THE WEEKEND
Weekend
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SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 21, 2013
PUBLISHED SINCE OCTOBER 6, 1990 • Vol.XI NO.3,202• SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 21, 2013 • N 100.00
ENCOUNTER
Our Governor Loves Sports - Hon. Osifo - Page 6
Kidnapping, Un-African By ODINUKAEZE NNENNA / UTI ANIEKAN UDOH
THE Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice Edo state, Barrister Henry Idahagbon has said that kidnapping is un-African. large. The commissioner He therefore said this during the appealed to criminals in week in a chat with the the state to desist from W E E K E N D crime and allow peace OBSERVER in his and tranquility reign. office over the increase He said that kidnapping in crime rate in Edo is un-African as the state and the country at
African culture strictly prevents one from becoming robbers and killers. He said the state government has a zero tolerance towards crime hence the death penalty. Barrister Idahagbon attributed the increase in crime to socioeconomic instability and globalization. He
Seven People Feared Dead At Apo Legislative Quarters THE Police have confirmed that seven persons were shot dead in two uncompleted buildings behind the National Assembly Quarters in Apo, Abuja, early yesterday. The buildings are
located at Zone E in the area. Mr. Sunday Odukoya, the Assistant Commissioner of Police in-Charge of Abuja Metro Area Command, confirmed the killings to newsmen yesterday. Commenting on an
Correction IN our lead story last week, the Commissioner for Youth and Sports was misquoted. What should have been read is, “ salaries have started being paid and the governor has said that he is going to pay them”. Also, the Commissioner was misquoted, “ that footballers are back to training and are enthusiastic that they will gain promotion into the premier league”. The Error is deeply regretted - Editor.
allegation that soldiers killed the victims, Odukoya said: “I have not heard something like that. “But the issue is when a matter happens like this, we do investigation, people will tell us what happened, we will gather more intelligence.’’ Some people, who spoke to the correspondents at the scene of the incident, said that gunshots were heard at midnight and that the shooting lasted for an hour. A resident of the area, Umar, said nine people had been taken to hospital apart from the seven dead. Continued on page 4
- Hon Idahagbon
said that Nigerian youths are very much exposed to foreign films, which are often filled with violent contents. According to him, there is a huge charade of unemployed Nigerian youths currently in the society. All level of government must begin
to take seriously the issue of creating employment for the youths. He said “there are those who are educated and not employed and there are also those who are not. But for those who are not educated, we
must begin to train them in skill acquisition so that they can make meanings out of their lives”. In addition, he urged the government to invest massively in the agricultural sector so as to make farming attractive to
unemployed youths, as this will lead to exportation. The Attorney general, also called for the establishment of microfinance institutions, to enable business oriented youths secure small loans. Barrister Idahagbon however expressed joy over the release of Mike Ozekhome (SAN) from the den of kidnappers.
INAUGURATION: L-R: President Francois Hollande of France; President Ibrahim Keita of Mali and President Goodluck Jonathan at Bamako International Airport for the inauguration of President Ibrahim Keita of Mali recently.
MOMENT OF SCRUTINY
A Failed Government
- Page 5
EVENT
Give Peace A Chance -PCR (Noun) Page 28
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CRIME
N47.1bn T heft: Lagos CJ Transfers Akingbola’s Case To New Judge THE trial of a former Managing Director of Intercontinental Bank, Erastus Akingbola and his associate, Bayo Dada, was transferred to a new judge. The Chief Judge of Lagos State, Justice Ayotunde Phillips, re-assigned the case to Justice Lateef Lawal-Akapo for trial. This followed the transfer of the former trial judge, Justice Adeniyi Onigbanjo, to the Commercial Division of the Ikeja High Court. The case was previously re-assigned to Onigbanjo, after the first trial judge, Justice Habeeb Abiru, was elevated to the Court of Appeal on November 2. Reports say that this is the second time the case will be re-assigned since the defendants were arraigned by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). The defendants are standing trial on a 22-count charge of conspiracy and stealing of N47.1 billion belonging to the
Intercontinental Bank (now Access Bank Plc). Newsmen reports that the defendants were first arraigned on May 31, 2011 before Abiru on the same charges. They had pleaded not guilty to the charges and the judge granted Akingbola bail in the sum of N100 million with two sureties in like sum. He also granted Dada a N50 million bail with two sureties in like sum. The trial, which was at the stage of adoption of final written addresses by the parties, was aborted as a result of Abiru’s elevation. Consequently, Akingbola and Dada were rearraigned before Onigbanjo on February 26, 2012 and the matter started afresh. They had again pleaded not guilty to the charges and were granted bail with the terms earlier given to them by Abiru. Meanwhile, no date has been fixed for their re-
L-R: Prof. Julius Ihonvbere, Secretary to Edo State Government, Deaconess Endurance Odubu, wife of the Deputy Governor of Edo State and Engr. Kolende Adegunle, General Manager, HSEG Total Nig. Plc, during the 2013 Expanded HIV/AIDS Prevention Awareness Project organised by Total Plc in Benin City last Thursday. Photo: LUCKY AGIE.
47 Inmates Benefit From Legal Aid Council Free Legal Services In Maiduguri THE Legal Aid Council in Maiduguri said it offered free legal services to 47 inmates in the past nine months, Mr. Peter Bwala, a Senior Legal Aid Officer, has said. Bwala told newsmen in Maiduguri on Thursday that several civil and criminal cases handled by the council resulted in discharge of the accused.
He explained that 26 prisoners, including those awaiting trials, received judgments and were discharged in several courts across the state. “The cases included child abuse, domestic violence, matrimonial cases, breach of trust, armed robbery and so on,” he said. Bwala said that the council was in the process of
extending its outreach to local communities to sensitise the people on its activities. He urged the government to assist the council with funding and a utility vehicle in other to ensure smooth facilitation of the activities. The officer urged the people of the state to take advantage of its free legal services to seek redress on
justice whenever their right was abused. It will be recalled that the council was established by Decree No. 56 of 1976 to render legal aid to Nigerians. The decree was amended by cap 205, 1990 Laws of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, which later became the Legal Aid Act of 2004.
Ogun police arrest 21 suspected robbers, recover 22 vehicles Police Special Fraud Unit Arrests 2 Suspects THE Special AntiRobbery Squad (SARS) of the Ogun Police Command has arrested 21 robbery suspects and recovered 22 vehicles. The Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) of the command, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, told newsmen in Abeokuta that some of the suspects had confessed to the crime while others were under investigation. Adejobi, a Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP), said the suspects would be charged to court upon the conclusion of investigation. He assured residents of the command’s readiness to make the state crimefree. The police spokesman also said four armed robbers were killed on Wednesday afternoon at Ija-Ofa area of Abeokuta while trying to rob a businessman of N5million. Reports say that items recovered from the suspects included a locally made pistol, cartridges, pump action rifle, AK 47 rifle
and different charms. Police Ogun “The Command will not relent in its effort to make the state a crime-free one. “All the formations in the command are working round the clock to ensure the safety of the people of the state, especially these ember months. “The arrest of these robbery suspects is a signal that the state is battle ready to deal decisively with criminals who want to make the state their hideout,” Adejobi added.
THE Police Special Fraud Unit (SFU) said in Lagos that they had arrested two suspects who allegedly specialised in forging visa for prospective travellers. Mrs. Ngozi IsintumeAgu, the spokesperson for the unit, said in a statement, that the Commissioner of Police in charge of the unit, Mr. Tunde Ogunsaki, got a petition from the British High Commission over the suspects’ activities. Isintume-Agu said that
For Alleged Visa Fraud
one of the suspects (named withheld), with Nigerian Passport No. A04701778, applied for a six-month visit visa on June 6 to UK, but the application was rejected. She said that the suspect later applied for a Spanish visa with a fake UK Entry Clearance Visa on his passport with a view to obtain the visa by deception. The spokesperson said that the visa was checked
by a trained forgery officer and was discovered to be forged. “The suspect was arrested when he was called by the embassy for the collection of his visa. ‘’He is 26 years old graduate of Ambrose Alli University. “He admitted that he met a travelling agent who promised to assist him to procure a Spanish visa.’’ Isintume-Agu said that the second suspect, a 40-
Justice Maureen Esowe, the delivering while judgment, held that it was not in controversy that the contemnor was not present in court when the order was made. She also held that since it was not proved that the contemnor was served with Form 48, the proceeding was not proper. however, Esowe, dismissed the suit and ordered that the judgment of July 26, 2010 be complied with by NECO. contempt “Before
proceeding is instituted, the judgment creditor must ensure that the order is served on the judgment debtor if the order is made in the absence of the debtor. “Since the contemnor was not in court when the order was made and the order was not served on them, the preliminary objection is sustained. ‘’The judgment of this court on July 26, 2010 still subsists and the judgment debtor is hereby ordered to comply with the order therein,” she ruled.
Court Dismisses Contempt Suit Against NECO
THE National Industrial Court sitting in Abuja has dismissed a contempt proceeding filed against the National Examination Council (NECO) by the Non-Academic Staff Union of Education and Associated Institutions (NASU). NASU, through its counsel, Mr. Benjamin Ogunleye, had asked the court to commit NECO for contempt for failure to execute the judgment of the court delivered on July 26, 2010.
Counsel to NECO, Mr. Bayo Oyefeso, filed a preliminary objection on grounds that the case was not properly filed before the court. Oyefeso argued in his preliminary objection that, in every contempt proceedings, it must be proved beyond reasonable doubt that the contemnor was served with the order of the court. The presiding judge,
year-old man, who claimed to be a concrete Fabricator, confessed to assisting prospective travelers to procure visas. “He confessed that the fake documents he procured include letter of appointment, statement of account, fake visa, fake arrival and departure stamps of Benin Republic, Cote D’Voire, Togo, Ghana and UK “The suspect confessed that the fake documents were procured through the assistance of one Alhaji Oyekanmi, who normally met with him at CMS. “He admitted that he collected N150, 000 for the service. “He claimed he has travelled to the UK on several occasions, where he was convicted for five months for Credit Card fraud before deportation to Nigeria in 2008.’’ She said that investigation was ongoing, adding that efforts were on to arrest another suspect on the run.
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N ws Functional Universities, Polytechnics Key To National Transformation - Bindir THE Director-General, National Office for Technology Acquisition and Promotion (NOTAP), Dr Umar Bindir, said Nigeria’s transformation lies in having functional universities and polytechnics. Bindir said this at the 4th Annual Public Lecture of the Nigeria Institute of Agricultural Engineers, held in Kaduna. He said no nation would progress without vibrant educational institutions that would produce the manpower to drive the changes needed for transformation. According to him, transformation has to start from key knowledge system to be provided by the universities and polytechnics in the country. He said that the institutions would “breed the critical minds of highly skilled manpower to take the economy to the highest level”. Bindir added that such
critical minds would be able “to look at the environment and see the opportunities that are available and utilise them”. He also said that for transformation to be possible, there must be strategic bonding and partnership to complement each other for better wealth generation. The Director-General added that apart from producing a knowledgebased society to drive national transformation, the citizens must also be honest, disciplined, productive and sincere.
Hon. Festus Ebea, Deputy Speaker, Edo State House of Assembly (left) with Engr. Koleade Adeguinle, General Manager, HSEQ Total Nig. Plc during the 2013 HIV/AIDS Expanded Preventive Awareness Project organised by Total Nig. Plc in Benin City last Thursday. Photo: LUCKY AGIE.
Labour Leader Charges ASUU On Strike Issues MR Isa Aremu, the Vice President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), has charged the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) to adopt a better approach to resolve strike issues. Aremu said this at the 45th Annual National Conference of the Chartered Institute of Personnel Management of Nigeria (CIPM) with the theme: “ Evolve and Excel’’ held in Abuja. In his address to the conference on the topic: “Law at the work place’’, Aremu said: “A strike notice needs to make the needed impact”.
“ASUU may need to consider a better approach knowing that the real victims are not those who perpetrate the policies.’’ “I am shocked that universities have been closed for almost two months now. I have not heard any activist’s reaction to the strike,’’ Aremu said. He condemned the exclusion of minimum wage from exclusive legislative list by legislators and urged human resource practitioners to apply the principle of “injury to one is an injury to all’’ in their practice. Aremu also condemned strike embarked on by health
NBA President Calls For Adequate Funding Of Legal Aid Council THE President of Nigeria Bar Association (NBA), Mr. Okey Wali, has called on the Federal Government to adequately fund the Legal Aid Council. Wali made the call in Lagos at a one-day stakeholders’ conference, organised by the council. He commended the council for carrying out its mandate by coming up with measures, including free legal service, known as Pro Bono, in spite of inadequate funding. He equally commended the council for choosing a relevant theme of the conference, “Access to Justice: Advancing the Frontiers of Pro Bono”. Wali said additional funding for the council was very critical, particularly with regard to having more competent hands to enable it to render free legal services to the poor, stressing that it could only recruit more lawyers if adequately funded. “The unaddressed legal service needs of the poor are huge and the reason is because government funding for legal aid is meager. “Before the launch of the Pro Bono Scheme, the Legal Aid Council has been providing free legal aid to persons awaiting trial. “The council is, however, grossly under funded and understaffed to carry out its statutory assigned functions,’’ he said.
He decried the high number of awaiting trial inmates, noting that 90 per cent of awaiting-trial cases in the country were against indigent people. Wali said NBA had come up with measures aimed at assisting LAC to find a lasting solution to human rights abuses and under representation of the poor in courts. He said one of the measures to consider was the establishment of two major platforms and Human Rights Desk in all its 100 branches across the country to offer Pro Bono legal services. “These organs or platforms are the Human Rights Institute of the NBA and Section on Public Interest and Development Law,” he said.
The Keynote Speaker, Yasmin Batliwala called on lawyers in developing countries, particularly in Nigeria to develop Pro Bono culture to help the poor in seeking redress. Batliwala, who is the Chief Executive at Advocates for International Development, called on lawyers to “answer the clarion call to stop the violation of human right’’. She urged lawyers to check abuses, “particularly those affecting women who are unable to seek legal redress due to lack of funds.’’ She said, besides giving back to the society, Pro Bono could help lawyers develop new skills and areas of expertise that could later be used for fee paying jobs.
practitioners, stressing that Nigeria has the world’s worst health indicators. “Our health indicators are extremely miserable; in the World Health Organisation (WHO) record, Nigeria is ranked 187 in the league of 190 countries and our life expectancy is lower than most countries,’’ he lamented. He urged employers to manage disputes at work places to ensure maximum productivity. Aremu decried the way employers of labour hire and fire employees, and warned that labour laws should discourage such acts.
to N30, 000 a day, but now it has reduced drastically to N3, 000 to N7, 000 a day which is not good for their business. Similarly, some traders shut down their shops, left the town and have fully turned to farming to enable them earn a living until the strike is called off. Also, “Keke Napep” riders have more rued the strike action, saying that, they no
interest to Nigerian workers. Prof. Olawale Ajai of the PanAtlantic University, Lagos, said that labour laws that would protect weaker parties in work places should be emphasised. Ajai said that issues of sexual harassment, casualisation of employment, especially by banks, should not be condoned. Mr. Aderemi Adegboyega, urged employers of labour to train their staff for maximum productivity in work places. He stressed the need for safety in work places for employees and not compensations after they might have sustained injuries.
Saraki: Kwara Speaker Relinquishes His Se Security Personnel THE Speaker, Kwara House of Assembly, Hon. Rasaq Atunwa, has relinquished the security personnel attached to him following the failure of Police to return security details to the former Governor of the state, Senator Bukola Saraki. It was reported that the Speaker, at a press briefing on September 10, threatened to relinquish the police security attached to him if Saraki’s security detail was not restored before Friday, September 13. He said the act constituted a clear breach of the law. Atunwa had explained that Saraki was entitled to the provision of police security as part of his pension entitlement by virtue of Section 2 (3) Paragraph
ASUU Strike Paralyse Activities In make enough money to By BIJOR CELESTINA O. Abraka longer cater for their families unlike THE ongoing strike by the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has paralysed both Commercial and Social activities in Abraka, host community of Delta State University. According to some business owners, they noted that the strike has made them not to sell as usual. Some others lamented that they used to sell up to N20, 000
Mr. Victor Eburujolo, the past president of CIPM, decried the bonding of staff by banks, stressing that “it is illegal’’. “If you want to bond a worker after training, it should be for a specific period”. “There must be a clause in the bond asking the person to pay specific amount of the training fee if he decides to leave,’’ Eburujolo said. Mr. Peter Esele, the former TUC President, urged human resource practitioners to stick to agreements on matters of
when the school was on session. Meanwhile, a lecturer Mr. Patrick Ijeh noted “the strike action has damaged eventually everything. It has made the town boring, dry and very difficult to live in”. The people urged the Federal Government and ASUU to come to a compromise and call off the strike as students have now taken to crime and other social vices.
H of the Third Schedule of Kwara State Governor and Deputy Governor (payment of pension) Law 2010. “As the speaker of Kwara State House of Assembly that enacted the law, it would be utterly improper for me to sit indolently and do nothing in the face of such flagrant violation of its law. “If the Nigeria Police Command does not deem it fit to protect a two-term Governor and Senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, then it is duplicitous to seek to protect a Speaker of the State Assembly,’’ he said. The Special Assistant to the Speaker on Media, Alhaji AbdulRahman Sanni, confirmed to newsmen that the speaker had relinquished the security details attached to him. He said the decision took effect from September 13, when the deadline given by the Speaker had lapsed. Sanni said the decision was in fulfillment of his boss’ promise to give up all his security details unless such was returned to
Senator Saraki. It was observed in IIorin that the Speaker now goes about his functions without the normal security personnel attached to him. Commenting on the development, the Deputy Speaker, Prof. Gana Yisa, also told correspondents that he had told his policemen not to report for duty to his office until further notice. Yisa condemned the withdrawal of Saraki’s security details, noting that if the law passed by the House could be violated, the lawmakers could not stand and be watching without doing anything. “ We jointly passed the law that past governors and their deputies should be provided with security and if such a law passed by this House could be violated, we have no reason to sit and watch. “So, as I speak to you, the security officers attached to me are also going until such a time when the security attached to the leader of PDP and former Governor of Kwara State, Dr Bukola Saraki, are brought back, “ I too, have no reason to have security men. We are secured by God anyway.”
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N ws Eternal Spiritual Church Of Christ Annual Harvest Takes Place On Oct 27 THE Annual Harvest thanksgiving 2013 of Eternal Spiritual Church of Christ Inc, Benin City will take place on Sunday, October 27, 2013 at 10 am. A statement by the General-Overseer of the church Prophetess Patricia Aiguobasimwin, said the occasion will hold at the church Cathedral, No. 60B Ogiso Street, Off M.M. Way, Benin City.
Prophetess Patricia Aiguobasimwin
Media Parley Takes Place By ODINUKAEZE Tomorrow NNENNA THE usual quarterly media parley/get together for Journalists in the State has been scheduled to hold on the 22nd of September 2013. In a release signed by Titus Akhigbe, the state Secretary and made available to
WEEKEND OBSERVER indicates that the media parley will commence by 1pm prompt at the NUJ Press Centre. It stated further that His Royal highness, Omo N’Oba N’Edo Uku Akpolokpolo has gracely donated some items for the get together.
