4th September 2016

NO 2,062

SUNDAY, 4 SEPTEMBER, 2016

www.tribuneonlineng.com

SPECIAL TREAT Why helping someone at ATM point is dangerous pg3

Nigerian Tribune

@nigeriantribune

Nigerian Tribune

N200

HID Awolowo Foundation to be unveiled Sept 19pg4

OBJ hammers PDP, APC pg5

•Says PDP dying opposition, APC weak rulling party •Meets Sheriff closed-door •Fayose reacts •As INEC recommends end to PDP crisis

What fatherhood

has taught me

—Olamide Lagos vows to demolish pg44 more buildings •Says owners of affected houses served notices

N100,000 (Lagos)

N250,000 (Sabo, Ibadan)

Meiran Ram market, Lagos

Sallah: Rams go forpg42

N250,000, N100,000

•As prices of goats, fowls, others skyrocket •3 factors led to high prices —Ram sellers’ head

N40,000 (Lagos)

Edo poll: Man

nabbed with 25 PVCs

PHOTOS: JACOB SEGUN OLATUNJI; BOLA BADMUS; CHRISTIAN OKEKE AND DARE ADEKANMBI

pg4

•WASCE candidates kick against plan to move them to Ondo, Delta states

Akeredolu wins APC pg5 primaries in Ondo State •Inside details of how he beat Abraham, Oke, others •As Taiye Adeuti emerges LP candidate

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4 September, 2016

Sunday Tribune

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specialtreat

4 September, 2016

Sunday Tribune

Why helping someone at ATM point is dangerous A Tade Makinde with agency report

RE you one of those who love to help clueless customers on how to use their ATM cards when stuck with an ATM machine in a bank? From this point on, it is better one think twice before starting to lend a hand as one might run into trouble trying to be the good Samaritan.

Now that Nigeria has been officially declared as being in recession, many have become more desperate and daring to make money at all cost and by all means possible and the most unsuspecting way that most lose their hard-earned cash is to e-fraudsters mostly when trying to help a supposed illiterate on how to use the ATM. Banks have Credit card fraud laws, which terms and conditions of misuse are lengthy and difficult to understand. What most are aware of is that card users in Nigeria are responsible for the replacement of compromised cards, anong other conditions.

Card fraud is a theft committed using a credit card. Most often, it is associated with stolen or compromised information and unauthorised credit card user. Everyone knows that. But there are situations that appear not to be illegal to a bank user, but do break the terms of one’s contract with the card issuer, that is the bank. What many take for granted because of trust is the fact that card owners can unknowingly break the law and commit credit card fraud, whether it’s on purpose or by accident.

This oversight can carry legal and financial consequences, as well as impact owner’s ability to enjoy other services offered by the bank or even open a bank account. To be on the safe side, it is better to know what to keep in mind when approached by anyone for help with an ATM machine anywhere Using a fake credit card number to sign up for a free trial online Have you helped someone to sign up for a free trial of an online service or samples of a product in the past? Surely you must have been provided a card number by the person, which will eventually get charged if you forget to cancel your service — which is likely. There are several sites that offer “fake” credit card numbers for people who just want to sign up for free trials online or receive samples without providing any real payment information. These sites claim the credit card number is 100 percent fake and won’t pass a verification test if the website runs one. So, you risk unknowingly using a stolen card number or unintentionally breaking the law. Even if the fake credit card number is legal to use, you could be breaking the terms and conditions on the site offering the free trial. If the card has been compromised, which you may not know, you risk arrest once your face is captured on the ATM camera, while the person you tried to assist won’t even be anywhere near any trouble. It’s best to stay on the safe side and just use your own ATM card.

The person you are trying to help might be using someone else’s credit card If you are caught using someone else’s

More often than not, that person wearing a fez cap or slouch hat asking you to help out with the machine might be using a stolen card card without permission, it is fraud. More often than not, that person wearing a fez cap or slouch hat asking you to help out with the machine might be using a stolen card. The card user’s face is always captured on camera, so there is no escape for you, while the man in hat has his face well hidden from camera.

“When you get caught doing something

illegal with an ATM card, you can’t dispute any of the activity or make claims against any of the bank’s charges,” said Mr Keshi Okusaga of a first generation bank. That’s something to think about the next time your friend needs help ordering something through Konga, Jumia, Wakabout or any on-line service provider.

