift the club to better things. “Since I came here, everything has changed. When I first arrived there was talk of a new training ground and a new stadium. As the years have gone in, it’s got better and better. “The training ground has happened and next it will be the stadium. The club is growing and I think it’s growing within its own means. The club is bringing in better players every season.

Gareth Bale

Printed and published by Bendel Newspapers Company Limited, 24, Airport Road, P.M.B. 1334 Benin City. Telephone; Lagos: 01 4930929, Benin: 052 257492, 257531 Editor: HENRY BALOGUN - (08058767088). Lagos Office: 3/4, Amode Close, Kudirat Abiola Way, By Olushosun Bus Stop, Oregun, Ikeja, Lagos. Abuja Office: Floor 1, Edo House, 75 Ralph Shodeinde Street, Central Business District Abuja. Tel/Fax: 09-5237631. All correspondence to: 24 Airport Road, Benin City. E-mail: nigerianobserver@yahoo.com (ISSN 0331-2674)