Omolua-Igbanke Celebrates New Yam Festival
By PATRICK OJENOR
AS the people of Omolua Community Igbanke in Orhionmwon Local Government Area of Edo State celebrate Annual Traditional ceremony marking the beginning of new yam festival, His Royal Highness (HRH) Dr. Isaac Ogbeiwi Uwaifo (S.P) the Enogie of Omolua – Igbanke has called on his subjects home and abroad to join him celebrate the great occasion. Addressing the mamouth crowd that were present in the palace ground to mark the begining of new yam festival, the Omolua born King who spoke with great enthusiasm divulged that a country with out tradition, and culture can never progress. The Enogie of Omolua HRH, dr. Isaac Ogbeiwi Uwaifo (JP) expressed his
Reactions Trail Call For National Conference MIXED reactions in Abuja trailed the call for the convocation of a national conference to chart a way forward for the unity of Nigeria. The President of the Senate, David Mark, recently called for a national conference while declaring open the new legislative session. In separate interviews with newsmen, some lawmakers said that the conference would go a long way to resolve some contentious issues threatening the unity of the country. According to Rep. Segun Odeneye (APC-Ogun), for the conference to be encompassing, it should be done in conjunction with the
National Assembly. “I support the call for National conference, but I don’t see anything in respect of sovereign national conference,” he said. According to him, the constitution of the conference should also include women, youths, and the various associations in the country and not just elders and politicians. He said that caution must be taken to avoid the mistake of the past where nothing was achieved from conferences organised. The legislator said that for the conference to be productive, it must have objectives from the onset to avoid waste of time and resources.
Rep. Femi Gbajabiamila (APC-Lagos) said that Mark had said the minds of all Nigerians by making the call for the convocation of National conference. “David Mark’s call is what all Nigerians have been asking for,” he said. Rep. Mustapha Dawaki (PDP-Kano) who had a different view, said that the call for national conference by Mark was unrealistic since the National Assembly had representatives of all Nigerians. “For me, having a national conference will amount to duplication of efforts and waste of resources, especially now that the country is facing dwindling revenue,” he said.
Improvement In NECO Result, Collective Efforts Of FG, Stakeholders - NECO THE improvement recorded in the 2013 National Examination Council (NECO) results followed the collective efforts of the Federal Government and stakeholders, the NECO Registrar, Prof. Promise Okpala, said. Okpala told newsmen in Abuja that it was the concerted efforts of President Goodluck Jonathan, the ministers of education, the National Assembly, commissioners of education, parents and teachers that yielded the improved results. He said that NECO initiated a “recovery process’’ after a public outcry over poor results by candidates where stakeholders swung into action, playing different roles to ensure a successful conduct of examinations and subsequent good results. He added that while the Council would be glad with an impressive result, it was duty bound to report facts, irrespective of any public outcry.
“We believe that no matter the outcome of our results, if you do not report right, you will be misleading people. “You may succeed in meeting people’s immediate expectations but you will end up damaging the future of millions of students. “We will therefore ensure that this recovery path we are taking is sustainable and we urge for the understanding of all.’’ Okpala said though it is the duty of NECO to ensure successful conduct of examinations, the greater responsibility rested on those who prepare students for the examinations. “Parents should ensure that their children are given the necessary support such as making sure that the child is well fed and all the books and materials needed for his or her studies are provided.’’ “Teachers on their part should ensure that there are no lose ends such as failure to effectively cover the syllabus.
“He who is well prepared has nothing to fear and has no reason to cheat, so if we want to knock out malpractice, parents and teachers must do their duties well.’’ It would be recalled that NECO, on Thursday, released the 2013 June/July Senior School Certificate Examination (SSCE) with about 70 per cent of the candidates passing both English Language and Mathematics. No fewer than 69.57 per cent of the candidates that sat for the examinations made at least five credits to qualify them for admission into tertiary institutions. The registrar, who announced the results in Minna, explained that 96.55 per cent of the candidates made five passes and above, while 0.80 per cent of the candidates were involved in examination malpractice.
appreciation to the Benin Monarch, His Royal Majesty (HRM) Omo N’Oba “N” Edo Uku Akpolokpolo Oba Erediauwa CFR, Oba of Benin Kingdom for his royal counseling and advice which made Omolua Community a shining example in preservation of their tradition, Arts, and culture, resulting to smooth and dynamic community administration. The royal traditional father pointed out that having expressed his joy in their achievements, he maintained that he must not forget to mention some painful issues in his community. He stressed that half of the Omolua Secondary School building which was destroyed by rain storm, and reported to Edo State government who promised to repair or renovate it was not yet done, adding that on the 4th of March 2013, the remaining half of the school building was totally destroyed by heavy rain storm where properties and records, including class room walls ware blown down by the heavy
rain storm. The royal father therefore appealed to the state government to come and rescue the community from this great calamity. His Royal Highness (HRH) Dr. Isaac Ogbeiwi Uwaifo (J.P) divulged that the royal to Omolua royal palace is now almost cut off as a result of termination of the new tarred road (few kilometers) to his palace which has reduced economic and social activities in Omolua due to no access road. The Enogie therefore appealed to the Edo State government to intervene without delay adding that Omolua Community is anxiously looking forward for genuine industrialist to
partner with the palace on establishment of cottage industries to provide employment to the teeming youths. He also used the opportunity to express his appreciation to the august visitors who graced the occasion. Speaking earlier, the Chairman of the occasion, Sir Prince Barrister R.E. Osazuwa Esq. expressed his appreciation to HRH Dr. Isaac Ogbeiwi Uwaifo (JP) the Ambassador for Tradition, Arts, and Culture for maintaining cultural heritage of the people. The chairman of the occasion equally advised the youths to maintain their culture despite Western civilization which as reduced cultural heritage in our society. Highlight of the occasion was entertainment by the host, and royal homage to the palace.
Edo Constitutes Local Govt Election Tribunal By ODINUKAEZE NNENNA THE Edo State Judiciary has constituted the Edo State Local Government Election Appeals Tribunal. The Election Appeals Tribunal constituted by the Chief Judge of Edo State, Hon. Justice C. O. Idahosa, is in line with the provision of
section 83 of the Edo State local Government Electoral law, 2012. In a press release signed by H. I Enemaku Esq, Chief registrar, to the general public, stated that the Tribunal will be chaired by Hon. Justice E. F. Ikponmwen, Hon. Justice A. Edodo Eruaga and Hon. E. O Ahamioje.
Seven People Feared Dead At Apo Legislative Quarters Continued from page 1
Umar alleged that the people who did the shooting were in uniform. “They came and shared themselves, some lay on the floor, some went inside, some standing,’’ he said. A resident of the area, who identified himself as Femi, told newsmen that the shooting started about 11.45p.m. on Thursday and lasted till midnight. “This morning we heard that a lot of people died, while some were wounded and had been taken to the hospital. The FCT Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Altine Daniel, confirmed that there was an incident at the uncompleted buildings but added: “I do not have the briefing, honestly.’’ However, Malam Huwal Umaru, the leader of labourers in the area, said six men in army uniform came into the uncompleted building where no fewer than 100 laborers were staying and started shooting. “At the end of the operation, seven of my people were killed and many were injured, the uniformed men also went away with 15 of our people. “We don’t even know their fate now, may be they are alive or dead and when we took a count we could not account for three,’’ Umaru said. He said the armed men came in two jeeps; the white
one was parked at the entrance of the gate leading to the street while the black one was stationed at the junction adjacent to the street. He said when they got to the front of the building; they started shooting, rousing the people from sleep. “It was the sound of the gun that woke the people up, they were confused and ran to the direction of the attackers. “Those that were not sleeping were able to prevent more people from running outside,’’ he said. Umaru said that before the tragic event, a security man from Kaduna State, had left the building with his girlfriend and his friend. Umaru said for more than one year they had been living peacefully in the uncompleted building, “We are into various menial jobs like shoe shining, masonry, selling tea, while some drive keke NAPEP (tricycle). “This is a place we have been living for over one year, not free of charge and we don’t constitute nuisance to anybody,’’ he said. Umaru said that on Wednesday the owner of the building came to pay the security man guarding the structure his salary and in the process noticed some movements within. He said after series of
investigation and questioning, he got to know that some people were hibernating in the building and he gave them a week’s notice to vacate. “The man warned us that if we don’t vacate the building by Wednesday, he would make life unbearable for us, as he would bring solders to chase us away,’’ Umaru said. He said they had an agreement with the security man to be paying N200 weekly per person. “We don’t have problem with anybody, all we do is to go out in the morning to look for our daily bread and come back to lay our head,’’ Umaru said. One of the security men in one of the houses on the street said that the uniformed men were more than six but only six went for the operation. He said he and his colleagues were outside the building when the people came and ordered them to go inside their house and lock the windows. He said that few minutes after the instruction; they heard gunshots and shouts of agony by people. It was learnt that the victims were all male. Report says that the corpses were taken away in an ambulance belonging to the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps yesterday.
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“Rarely would the white man for example steal from his people. Rarer still would a white man corruptly enrich himself without going in for it. However it is a different tale for the black man. The black man’s trades mark is to seal from his people. The line of least resistance for the black man is to corruptly enrich himself without working of it.” THE symptoms of the failure of government is all around us, and across all spheres and spectrums of life in Nigeria. What can be said for instance of the endemic and nauseating level of corruption in Nigeria? What can be said of the ever rising rate of unemployment in the land? What can be said of the violence, terrorism and insurgency in the country? What can be said of the massive poverty and insecurity in the nation? What about the failed economic policies of government. Yet the government’s propaganda machines continue to belch forth half baked truth, about non-existing monetary theories that has only rendered the masses bereaved. If the government says it has not failed, why it is saddled with the endemic problem of corruption in its system. Sincerely therefore, if the government believes that it is alive to it’s responsibilities, then it has no alternative but to wage an all out war especially against corruption, if the nation must dynamic steer off its sterile course. The evil consequence of failed governance is therefore all to see and it is brewing a rising inferno within the heart of the Nigerian nation, which sooner or later may just explode, consuming all and
A Failed Government
sundry. The failure of government has already created a two society system in Nigeria one for the super rich and the other for the poor. The situation is that appalling that the gap between the rich and the poor has created a deep chasm in Nigerian society which can never be bridged. As usual the government in its failed habit and lukewarm attitude is careless about this phenomenon. The truth of the issues is that the Nigerian government is impervious about all these things, pretending like the ostrich which bury its head in the sand, that all is well. Nigerians and Nigeria is seriously besetted by chronic corruption. Imagine a situation where one man can simply make N10 billion that has already been earmarked for a road project to vanish into thin air, and nobody would raise an eyebrow. The reality of this situation is that there would no longer be good road for the people, leading to further under developments. Imagine another situation where N20 million naira budgeted to provide water borehole for folks in a rural community is simply diverted into private pockets, and nobody blinks an eyelid, thereby
denying the poor Nigerians of having access to clean and portable water, leading to further arrested development? But this is just a tip of the iceberg. Yet these
has in all ramifications robbed the poor masses of any sustainable development and growth. This is the sad tales of official corruption in Nigeria, as our leaders
national disgrace and calamity you may say! Rarely would the white man for example steal from his people. Rarer still would a white man corruptly enrich himself without going in for it.
both during military and civilian regimes have continued to steal, rob, loot and dispossess the masses of their birth right and commonwealth with impunity. Huge monies that belongs to all Nigerians have been siphoned by a few. This is a shame, a
However it is a different tale for the black man. The black man’s trades mark is to seal from his people. The line of least resistance for the black man is to corruptly enrich himself without working of it. Pitiably too, the nation’s wealth is his a few hands, while the vast
Jonathan
two scenarios plays out everyday, and it happens everyday. The crux of the matter is that the masses usually end up as the scape goats who have to bear the burden of underdevelopment. Thus corruption in high places and the abuse of office
majority lives in grinding penury. Incidentally the tragic nature of our failed government has been revealed as the most challenging problem of bad governance, n a m e l y , underdevelopment. By all standards, Nigeria is a Third World nation, inundated with bad roads, failed critical infrastructures, heavy foreign debt and crime. Nigeria can not producer this pen I am waiting with. The sixth largest produce of oil in the world cannot refine and export its own oil rather it can only export crude oil and imports all it’s petroleum products. This is absurd! By way of correspondence, a recent research by a group in the United States assessed Nigeria as follows “Nigeria is beset by chronic internal strife and unstable government, corruption, poor human right record and a hub for international crime “Nigeria’s unity is threatened by disruptive forces that come from within its own borders” “the forces that balance Nigerian unity are fragile and may fatally fracture Nigeria’s polity and state integrity” “the existence of Nigeria as a unified state is in jeopardy” These assessment are but the result of a failed government of the geopolitical entity known as Nigeria.
“Nigerians and Nigeria is seriously besetted by chronic corruption. Imagine a situation where one man can simply make N10 billion that has already been earmarked for a road project to vanish into thin air, and nobody would raise an eyebrow.”
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Our Governor Loves Sports
Hon. Omorede Osifo is a versatile and visionary lady. A former Commissioner of Art and Culture in Edo State. In this interview with Editor WEEKEND OBSERVER HENRY BALOGUN AND PRAISE EGHWRUDJE, the Honourable Commissioner for Youths and Sports, bears her mind on Sundry issues and the secret behind her success at the ministry. Excerpts You came on board 8 th March, 2013 and since then, sport in Edo state has witnessed a tremendous change, what is the motivational factor? The motivational factor is that I strive to be the best in whatever I do and wherever I find myself. Why I have achieved so much in this short period of time is because I work so hard in order to stand out from the crowd. I do not want people to count me among others who just occupy a position without a positive effect. I want to be that woman that makes things happens. I work as if I want to be here, because I might leave here tomorrow, so I want to do what I can in the shortest possible time. People try to refer to when you were the commissioner for Art and Culture, is there a resemblance to what we are expecting in sport or are we going to surpass that stage? I dare to surpass that stage; people tend to say that because it was the same attitude I had when I was in Art and Culture. I went in there when it was second half of the government, I worked so hard as if there was no tomorrow because, I did not know how long we were going to be there, because we are contract staff, we do not have a fix tenure. As commissioners, we are appointed unlike an election where you are sure of four years. In contract, you do not have permanent contract base, you can go any time, so I worked hard as commissioner for Art and Culture and am happy that even though our tenure was cut short, after a year and half, I had a lot to show for what I have done in that short time. And it is the same attitude I have, being in sport. I intend to do better than I did in Art and Culture in Youths and Sports, social mobilisation, because in life you tend to do better as you grow older. I came into Art and Culture as a very young woman, without experience in government. I believe people want to see me do better this time than I did the other time, so am working very hard to surpass what I did in the ministry of Art and Culture. Talking of Bendel Insurance, before you came
on board, it has been making news that the players have not been paid but right now, it seems that everything have been swept under the carpet. What is the position, is it that they have been paid or what? When I came, I met all those troubles, it was really not an easy thing to handle. The players were complaining of salaries and allowances not paid and I had to go back to the drawing board to talk to my staffs and find out what the problems were. Even the bible says “the labourer is worthy of his wages”. I started talking to them; I told them as a commissioner, by the Comrade Governor of Edo State, Governor Adam Aliu Oshiomhole, I was to make sport better than it was. Our Governor loves sports and was not happy that sport was not how he wanted it to be. He said I should go out there and make it better; it now fell on me to make it better. I listened to all their complaints and then passed the information across to the governor because there should be a right person passing the complaints to the governor, if not, nothing would be done. And of course, salaries started being paid, their balances have been assured and the governor has said he is going to pay them. When they started seeing their salaries and allowances being paid, they were convinced that the government is really keen on making them comfortable and ok. That is why they are ok and they have one or two persons come into their team to teach them what they should do or not do. We can see that they are getting results, they have started winning. Before now, Bendel Insurance was relegation threatened, though they did not gain promotion. What is the prospect position of Bendel Insurance: when you look at a player, are we talking about passion as a motivation or finance as motivation and in technical crew, what do you have? Bendel Insurance was almost relegated before I came as a Commissioner for Youths and Sports, and there was the fear of each match must be won because we do not want Bendel Insurance to go into relegation and I do not
want it in my time or Governor Adam Aliu Oshiomhole’s time. Everybody has a passion, but a passion without motivation; you are not going to bring out your best. So, passion is important and financial motivation is important, that is why our young footballers from Nigeria go to London, join big
we give the period of time to get us into the premier league. Should the running of operation be totally left to the state government or should they be a mixed administration between state and other body? The problem Bendel insurance have had in the
Hon. Osifo Omorede clubs to earn more money, more Pounds and Dollars because when you convert it, it becomes a lot in naira. If we say finance is not part of it, we are deceiving ourselves. If you have a passion and love for a game, you would also want to be well and ok to play that game. That is what I see with the footballers, not only them but everybody. Bendel Insurance not being relegated; I had to bring in a Technical Director to run the affairs of Bendel Insurance to work with the team, Secretary, the players and other officials, to motivate them, to talk to them and am happy the short time the young man came from Canada: the person of Kingsley Igbinovia Kpelele, the club was able to do better than they were doing, with the ministry supervising and telling them their dreams and what we expect from them. Talking about coaches and remunerations and what to do, I believe in giving target; if you do this, you would get this. When we bring any person into Bendel Insurance, we must give conditions for their contract in terms of remunerations, we tell them; we would give you but subject to the fact that you can get us into the premier league and
past from what I have read, because I went through records, and what I have heard is the problem of too many people being involved in Bendel Insurance. I believe for us to run Bendel Insurance and get it better than it is, we don’t need any outside influences, we need the government to run it. In my own candid opinion, I believe the Government of Edo State should run Bendel Insurance for one full season without any interference whatsoever. One full season is just about 9-10month. To make sure we know what to do without anybody interfering. When everybody is bringing their own opinion, there would be a problem, so it will be better if government can run Bendel Insurance and of course, with a committee. I think we should test-run only government and see how we would fare for one season. What would you regard as your greatest achievement? One of my greatest achievements as a Commissioner for Youths and Sports was the fact that Bendel Insurance did not go into relegation. Not just that Bendel Insurance did not go
-Hon. Osifo into relegation but that we were able to move it up from the low cadre to a higher one and earn more point. When I came on board, it was really bad, every day I hear relegation, I go to bed, wakeup thinking of Bendel Insurance, and I had to pray to God about it as well. Secondly, as Commissioner for Youths and Sports, I have been able to get our athletes to know that the people’s Governor, Comrade Adam Aliu Oshiomhole is interested in sports and the well being of the sports men and women. There is now enthusiasm amongst the athletes to do well and I believe that, their enthusiasm will translate into winning more medals at the coming Nation Sports Festival next year. What is your vision for the future of Edo State Sports? In the nearest future, my vision for Edo State sports is a situation where by Edo State is number one in sport, just like it was at first during Bendel State, (Edo/Delta), when it use to be number one or struggle for 1 st and 2 nd position with Delta State. That is my dream and I pray that we should go higher than where we are. Another dream I have is to bring back games that we use to have, like Principal Hard Court Law Tennis, Boxing, Ogbe Cup and others. I want us to bring back sports, in Edo State because right now sport is basically dead in most schools in Edo state. If we can make sure that sports came back alive into schools that will also make this administration to be known. In terms of youth, I want to see youth that can stand on their own, doing well in their chosen careers, in business and all that. What is your motivation, is it because you are a woman, having motherly feelings or it’s your working style to make your presence felt? Well, being a woman is one of it, as a woman I have that motherly instinct and that is part of my style. When I was Commissioner for Art and Culture, I was close to the artistes, actors and actresses; I went close to them because when you are close to them, you make them happy and they want to give their best. And that is what I do here, am close to the athletes and youths; I recently received two awards from the National Body of Edo State Youth, as Youth Most Friendly Commissioner in Nigeria.