Disputing your own credit card charges Chargeback fraud, or “friendly fraud” as it is called, happens when someone makes an online purchase with his credit card and then calls the card issuer and requests a refund, citing fraud. The bank refunds the money and the consumer keeps the goods, leaving the merchant on the hook for the cash. In some cases, the consumer forgets which charges he made and in some, he’s intentionally committing fraud.

Getting caught with any of such compromised ATM cards, whether you know that much or not, will get you in trouble.

Yahoo boys are said to use this style most. The person you are trying to help out might have been involved in such fraud and won’t probably tell you. For example, third-party payments systems, like PayPal, Paga, use the merchant’s name. One of these is an honest mistake; the other is outright fraud. If you are intentionally committing chargeback fraud, which will not only eventually get passed down to consumers, but it is very illegal, you risk jail term.

Lying on your credit card application Mistakes happen, but intentionally giving false information, like your age or income, on a credit card application can land you in legal trouble, including being charged with theft by deception and larceny. Penalties vary, but can include: fines, probation, community service or jail term.

You can even face criminal charges - especially if you end up defaulting. So, at any point, be on the alert when approached by anyone at ATM points in bank afterhours.

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4 September, 2016

Sunday Tribune

Edo election: WAEC candidates reject planned relocation to other states Banji Aluko-Benin City

C

ANDIDATES writing the 2016 November/December West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASCE) in Edo State have kicked against plan by the examination body requesting them to travel outside of the state to write Mathematics 1 and 2 papers of the examination following clash in the examinations’ time table and that of the conduct of governorship election in the state on September 10.

The candidates, who have spoken about the plan, also said they were yet to be informed about the plan by WAEC and that they were hearing it for the first time.

Reports had indicated that WAEC would ask the 1,742 candidates, who registered to write Mathematics in the state to move to neigbhouring Ondo and Delta states due to the election scheduled to hold on September 10.

Spokesman of the Edo State Police Command, DSP Theodore Okafor, informed our reporter that the police had asked WAEC to exploit other alternatives for the candidates to write the examination as the police were not disposed to having the examination and the election the same day.

Findings by our reporter in Benin City, however, indicated that candidates writing the examinations along with their parents and guardians are not comfortable with the new arrangement, though many of them are largely ignorant of the arrangement.

At a coaching centre located at Ekehuan Road in Benin, many of the GCE candidates, who were preparing for the examination at the centre, said they were hearing the development for the first time.

They, however, expressed dismay at a situation whereby they will have to travel to Ondo or Delta State to write the paper, listing some of the challenges they would face as transportation, accommodation and tiredness.

One of the students, Efosa Igbinadolor, said such arrangement could not work and that it was not too late for WAEC and other stakeholders involved in the arrangement to work out another plan for them.

He said: “How can you ask me to go to Ondo or Delta State to write an examination I registered to

write in Benin? That is not possible.”

“You mean I will travel to the place to write Mathematics? Who will pay for my transportation? Where will I sleep? It just cannot work.”

Another candidate writ-

ing the examination, Elohosa Osagie, also expressed strong criticism of the plan, appealing to WAEC to work out a better one for them.

“If the story is true, then there is problem. Travelling alone, can make one to

lose balance. It can distort one’s state of mind and one can easily forget all that had been read. Locating the place alone could be a big problem. WAEC should please do something about it,” he said.

The proprietor of a

coaching class, who declined to give his name, also expressed disapproval of the arrangement, maintaining that he was also hearing about it for the first time.

He said he was not in support of the idea, as the

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo (left) and claimant to the national chairmanship of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Senator Ali-Modu Sheriff, after a closed-door meeting at the former’s residence in Abeokuta, Ogun State, on Saturday.

safety of the candidates could not be guaranteed since it would involve travelling over a long distance.

Parents, who spoke with Sunday Tribune on issue also expressed disapproval of the arrangement, pointing out that it was awkward.

Pastor Ayo Oise, whose daughter registered to write the examination in Benin, frowned at the plan, suggesting that WAEC give other options.

He said, “I sympathise with WAEC as they are in a difficult situation. However, I must say that asking candidates writing the examination to travel to Ondo or Delta State is not an option.

“They could have asked the candidates in Benin area to assemble at the University of Benin for the paper. Those writing in Edo Central could also be gathered at a place at the Ambrose Alli University, while those in the Edo North could use Auchi Polytechnic.

“I learnt they (candidates) are not up to 2,000. That appears to me like a workable plan than moving them to Ondo or Delta State.”