Basically what I do is, I try to be close to them, because when you are close to them, you would be able to know what they need. How would you describe your working relationship with the Governor? I have a good working relationship with the governor, he is my boss, he is the one who put me in this position that I am, to represent Edo State Youth and Sports. I own most of what I am doing to him. It’s his support that is helping me do my best. He has always supported this ministry because; it is a ministry he is interested in and he knows that sport is an area the people of Edo State are very interested in and of course youths. How would you describe your foray into politics in the past decades? Well, I came into politics as at the time when not too many women at my age were in politics. I came in from a banking background, with a Masters in Banking and Finance, BA in Economics and Statistics and later on went to Harvard University, where I did an executive course on governance. I would say it has been very good, it has not been easy because I know that during that period I came in…. 13years ago, politics was strictly a man’s world. Politics was for men, not for women, not too many women could come out, and those who wanted to come out didn’t know how to do it, and that was why when I came in from U.S in 2000, I started up a program for women, where they were trained on politics and necessary steps to take. Now we can see women in politics, when I joined, some of my friends too joined and it has been going on well. What is your message to the people of Edo State? We are intelligent people; sons and daughters of Edo are one of the best. We have what it takes to rule, we have what it takes to be at the top but we should try our best to make sure we strive to be at the top. We should always do the right thing. To our Youths, we don’t need restiveness; we have to keep the peace in Edo State. Edo is a place we all love; let’s try to keep the peace by not doing things that will cause unrest. To the women, go out there and join the men in politics. The more women that come out, the better: come out and lets move Edo forward, let’s move Nigeria forwards.
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Old PDP, New PDP, Same PDP IF you wanted proof that Nigeria is bereft of hope, look no further than this fact: that, on the Internet and elsewhere, many Nigerians have gone heady with celebration of the schism in the (misnamed) Peoples Democratic Party. All of
ethos of internal democracy. One caller exuded cheer for a different reason. For him, the protesting wing of the party – now coalesced under the “new PDP” – represented the worst, most reactionary elements. Their exit, he
By OKEY NDIBE callers focused on the collateral bump they expected to accrue to Nigeria’s “opposition” parties, especially the APC, if the fission within the PDP lasts or widens. To each caller, I
Bamangar Tukur
last week, several friends and acquaintances phoned to ask why I had not tweeted (much less written a column) on the issue. Some of the callers wanted me to celebrate former Vice President Abubakar Atiku and his group for doing something seldom seen in the ruling party: staging a walk-out to protest the party’s ingrained disdain for the
question in my mind that Mr. Bamanga Tukur and Mr. Kawu Baraje – who runs the Atiku faction – are ideological bedfellows. And both men, along with their respective cohorts, are actuated by roughly the
presidency – to say nothing of proposing an alternative course. Their rhetoric is a simplistic one. It amounts, in the end, to no more than a bankrupt demand that an incompetent president should surrender the office to an incompetent
political party with the right mix of vision, conviction, passion – and cash. A winning formula for any serious opposition party is, one, to point to the vacuity of ideas in the political space and, two, to proffer sound panaceas for Nigeria’s deeply
successor from a different geopolitical zone. The same stipulation applies, I suggest, to Nigeria’s most visible “opposition” parties, especially the uneasy coalition called the APC. Interviewed by Kayode Ogundamisi on BEN Television, I stated that the ostensible opposition’s brandishing of brooms – I imagine, to signify the sweeping away of the PDP – was hardly a substitute for a real, painstaking formulation of a roadmap to Nigeria’s rescue. The gestural is important and has its place in political jostling, no question; yet, without a set of principles to give spine to gestures, all we have is silly, sophomoric theatrics. Nigeria awaits a
embedded crises and challenges. An opposition political party worthy of the name ought to set out to define an ethos and identity different from the current ones. For a start, its thinkers must identify the moral, historical and developmental roots of Nigeria’s malaise. Such a party ought to underscore the fact that Nigeria is far from a formed nation, and that it’s even less an inevitable collectivity. I have argued elsewhere that Nigeria is, above all, a source of aggravation, great pain, even trauma, to most of its constituent elements. Sooner or later – sooner, in fact, rather than later – Nigerians will have to
Kawu Baraje
said, had lifted the exact weight that had inclined the PDP towards impunity, corruption and failed leadership. “Mark my words, the PDP (by which he meant the Bamanga Tukur version) is going to surprise Nigerians by coming out with progressive policies and fielding good candidates in forthcoming elections.” The majority of my
patiently explained that the so-called split in the PDP was, by any significant measure, a non-event. It is an event only in the most sordid, contemptible and effete manner. To speak of the old and new PDPs, as much of the Nigerian press has taken to doing with an over dose of glee, is to fall for a cheap, semantic deceit. The “old” and “new” PDPs are the same PDP, period. There’s no
“President Jonathan is a confused, bumbling leader, but the members of the so-called new PDP have offered no systematic critique of his ghastly presidency – to say nothing of proposing an alternative course. Their rhetoric is a simplistic one. It amounts, in the end, to no more than a bankrupt demand that an incompetent president should surrender the office to an incompetent successor from a different geopolitical zone.”
same political impulses that move President Goodluck Jonathan. The point, quite simply, is that there’s no ideological underpinning to this fake feud. Neither camp has staked out any remarkable principle that distinguishes it from the other. For both sides, it’s about raw power – which means that the argument, in the final analysis, is about who and who are going to oversee the continued looting of Nigeria’s (fast dwindling) resources, the mindless abortion of Nigeria’s (fast diminishing) prospects. President Jonathan is a confused, bumbling leader, but the members of the socalled new PDP have offered no systematic critique of his ghastly
Continues on Pg 9
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decide whether this vector of agony is worth the cost of its preservation – or deserves to be pronounced an
dimensions of our developmental woes. It is awful enough that Nigerians have erratic, spotty electric power; yet, the greater tragedy is the existence of numerous highly
another. We adopted the patently ignorant idea that all power comes from God – and began to use it as a mask to cover the shame of rigged elections. A man steals
Aliyu Babangida of Niger State
irredeemably bad job. The Igbo say, Alu gbaa aro, obulu omenani. A rough translation: A sacrilegious act that stands for a year becomes accepted custom. That saying strikes me as summing up Nigeria’s multifarious moral crises. Nigerians speak about combating corruption, but many can hardly contemplate the hauling before a magistrate of an allegedly corrupt former or serving head of state. So we have a country of odd expectations: we don’t expect our exrulers to be jailed for corruption, but we don’t let it be known that we expect them NOT to enrich themselves illicitly. Nigeria has veered and wandered so far afield in the wrong direction that any engaged political party is called to draw attention to the moral
organized and powerfully connected groups (generator importers and staff of power corporations, among them) determined to keep things just the way they are. The secret is that there’s a lot of money being made – by a small number of people – from Nigeria’s monumental failure. Nigerians have permitted far too many sacrilegious acts to fester for far too long, acquiring the imprimatur of acceptable conduct. We refined the language of “stakeholders” to denote the big-time, agbada-wearing “thieftains” who must be appeased at the expense of the generality of the people. We accepted the idea that cash-crazed godfathers may impose their minions as candidates for one elective office or
day a faction of the PDP or one of the “opposition” political parties begins to address the manifold pathologies that debilitate Nigeria. I’d like to see some faction or party take on the obvious things that fertilize corruption and
and local government chairpersons? How about reshaping the immunity clause to make it narrower, so it doesn’t cover the president, governors and their deputies when they commit crimes in office? How about taking steps to achieve a truly
are consistently impartial, their verdicts reliable? How about living by the principle that all Nigerians, regardless of position, are equal in the eyes of the law? How about professionalizing the Nigerian Police and Customs, equipping
Aliyu Wamakko, Governor of Sokoto State
an election and then compounds his act of treason with a bizarre
bad governance in Nigeria. How about pushing for
independent judiciary, with judges who are both versed in the law
Sule Lamido, Governor of Jigawa State
t h e o l o g i c a l rationalization that implicates God. I’d be impressed the
amendments that would remove security votes from the control of the president, governors
and ethically sound? How about measures to ensure that officials of electoral commissions
them to fight criminals instead of harassing innocent commuters for bribes? How about developing a healthcare policy for all Nigerians and doing something to stop – and reverse – the shameful state of education in Nigeria? Above all, how about strategies for discouraging a cultural attitude that seeks profit in planned, avoidable failure? Until the Barajes and Tukurs turn their minds in the direction of grappling with the things that count, my friends must excuse my absolute indifference in their affairs. For that matter, when the Tinubus and the Buharis signal a fascination with ideas that transform people and places, instead of their current obsession with power, I will tune in.
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2015: Jonathan, Anenih, Clark And WITHIN the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), events of the last two weeks have indeed brought out the worst among its leading lights.
in Abuja, converged on Shehu Musa Yar’Adua Centre, not too far away from the Eagle Square, venue of the PDP convention, to announce
By KAYODE OJO
and the party, thereafter would emerge stronger from what he described as a “minor” crisis.
Jonathan
Some of them who have shared ideals and political camps for decades are now at both ends of the political divide, which was created by the August 31, 2013 factionalisation of the party. First, some elements within the Peoples Democratic Movement (PDM), believed to have been sponsored by former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, clandestinely registered the political pressure group, which is an integral part of the PDP as a full-fledged political party. Then the aggrieved seven governors of the party, who had earlier walked out from the party’s Special National Convention of August 31
members of the National Assembly who identify with them. Both parties had also initiated court
Chief Edwin Clark, former Chairman of the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF), General I.B. Haruna (rtd) and former Senate
the President. From that statement, it is obvious Clark and his group, were out to mischievously take undue advantage of the
President, Ameh Ebute, had frowned at Anenih’s statement which they described-unfortunatelyas an indication that he was sympathetic to the aggrieved governors. In a statement by their group-Centre for Equality and Change- led by Clark, they made veiled reference to the governors’ threat to jeopardize the 2015 second term ambition of
crisis to score some cheap political points. While it is a known fact that Clark has usually picked quarrels-most of them unnecessary-with virtually everyone he perceives as opposed to the 2015 ambition of Jonathan, to make such a reference to Anenih, dyed-in-the-wool Jonathan supporter, in whatever veiled manner, is uncharitable, to say
Anenih
they were splitting from the mainstream PDP. To say that these are challenging times for statesmen within the party, is to state the obvious. Two of them, former President Olusegun Obasanjo and Chairman of the party’s Board of Trustees (BoT), Chief Tony Anenih, have since led the efforts to reconcile all sides and return the party to oneness. While the initial meeting brokered by Obasanjo did not produce much result, Anenih was caught in the crossfire for daring to state the obvious-that some of the G7 governors leading the new faction have genuine grievances, which would be resolved
Anenih had, in a statement in Abuja, urged leaders of the party and all others involved in the dispute to avoid making provocative statements that could jeopardise ongoing efforts by the party leadership to mend the cracks. His statement was in apparent response to the bitter altercations between the party’s National Chairman and leaders of the ‘New PDP’. For instance, many consider Alhaji Bamanga Tukur’s reference to former Vice President Abubakar and leaders of the splinter group as impostors and prodigal sons, as harsh and improper, just as his threat to initiate the process for the recall of
“To say that these are challenging times for statesmen within the party, is to state the obvious.”
Clark
proceedings against each other. While Tukur filed a suit before the Federal High Court in Abuja seeking the committal of Alhaji Baraje, his deputy Dr. Sam Jaja, and their National Secretary, Olagunsoye Oyinlola to prison, Baraje, on the other hand, asked the court to commit Tukur to jail for contempt. The like of Ijaw leader,
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The PDP Crisis the least. As one of the country’s most enduring political actors, Anenih has indeed paid his dues, standing heads above others in both principles
seek reconciliation as impartially as possible. As chairman of the party’s BoT, he had, since resumption of that office in February led
speech. The split in PDP should have been for the party’s leaders like Clark a sobering moment, pointing as it does to the
fact-finding delegation to PDP state governors on ways of achieving lasting peace in the party. He had also on two occasions-first, the PDP South-South leaders’ meeting in Asaba on May 12, 2013 and second, the Unity Dinner at the Presidential Villa on May 30, 2013, disclosed in his speeches that some governors had genuine complaints against the leadership of the party and had insisted that such complaints were not sufficient to warrant any rebellion especially since there were also complaints against the governors themselves. Interestingly, Clark was at the Asaba meeting where Anenih made the
threat it poses to the president’s second term ambition, a campaign of which he gets mentioned as the arrowhead. Whichever way one chooses to look at it, the events of the past two weeks hardly afford any committed PDP member time to play political brinksmanship. The split signposts threat to the party and the country. Many were therefore rankled that the Clark group reduced such threat to a Jonathan 2015 affair; worse still, to disparage the very soul of the party-which Anenih represents-by making mischievous statements in seeking to score hollow political points. Rather than denigrate
the like of Atiku, Kwankwaso, Lamido, Wammakko, Nyako and company, Anenih had shown wisdom in his comments which were in pursuit of reconciliation. In Anenih’s view, such p r e - e m p t i v e , i n f l a m m a t o r y
reasonable man pursues rats when his house is on fire. They should borrow a leaf from President Jonathan and Anenih who have voted for reconciliation rather than derogation and combativeness. At the PDP post convention
our differences. Even those that are aggrieved call themselves the new PDP, meaning they know without PDP they are nothing. PDP is intact; that we have some disagreements is normal. PDP is intact and will remain intact.
dinner on Sunday (September 8, 2013), Jonathan and Anenih’s homilies were soothing balms amid the cacophony of bellicose statements made by many of the speakers. The president described the crisis in the party as both a normal family issue and minor disagreement that would soon be resolved. Read him: “That some of us have grievances is normal and (this) has been happening. We will do everything possible to make sure that the party grows stronger. In any human institutions there must be disagreements. What happened (the factional PDP) is a minor disagreement that can be solved. For those who have issues, we thank the elders and governors who have been meeting and listening to them; we are committed to resolving
We will make sure that the party remains one, those who left will rejoin us”. Jonathan’s goodwill message was, indeed, the magnum opus of the dinner, finding anchorage on Anenih’s earlier homily that no efforts would be spared to bring everybody back on board. He expressed confidence that the ongoing reconciliation would resolve the crisis. The BoT chair put it elegantly thus: “We will not fire any shot but we will win the war. We should not recognize opposition in the PDP (as) we stand for unity, cohesion and discipline. We will work together as a team so that by 2015, we will come here again to shake hands.” The Jonathan/Anenih perspective is commendable and I recommend it to their followers.
Amaechi
and loyalty. His statements neither associate him with the demands of the G7 governors nor detract from his well-stated commitment to the interest of President Goodluck Jonathan in 2015. Even as an elder, it is proper therefore, to urge Clark to be more cautious in his statements; more importantly, he should give Anenih his due respect. When Anenih said some of the governors’ grievances were genuine, was he really saying something new? Not really. As the party’s father figure, he owes it a duty to speak up in times like this and to
“At a time like this, Clark and his group should seek ways of solving a major problem that presents itself in any form rather than constituting themselves as part of it. “
Atiku
statements, intimidating one another and issuing threats of court actions were clearly inimical to the reconciliation process as well as disrespectful to President Jonathan at whose instance the reconciliation efforts were being made. It is necessary to state here that the way Clark carries on with the 2015 presidency has sparked discussions in the public sphere; so I won’t bother myself with it here. But it will suffice to say that the Ijaw leader’s attitude has, in recent times, done more harm than good to the unity of Jonathan’s support base. At a time like this, Clark and his group should seek ways of solving a major problem that presents itself in any form rather than constituting themselves as part of it. Like the Ibos would say, no
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P litics
Atiku: Facade
LET me state from the outset that after I read, in between the lines, the piece titled: “PDM, PDP and the Battle Ahead” in THISDAY, the Sunday newspaper of September 8, 2013, I came to an interesting conclusion that there is no battle ahead, after all, between Peoples Democratic Movement (PDM), which has just transformed into a political party, and the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). What, however, lies ahead for the new PDM is a crisis of identity! I say new PDM because many founding leaders of the aboriginal PDM have distanced themselves from the secret registration of the Movement as a political party with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). So, what this means for the new PDM is that the soul of the Movement is, understandably, still in the PDP. The new party is, therefore, at best, a splinter group from the aboriginal PDM, which worked with other political associations to form the PDP in 1998. And the resolve of the founding fathers of the Movement was to keep it at the level of a pressure group and not to transform it into a political party. This is why it has remained so within the PDP since 1998. Even Olumide Adefarakan, the writer of the piece, who is a public affairs analyst and reporter (paragraphs 26, 27 and 28 refer) admitted the fact of the resolve especially in the fourth paragraph when he said that, “it will be recalled that the PDM was a major fulcrum in the formation of the defunct Social Democratic Party (SDP) and also in the formation of the PDP in 1998.” But his claim that the older generation of the original PDM members has betrayed the ideals of the Movement as a bastion of democracy is fraudulent. It was clear that he chose to be fraudulent in order to prepare the grounds for the rationalizations offered by the purported Interim National Chair of the PDM party, Malam Bashir Ibrahim Yusuf, for the registration of the Movement with INEC behind the backs of the
founding leaders. In a bid to justify the secret registration of the PDM, Yusuf was quoted to have said “during the days of the founder of the party (Movement), there were many times the Tafida (the late Shehu Musa Yar’Adua) held a contrary position to those of his lieutenants. I cannot recall any such time when the Tafida lorded his opinion on the rest of the group. Decisions were always subjected to the test of democracy and, in a like manner, all decisions and actions in the PDM passed the test of democracy.” What a spurious assertion! Was Yusuf saying that the decision to transform the Movement into a political party a product of consensus by leaders and members of the Movement? The decision could not have passed through the transparent, credible and democratic test; otherwise it would not have been a subject of controversy that has trailed its transformation into a political party. So, on what moral basis was he accusing the original PDM leaders of betraying the promotion of the ideals of democracy? Whereas, the reporter in Olumide Adefarakan betrayed his bias for the new PDM with his spins in paragraphs 26, 27 and 28, all in a clever bid to divert attention from the involvement of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar from the rebellion that led to the registration of the PDM as a party. Read the concatenation: “Although, a senior member of the PDM family has on several occasions dissociated himself from being the force behind the registration of the PDM, and many of his core political associates have also distanced themselves from the newly registered political party, there are fears in some quarters especially proponents of a Jonathan second term that the newly registered party may yet be a fallback for some interests if the PDP gave Jonathan its presidential ticket without going through primary election or if there is no level playing (sic) field in the emergence of the ruling party’s flag-bearer….” Let us read Adefarakan’s
Of A Rebel And Future Of PDM By JOHNSON MOMODU
• Atiku
• OBJ
purported sources close to the PDM, whom he claimed said that “all efforts by the new party to have the former Vice President on board as part of its 2015 permutations have failed as Atiku has insisted that he is staying put in the PDP to slug it out and create a level-playing (sic) field in the party.” Indeed, there is no amount of pseudoreportorial dissembling that will divert attention from Atiku as being the face of
the PDM rebellion. The leadership of the aboriginal PDM knows that he was the one who encouraged and promoted the registration by proxy as a fall-back platform for his neverwaning presidential ambition. No one reckons with his claim that he remains in the PDP, especially after playing an opportunistic role in joining some aggrieved governors to break out of the Special Mini Convention ground at the Eagle Square on
August 31, 2013. That was Atiku’s archetypal politics of rebelling against constituted authorities in promotion and defence of his personal political interests. He is not new to the game of rebellion and betrayal. He is not one of the aggrieved governors who have issues in their states against the PDP leadership, but having gained access to the venue of the convention as a statutory delegate, he was to lend himself to the act of joining the aggrieved governors to stage a walkout from the convention venue. That was not the first time Atiku would present himself as a rebel with personal cause: in 2003, as sitting vice president, he planned a civil coup against his boss, the then President Olusegun Obasanjo in a desperate bid to scuttle Obasanjo’s second term of office. He had collaborated with some nine governors, with whom he had wanted to upstage the applecart of Obasanjo’s presidential bid. But for the deft moves of the like of former Minister of Works and Housing, Chief Tony Anenih, who had just left the cabinet to oversee Obasanjo’s reelection campaign as the de facto National Coordinator, and the political brinkmanship by the presidency, Atiku might have had his way. He had obtained the presidential nomination form and asked for time extension to enable him submit it. Relying on his famed control of the state governors whom he had planned to use to swing delegate votes either to himself if he ran eventually or to former vice president Alex Ekwueme who eventually ran against Obasanjo, he had put the scare into Obasanjo. What Atiku wanted was retention as vice president after reports had indicated that Obasanjo was going to drop him as running mate for a northeast governor due to his disloyalty. He was able to negotiate his retention as running mate, but immediately the
presidential election was won, Obasanjo went after him for his own pound of flesh. The influence he wielded in his first term as vice president was deliberately whittled down by the Ebora of Owu (Obasanjo). In fact, that was how Atiku Abubakar bungled his Godgiven opportunity to emerge as Obasanjo’s successor in 2007, which could have happened on the PDP platform if vaulting ambition had not consumed him to the point of deploying his media aides to quietly propagate the Mandela option for Obasanjo even while the first term was underway. But in order to realize his presidential ambition, he had moved to then Action Congress (AC) to contest after winning a legal battle. He was defeated in the election by the late Umaru Musa Yar’Adua. In 2010, he returned to the PDP, got a waiver to contest for the presidential ticket of the party and had outwitted other northern presidential aspirants in the PDP to emerge as consensus candidate of the north to run against Jonathan in the PDP presidential primaries, which he lost. Now, he is preparing the ground to run for the presidency again, most certainly on the platform of the new PDM party. There is no doubt he will emerge the party’s candidate, but what impact will he be able to make? As AC candidate in 2007, he could not even win his Adamawa home state. If he deploys the platform of new PDM and loses, as it is expected, the PDM would have been abused and deflated. This is what I mean by crisis of identity, which I referred to in the second paragraph of this piece. Not many will want to know which PDM lost. As far as they are concerned PDM is PDM; a common patrimony, handed down by the late Gen. Shehu Musa Yar’Adua, which has now been partitioned because of the political ambition of one man: Atiku Abubakar, the Turakin Adamawa, would have been demystified. The late Gen. Yar’Adua will turn in his grave in disapproval of the demystification, no thanks to Atiku’s personal schema; and, this will be sad.
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S ciety MOST men feels it is their biological, evolutionary, and sociological imperative and god-given right to have sex with as many women as possible. These men will often go on to say that sexual and romantic fidelity ‘‘imposed on them’’ by their wife or significant other and modern western culture is not only unsustainable, but a tired legacy of some rigid moral and religious construct that feel unnatural to them. And so they want to feel free and explore their world with women. From a sexual standpoint, healthy adult men tend to be most aroused by a visual succession of body parts and sexual acts. Men in general also seem to have a greater psychological capacity overall to engage in objectified, even anonymous sexual experiences, which are devoid of any relationship or personal connection. This is why men enjoy pornography and strip clubs and venues that allow them to sexually objectify their body parts. There is reason in abundance why men pull wool over the eyes of their wives. Often times, it is out of spite and neglect, while the other times, it’s because they feel they will never be caught. Dr. Kamal Khurana reviewed through his research that male infidelity can be answered from the, wife’s point of view. These reasons include: Disturbance in the marriage as the primary reason: when there are regular fighting in the home with the wife, which are left unsolved, a pattern sets in wherein the man continues to be unhappy and ‘disturbed’. In this kind of scenario, either he can fight or he can flee. When he looks for an affair, he is looking to flee dealing with the issue in the marriage, and be comforted by that ‘other person’. It is telling oneself that the problems do not affect anyone and life can continue in a better way in a parallel support. Cheating men report boredom led to the affair: some men may find the routine of married life to be tedious and dull. These men find it easier to shift
Why Men Cheat
dominance or primacy to another relationship and feel the sparks outside to be a thrilling option, instead of finding a way to charge up marriage. It becomes present moment for gratification versus the hard job that they have to do in their marriage to resolve an issue. The extra-marital
relationship provides them with a ready–made and fresh experience, which is appealing enough to take the risk. Cheating men love to experiment sexually: sex has always been and will always be an integral part of marriage. While some men are quite content spending the rest of their lives having sex with the same wife for many years, others prefer to experiment more as a need, rather than as option. They want to sleep with many women, many times, and
By ECHWRUDJE PRAISE
therefore do not think twice before an extra-marital alliance. It perhaps makes them feel sexually powerful and more adept than others. Cheating men are emotionally dissatisfied: when their wives are too busy with their lives,
not be compatible so however much the wife may do, the man will always find something to complain about. It may also happen that the woman he cheats with is his co-worker or boss, someone who praises him,
working or bringing up children or even looking after in-laws and parents, emotionally, men are left high and dry. But men are emotionally driven beings too. They want their wives to show them that they are appreciated, and they want women to understand how hard they are trying to get things right. Most men consider it unmanly to ask for a pat on the back, which is why their emotional needs are often overlooked. Sometimes the couple may
looks up to him, and compliments his efforts. That is another reason why, it is so critical that he feels valued at home. Cheating men have a history of EMR: some men in their childhood may have witnessed cheating in their parent’s marriage. This somewhere gives them a message that is it okay to cheat, even though deep inside, they know this is wrong. All of us learn from our parents, so taking the risk is good enough. This acquired learning also
happens, through cheating resort taken by elder siblings, neighbours, peer group and everybody who have impacted them. Sometimes as teenagers or young adults, some men have had multiple relationships; these men either intentionally or accidentally, end up going back to their ex-girlfriends.
The other lot goes back to their past style of having multiple relationships. It is well said, what a mind thinks, it achieves. So there are females also who are either consciously or unconsciously looking for such men. Cheating men have wives who cheat: men also take revenge with their cheating wives, by having multiple relationships themselves. Even if their wives are guilty and come to accept their extra-marital relationships, some men continue with the
trick. This is mostly done by men who do not want to forgive their spouses. Cheating men think it to be ‘divorce’: some men are wilfully adulterous and use it as a mean for acquiring divorce. The law also considers adultery as a fair ground for the wife to seek a divorce. The man is cheating openly and is in a non-receptive mood, taking the wife’s feelings of frustration to an all time high. Although this percentage is low but it is there. Cheating men need to be needed: when men feel they are not needed by their wife anymore, they look out for another woman, who can understand them and make them feel special. As an obvious outcome of a new relationship, they get that feeling from the other woman. And suddenly when they are showered with attention, which they have not received in a very long time in their marriage, they toss their hands in the air and get deep into the new hot and happening relationship. According to Robert Weiss, a psychologist, some men cheat because they are not who they seems to be. This kind of men never intended to be monogamous, despite taking a vow or making a commitment to do so. They lack empathy for their spouse, and they resentfully see monogamy as something to work around rather than respect. The need to get what they want, when they want it, supersedes the value they place on intimacy and partnership. Feeling of insecurity drives some men into cheating on their partner. Feeling old, undesirable, unattractive, unsuccessful, etc., these set of men uses affairs, prostitutes and other forms of sexual intensity to reassure themselves of their desirability and worth. They will often go to strip clubs, attempt to become that ‘‘special’’ client to a particular prostitute, or otherwise seek situations that provide external validation in an attempt to bolster their failing selfesteem.
“Cheating men are emotionally dissatisfied: when their wives are too busy with their lives, working or bringing up children or even looking after in-laws and parents, emotionally, men are left high and dry. But men are emotionally driven beings too. They want their wives to show them that they are appreciated, and they want women to understand how hard they are trying to get things right.”
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The Power Of First Impression WHEN we first meet someone, we swiftly form an impression of them and this first appraisal influences reasoning about the person. Research in psychology has shown that we do not easily change our mind and tend to pay most attention to information that endorses our beliefs while overlooking or devaluing evidence that challenges them. First impressions are powerful. From the moment we meet people, we start forming judgement about them and these initial impressions influence our response to any new information we learn about them. First impression cut across your phone; the number of times it rings before answering, your greeting and tone, your missed calls and text reply, even to the music selection that is, your ring tone, callers tune. What kind of music do your callers hear at their end from your phone and what kind of music does people around you hears when your phone rings out. Some people use music that is too loud or songs with obscene language and this can put your admirer off. Professional speakers and trainers have long asserted that people make up their minds about people they meet for the first time within two minutes, while others say these first impressions about people take only thirty seconds to make. According to GladWell’s research, we think without thinking, we then slice whenever we ‘‘meet a new person or have to make sense of something quickly or encounter a
By PRAISE EGHWRUDJE
novel situation.’’ He says, ‘’snap judgements are, first of all, enormously quick; they rely on the thinnest slices of experience…….they are also unconscious.’’ He further reviewed in his book that ‘‘we thinslice because we have to, and we come to rely on
interview and make people our friend. Our perception of people after their first impression, impacts on how we develop friendships, with people everywhere we go. It affects who we believe in
work. People often say ‘‘you never get a second chance to make a first impression’’, and that is actually quite true; which is why it is so important to start on the right foot. Rather than leaving the
that ability because there are lots of hidden fists out there, lots of situations where careful attention to the details of a very thin slice, even for number more than a second or two, can tell us an awful lot’’ Whenever we have to make sense of complicated situations or deal with lots of information quickly, we bring to bear all of our beliefs, attitudes, values, experiences, education and more, on the situation; then, we thinslice the situation to comprehend it quickly. The ability to think without thinking, to make snap decisions about situations and people in a ‘‘blink’’, has significant implications for how we
a work disagreement or confrontation. There is no doubt the human animal is an inherently social one. Success in our work and social lives heavily depends on how effectively we interact with others, how smoothly we conduct ourselves within the social sphere. The speed at which we size up new acquaintances is one of the most impressive aspects of human social capabilities. In a perfect world, friendships, relationships, and business contacts would all develop naturally and blossom exactly how you would like, but that is not the world we live in. In reality, we are all busy people, and relationships take
consequence of our bad first impression fall back on you, Marie G. Mclntyre and wikihow gave a few tips on how to make and sustain a good first impression. Here are few things that can help you leave a great first impression, and from that into a lasting relationship. Be on time: if this first impression is to be made at a scheduled meeting; like a job interview, perhaps, it should go without saying that tardiness will not work in favour. Do whatever it takes to be on time. Career builder.com suggests arriving five to ten minutes early. Be cautious not to be earlier than that and then the person you are meeting might feel rushed and you
“In a perfect world, friendships, relationships, and business contacts would all develop naturally and blossom exactly how you would like, but that is not the world we live in. In reality, we are all busy people, and relationships take work.”
might look desperate. Dress and groom yourself according: also among the obvious is to make sure you look presentable whenever you meet someone new. That means dressing up for a meeting or job interview requires putting
on nice, clean, situationappropriate clothes for social situations. It is important to note that, being underdressed is worse than being overdressed. Be aware of your body language: your body language says a whole lot on a first meeting. If you are nervous, you are probably going to look more introverted or disinterested than you actually are. Smile, try to keep from fidgeting, and adopt an ‘‘OPEN’’ posture, that means; no crossed arms or crossed legs. A nice tilt of the head can also be the difference between looking bored and actually being interested. You should always stand straight and tall, possibly with hand on your hip (for ladies, especially when you people are standing while discussing), if you want to convey to someone that you are a strong, confident and deserving individual. It also
recommended for you to see the person as your friend because that will help to feel free, smile and express yourself well. Use their name: find a way to get used to the person’s name in the conversation. Call the person by name but don’t overdo it; like saying their names at the end of every sentence. But a few uses will not only make the meeting more personable, but it will help you remember their name for later on. Do not talk too much about yourself: generally you want to be careful of taking over the conversation. Sociologist Charles Derber calls this ‘‘Conversational Narcissism ’’, and you probably don’t even realise that you are doing it. People love talking about themselves, and if you can strike a good balance between them and you during conversation, they are likely to form a more positive impression and find you charming. Don’t be afraid to show your flaws: while you don’t want to tell someone your whole lives story (especially the more intimate details), you don’t need to look perfect. Showing some of your little flaws will not only make you look honest, but you will look a little less robotic too. Plus if you are in a job interview, you wouldn’t perform that fatal flaw of presenting ‘‘fake weakness.’’ Be prepared: lastly, remember that first impression can happen anywhere when you don’t expect it. These rules don’t just apply to premeditated job interviews, they apply to everyone you meet, whether it be at a social meeting, or just a trip to the market. As such, make sure you always carry yourself as you would in those situations. Otherwise, you never
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The Problem Of Ethnicity In Nigeria NIGERIA is a federal constitutional republic comprising of 36states and its federal capital, Abuja. Nigeria as a nation is a constituent of several nationalities. There are over 250 ethnic groups and the major ones are Yoruba, Igbo and Hausa. It is however very disturbing that Nigerians have become slaves to their ethnic origins instead of harnessing these diversities towards national development. Nigerians are fanatics when it comes to ethnicity. It is therefore not surprising for a Nigerian to get angry because he/she is wrongly associated with another tribe. This is not the true reflection of a federal nation. “One of the sociological problems hindering the growth of the nation is an multiethnicity”. In addition, before the coming of the white man, the various ethnic groups were inter- dependent but they did not constitute themselves into one society. It was in 1914 that they were amalgamated. Nigeria is a British creation by uniting the various entities into a single country called the federal republic of Nigeria. Some Nigerians are of the view that ‘’Nigeria is a forced marriage which did not receive the approval of the couples involved’’ Furthermore, whatever is done in Nigeria always has an ethnic undertone be It, politics, employment and provision of social
amenities. Tribal affiliations are always very strong and visible. Over the years, since independence there have been cases of ethnic violence resulting from allegiance to one’s ethnic group and this has not worked well for the development of the country. It is very common in Nigeria for an ‘’Igbo landlord’’ to turn down a would-be tenant simply because he is ‘’Hausa’’. The problem president Jonathan is presently facing within and outside his party, is ethnicity otherwise known as zoning. Most northern elites have said times without number that it is the time of the north to govern the affairs of the country. When politicians lose elections, or are in one political crisis or the other, they tend to devise strategies which will appeal to their people. For example, the recent
• Late Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe
By ODINUKAEZE NNENNA
statement made by a former Niger Delta militant, Asari Dokubo, who has threatened fire and brimstone if
Jonathan loses the 2015 elections. Political parties in the pre-independence era, were based on ethnic
• Late Chief Obafemi Awolowo
• Late Sir Ahmadu Bello
factors. The Action Group was established from a Yoruba cultural association, Egbe Omo Oduduwa, the NCNC from an Igbo group and the NPC from Jamiyyar Arewa. The Action Group was led by Chief Obafemi Awolowo, the NCNC by Nnamdi Azikiwe, the NPC by Sir Ahmadu Bello, the Sardauna of Sokoto. Ethnicity played a major role in the politics of Nigeria. Party politics was based on ethnic factors. Even in the present day politics, there are still traces of tribalism in the political parties. Parties like APGA is regarded as an Igbo party, ACN as a re-incarnation of the Action Group, CPC is seen as a party of the Hausa Fulanis. Only the PDP has a national outlook.
Since independence, there has been the struggle for superiority and recognition among the various ethnic groups and this is what led to the Nigerian civil war from 1967-70. The war was fought between Igbo Biafrans and the federal government, mostly dominated by Hausas and headed by General Yakubu Gowon. Today in Nigeria, there is serious rivalry among these tribes such as political and religious rivalry. However, despite all these, there are issues which point to the fact that ethnicity is not the problem in Nigeria but Nigerians themselves who choose to abuse ethnicity for their own tribal interest. There is nothing wrong with ethnicity. It can make and create avenues for healthy competitions in economic development. The period after independence saw a healthy competition between the major tribes in Nigeria. South-west led in cocoa production, groundnuts and cereals in the north while palm products and root crops dominated the economy of the south-east. Attachment to a citizen first to his/her ethnic group before the country is bad for the nation’s unity. If Nigerians learn to value nationalism more than ethnicity, there will be an increase in economic and political development and Nigeria will reclaim its rightful position in the world.
“Over the years, since independence there have been cases of ethnic violence resulting from allegiance to one’s ethnic group and this has not worked well for the development of the country.”
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The Pol For Reconciliation A PDP Impasse:
ONAugust 28, 1963, Martin Luther King, Jr. mounted the steps of the Lincoln Memorial to deliver a speech entitled “Normalcy, Never Again.” That day, however, Martin Luther King, Jr. deviated from the “Normalcy” text to improvise what is now known as the “I Have A Dream” speech. On January 20, 2009, the day after Luther King’s birthday, and once having being sworn in as the forty-fourth President of the United
insofar as it pertains to an economic and political conjuncture. And yet, after giving an inventory of the historical facts of crisis — homes lost, jobs shed, businesses shuttered — Obama added a qualifier: “These are the indicators of crisis,” he said, “subject to data and statistics. Less measurable but no less profound is a sapping of confidence across our land – a nagging fear that America’s decline is
• President Goodluck Jonathan
States, Barack Obama, deeply conscious of King’s legacy and his dream on the Washington Mall, defined contemporary American history in terms of crisis: “We are in the midst of crisis.” Like King’s “normalcy,” Obama’s crisis is used to characterize a moment in history so as to mark off a new age, or a “journey.” This journey, defined by Obama in terms of “struggle” and “sacrifice,” is historical
inevitable, and that the next generation must lower its sights.” He then concluded: “This is the source of our confidence – the knowledge that God calls upon us to shape an uncertain destiny.” Such knowledge in the face of uncertainty implies that the historical crisis entails, or perhaps constitutes, a transhistorical journey, being, as he insisted in his closing words, a matter of hope,
By DR. LEWIS AKPOGENA
promise, and grace: “With hope and virtue, let us brave once more the icy currents and endure what storms may come. Let it be said by our children’s children that when we were tested we refused to let this journey end that we did not turn our back nor did we falter; and with eyes fixed on the horizon and God’s grace upon us, we carried forth that great gift of freedom and delivered it safely to future generations.” Crisis is an historical event as much as it is an enduring condition of life and even the grounds for a transcendent human condition. Humanity and the world over are in crisis from the beginning of biblical fall of mankind in Adam and Eve (Gen. 3). God’s solution to the impasse between Him and mankind was Jesus Christ’s atoning death and resurrection that by this redemptive act mankind was reconciled back to God without precondition except that to activate this redemptive act one must put his/her faith in the finished work of Christ on the cross by repenting, i.e. turning from rebelling against God’s rule/leadership and accepting God’s forgiveness and to now work by the new rule of life through the power of the Holy Spirit. It is therefore out of place to give condition of what ever in seeking genuine reconciliation in any crises. Failure to recognize that all authorities are instituted by God and to submit to such authority is reason for all kind of crises in the polity. Any act of rebellion is an act against God who put the authority in place (See Rom. 13:1-5, Heb. 13:17).