HID Awolowo foundation to be unveiled September 19

By Segun Adebayo ALL roads lead to Ikenne, Ogun State, as a foundation to immortalise the industry, sacrifice and commitment to humanity of Chief (Mrs) Hannah Idowu Dideolu Awolowo, will be unveiled on September 19 at the residence of the Awolowos, one year after her glorious exit.

In a statement signed by the Executive Director/ Founding Member, Obafemi Awolowo Foundation, Dr Olatokunbo Awolowo Dosumu, the high-profile occasion is expected to attract a qualitative audience of distinguished men and women across the nation and will be chaired by Mrs. Ayo Obe, a lawyer, human rights activists and public intellectual.

As part of the grand ceremony, the HID Awolowo Foundation Advisory Council will be inaugurated, while a commemorative lecture will be delivered by Dr Joe Okei-Odumakin, a human right advocate and gender empowerment activist.

According to the statement, “the HID Awolowo Foundation is being launched under the aegis of the Obafemi Awolowo

Foundation with the aim of perpetuating the edifying legacy of Yeye Oodua HID Awolowo, the character of which was complimentary and contributed significantly to the success of the life mission of her husband,

Chief Obafemi Awolowo.

“In doing this, we are eager to ensure that the notable qualities of Yeye Oodua HID Awolowo, her statesmanship and perseverance in the face of adversary continue to inform

the national architecture of values and character building.”

The foundation, the statement noted, “will exist as a Research and Advocacy Institute, independent, nonprofit and non-partisan,

with the core objective of propagating the ideals of Yeye Oodua HID Awolowo, “who served her country and people meritoriously and selflessly and whose place in the political history of Nigeria is assured.”

Man nabbed with 25 PVCs in Edo

Card distribution suffers hitch Banji Aluko - Benin City SIX days to the conduct of governorship election in Edo State, a middle-aged man was, on Saturday morning, arrested with about 25 Permanent Voter Card (PVCs) in Orhionmwon Local Government Area of the state.

The man, Azic Ebeli, was said to have lured those just collecting their PVCs in Ugo village in the ongoing collection of PVCs that started in the state on Saturday into releasing their PVCs they just collected by telling them that a N200,000 empowerment loan awaited them if they did.

A resident of the area, who was involved in the arrest of the suspect, said, “This morning, we got information that one man was collecting PVCs from some people. We then decided to

look for the man.”

“We were able to locate him as he was tracked to his house and 25 PVCs were found with him. The man said he was asked to do so by some of his leaders in Ugo. He said he was told that anyone who surrendered his card would be given a loan worth N200,000.

“That motivated the people to give out their cards.

We then took him to the police station at Ugo. They had earlier warned him to stop what he was doing, but he did not listen.”

Edo State Police Commissioner, Mr Chris Ezike, confirmed the arrest to Sunday Tribune, pointing out that the suspect would be taken to custody and the case transferred to the headquarters of the state police command in Benin.

He, however, said “the

information I received was that he was caught with 10 PVCs. I have instructed that the matter be transferred to the state headquarters. We have advised all to play by the rules.”

When contacted, the spokesperson for the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in the state, Priscillia Sule, who neither confirmed nor denied the incident, promised to contact the officials in charge of the area for details.

Meanwhile, PVC distribution in the state for newly registered voters started on a shaky note as many, who turned out to collect their cards, went home disappointed.

INEC had fixed the distribution of PVCs for the newly registered voters and those who were yet to collect their PVCs for Saturday, Septem-

ber 3, and Monday, September 5.

Checks by Sunday Tribune in some distribution centres within the Benin metropolis showed that all did not go well with the exercise on the first day, with many attributing the current challenge to understaffing of INEC. At the centres in Oredo Local Government Area that were visited by Sunday Tribune, it was observed that the three INEC staff were attending to the crowd that thronged the centres, making many to wait endlessly for their turns.

At George Idah Primary School in Oredo Local Government Area, which serves as distribution centre for 36 units, it was observed that the INEC officials chose to distribute the PVCs unit by unit, starting from unit one.

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OBJ hammers PDP, APC Jacob Segun Olatunji and Olayinka Olukoya ORMER President Olusegun Obasanjo, on Saturday, said the country needed a strong opposition party and a strong political party at the centre for the its democracy to survive.

Obasanjo said this while addressing newsmen shortly after he had a closed door meeting with the factional chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Senator Ali Modu Sheriff, who paid him a visit at his Presidential Hilltop Estate home, in Abeokuta, the Ogun State capital.

He said that the PDP as of now could not claim to be a strong opposition party, following the intractable crisis rocking it at the national level, while the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) at the national level claim not to be a strong political party either.

He explained that the PDP was handed over to Sheriff as a dying baby under intensive care, submitting that the soul of the party had been taken away, while describing a political party as an important institution that must be nourished and cherished.

Obasanjo explained that the present democratic dispensation must not be allowed to derail, insisting that only a strong opposition party and strong party at the helm of affairs would sustain it.

The former president said, “He called me yesterday (Friday) and asked where I was and I told him I was in the country. He asked if he could come and see me and I told him that my house is open to all Nigerians of goodwill and even non-Nigerians.

“Let me make it absolutely clear once and again, I have renounced partisan politics.

I don’t belong to any political party, not to talk of his own faction of PDP or any other faction of PDP. He came and I am very very happy to receive him.

“I asked him to brief me for my own education and knowledge on what is happening and he did.

“I was once the leader, for eight years. I was the leader of PDP but the PDP that I was the leader of is not the PDP of today. The PDP of today, if you can talk of a party again as PDP, its soul has been taken out of it and those who allowed that to happen are, unfortunately, either in the country or out of the country unperturbed about the fate of the party and indeed the fate of the country.

“For our democracy to thrive, we need strong political party in government and strong political party in opposition, for it to be strong

F

and dynamic.

“Today, PDP can not claim to be a strong party in opposition, I don’t know if APC can claim, at the national level, to be a strong party in government either. Now that is part of the misfortune of this country today. “ It must be the concern of all Nigerians that the present democratic dispensation must not be allowed to be derailed and for it not to be derailed, we must have a strong political party in government and a strong political party in opposition.

“When they talk about institution, a political party is an institution and in a democracy, it is a very important institution that we must all nourish and we must all cherish.

“I have said to my brother, that I wish him well with the dying baby they have put on his laps because PDP is in comatose and he was of course not in PDP, he has never been in PDP until now.

“When I was in PDP, I tried and encouraged him to come and join PDP, but he did not come, but the PDP they

have given him now is a dying PDP, a dying baby which needs to be in intensive care, otherwise, he will just be an undertaker.”

He, therefore, called on Nigerians, to ensure that political parties that would underpin a virile, dynamic, thriving democracy are put in place.

Sherrif equally admitted that the party bequeathed to him was a dying party,but explained that he was in Abeokuta to search for solutions to the challenges battling the party.

He described Obasanjo as the father of the nation, hence his resolve to seek solutions from him.

“Baba has spoken everything. He said the PDP given to me is a dying PDP, he built the PDP that everybody cherished. Baba, whether today he is in politics or outside politics has a role in Nigeria and everyone of us that is looking up to him, comes to him when we have a problem.

“He is our father, father of the Nigeria nation and the grandfather of PDP, therefore, he has to bring back the soul of the party that has gone to

4 September, 2016

Sunday Tribune

•INEC offers solution to PDP crisis

us and through his advice, we will get through.

“You know, Baba is very correct, so many things have gone wrong and it will be alright, Insha Allah. Making it right is a matter of concentration and talking to the right people.

“He has told you already, Nigeria needs a strong party in government and outside government and he also told you that both are needed for democracy to survive, he keeps saying this as a practical experience as a two time President of Nigeria, every wisdom that we want to lead our party, he has it and that is why we come to consult him” he said.

Commission, Mr Nick Dazang stated this Abuja yesterday while reacting to the visit of Senator Sheriff to Chief Obasanjo.

According to him,”on our part we have always maintained that the best way to resolve the PDP crisis is through arbitration and mediation of eminent citizens and statesmen who are neutral and command the respect of the warring factions “Mediation is cheaper and faster, makes for more enduring conciliation and eschews the bitterness that goes with court rulings or judgments, he stated.

INEC reacts In another development, the Independent National Electoral Commission INEC on Saturday maintained that the crisis rocking the PDP would linger on unless its members embrace arbitration and mediation of eminent citizens and statesmen “who are neutral and command the respect of the warring factions.”

The Deputy Director in charge of Publicity in the

Fayose berates meeting Meanwhile, Ekiti State governor, Mr Ayodele Fayose has reacted to Senator Sheriff’s meeting to Obasanjo, saying it was a coming together of collaborators in the total annihilation of the PDP. The governor said it was on record that both Obasanjo and Sheriff collaborated to destroy the All Nigerians Peoples Party (ANPP) and their meeting must be to further collabo-

rate to destroy the PDP. Governor Fayose, who reacted to the visit through his Special Assistant on Public Communications and New Media, Lere Olayinka, said; “Sheriff can as well begin to sleep in Obasanjo’s house, it is good riddance to bad rubbish.”