Understanding God’s reconciliation requires understanding God’s view of sin, sorrow, contrition, confession, repentance, justice and restoration. Adam’s sin made all sinners. Christ emphasized that even the thought of sin qualifies as sin, as well as sinning by deed or lack of action. To bear another’s burdens and seek God’s reconciliation, one must include the spiritual condition of the heart as evidenced by outward acts and words. Reconciliation is a biblical concept that addresses fallen man being restored to God, through Christ… “Having abolished in his flesh the enmity, {even} the law of commandments {contained} in ordinances; for to make in himself of twain one new man, {so} making peace; (Ephesians 2:15) Reconciliation, according to the Oxford Advanced Learner ’s Dictionary (8th edition) is defined as “as end to a disagreement and the start of a good relationship again”. It is also define as “the process of making it possible for two different ideas, facts, etc to exist together without being opposed to each other.” If the Dictionary definitions of the all important word reconciliation are anything to go by, then, it presupposes that, there was a disagreement between two or more persons in a given context. It is evident that certain or two ideologies were never agreeing prior to the quest for a truce. It is also understandable that there were oppositions to each other’s views perhaps on ways of life, governance, approaches to issues and
thoughts. The civil war in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is likely to escalate, with aggrieved governors giving four conditions for peace. They tabled the conditions at a meeting on Sunday night with President Goodluck Jonathan, 16 governors, and the Chairman of the Board of Trustees (BoT) of a faction of the party, Chief Tony Anenih. The conditions are
these conditions has anything to do with the welfare of Nigerians and the Nigeria state? The affront, last week, on President Goodluck Jonathan and the leadership of the ruling People’s Democratic Party, PDP, was, perhaps, the most tendentious action ever driven by any group of individuals within the party that is giving it sleepless nights. Like an earthquake, the
• Alhaji Abubakar Atiku
that: •factional National Chairman Bamanga Tukur should be sacked; •President Jonathan should do one term only and forget re-election in 2015; •the Nigeria Governors Forum (NGF) and Rivers State crises should be resolved; and •”harassment” of governors by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) should be stopped. Does any of
“Reconciliation, according to the Oxford Advanced Learner’s Dictionary (8th edition) is defined as “as end to a disagreement and the start of a good relationship again”. It is also define as “the process of making it possible for two different ideas, facts, etc to exist together without being opposed to each other.” If the Dictionary definitions of the all important word reconciliation are anything to go by, then, it presupposes that, there was a disagreement between two or more persons in a given context.”
launching of the revolt and the unveiling of the forces behind the mutiny shook the party to its foundation. With their heads lifted above the mainstream party, those holding forte at the original PDP began to shriek over what to do in order to contain the uprising. AT the national level, the Peoples Democratic Party [PDP] is trying to put its house in order. The will of God to all will be done. Those giving the President conditions for reconciliation with threat to decamp from PDP should retrace their steps and be reconciled or what happen to traitors/betrayals in Bible history will become their portion. Jide Ajani apt observation needs reproduction here. “All said, those who appear to be bullying Jonathan today should learn from the errors of those who made Obasanjo condescend
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e litics Of Conditions And The God Factor P rspective
before he could get his second term in office. The viciousness with which Obasanjo took them on remains unrivaled. Yet, the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria remains very clear that the only basis upon which any individual can be disqualified from seeking election as President and Commanderin-Chief is only if such an individual had sought the office twice before – Jonathan has sought the office only once before. No matter. Democracy is not an issue of what you like or what catches your fancy. It is about choices as stipulated by law. Whatever arrangement or agreement that Jonathan may have allegedly entered into with whoever cannot stand before the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria as amended. Still, it should be pointed out that it is bad manners to walk out on a President. But it should also be acknowledged that the walkout, which was meant to project before the whole world that the PDP had become factionalized, is going to form the pole on which would be hoisted the decampment of legislators who would want to dump the PDP for other political parties. Bad manners or not, this is political strategy per pragmatism and not demagogy”. In all civilized democracies, you do not deprive an incumbent president from contesting second term nor subject him to intimidation with conditions to be fulfilled before you support or be reconciled to the party. I agree with Tony Amadi, “My personal anger at all this overheating of the political environment is that hapless Nigerian voters who put these politicians in power are being made to suffer as governance have literally gone on recess two years before the political campaigns are even due to start. All these because politicians are more concerned about their future relevance in the political leadership of the country than the provision of political dividends for the people that put them in office in the first place. If the whole objective
is to ensure that President Jonathan does not contest the next general election, must Nigerians be made to suffer because someone else wants to rule the country instead? I agree that the North rightly deserve another shot at the leadership of Nigeria having been left on the fringes for too long, but no one knows the plan of Almighty God whose responsibility it is to anoint leaders. No one is even talking about power shifting to the South-east
instead of the leaders brainstorming on alternative ways of improving the political economy of the nation; they are wasting time looking for how to grab power for themselves and their cronies, not for the improvement of the lives of the citizens. Coming to the future of the PDP, it will be a shame that the present Kunfu-fighting going on in the party is allowed to dominate the politics of Nigeria by people who were
in the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP. The hoopla about internal democracy, threats of suspension and suspension of leaders of the party, the audacious walkout at the special convention, the panic mode that was engaged thereafter, and the surfeit of fence-mending meetings are all denominated by the contestation and contest for the presidential seat. I wish that everyone in the ruling party should retrace their steps and allow the PDP to
• Bamanga Tukur
• Kawu Baraje
which was the pivotal third leg of the tripod that held Nigeria together in the first republic. The day Nigerian leaders allow the will of God to manifest in the leadership of the country will be the day that better things will begin to happen for the country. Now, we are facing all sorts of difficulties in the country. Our oil reserves are depleting at a fast rate and so is the market for oil and
by all these noises echoing in the political atmosphere. We are on the verge of resolving the most crucial problem facing the nation’s economic progress in the form of power generation and distribution and on the question of infrastructure, huge progress has been made; trains are running up and down the country and the airways are witnessing rapid transformation and if Jonathan remains focused and not rattled by the issues of mainstream and new PDP
nowhere in politics when the founding fathers set the party up. Some of the party leaders are taking advantage of President Jonathan’s relative inexperience in hardcore political scheming at a time his government is making considerable improvement in the nation’s political and economic transformation. Nigerians will not be fooled
politics, Nigerians will forget the so-called lethargy that sometimes cloud his political perception” No President needs to be subjected to the walkout that was choreographed by five state governors and their delegates as was the case penultimate Saturday. But it is simply straightforward: The scattered clouds of presidential ambition are creating serious turbulence
remain the cohesive force it was, deliver the dividends they promised the people in 2011 or they will pay a big price for disappointing the people of Nigeria come 2015 whether they go by the tag of old or new PDP. But however, let me congratulate the aggrieved Governors to have been bold to state their grievances and conditions whatsoever for a peace talk, to place polity on pace of
“No President needs to be subjected to the walkout that was choreographed by five state governors and their delegates as was the case penultimate Saturday. But it is simply straightforward: The scattered clouds of presidential ambition are creating serious turbulence in the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP.”
harmony. If reconciliation is now necessary as perceived and seen in many quarters, I feel it is not only a welcome development, the needful and applauded but should be done in more conducive and welcome atmosphere to illustrate its essence. The atmosphere of calling or seeking for reconciliation and on the other hand name calling, worthless activities and disrespect to constituted authorities which takes over the scene is most worrisome and should be discarded to embrace peace. I am of the notion that, if indeed the ruling party is genuinely seeking for reconciliation, then it is incumbent of those concerned to first discountenance of words against each other groups and seek to making reconciliation a necessity in the interest of Nigerians and the party in particular. I am strongly in support of the reconciliation if we must set aside all our grievances with the intention of coming together as one indivisible family. It must be true reconciliation from the heart of peace and not to ambush anyone. If we mean reconciliation, then we must also avoid group interest and pursue collective interest as factors responsible for peace and never selfish conditions and projections that may rather land the party in jeopardy. God in the Bible provide us the example and precedent in reconciliation. Any reconciliation without being parties/persons being truly reconciled to the God of the Bible is attempt in futility. Government and political parties will continue in crises until God is accorded His true place in the scheme of things. For it God that instituted Government and governance. Politics is just a process in coming into governance not an end. Any institution and persons who set God aside and behave as if God does not exit is headed for destruction. However, l prophesy that this current crisis will turn for the betterment of Nigerians and Nigeria. God is in control in Nigeria and with Nigerians. Only recalcitrant betrayals and self-centered traitors will fail.
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P rspective NIGERIA is the giant of Africa in name, no doubt. But in action, Nigeria is more or less like a lame duck. For well over five decades, crude oil and other rich mineral resources have been discovered and exploited in huge commercial quantities and the nation’s large population still battle with mass poverty and insecurity, no thanks to the rich presence in the polity of well endowed criminal elements who have taken the commanding lead in the various segments of Nigeria’s political spectrum thereby institutionalizing corruption and fiscal indiscipline. In the last two decades, corruption has become the single largest contributor to Nigeria’s underdevelopment, infrastructure deficits and mass poverty even as successive governments over the years have failed to build viable regulatory and enforcement institutions to check the unprecedented spread of these social vices of corruption, bribery and
Failure Of The Fiscal One of the ways worked out by the previous government of Chief Olusegun Obasanjo to stem the high tide of corruption was the setting up of fiscal Responsibility Commission among few other anti-graft institutions. The formation of these anti-graft agencies derived inspiration basically from section 15(5) of the Nigerian Constitution of 1999 (as amended) which frowns against corruption and abuse of power and consequently obliges all segments of the Nigerian society to eradicate corruption. The fiscal Responsibility Commission was one of the logical products of the resolve of corporate Nigeria to strangulate corruption and fiscal indiscipline that constitute serious cog in the wheel of progress of Nigeria. Fiscal responsibility
By EMMANUEL ONWUBIKO
management of public monies and resources across all tiers of government. The Fiscal responsibility commission’s mission on
Jonathan
Chairman, Fiscal Responsibility Commission
outright theft of public resources by top government officials at all levels beginning from the federal down to the rural government settings.
commission on paper has the vision of ensuring the enthronement of a regime of prudent, ethical and effective
uncompromising investigation and public reporting backed by a firm commitment to enforcement under the rule of law.
indiscipline and abuses of the provisions of the fiscal responsibility law have become widespread just as this agency saddled with these onerous tasks of tackling the challenges of
paper is to reform the management of Nigeria’s public finances through regular monitoring of government financial a c t i v i t i e s ,
The Fiscal Responsibility Act of 2007 saddled the body with the functions of among others; to monitor and enforce the provisions of the Act and by so doing, promote economic objectives contained in section 16 of the Nigerian Constitutions; and to disseminate such standard practices including international good practices that will result in greater efficiency in the allocation and management of public expenditure, revenue collection, debt control and transparency in Fiscal matters. It was established by the fiscal Responsibility Act of 2007 as an independent agency in the performance of its core functions. But since 2007 when it became operational, it is a notorious fact that fiscal
corruption has conveniently gone to sleep and become a toothless bull dog. Total lack of transparency now characterizes the handling of public fund by all sections of public officials including bureaucrats in the various federal ministries. Like few other dysfunctional anti-graft institutions, the fiscal responsibility commission has
consistently become very irresponsible and has become only responsible in creating media noise without ever adopting effective measures to name, shame, prosecute and punish offenders. Coupled with the fact that the fiscal commission is run like a secret society devoid of transparent partnership of credible civil society groups, this agency of government which cost tax payers so much resources to maintain has become a dysfunctional contraption and the only way to save the country from tolerating a perfectly incompetent and unworkable contraption is to introduce radical reforms of the administration of this near-moribund fiscal responsibility commission. By law, the fiscal Responsibility Commission ought to be composed of representatives of broad spectrum of schools of thought including the civil society groups engaged in causes relating to probity, transparency and governance, the selection process of the hierarchy of this agency has become opaque and muddled up in partisan politics. A major imperfection of the fiscal responsibility body is the total disregard of the freedom of information Act of 2011 even when the constitution in section
“By law, the fiscal Responsibility Commission ought to be composed of representatives of broad spectrum of schools of thought including the civil society groups engaged in causes relating to probity, transparency and governance, the selection process of the hierarchy of this agency has become opaque and muddled up in partisan politics.”
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e Responsibility Commission P rspective 15(5) provides that; “The state shall abolish all corrupt practices and abuse of power.” Recently, the fiscal responsibility commission denied the request under freedom of information Act of 2011 instituted by HUMAN RIGHTS WRITERS’ ASSOCIATION OF NIGERIA to compel the boss of that agency to name and shame a top public office holder he accused in a newspaper interview (without disclosing identity) of large scale corruption. The human rights group had requested that the chairman of the fiscal commission disclose the identity of a top federal government official that was indicted of cornering
supported by section 1 of the freedom of information Act. The chairman of the fiscal Responsibility Commission had in an interview published on August 6th 2013 by Daily Trust accused the unnamed government official of stealing millions of dollars belonging to the federal government. The human rights group had innocuously demanded that the fiscal commission give Nigerians the name of the official since the money stolen rightly belonged to the people of Nigeria but as is the practice with the dysfunctional state of affairs of most federal government agencies which still operate the
the agency said it will not honour the freedom of information request because disclosing the name of the indicted official will harm the ongoing investigation. “I can confirm to you that the Fiscal Responsibility Commission will withhold the information you have requested because we consider that the exemptions under the following section of the F.O.I. Act, 2011 apply to your request. They are section 14(1)(e) and S e c t i o n 12(1)(a),(i),(ii),(iii),(iv),(vi);(4)” “We appreciate that this will be a considerable disappointment to you and would herein endeavour to explain to you why we reached the
decision to refuse your request as outlined above, “the fiscal commission gladly announced to the
news for this noisy commission and that is to tell the officials to desist from disturbing our peace with irrelevant
versatile authors analytically highlighted the all important issue of “the impact of leadership: performance and
noise since the hierarchy cannot provide the required leadership qualities for other federating units to embrace the law. What do you expect from the body when the head is rotten? “Physician, heal thyself,” (courtesy of the Holy Bible). The officials of the Nigeria’s fiscal responsibility commission should please buy a copy of the well researched leadership book from the prestigious Harvard Business School titled; “Hand Book of leadership theory and practice.” In the section one of this book where the
meaning,” whereby they stated rightly thus; “… Put simply, if leadership does not directly impact or significantly impact organizational performance, then leadership does not matter to organizational life.” To tackle the widespread cases of fiscal indiscipline, corruption and inefficiency in the running of government business, agencies like the fiscal responsibility commission must say no to the business-as-usual tendency of covering up for corrupt officials and become vibrant anti-graft institutions.
Sambo
Human Rights Writers’ Association of Nigeria. Annoyingly, few days after refusing to name and shame a public official indicted by it for large scale fraud, the same fiscal responsibility commission was quoted in the Nigerian media (The Guardian, Friday September 6th 2013, pg. 1) as raising alarm over the recklessness of states in Nigeria to over borrow. The fiscal responsibility commission also regretted that only five states out of the 36 states in Nigeria have embraced the Fiscal Responsibility Act in the last six years of its existence. But I have this piece of
David Mark
to himself huge government revenue in foreign denominations of a particular agency but the fiscal responsibility chairman denied the Human Rights Writers’ Association of Nigeria that germane request
corruption – friendly principle of “say no evil even when you see evil happening”, it failed to respond to this patriotic request. Hiding under the nebulous provision of the fiscal responsibility Act,
“The officials of the Nigeria’s fiscal responsibility commission should please buy a copy of the well researched leadership book from the prestigious Harvard Business School titled; “Hand Book of leadership theory and practice.”
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W eKEND ENTERTAINMENT Kenneth Okonkwo Denies Affairs With Mercy Johnson
NIGERIAN actor, Kenneth Okonkwo recently shocked fans by giving up why too many information about his sex life. In a recent interview, the actor who was rumoured to be in an intimate affair with star actress Mercy Johnson, brags about his sexual prowess and shed some light on his relationship with Mercy Johnson. He says, “I am strong sexually for 24hours my wife knows that. Each time I have an affair with any lady, she goes out to tell her friends, and her friends will end up developing interest in me. So when I married my wife I told her if she know what’s best for her, she should not tell any of her friends what we do behind closed door or else she will lose me” “When I was growing up, women older than me were coming for me, right in front of my mother. These women taught me a lot of things. I started kissing at a very tender age because it was part of the things they were doing to me, and I loved it maybe that is why my lips are red. They taught me how to be with women, they would give me their body to play with so I grow up knowing a lot about what women want. Till today, when I am sleeping with a lady she has to cum before me. “I enjoy sex more when the women have
enjoyed themselves. On his relationship with Mercy Johnson, he says; “That is funny and do you know why? Before Mercy Johnson was born, or should I say when she was still in kindergarten, I had already started kissing ladies in movies. So she met me still doing it. Why would her own be different? When you match her good acting skills
and my exceptional skills, it come out natural and people would end up saying is there something going on between us? Mercy Johnson is like a sister to me, I am close to her and her husband so it makes me laugh when anybody talks about Mercy and me in anyway. There can never be a fling between a brother and a sister. We are only professional colleagues.
• Kenneth Okonkow
With EFEMWENKIEKIE OSAS KELVIN FOR Miss Nigeria, Ezinne Akudo, life as a beauty Queen is all about working closely with the victims of Sexual violence and she also talk about her saddest moment and her love life. The newly crowned damsel and graduate of law from Abia State University disclosed that her decision to work with rape victims stemmed from her experience last year after her close friend fell victim. “It was a very touching experience for me. My very good friend was raped last year and you can only imagine the trauma she went through. It could happen to anybody including me; rape is the trending evil right now. I was there by her side all through and watched her pass through it all. I am happy she is okay now and has gotten over the traumatic experience”. “It’s going to be a total campaign against sexual violence in Nigeria and right now, we are at the drawing board. We are looking at talking to victims and creating awareness about sexual violence. We will be talking to parents, their kids and all stakeholders. Because of the stigma attached to rape, we are also working on an emergency help line, which will provide counseling for victims, we’ll be talking
“The Kind Of Man I Will Love To Marry • 2013 Miss Nigeria Reveals about rape and how to avoid it,” she said. According to the Beauty Queen, her saddest moment since she became Queen was losing her close friend who died a few weeks after she was crowned. “I lost my friend while a ago. He was my campus pastor and it affected me a great deal because we were very close. We were friends throughout my days at Abia state university (ABSU). His death was a shock for me,” she lamented.
Beauty Queen is not expected to talk about their love lives on the pages of newspaper. However, Akudo painted out a picture of her ideal man. “I have not lost any of my friends because of my crown, but I want to keep issues about my love life private. I love a guy that’s passionate about serving God. Any guy that doesn’t really love God can’t love a lady. I am not fan of a very fair guys but I’m down with chocolate skinned guys”, she concluded.
Nicki Minaj Accused Of Copyright Infringement America. “Argentina, from NICKI Minaj is currently what I was told,” Christopher facing accusations that she For ‘Starships’ said “He’s kind of a reclusive appropriated someone else’s beats for the song “starships”. The claim comes from an artist named Tanaka who filed a copyright infringement suit against Nicki in Chicago U.S District court on Tuesday. The documents he filed state the
Nicki and producer Redone sampled a portion of his song “Neu Chicago” for Starships” without his permission. The Lawsuit says the “Neu Chicago” has gotten a lot of U.S airplay, heavy rotation
online and was being used in a TV commercial in Sweden. The commercial use was reportedly around the time that Redone may have been living there. As such, Clive’s attorney Chris Niro stated, “They had a very good opportunity to hear it,” Niro said. Chris told The Chicago Tribune that Clive is getting ready to work on same new music and a film in South
– he makes and produces music and that’s his goal.” Nicki’s camp has yet to comment on the Lawsuit for Clive claims that she and her team lifted his beats. Last year, Clive posted a clip on sound-cloud that merge “Neu Chicago” and “Starship,” Listeners are able to hear Nicki’s track in the left headphone and his in the right.
“Education Is Important”
Naeto C, Kefee Go Back To School
• Nicki Minaj
NAETO C is probably the only rapper who can get away with leaving the music scene for a master and coming back to take over, no wonder why nothing much is being heard from the Ten Over Ten crooner Naeto C. He has done it before and he is doing it again. According to the mother, Dr Kema Chikwe, said he is in London at the Oxford University taking a course in Energy Economies, he is there with his wife and baby. He is a son any
mother would want. Also, Branama crooner Kefee Don Momoh has temporarily relocated to the united state of America where she is presently pursuing course in production management and film production editing in Chicago Access network TV. Kefee will graduate in November and probably return to Nigeria before the Christmas celebrations. She is presently getting a Job to perform at shows and will be performing in New Jersey next week.
• Ezinne Akudo, 2013 Miss Nigeria
Robin Van Persie Confesses Love For P-Square Music MANCHESTER united footballer and Netherlands international footballer, Robin Van Persie in an interview with Scottish legend, he was asked what he do off the pitch. The 30year- Old footballer was quick to make
• Robin Van Persie
mention of his love for music, especially Michael Jackson. Robin said, “I love to listen to music like Michael Jackson, PSquare….” yes you heard right. Nigerian music has gone further than we thought.
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e Why Nollywood Actress Marriage W eKEND ENTERTAINMENT
IYABO Ojo, Nollywood actress is a household name and a front-liner in the Yoruba movie circle even as she maintains a crossover appeal with the English counterpart. Noted more for her girlabout-town roles, Ojo is also a film producer of class, having churned out award-wining flicks like Omo Gomina and Arinzo currently making waves, and Tembelu just waiting to be released. She spoke about different issues in the industry, her new works, and the susceptibility of Nollywood marriages, piracy and her newly opened beauty clinic. She said not that she grew up in the streets but she’s actually a very homely girl; her words: my grandmother is Ibo and in Ibo tradition, after school, the next thing for the woman is the kitchen, so I am a relatively homely girl. But I get all the swag and charisma from? First, I will say from God. When I started acting, I started going out a lot to events, to nightclubs and when I am out there, I tried to study people a lot. I see how the town girls behave, how they talk, more especially those with unusual characters. In her view about the broken marriages of Nollywood actress, she said that I was not even a star when I got married. And when I got out of my marriage, I still was not a star until I got married, I had only featured in one film, Satanic, and I pulled out of the industry the moment I got married. So I was not acting in those years that I was married. I was a full time housewife and businesswoman and so if I had problems with my marriage, it had nothing to do with my acting profession. I actually chose to come back into acting because I have started having issues with my marriage and knew it was not making me happy. She further said that was not the way she wanted to live her life; her words: yes there are lots of problems in celebrity marriages; and the reason is that as celebrities we live in our own world. We work hard a lot, moving from one
location to the other and usually once a female in the industry meets a male guy who just comes from the blues, he usually comes with a lot of loaded lies and sweeps some of these colleagues of mine off their feet. And they in turn are not patient enough, because society expects them to be married. So people tend to marry for specific reasons and as far as I am concerned, you must not be able to define the reason you love someone to the extent of marriage. Once you get married for a reason, then there is a problem, I got married because I was pregnant. That was a reason my husband
Stories By EDIONHON UYI THOMPSON
Broke Down - Iyabo Ojo
married me because I was pregnant for him. That was also a reason. Most men get married to ladies in the industry because of the celebrity aura around them, only to realize that there is a lot to marriage than what then think and they also discover that in reality, these ladies are not as perfect as the screens project them. And then the men cannot get used to the ego that comes with the profession and typically want to be the man and break those wings. If the woman is such that wouldn’t be tamed, then there is a crisis and a collision.
Dallas Cops Shows Psquare’s Peter Okoye Love NIGERIAN singers, Paul and Peter Okoye popularly known as P’Square are presently in Canada for their US/Canada tour which kicked off in Chicago on August 23rdd and they performed in Dallas last night.
Jude Okoye, who is the elder brother of the duo, shared a photo of Peter, all smiles, shaking hands with some Dallas cops and alongside the picture, he wrote, ‘even Dallas cops love PSquare.
• Iyabo Ojo
Jokes
Akpos In A Class
• P-Square
I’m Not Dating My Girlfriend Because Her Parents Are Rich – Skales NIGERIAN singer, Skales, has been accused of dating his girlfriend,
• Skales
Kondja Aveil because her parents are really wealthy. He recently decided to set the records straight when talking to Hip TV recently about their relationship. The Benin born artiste said I have heard a lot of comments and all that saying I am dating her because her parents are wealthy and that she bought me a car like that. The truth is, I really love her because her family are nice people and we have been together for a long time.
Teacher: If I give you two cats and another two cats and another two cats, how many cats will you have? Akpos: Seven Sir. Teacher: No. Listen carefully, if I gave you two cats, and another two cats and another two cats, how many will you have? Akpos: Seven. Teacher: Let me put it to you differently, if I give
• Dammy Krane
you two apples, and another two apples and another two apples, how many apples will you have? Akpos: Six. Teacher: Good. Now if I gave you two cats, and another two cats and another two cats, how
many cats will you have? Akpos: Seven!!! Teacher: (angry) where did you get your seven from? Akpos: (angrily): Because I already have one cat at home!
POPULAR Fuji/Hip Hop artistes Dammy Krane
debunk the rumour going on that he dated a popularly Nollywood actress Yvonne Nelson. The Hyperteck signedon artistes said it was a rumour ‘yes Yvonne Nelson is my friend but we were never lovers. We met on the set of a movie and we took a picture together. People saw the picture and decided to draw their conclusions from that. The Hip Hop artist also disclose that he was surprise but not happy about the rumour. He said I was on tour when the story broke and I was slightly distracted.
I Never Dated Yvonne Nelson – Dammy Krane
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o
C unselling
With
Influencing Human Behaviour DON’T you have more faith in ideas that you discover for yourself than in ideas that are handed to you on a silver platter? If so, isn’t it bad judgment to try to ram your opinions down the throats of other people? Isn’t it wiser to make suggestions and let the other person think out the conclusion? No one likes to feel that he or she is being sold something or told to do a thing. We much prefer to feel that we are buying of our own accord or acting on our own ideas. We like to be consulted about our wishes, our wants, our thoughts. The reason why rivers and seas receive the homage of a hundred mountain shreams is that they keep below them. Thus, they are able to reign over all the mountain steams. So the sage, wishing to be above men, put himself behind them. Thus, though his place be above men, they do not feel his weight, though his place be before them, they do not count it an injury. The above assertion was made about twenty-five centuries ago, by Lao-tse, a Chinese sage. How to turn people into Gold. Stop a minute say’s Kenneth M. Goode to contrast your keen interest in your own affairs with your mild concern about anything else, realize then, that everybody else in the world feels exactly the same way. Then, along with Lincoln and Roosevelt, you will have grasped the only solid foundation for inter personal relationships, namely, that success in dealing with people depends on a sympathetic grasp of the other person’s viewpoint. In his book “Getting Through To People”, Dr Geralds Nirenberg c o m m e n t e d : “cooperativeness in conversation is achieved when you show that you consider the other person’s ideas and
feelings as important as your own starting your conversation by giving the other person the purpose or direction of your conversation, governing what you say by what you would want to hear is you were the listener and accepting his or her viewpoint will encourage the listener to have an open mind to your ideas. Wouldn’t you like to have a magic phrase that would stop arguments,
eliminate ill feeling, create good will and the other person listens attentively? “I don’t blame you one iota feeling as you do. If I were you I would undoubtedly feel just as you do. An answer like that wills often the most cantankerous old cuss alive. And you can say that and be 100 percent sincere, because, if you were the other person, you of course, would feel just as he does. The only reason, for example, that you are not a rattlesnake is that your mother and father weren’t rattlesnakes. Take Al Capone, for example. Suppose you had inherited the same body and temperament and mind that Al Capone had suppose you had his environment and experiences. You would then be precise about
what he was and where he was. For it is those things and only those things that made him what he was. You deserve very little credit for being what you are and remember, the people who come to you irritated, bigoted, unreasoning, deserve very little discredit for being what they are. Feel
neutralizing the acid of hard feelings. In his book “Ethics in service,” Taft gives rather an amusing illustration of how he softened the ire of a disappointed and ambitious mother. Dr. Arthur Gates said in his splendid book “ E d u c a t i o n a l Psychology”. Sympathy is what the human
sorry for the poor devils. Pity them. Sympathize with them. Three-fourths of the people you will ever meet are hungering and thirsting for sympathy. Give it to them and they will love you. Every man who occupies the White House is faced almost daily with thorny problems in human relations. President Taft was no exception and he learned from experience the enormous chemical value of sympathy in
species universally craves. The child eagerly displays his injury or even inflicts a cut or bruise in order to reap abundant sympathy. For the same purpose adults show their bruises, relate their accidents, illness, especially, details of surgical operations. Self pity for misfortunes real or imaginary is, in some measure, practically a universal practice. So, if you want to win people to your way of thinking, put this in practice. Be sympathetic
O.C. Madu GSM: 08056379608 with the other person’s ideas and desires. Harry A. Overstreet in his illuminating book said, “Action springs out of what we fundamentally desire” and the best piece of advice which can be given to would be persuaders, whether in business, in the home, in the school, in politics is first, arouse in the other person an eager want. He who can do this has the whole world with him. He cannot walk a lonely way. Remember tomorrow when you are trying to get somebody to do something. If, for example, you don’t want your children to smoke, don’t preach at them and don’t talk about what you want, but show them that cigarettes may keep them from making the basket ball or team or winning the hundred yard dash or become famous. This is a good thing to remember regardless of whether you are dealing with children or calves or chimpanzees for example, one day Ralph W. Emerson and his son tried to get a calf into a barn. But they made the common mistake of thinking only of what they wanted. Emerson pushed and his son pulled. But the calf was doing just what they were doing, he was thinking only of what he wanted, so he stiffened his legs and stubbornly effused to leave the pasture. The Irish housemaid saw their predicament. She could not write essays and books, but on this occasion at least, she
had more horse sense or calf sense than Emerson had. She thought of what the calf wanted, so, she put her maternal finger in the calf’s mouth and let the calf suck her finger as she gently led the calf into the barn. That was what the calf wanted and not otherwise. Every act you have ever performed since the day you were born was performed because you wanted something. How about the time you gave a large contribution to the Red Cross? Yes, that is no exception to the rule. You gave the Red Cross the donation because, you wanted to lend a helping hand, you wanted to do a beautiful, unselfish, divine at. In as much as you have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, you have done it unto me. If you hadn’t wanted that feeling more than you wanted your money, you would not have made the contribution because you were ashamed to refuse or because a customer asked you to do it. But one thing is certain. You made the contribution because you wanted something. Why talk about what we want? That is childish. Absurd. Of course, you are interested in what you want. You are eternally interested in it. But no one else is. The rest of us are just like you. We are interested in what we want. So, the only way on earth to influence other people is to talk about what they want and show them how to get it.
“No one likes to feel that he or she is being sold something or told to do a thing. We much prefer to feel that we are buying of our own accord or acting on our own ideas. We like to be consulted about our wishes, our wants, our thoughts.”
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E counter Governor Adams Oshiomhole Has Set High Standard In Governance - Hon. Omoike HONORABLE Japhet Omoike is the Executive Director, Surveillance in the administration ably led by Governor Adams Oshiomhole. Hardworking, proactive and result oriented, Honourable Japhet Omoike, a former labour leader, who was the Grand Secretary, National Union of Food, Beverages and Tobacco Employee, is a man who believes in the core values of democracy such as transparency and accountability. In this interview with Weekend Observer, Hon. Omoike asserts that Governor Adams Oshiomhole’s impact in Edo State has been very strong and profound, adding that Governor Oshiomhole has set very high standards in good governance. Indeed, Hon. Omoike, a former labour leader is an interviewer’s delight. Excerpt:Sir, as the Executive D i r e c t o r , Surveillance, what is your opinion of this administration? As the Executive Director, Surveillance in this administration, my vision is very much in line with the vision of Governor Adams Oshiomhole, the Executive Governor of Edo State which is the development and transformation of Edo State and launching it into global limelight. I am working assiduously in my capacity as the Executive Director. Surveillance to ensure that the state is moved forward in all ramifications and of course, you can see that this administration has made giant strides in every fact of our society and this has been acknowledged by both local and international organisations. What are your comments on the administration of Governor Adams Oshiomhole since its inception? I have always said that this administration ably led by Governor
Adams Oshiomhole has been a blessing to us as Edo People. Governor Adams O s h i o m h o l e commenced the rebuilding and transformation of Edo State as soon as he came on board as Governor of Edo State. Our infrastructure have been receiving attention, many of our primary and secondary schools have been rebuilt to modern standard and the process is on-going. E m p l o y m e n t opportunities have been created for our youths and many of them have secured employment and are now living meaningful lives. This administration has also beautified Benin City. Benin City that people use to refer to as an ancient city has been transformed into a
modern city. The transportation sector has also received the attention of the Governor. Several airconditioned buses have provided to ease transportation across
across the state have been receiving assistance from the Governor and security has been beefed up in order to ensure that people sleep with their two eyes closed at night
activities. This administration will continue in its mission and drive to continue to develop and transform Edo State. More roads will be built, the
and go about their business freely. During this second term of Governor Adams Oshiomhole, what are we to expect in terms of the dividends of democracy? As you are aware, this administration is people oriented and since its inception, the people have always been at the centre of its
beautification work will continue, schools will be renovated and rebuilt and general development of the state will continue. This administration will both relent in its effort to continue to serve people of Edo State meritoriously in all ramifications. Our Governor’s Vision for Edo State is to transform and develop
• Hon. Japhet Omoike
the state. Accountability and transparency are the hallmark of this administration The Governor abhors waste of resources and as such, a mechanism has been put in place to block or close avenues of waste in Edo State. I must not fail to mention that this administration places high premium on security. Our security operatives
it to world class standard. He is a man that is very passionate about development and transformation and we, Edo People are very happy with him. Edo people will continue to enjoy the dividends of democracy. What is your message to Edo People? My message to the good people of Edo State is that they should continue to support the administration of Governor Adams Oshiomhole. They should continue to pray and fast for him. Let us join hands together to continue protect the good things that this administration has done such as the good roads, schools and the beautification project. The only way we can appreciate a man for his good work is to preserve the project that he has executed. Let us all continue to commend our Governor in order to encourage him to continue to deliver the dividends of democracy to us. How do you relax? I relax with my family at home. I am a complete family man. I love my family and I always play with them. I a man who also want to be abreast with the events in his surrounding: Therefore I listen to news from the radio and television.
“Employment opportunities have been created for our youths and many of them have secured employment and are now living meaningful lives. This administration has also beautified Benin City. Benin City that people use to refer to as an ancient city has been transformed into a modern city.”
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E counter
Train And Re-Train Its Staff -Oleabhiele HE is at the forefront of traditional medicine practice in Nigeria. He is the acknowledged defender and advocate of African Traditional medicine practice. He holds several titles across the country as a confirmation of his enormous contribution of the development of African traditional medicine. His name is His Highness, Chief Professor T.O. Omon Oleabhiele JP the president, National Association of Nigerian Traditional Medicine Practitioner. WEEKEND OBSERVER encountered him recently after the National retreat, orientation and workshop for traditional medicine practice held in Benin City. A man who has a way with words, it is always an interesting experience interacting with Chief Professor T.O. Omon Oleabhiele JP. Excerpts Sir, what was the essence of the National retreat, orientation and workshop held in Benin City recently for traditional medicine practitioners? Anything that does not grow dies. Through out the world, organizations and bodies engage in retreat, training and retraining of their staff. Traditional medicine practitioners can not be an exception. Traditional medicine practitioners like Medical Doctors also want to be engaging in training and re-training of its staff. We want to be engaged in packaging. We, traditional medicine practitioners now package our products well in bottles containing the date of manufacture and NAFDAC Number. Churches, medical doctors and other persons no longer criticize us that our formula is secretive. Many people are joining us everyday. It is important to note that traditional medicine encourages agricultural p r a c t i c e s , manufacturing and fumigation practices. We have made significant progress. We now teach the referral system. We now have a directory of NANTMP members containing their names, addresses and venues of practice. Though the directory,
people can now be referred to numbers when necessary. Which organizations graced the occasion? We were privileged to host several local and i n t e r n a t i o n a l organizations such as NNMDA, NAFDAC, RMRDG, NIPRD, NOTAP and the world Health organization. Many institutions were in attendance namely the University of Nigeria, NSUKKA, Ambrose Alli University, University of Ibadan and the University of Benin. The revered Oba of Benin and other royal fathers such as Eze Okeke, Deputy Chairman Imo State Council of Ndieze were made grand patron. Awards were given to the Director General, NADA, Director General, NAFDAC, D/G NIPRID and DG, NOTAP. The undisputed apostle of traditional medicine was awarded to Professor Oyebuchi Chukwu. the Federal Minister of Health. What impact has this retreat made on members and members of the P u b l i c ? The retreat had profound impact on we the members and members of the public. The programme has enlightened members of the public to the effect that African traditional medicine has come of age and a veritable tool
for the well being of people. Through the retreat the eyes of people were open on the benefits of registering their products with NAFDAC. Let me mention that America, Cuba, India and Malaysia are flooding the Nigerian market with traditional medicine and consequently hauling dollars to their home banks with smiles from sales. Therefore, we can not fold our hands and watch. The need for people to do away with timidity and come out boldly to produce their medicine in an ideal manner was taught and understood by p a r t i c i p a n t s . To what extent has government been supportive of traditional medicine? Government is trying its best to encourage traditional medicine. In 1960, Dr. Ogunlolye was arrested at Kakawa Street in Lagos for calling himself a traditional doctor and his signboard was destroyed and the people whom he invited to a meeting were all arrested, they were called witch doctors. In Delta State Ogogoro was called illicit gin for competing with Western made gin. Traditional medicine men now display their signboards and are presently being employed by
governments. In 1985, I was officially employed by government and I am being paid. We arrest the lunatics in the streets and treat them. Officials and students of school of health
What are your comments on G o v e r n o r Oshiomhole’s Administration? Governor Adams Oshiomhole is a great
His Highness, Chief Prof. T. O. Omon Oleabhiele
technology at Uselu Psychiatric hospital come to me for lectures. A bill for traditional medicine has been written and it is before the National Assembly. If the bill sails through the various legislative hurdles, it will become law and as such, traditional medicine Hospitals will be built side by side with the regular hospitals so that people can have right of choice of treatment.
man. He has done great things for us as Edo People. He has re-built our roads and schools. He has also provided employment for our youths. I am very proud of him. He organised a meeting where he invited chiefs, kings, engineers etc to a town meeting. I spoke at that event. I praised and commended him for rebuilding our schools and requested him to extend the red roof buildings to
Awo Primary School, in Uromi. Governor Oshiomhole said he loved my comments. He is presently building classrooms in Awe primary schools. He is a man who matches words with action. What message do you have for Nigerians? My message to Nigerians is simple. African traditional medicine has come to stay and Nigerians must accept this reality. Traditional medicine practice in Nigerian has advanced tremendously and now acceptable even medical Doctors have acknowledged traditional medicine practitioners. Let me also say that there is nothing secretive about traditional medicine practice. Our activities are transparent for every one to see and our products are efficacious and result oriented and we are recognised by NAFDAC, World Health Organizations, medical doctors and health institutions in the country. I have always said that any man who does not value what he has will not be regarded by people. Therefore, we as Africans must learn to value what we have. God has given us herbs for our own use and benefit and we must accept this reality in our own interest. How do you relax? I hardly have time to relax but if I have the time, I relax with my family and with good programmes
“My message to Nigerians is simple. African traditional medicine has come to stay and Nigerians must accept this reality. Traditional medicine practice in Nigerian has advanced tremendously and now acceptable even medical Doctors have acknowledged traditional medicine practitioners.”