The governor added: “since Obasanjo is no longer a member of the PDP and he has consistently maintained that he can never return to the PDP, only those in the same league with him can go about visiting him.”

He said it was hypocritical and deceitful for Sheriff to have said he went to see Obasanjo to seek advice on the way forward for the PDP because he (Obasanjo) was among those who made the PDP to lose the presidency, despite that no one benefited from the party more than him.

He reiterated his call to Nigerians to beware of Obasanjo, saying; “The result of Obasanjo’s imposition of President Muhammadu Buhari on the country is the hunger and sufferings that Nigerians are facing now.”

Ondo 2016: Akeredolu emerges as APC candidate

•Shootout at Primary •Adeuti is Labour Party candidate Hakeem Gbadamosi - Akure THE governorship candidate of the defunct Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) in the 2012 governorship election in Ondo state, Mr Rotimi Akeredolu SAN, on Saturday emerged as the standard bearer of the All Progressives Congress (APC) for the forthcoming governorship election in the state.

Akeredolu defeated 23 other to emerge as the party candidate during the primary held at the International Event Center (DOME) in Akure, Ondo State capital.

The former chairman, Nigeria Bar Association (NBA) polled a total votes of 669 to defeat his closest opponent in the contest, Dr Olusegun Abraham, who polled a total votes of 635 Former National legal Adviser of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the candidate of the party in 2012, Chief Olusola Oke scored over 500 votes to come third while the lawmaker representing Ondo senatorial district at the Senate, Senator Ajayi Boroffice, scored over 400 votes.

While announcing the result, The Chairman of the Election Committee and Jigawa state governor, Muhammed Badaru commended the delegates for their comportment saying the election was transparent, free and fair.

The election was witnessed by the officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) headed by it administrative Officer, Kabiru

Omosanya There was a shootout at the venue of the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship election in Ondo State on Saturday as men of the state Police Command and the Nigeria Security Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) engaged themselves in a supremacy battle.

The shootout occurred at the entrance of the Ondo State International Conference Centre, (The Dome) venue of the Gubernatorial Primary of the APC primary, while there was physical assault between the two groups.

Though, no casualty was recorded by either side during the shootout but the situation led to an uproar and confusion as people at the event centre started running for safety.

It was gathered that the genesis of the face-off which occurred at about 5:30pm was caused by some mobile policemen who reportedly turned back the vehicle of the state Commandant of the NSCDC, Adeyinka Fasiu, from entering the venue of the primary.

The source said the Fasiu, visited the venue of the election primary to assess his men at their duty post while an argument ensued between his men and the police.

The mobile policemen at the main entrance were said to have told the commandant to disembark from his official car and walk.

This infuriated the NSCDC men who frowned on the de-

velopment and led to a serious altercation between the two groups while teargas and gunshot were fired into the air sporadically.

A source told Sunday Tribune that men and officers of the NSCDC refused to honour the AIG when walking into the main hall of the event.

He said while police officers at the venue rose to respect their boss, some men of the NSCDC refused to give the police bosses the deserved compliment. This according to him led to the walking out of two of the NSCDC men by some mobile police officers who saw their act as an attempt to relegate their boss.

The situation was, however, brought under control and it took the intervention of the senior officers from the two groups to douse the tension while the delegates of APC continued with their voting.

Attempt to speak with the State Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) , Femi Joseph was not successful as all calls to his telephone was not getting through.

Meanwhile accreditation commenced across the three locations spread across the capital city of Akure around 10:30am with many of the delegates complaining about the slow pace of the process.

While the Ondo Central delegates gathered at the Gani Fawehinmi Arcade, the Northern senatorial districts delegates converged on the

Ondo State Housing Development Hall at Ijapo Estate and the southern delegates used the ESS - BEE Arena along Ondo road for their accreditation.

Some leaders of the party who spoke on condition of anonymity condemned the monetization of the process saying some of the delegates have been financially induced Voting however commenced at exactly 12:05pm with accredited delegates trooping to the voting center from their various accreditation centers.

The exercise was concluded around 6:30pm while sorting of the votes commenced around 6:45pm and lasted for about four hours.

Labour picks Adeuti Taiye Stephen Adeuti, on Saturday, emerged as the governorship candidate of the La-

bour Party (LP) for the election.

Adeuti was unanimously adopted by the party delegates after his main opponent for the party’s ticket, Olugbenga Julius Ojo, decided to step down for him during the exercise held at Royal Bird Hotel, Alagbaka, Akure.