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M stery
The Great Mystery Of The Bermuda Triangle
WHEN I was a little boy, my father used to tell me stories about the Bermuda Triangle, how ships has gone missing in this big revolving basin of water. I could still remember when he wanted to travel by sea for a business trip to Liberia in 1995, I walked up to him and said, “Dad, I pray and hope that you wouldn’t get cut up in the Bermuda Triangle.” He laughed at that and responded, “My boy, the Bermuda Triangle is not in the region where we’re going to pass, and besides I don’t think a Bermuda Triangle can keep me from coming back to you.” By definition, the Bermuda Triangle (also known as the Devil’s Triangle) is a zone that lies in the western part of the North Atlantic ocean, and spans from Bermuda to Puerto Rico and over to the Miami-Fort Lauderdale coast. It covers nearly half million square mile (1.2 million km square) area of ocean. Basically, on a map, if you draw a line from Miami to Puerto Rico, from Puerto Rico to Bermuda, and from Bermuda back to Miami, you will get a triangular shape which is the area known as the Bermuda Triangle. Vincent Gaddis was credited with putting the triangle on the map. This area is noted for high incidence of missing ships, small boats and aircrafts. The term was coined in 1964, by writer, Vincent Gaddis in an article titled, “The Deadly Bermuda Triangle,” an article he wrote for Argosy Magazine. In the article, Vincent argued that Flight 19 and other disappearances were part of a pattern of strange
By UTI ANIEKAN UDOH
events in the region. But this fact was not recognised by the US Navy or the US Board on Geographic Names who didn’t even recognise the name or maintain an official file on it. Also in 1952,
case of the Bermuda Triangle was on 5 December, 1945 when five Navy TBM Avenger torpedo bombers which took off from the US Base
George X. Sands, in a report in Fate Magazine, noted what seemed like a usually large number of strange accidents in that region. Long before the Bermuda Triangle become popular, the island known as Bermuda has already earned a reputation as an enchanted island. It was nicknamed, “The Devil’s Island” by early travellers. But perhaps, the most frightening tales were told by sailors who believed that there are usually shipwrecks on Bermuda’s treacherous stretch of reefs. The first recorded
of Florida on a routine training session mysteriously vanished within the area. Other notable cases are; PBM Martin Mariner, Tudor Star Tiger, Flight 441, Flight DC3, C-54 Skymaster, Mary Celeste- the Ghost Ship, Marine Sulphur Queen, Ellen Austin, USS Cyclops, and the USS Scorpion. The legend got more popular when more disappearances began to occur. A total of approximately 1,000 lives were lost, and over 100 ships and planes gone missing. Howard Rosenberg claimed that in
1973, the US Coast Guard answered more than 8,000 distress calls in the area, and that more than 50 ships and 20 planes has gone down in the Bermuda
indicator of extraterrestrials or aliens capturing humans for study, the influence of the lost continent of Atlantis vortices that suck objects into other dimensions, and other whimsical ideas. While some simply
Triangle. Also in 1969, John Wallace Spencer in his book called the, “Limbo of the Lost” spoke specifically about the Bermuda Triangle. He also released a feature documentary two years later on the subject, “The Devil’s Triangle.” These along with write-ups permanently registered the legend of the Bermuda Triangle in the world. For many years, inquisitive minds have questioned whether the supernatural or actual science is to blame for all the area’s mysteries. Many people attributed the disappearances as an
attributed it to the work of the devil because there was simply no explanation for it. Lieutenant Commander Peter Quinton, a Meteorologist and Satellite Liaison Officer with the Fleet Weather Service at Suitland Md., disagreed with this notion. He said, “It’s all statistical, there’s nothing magical about it.” According to Quinton, the Bermuda is notorious for its unpredictable weather which may be the cause of the disappearances. To decipher the mystery of the Bermuda Triangle, many theories have been
“Long before the Bermuda Triangle become popular, the island known as Bermuda has already earned a reputation as an enchanted island. It was nicknamed, “The Devil’s Island” by early travellers. But perhaps, the most frightening tales were told by sailors who believed that there are usually shipwrecks on Bermuda’s treacherous stretch of reefs. The first recorded case of the Bermuda Triangle was on 5 December, 1945 when five Navy TBM Avenger torpedo bombers which took off from the US Base of Florida on a routine training session mysteriously vanished within the area.”
propounded, many research and explorations done to uncover the mystery of the Bermuda Triangle. While there are many theories, only a few have come close to solving the mystery of the Bermuda Triangle. These theories are; METHANE GAS: in 1981, Richard McIver, a geochemist, introduced the theory of the role methane gas plays in the disappearances in the Bermuda Triangle. His theory shows that, to the north of the Bermuda Triangle, huge landslides occurs on the continental shelf, which result in the falling of large stones and sludge, rapidly to the sea floor which ultimately ruptures the ocean floor which covers a layer of gas hydrate. When the ocean floor ruptures, the hydrate as well as methane gas trapped under the ocean floor can erupt, and as a result lower the water density which causes ships to sink. This can also affect planes flying over causing it to catch fire and get completely destroyed. ELECTRIC FOG: There have been talks about electronic fog that engulf ships and aircrafts, and this fog keeps moving along with the ship or the plane. Eventually, instruments begin to malfunction, and finally the ship or plane disappears without a trace. Bruce Gernon, in his book, “The Fog: A Never Before Published Theory of the Bermuda Triangle Phenomenon,” gave a detailed experience he had while flying off the Florida coast in 1970, when he claimed that he flew into an electric fog and time travelled. “Some of the instruments were malfunctioning. The wet compass was spinning slowly, counter-clockwise all by itself. The electronic navigational instruments were all malfunctioning, and at the same time, I travelled 30 minutes through time,” Gernon said. He stated that, what pulled him into the fog was the Continues on pg. 26
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M stery Continued from pg. 25
same force that swallowed others into the Bermuda Triangle’s black hole, and that he was just lucky to get out. VIOLENT WEATHER: Hans Graber, of the Miami Rosenstiel School of Marine and Atmosphere Science stated that the Bermuda Triangle is home to some of the roughest weather at sea, one rogue wave could submerge ships and planes entirely. These violent storms can build up quickly and go away so fast that even a satellite can’t detect them properly. There are also waterspouts seen in this area. A waterspout is simply a tornado at sea that pulls water from the ocean surface thousands of feet into the sky. “The waterspout could wreak almost anything,” said Allen Hartwell, an Oceanographer with Normandeau Associates. H U R R I C A N E : Hurricanes can be a likely cause as well because the Bermuda Triangle is in the hurricane zone. These extremely powerful storms sometimes appear in the Atlantic near the equator. The sinking of Francisco de Bobadilla’s Spanish fleet in 1502 was the first recorded instance of such destructive hurricane. These storms have in the past caused a number of incidences related to the Bermuda Triangle. FREAK WAVES: Freak waves are very large waves that can appear suddenly even in calm seas. One of such waves caused the Ocean Ranger, the then World largest offshore platform to capsize in 1982. Research has shown that freak waves which are up to 30m high are capable of sinking a large ship within minutes. SARGASSO SEA: Sargasso Sea is a strange area that has no shores
. . .Mystery Of The Bermuda Triangle
and is bounded only by water currents on all sides. Many ships were believed to have become completely motionless there and later found in derelict conditions with no soul on them. GULF STREAM: The Gulf Stream is an ocean current that originates in the Gulf of Mexico and then move through the Straits of
the ocean floor in the area has some interesting characteristics. Most of the sea floor in the Bermuda Triangle area is about 19,000 feet down and covered with deposition, a fine- grained sandy material. In fact, some of the deepest trenches in the world are found in this area. Ships and planes that sink
cold currents crossing the most active zones might create the electromagnetic gymnastics affecting instruments and vehicles.” M A G N E T I C VARIATION: The magnetic North and the Absolute North are not the same, which means that the north were a compass points and the absolute geographic
points towards true north. Normally, it points toward magnetic north, the difference between the two is known as compass variation. The amount of variation changes by as much as 20 degrees as one circumnavigates the earth. If the compass variation or error is not compensated for, a navigator could find
Florida into the North Atlantic. In essence, it is a river within an ocean, and like a river, it can carry floating objects. A small plane making a water landing or a boat with engine trouble will easily be carried away. UNUSUAL SEAFLOOR: The seafloor in the Bermuda Triangle is seen to be quite strange. Allen Hartwell explained that the undersea topography of
into these deep trenches will probably never be found. MAGNETIC VORTICES: Researcher Ivan Sanderson suspected that the strange sea and sky phenomena, mechanical and instrument malfunctions, and m y s t e r i o u s disappearances were the result of what he called “vile vortices”, where he said that, “tremendous hot and
north which is the north pole are different. So ships need to make adjustment for this difference to keep to the right direction. The Coast Guard proposed this theory 30 years ago and it states that, “The majority of disappearances can be attributed to the area’s unique environmental features. First, the “Devil’s Triangle” is one of the two places on earth that a magnetic compass does
himself far off course and in deep trouble.” SPACE-TIME WARP: It has revealed from time to time, a rift in space-time opens up in the Bermuda Triangle. Planes and ships that are unlucky to be travelling through this area at this time have been lost in it with no trace of the plane or the ship, not even the wreckages. HUMAN ERROR:
Human error can also be sited as the cause of the disappearances of aircrafts and ships in the Bermuda Triangle area. These may all seem crazy, but there has to be a logical explanation to all the disappearances. Despite these, some people still believe that the Bermuda Triangle is the cause of some extraterrestrial activitiesthe leftover technology from the lost continent of the Atlantis, Unidentified Flying Objects (UFO), aliens, souls of black slaves and many such beliefs. Even Charles Berlitz, the author of the bestseller entitled, “The Bermuda Triangle” and various books on anomalous phenomena, listed several theories attributing the losses in the Bermuda Triangle to anomalous or unexplainable forces. Still, no matter the hype about the mystery of the Bermuda Triangle been solved, various theories (supernatural and scientific) been proposed, researches carried out, explanations given. No matter what you chose to believe about the Bermuda Triangle, be it a supernatural or natural phenomenon, a fact or an urban legend, the Bermuda Triangle is still a great mystery that no one knows for sure if it is real or not. Though new theories keep evolving, but none so far have been able to show the actual cause of the phenomena of disappearances with facts and evidences.
“Hurricanes can be a likely cause as well because the Bermuda Triangle is in the hurricane zone. These extremely powerful storms sometimes appear in the Atlantic near the equator. The sinking of Francisco de Bobadilla’s Spanish fleet in 1502 was the first recorded instance of such destructive hurricane. These storms have in the past caused a number of incidences related to the Bermuda Triangle.”
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Today’s Diet
Ne ws Extra
Minister Urges Niger Delta Youths Like Greedy David To Embrace Peace With Pastor E. A. Adeboye
Memorise: So are the ways of every one that is greedy of gain; which taketh away‘ the life of the owners thereof. Proverbs 1:19 Read: 2 Samuel 12:7-10 Bible In One Year: Isaiah 47-50
ONE enemy you must conquer on earth is yourself. If this is done, you surely win other external battles because, the toughest battle is the one all who failed in external battles failed because they could not win the internal light they had with lust, pride, lies, disobedience, g r e e d , unforgiveness bitterness or vain glory. It is never too late to start that fight. Start today! May the Lord deliver victory to you! Every major Bible character had their weaknesses. The difference was that while some brought theirs before the Lord and received help to overcome, others simply ignore theirs probably because they thought it was very small, but later it ended up defeating them. The truth is, that little vice in your character has great prospect for growth. If ignored over a period, the
little foxes will become great giants. Some leaders who accommodated a trace of anger some years ago cannot believe that till today, the spirit of anger operates in them. The level of anger in them drives away enemies as well as friends, family and well wishers. No sane person would like to work with a h i g h l y temperamental person. Anger has destroyed several homes and relationships. Greed had turned some friends into enemies. Greed has led to the untimely death of some business partners both in the world and in the church. Was it not greed that led David to murder an innocent servant—
Uriah even after all that God has given him? God hates greed! God has blessed some people in many ways but rather than being thankful, they are eyeing the little that others have. Do you know that - bosses are still eyeing the wives of their subordinates? Some believers that God has given s e v e r a l opportunities are eyeing the only opportunity that some believers have. Some people today do not mind Naboth to get his only piece of land even when they have several landed properties. Yet, God told David that if what He had given him was not enough, He could have asked Him and received more. Are you a captive of greed? Repent today and fight it until God gives you the victory.
Key Point: Father, uproot from my life every trace of anger, greed, bitterness and unforgiveness.
THE Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, Mr. Godsday Orubebe, has urged youths in the Niger Delta zone to embrace peace to allow Federal Government to develop their area. A statement issued by Mrs. Florence Mohammed, the Director of Press in the Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs, said that Orubebe made the plea in Abuja. The minister made the plea when members of the Niger Delta Youth Movement (NDYM), led by its President, Ajulisan Akumagba, paid him visit. “Niger Delta youths should adopt peaceful means in registering their grievances with the government whenever they feel aggrieved. “There is no development that can take place in an atmosphere of rancour and chaos,’’ Orubebe was quoted as saying. He said that his ministry would partner and support the group on any matter that would give room for peaceful co-existence in the zone. The minister urged the
youth not to use violent as means of achieving their demands, advising them to support the developmental efforts of the ministry to move the Niger Delta forward. He urged the group to sensitise other youth groups in the region to embrace peace and desist from crimes that could prevent contractors from executing the ministry’s projects, particularly the East-West road. The minister also advised them to always allow contractors to carry out their works to ensure timely completion of projects. He urged them to develop
a framework that would capture various programmes and activities in which they could participate. Orubebe said that such documents should be submitted to the technical department of the ministry for consideration and possible adoption. “This measure will help in no small ways to diversify their interests rather than over depend on crude oil from the region,’’ Orubebe said. The president of the group urged the ministry to collaborate with the youths for execution of empowerment programmes to enable it to effectively achieve its mandate.
CHANGE OF NAME
CHANGE OF NAME
UHUNMWAGHO – I, formerly known and addressed as MISS MABEL UHUNMWAGHO, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS. OTAKPONMWEN MABEL. All former documents remain valid. Concerned authorities and general public should please take note.
ODUNLAMI – I, formerly called MISS ODUNLAMI IBIROUNKE ANN, is now known and called MRS OROBIYI IBIROUNKE NOLLY – ANN. All former documents remain valid. Concerned authorities and the general public should please take note.
JENNIFER WEDS LAWRENCE
The solemnization of marriage between former Miss Obasohan E. Jennifer and Mr. Osayande Lawrence Jeffrey (based in Australia) took place on Friday 20th September, 2013 at the Oredo Local Government Council Marriage Registry in Benin City. Amongst those present were Mr. Efosa Osayande, Mr. Obasohan O. Jeffrey, family members, relations, friends and well wishers. Picture shows the couple at the Registry. Congratulations .Photo: SONNIE. E.
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v
E ent Give Peace A Chance -PCR(Noun) THE International Day of Peace also known as World Peace Day is observed annually on 21st September of every year by all United Nations (UN) member states. The day is dedicated to world peace and
In commemoration to the World Peace Day, the department of Peace and Conflict Resolution, (PCR) National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) Benin Study Centre, has inaugurated a committee to organize
By EDIONHON UYI THOMPSON Kingdom and the Chairman, Edo State Peace and Conflict Resolution Committee, also present at the visit is the vice president of the PCR (NOUN) Ogie
Oba of Benin
specifically the absence of war and violence, such as might be occasioned by a temporary cease fire in a combat zone for humanitarian aide access. The World Peace Day was first celebrated in 1982 and is kept by many nations, political groups, military groups, higher institutions and non political groups. In 2013, for the first time, the day was dedicated by the Secretary-General of the United Nations to peace education, and the key preventive means to reduce war sustainably.
Edo light and all Nigerians to embrace peace irrespective of their religions background. This year world peace day celebration in Benin City will be taking place at
The international day of peace was established in 1981 by a resolution of the UN General Assembly to coincide with its opening session which is held annually on the third Tuesday of September every year.
comfortable life for themselves, family, communities and society in general. Yet every individual’s ideals of peace varies and often it depends on their environmental conditions. For examples; a person growing up or surviving in a conflict zone may desire shelter and protection from violence, an
The first peace day was observed in September 1982. In 2001, the General Assembly of the United Nations by unanimous vote adopted a resolution which established 21st day of September as an annual day of nonviolence and cease-fire day. The United Nations also invites all nations and people to honour a cessation of hostilities during the day and to otherwise commemorate the day through education and public awareness on issues related to peace. The question we must ask ourselves is what does it entails to sustain world peace and what do we think are the necessary and most important factors to create and sustain global harmony on more than one day. Everybody desires peace, harmony and balance that leds to
indigenous tribe force to flee their homes due to commercial logging may desire preservation of their natural habitat or a person in an abusive, violence relationship may desire a refuge and means to relocate. Peace encompasses and extends beyond human security and poverty alleviation helps societies to minimize crimes, sickness and violence; to ensure the sustenance of peace, our collective priorities for peace in society is for individual tranquil, prayers and meditation, good neighbour relations, giving our children a pristine clean environment to grow in with minimal threat. Everybody has a role to place to sustain world peace and ensure the world is crime/violence free and live in an environment were everyone will go to bed with their two eyes close.
Ban Ki-Moon
a peace walk through major roads in Benin City and also to organise series of event to mark the World Peace Day. Recently, the department of PCR (NOUN) Benin study centre led by its president Comrade Valentine Egharevba paid a visit to the Oba of Benin, His Royal Majesty, Oba Erediawa to solicit his support for the World Peace Day event. Present at the visit to the Benin monarch are the palace chiefs of the Benin monarch including Chief Eduwu Ekhator, the Obasogie of Benin
Nosakhare Nicholas and other committee members of the institution. The Oba of Benin promise to support the students to achieve success in the programe and advice them to be law abidding and be a good citizens of the state. Comrade Valentine Egharevba thanked the Benin monarch and promise to ensure that peace is given a chance to develop Edo State and Nigeria in general. He said that without notable peace in a society there cannot be any meaniful development in that society and called on all
the Indoor Sports Hall, Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, Benin City and a lot of dignitaries will grace the event. The international day of peace is devoted to commemorating and strengthening the ideas of peace around the world. Each year, the international Peace Day is observed around the world on 21 st day of September. The General Assembly of the United Nations has declared this as a day devoted to strengthening the ideals of peace both within and amongst all nations and peoples.
“The international day of peace is devoted to commemorating and strengthening the ideas of peace around the world.”
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Boateng Brothers Meet As Bayern Visit Schalke IT will be a brotherly affair when the Boateng brothers meet this afternoon in a highly anticipated Bundesliga clash as Schalke takes on Bayern Munich at the Veltins Arena. Kickoff is set for 15h30 (CAT). K e v i n - P r i n c e whilst Jerome will be in Boateng will turn out for the colours of Bayern. The most his new side Schalke,
Jerome Boateng
fascinating aspect of this rivalry also extends to the international arena where Jerome represents Germany whilst Kevin plays for Ghana. What a difference a signing, or two, can make. Schalke may not be spitting fire quite yet, but six points and two clean sheets since the arrival of Dennis Aogo on loan from Hamburg and Kevin-Prince, a permanent new arrival from AC Milan, speak for themselves when set against the single point and nine conceded goals that the Royal Blues accumulated before the experienced duo were brought on board, shortly before the transfer window closed. Now, though, it’s the acid test for the “newlook” Schalke as Bayern come calling. Adding a further twist to an already spicy encounter
is the prospect of a potential head-to-head between the hosts’ Boateng and the visitors’, should brothers Kevin-Prince and Bayern’s Jerome both get the nod to start. The Berlin-raised siblings make for quite a contrasting pair, even down to the country they play for, with the former opting to represent Ghana and the latter fast becoming a back-row stalwart for Joachim Löw’s Germany. What they unquestionably have in common, though, is an indomitable will to win, and blood ties will count for nothing in this one. Bayern come into this fixture placed second on the standings. They have 13 points from their five matches and trail current leaders Borussia Dortmund by two points. Schalke are ninth on the log with seven points.
EPL Clubs To Discuss Lower League ‘Feeder Teams’ With FA
PREMIER League clubs are to discuss with the FA the idea of putting ‘feeder teams’ in the Football League, according to reports. Both the Guardian and the Daily Mail report that the idea is to be part of the discussions with new FA chairman Greg Dyke who is looking to overhaul the English game. The clubs believe that it could help the English national team improve as they could use their feeder clubs to give young English players on their books a chance to play competitively at a senior level. At the moment clubs send players out on loan for this purpose, but with feeder clubs they could more closely monitor their development
and style of play. Many of Barcelona’s star players for example began their careers at Barcelona B who currently play in the Spanish equivalent of the Championship. Pep Guardiola also started his coaching career with the B team. The counter argument is that existing fanbases of lower league clubs would unlikely be happy to see their team acting as a farm for another team’s players. Likewise, if branded B teams, such as they have in Spain and Germany, were fast-tracked into the Football League system, other clubs
Getafe Eyeing Point In Madrid Derby GETAFE midfielder Diego Castro believes a draw will be a satisfactory result when they visit Real Madrid for their La Liga encounter at the Santiago Bernabeu tomorrow. The Whites are unbeaten so far in the league this season but did drop some points away from home in their last encounter when they played to a 2-2 draw against Villarreal. Getafe will now look to be the first team to claim a point or more at the Bernabeu this season in the less heated version of the Madrid derby. The Azulones registered their first win of the campaign
in their last league outing, beating bottom-of-the-log side Osasuna 2-1, and Castro is hopeful that they will build on that performance. “In football you can respect some teams but you cannot fear anyone,” he told reporters. “We saw in the Champions League that they are a team that is starting a new project, with young players. “It is a great motivation for Getafe to face a team like Real Madrid. “Honestly, a draw at the Bernabeu is always good but you can never rule out anything.
would have to drop out to accommodate them. In a hard-hitting maiden speech as Football Association chairman last month, Dyke made it clear that he believes the English game is not in a healthy state. He reeled off a number of statistics, all of which underlined just how few English players are starting
regularly in the top flight. He spelled out his grim diagnosis by telling a captivated audience in central London: “The situation is very serious. “English football is a tanker which needs turning. “And we all have a responsibility to do our best to reverse this frightening trend because if we fail we will be letting English football down and we will be letting the nation down.”
Cristiano Ronaldo
Messi Better Than Cristiano, Says Ronaldo BRAZIL World Cupwinner Ronaldo has said he believes Lionel Messi is a better player than Cristiano Ronaldo. Ronaldo, who played for both Barcelona and Real Madrid, told AS it was difficult to choose but, on balance, the Argentine was the more influential and better all-round player. “I would stick with Messi,” he said. “It is difficult. It is like when you are looking to buy a house and they offer you many nice ones, but you need to pick one. “Messi seems more complete to me, or at least more decisive. In the important moments, he appears and scores goals.” Asked about former Real Madrid manager Jose Mourinho’s comments about there being only one “real” Ronaldo — “the Brazilian Ronaldo” — the three-time FIFA World Player of the Year said: “This is Mourinho up to his tricks… I prefer not to get into polemics. “You must respect everyone’s opinion. Each player writes his own
Indonesia Tycoon ‘Set To Take 70% Inter Milan’
INTER Milan are edging closer to a deal with businessman Erick Thohir that would see the Indonesian tycoon acquire a majority share in the Serie A giants, reports said Thursday. Thohir has been linked with a takeover of the Italian club since last season, which Inter finished in a disappointing ninth place, failing to qualify for European competition in the process. Inter President Massimo Moratti and Thohir met twice, in May and June, this year but failed to reach agreement. But reports in La Gazzetta dello Sport newspaper on Thursday said the pair had held talks in Paris this week and had made “significant progress” towards signing a deal that would see Thohir acquire a majority 70% stake. Neither Moratti, who made his fortune in the oil industry, nor Thohir were quoted in the report.
Inter, the last Italian side to win the Champions League, in 2010 when they won the treble under Jose Mourinho, are reported to be desperate for a move away from the San Siro ground they share with city rivals AC Milan. However Moratti also wants the club to take advantage of ripe markets in Asia which English Premiership giants like Manchester United have exploited. Moratti told media last month he was still keen to attract investment that would help further promote the club worldwide. “As a club Inter needs to expand and break into new markets. And with Erick (on board) this would be possible,” Moratti was quoted as saying on August 3. Gazzetta’s report on Thursday claimed that
Lionel Messi
Indonesia, which has the world’s largest muslim population, already boasted 11 million Inter fans. Gazzetta quoted unnamed sources close to Thohir as saying this week: “Erick is very excited.”
history, and the history of another player does not erase it. I am happy to have finished up with what I did.” Ronaldo said he believed there had been more great players around when he was playing. “For me, there is less competition now,” he added. “I do not want to be the typical guy saying things were better in my day, but I look around now and I just see those two. “Maybe Neymar is coming, but he has a long way to go yet. But in my time there were many great players. I competed with [Zinedine] Zidane, Rivaldo, Ronaldinho, [Michael] Owen, [Luis] Figo, [Gabriel] Batistuta… there were many players who made their teams great. Now I just see Cristiano and Messi, although the truth is they are very, very good.” He said that while both he and Real’s current Ronaldo were goalscorers, their games were slightly different. “We do not look alike when we play,” he explained. “I was more a centre-forward, and you could say he is a second striker. “Cristiano, in his most recent stage at Madrid, has learned to score goals. And scoring goals is the most beautiful thing in the world. If you score so many goals, you must be very good. Nobody scores a lot of goals by getting lucky.”
... Moratti To Step Aside MASSIMO Moratti has revealed that he will bring his 18-year spell as Inter Milan President to an end once Indonesian media magnate Erick Thohir has signed a deal to take control of the club. Moratti met Thohir in Paris, when the final points of the agreement that will see him take a controlling stake in the Nerazzurri were resolved. Only minor details now need to be discussed before the Moratti family’s involvement with Inter is formally brought to an end. “It was a meeting aimed at getting to know each other better,” Moratti said. “It was necessary to get a deeper understanding of who the
people are to be able to decide.
Massimo Moratti
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Enyimba Back On Top ENYIMBA defeated Wikki Tourists 2-0 to regain the leadership of the Nigeria league on Wednesday. Enyimba, who are gunning for a league and cup double after they won the cup on Sunday, now have 52 points from 31 matches, same points as second-placed Bayelsa United, who fell 2-1 at Nasarawa United. On-form striker Ifeanyi Ede scored the opener in the second minute, before Josiah Maduabuchi doubled the lead. Enyimba coach Imama Amapakabo told MTNFootball.com it was a difficult match. “It was a difficult game but we did our best to see that we won because that was what mattered most,” Imama told MTNFootball.com Sunshine Stars pipped El Kanemi Warriors 1-0 in Akure. The only goal of the game was a penalty converted by Josiah Omeruo in the 32nd minute after Ajani ibrahim’s goal bound shot was handed by an El Kanemi player. Sharks thrashed ABS FC 40. Nigeria youth international Christian Pyagbara, Tayo Fabiyi, Fortune Omoniwari and Thompson Stowe were the goal scorers for the Port Harcourt outfit. All the results Nembe City 1 Kano Pillars 0 Heartland 1 3SC 1 Nasarawa Utd 2 Bayelsa Utd 1 Sharks 4 ABS FC 0 Kwara Utd 2 Gombe Utd 0 Kaduna Utd 1 Dolphins 0 Rangers 3 Akwa Utd 1 Enyimba 2 Wikki Tourists 0 Sunshine 1 El-Kanemi 0 Warri Wolves 0 Lobi Stars 0.
Top Global Match-Fixer Held In Singapore THE alleged mastermind of a global football match-fixing syndicate is among 14 people held in a crackdown in Singapore, a source said Thursday. S i n g a p o r e a n businessman Dan Tan is the “suspected leader” mentioned in a police statement announcing the arrests, the source told AFP. Match-fixing syndicates linked to Singapore had targeted hundreds of games worldwide, including those in the Champions League and World Cup qualifiers, European police agency Europol said in February. A joint statement from Singapore’s police and anticorruption bureau late Wednesday said 12 men and two women were nabbed in a 12-hour operation that ended in the early hours of Tuesday. They were suspected of “being part of an organised crime group involved with match-fixing activities”, the statement said. The arrests “are very significant operational steps
FIFA President, Sepp Blatter
Qatar Maintains Can Host 2022 World Cup In Summer
QATAR has maintained it can host the 2022 World Cup in summer even as pressure mounts on FIFA to switch it to winter to save players and fans from intense heat in the tiny Gulf nation. fully committed and working The energy-rich nation, hard to deliver on these where summer temperatures promises,” the Qatar 2022 top 45 degree celsius, was Supreme Committee said in awarded the World Cup three a statement yesterday. years ago in a surprise “If the international decision. football community asks us to Qatar said it was open to move the timetable for the a switch to winter dates but 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar reiterated that despite the we are able to do so, but the extreme heat, it could stage development and the World Cup in summer by implementation of building air-conditioned environmentally-friendly stadiums using newly cooling technologies remains environmentally-friendly an important legacy issue for technology. our nation, region and many “We bid for the 2022 FIFA countries with similar World Cup in summer and are climates.”
How fans will deal with the heat away from the stadiums remains a worry and FIFA president Sepp Blatter recently said it was a mistake to plan for a summer tournament in the desert state. The Qatar organising committee tried to allay those fears saying solar-powered, air-conditioning technology could solve the problems. “Creating comfortable conditions for public areas, walkways, training pitches and stadiums both during and after the World Cup means being able to play and watch football matches in summer throughout the country,” the organising committee added.
Euro 2020: 32 Countries Bid To Stage Matches THIRTY-two countries, including England, Ireland, Scotland and Wales, have declared an interest in staging Euro 2020 matches. The candidate nations must submit their full bid dossier by April when they must nominate their host city. Twelve cities will be awarded a package of three group games plus one knockout-stage game from the round-of-16 or quarterfinals. A special 13th package, consisting of the semi-finals and final, will be awarded. Countries present up to two bids each, one for the knockout matches and one for the final package. “We are extremely proud to see the huge interest in the bidding process, with more than half of our member associations willing to host matches at UEFA EURO 2020,” said UEFA President
Michel Platini. “The finals will be a great celebration of football across the European continent, and
the 60th anniversary edition will be truly special, by really coming to the doorstep of all football fans.”
Spain celebrate with the Euro 2012 trophy.
The appointment of the host cities by the UEFA Executive Committee will take place on 25 September 2014.
“Cooling technology has existed at Jassim bin Hamad (Al Sadd) Stadium since 2008. This June the stadium (in Doha) hosted a FIFA World Cup qualifier in cool and comfortable conditions. “We are now in the process of developing and perfecting sustainable cooling technologies ... to ensure that our Qatar 2022 FIFA World Cup stadia, training grounds and fan zones offer the optimal temperature for players and fans to enjoy the games.”
against one particular Singapore gang for fixing matches and creating betting frauds”, Chris Eaton, former head of security for world football governing body FIFA, told AFP. Eaton, a former Interpol officer and currently the director of Sport Integrity at the Doha-based International Centre for Sport Security (ICSS), described Tan’s detention as “a very significant arrest”. “I think it is extremely important for the global efficacy of football and for, in fact, the eradication of the organised crime groups that are operating in this area,” he said. While nine of the suspects have been granted bail, five are being held under a section of the penal code which allows for up to a year’s detention without trial and is usually used in cases involving criminal gangs. Interpol secretary general Ronald Noble had previously called on Singapore to arrest Tan, who is wanted by Italian authorities over the “calcioscommesse” betting scandal. In May Singapore police said Tan was “assisting investigators in Singapore”. In the same month he was charged in Hungary over the alleged manipulation of 32 games in three countries. That development came after Europol in February said a five-country probe had identified 380 suspicious matches targeted by Singapore-based betting cartels, whose illegal activities stretched to players, referees and officials worldwide. Tan has previously vigorously protested his innocence and said he was mystified about why he had been accused.
... FIFA, IOC To Talk Over World Cup THE International Olympic Committee [IOC] plans to hold discussions with FIFA in order to make sure the 2022 World Cup finals in Qatar does not clash with the Winter Olympic Games that year. On Thursday, UEFA’s 54 member associations gave their backing to hold the 2022 finals during the winter as to avoid the extreme heat of the State’s summer. However, an IOC spokesman stated talks will be sought with world football’s governing body to ensure both tournaments will be held at separate times during the winter months. “We were aware that FIFA might consider changing the dates for the 2022 World Cup,” the IOC spokesman said. “We are confident that FIFA will discuss the dates with us so
as to coordinate them and avoid any effect on the Winter Games.” It is expected that FIFA’s executive committee will confirm the decision to move the World Cup from the summer to the winter in a meeting taking place in Zurich on October 3. Reaction from the IOC has proved another stumbling block for FIFA; while Sepp Blatter and co do not have to accommodate or take into account the Winter Games, they would risk upsetting the organisation which has the power to expel football from the Summer Games list. FIFA is keen to hold the finals in either November or December, but UEFA and British associations would prefer the tournament to be held in January so not to disrupt Champions League proceedings or the preChristmas schedule.
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CMYK
Weekend Sport THE WEEKEND
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United, Spurs Boycott Anti-Homophobia Laces AN anti-homophobia campaign encouraging British players to wear rainbow-coloured laces this weekend has run into controversy before the boots are even tied up stunt. Stonewall, a gay rights Premier League charity, joined forces with champions Manchester Irish bookmaker Paddy United, Tottenham and Power to send the laces Liverpool are among to 5,000 footballers clubs who have decided around the country - but to boycott the laces, clubs are angry that they according to widespread received the laces with reports, with one Premier no warning or League official saying consultation, and are that, “in short, the whole evidently aggrieved at thing has been what they paint as an embarrassing and attempt to turn a serious infuriating.” issue into a publicity
I Didn’t Influence Refs SIR Alex Ferguson has denied suggestions he may have had influence over referees during his decorated career. Comments from former official Mark Halsey this week, in which he referred to having a “good relationship” with the Scot, led to claims Ferguson may have had undue influence during his long stay in charge of Manchester United. Ferguson denied any wrongdoing, though, and said the extent of his relationship with Halsey had been to support him during his battle with cancer. “I can’t believe... obviously there is an Alex Ferguson element in his (Halsey’s) book, he thought was important,” he told MUTV. “Most of the managers, particularly in the north west supported (him), and a lot of players by the way, when he had the cancer, him and his wife,
- Ferguson
it was a terrible period for the lad and quite rightly the football fraternity got behind him and supported him. “We have him jerseys after jersey for the dinners he was having and of course a Manchester United strip figures greatly in these auctions, a signed strip from all the players.” Ferguson was no stranger to fallings out with officials during his time in the dugout, and added: “The laughable part for me was how I (supposedly) influenced the refereeing fraternity.
Unbeaten Everton Travel To West Ham UNBEATEN Everton travel to East London to face West Ham United in a Barclays Premier League encounter this afternoon.
Gunners Look To Continue Winning Ways ARSENAL will look to continue their winning ways when they host Stoke City in a Barclays Premier League match. Kick-off is set for 14h30 (CAT) on Sunday afternoon at the Emirates Stadium. Arséne Wenger must be dreading this: up against a manager with whom he’s had his share of run-ins, against a team whose approach usually leaves him steaming mad. Mark Hughes has Stoke playing some decent football, and almost pulling off a shock win over Man City last weekend. Arsenal, now inspired by Mesut Ozil, are on a three-game winning streak in the league coupled with three wins in the UEFA Champions League (six in all) and have never lost at home
United and Tottenham issued statements explaining why none of their players will be wearing the laces, with United making it clear that the tie-in with the bookmaker was the sticking point but adding that they will support any future efforts to end homophobia in the sport. “It is a positive move that Stonewall are now speaking to the League directly, rather than working with a commercial provider on a campaign without involving clubs or players at any stage,” United’s statement said. Spurs statement echoed similar concerns: “Whilst the campaign message is positive and one we support, there was unfortunately no prior consultation with ourselves, the Premier League or other clubs,” the Tottenham statement read. “Such consultation would have enabled us to avoid issues in respect of associated third-party commercial entities. We have contacted Stonewall directly and let them know that we are supportive and keen to discuss ways in which we can work together going forward.”
to Stoke in the top-flight. The jury is still out on whethe r Arsenal are title contenders, but the Gunners seem a lock for a top-four place once again. Stoke City are also going through their own positive period. Gone are the doldrums of the Tony Pulis days, when the Potters got results but did it by clubbing the opposi tion into submission.
The Toffees registered three consecutive draws before finally bagging their first win of the season, last time out against current Europa league champions Chelsea. Steven Naismith’s first half goal was enough to secure a 1-0 win for the Merseyside outfit, the victory was not only Everton’s first win of the season but also Roberto Martinez’s first win in the Premier League as manager of the club. The Hammers on the other hand played to a goalless draw against Southampton in their last encounter. Sam Allardyce’s men lost 1-0 to Stoke City in their last Premier League home game at the end of last month.
Wayne Rooney
‘It Is Fine For Spurs Fans To Chant “Yid” At Matches’ DAVID Cameron has blundered into a race row by saying it is fine for Tottenham Hotspur fans to chant the word “Yid” at matches. Spurs fans call themselves “Yid army” or “Yiddos” but the Football Association has said the term is “derogatory and offensive”. The Prime Minster spoke out after the FA warned that supporters using it could face criminal charges. He told the Jewish Chronicle: “You have to think of the mens rea [intention]. “There’s a difference between Spurs fans self-describing themselves as Yids and someone calling someone a Yid as an insult. “You have to be motivated by hate. Hate speech should be prosecuted but only when it’s motivated by hate.” The area of North London where Spurs play has a large population of Jewish people, many of whom support the team, but fans of all backgrounds have adopted the term. Jewish groups say it is always offensive and encourages antiSemitism. The FA last week said
it was “derogatory and offensive”. It added in a statement: “The FA considers the term to be inappropriate in a football setting. “The FA would encourage fans to avoid using it in any situation. “Use of the term in a public setting could
amount to a criminal offence, and leave those fans liable to prosecution and potentially a lengthy Football Banning Order.” The Board of Deputies of British Jews backed the FA ruling but stopped short of endorsing legal action.
-Cameeron Vice president Jonathan Arkush said: “We hope that once and for all its use will die out. “Whilst we agree that not everyone who uses the Y-word intends hatred, it is offensive, which is why we hope that people desist from using it.”
Jose Mourinho Hints At Troubles CHELSEA manager Jose Mourinho has suggested the brand of football the club are trying to play is at the root cause of their current woes, in comments that may provide the first test of his renewed relationship with owner Roman Abramovich. Last weekend’s Premier League defeat at Everton was followed up by a shock 2-1 home defeat against FC Basel in the Champions League on Wednesday. Now Mourinho appears to have fanned the flames by claiming his side’s failure to show a clinical touch in front of goal is a symptom of the fantasy football being promoted by the club’s hierarchy. “I feel we are going in one direction, which is the direction we want to be to play a certain kind
of football, but the reality is we are not scoring goals,” he is quoted in the Daily Mirror. “You can’t say we don’t score goals because we’re not an offensive team and don’t play offensive football and don’t have ball possession, because we have an attacking mentality. “Probably, if we play a defensive game and we just go on the counterattack, probably we go there and score two or three goals.” Many an observer suggested Mourinho would struggle to adapt his tried and tested coaching methods that have tended to evolve around strong, powerful performers to work with the kind of nimble footed, diminutive performers he has inherited at Chelsea. Powerhouse defender
Branislav Ivanovic is the kind of performer Mourinho may now rely upon to get his season up and running against Fulham this weekend and the Chelsea stalwart has offered this rallying cry after a difficult week for the club. “We have to stand up and show the character for the other games because we can’t go back and have to look forward.” Ivanovic told the Chelsea website. “It’s a bad start in the Champions League but it’s just the first game. “We conceded the first one, which was difficult for us, and after that we started to do different things. We weren’t ready for that moment and we then conceded the second one to lose the game, but we have to come back now.”
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