Commending the aspirants, the chairman of the election committee and the deputy national chairman of the party, Ladi Iliya charged the candidate and party members to continue working towards the success of the party in order to win the forthcoming election.

In his acceptance speech, the candidate commended the party’s member for their understandings and the confidence reposed in him for electing him as the LP candidate and pledged to lead the party to success in November governorship election.

‘Obaseki will not Islamise Edo state’ THE President of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN), Reverend Felix Omobude, has described as mischievous the allegation being peddled by supporters of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the state that the governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Mr Godwin Obaseki has plans to Islamise the state.

The PFN President who commended Obaseki on what he described as his

peaceful style of campaign, declared that nobody has the powers to Islamise the nation, admonishing political actors to base their campaigns on issues, as God alone will decide who becomes the next governor of the state.

Following the total support being given to the APC in the state by Hausas resident in the state, the PDP had through their supporters alleged plans by Obaseki to Islamise the state if elected governor.

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4 September, 2016

crimereports

Sunday Tribune

edited by Oluwatoyin Malik 0807 889 1950, 0811 695 4633 praiseboy01@gmail.com

I got my victim through ‘come and marry’ method —Suspected fraudster Stories by Oluwatoyin Malik

T

HIRTY-SEVENYEAR-OLD Muritala Oladipupo calls himself an itinerant Islamic preacher who also attends to people who come to him for consultations on spiritual matters.

But going by the revelation of one Mutiat Azeez, who said that the self-acclaimed preacher swindled her on the pretext of praying for her, Oladipupo would have a lot of explanations to make to detectives at the Anti-Kidnapping Squad of the Oyo State Police Command where he is currently undergoing interrogations.

Crime Reports learnt that the suspect was arrested in a mosque in Ibadan on August 28 after Azeez told the police that he defrauded her of N700,000 when she was deceived into believing that he was an Islamic preacher who could help her with prayers to solve spiritual problems.

According to information gathered, Oladipupo adopted a method of proposing love to a potential victim so that it would be easy for him to penetrate her. He reportedly used this method with the victim and collected some money from her before his arrest.

When interviewed by Crime Reports, the suspect confirmed the allegation, disclosing that he learnt the method from two men, Abdulwaheed and Ola Shehu, whom he met at a mechanic workshop.

Speaking with Crime Reports, he said: “I was a Quranic teacher but later became an itinerant Islamic preacher delivering sermons. I fell into trouble when my former girlfriend asked me to carry out some rites for her to attack someone who swindled her. She became angry when she

did not get the expected result.

“I knew her about seven years ago and I expressed interest in her. I collected N360,000 from her but I also borrowed her N100,000. It is not true that I took N700,000 from her. The money she gave me was to buy the ingredients that would be needed for the prayers and the rites to be performed.

“It was Waheed who introduced the idea of deceiving women by proposing marriage to them so that they could be easily swindled. The victim would be disclosing her problems which I would capitalise on to obtain money from her. Waheed said he gave the advice because most clients are not usually appreciative after

Muritala Oladipupo getting solutions to their problems. I used to share the money given to me with the two men.”

Oladipupo confessed to being a fraudster and spoke on how the lady was taken to a river in Ado Ekiti, Ekiti State, to bathe in a

river. The suspect also said he invited two female syndicate members, Seun and Abibat, who dressed like white witches and prayed for the victim at the river side.

“It is true I took her to Ekiti to have a spiritual bath

to cure her of bad dreams.

I asked Seun and Abibat to join her at the river side because they were women.

They prayed for her and I paid them N10,000 each.

They were introduced to me by one Ahmad who is also a fraudster based in Ado Ekiti. I knew Ahmad through Waheed and Ola Shehu,” he stated.

The victim was also reportedly taken to a shrine at Moniya area of Ibadan where a pipe was laid underground and someone at one end spoke into it, the sound of which echoed like that of a spirit at the other end of the pipe in a room.

Narrating how she met the suspect, the victim said he was in his vehicle at Olorunsogo area of Ibadan when he saw her and called her. This was confirmed

by the suspect who said “I proposed love to her and she accepted. In the course of our relationship, she revealed her problems to me and asked me to pray for her and do other rites that would make her overcome them. I told her that I would help her solve her problems and started getting money from her through this.”

The suspect, who is said to be one of the assistants working with a popular Islamic preacher in Ibadan, disclosed that his boss did not know he was into fraud.

Confirming the arrest, the Police Public Relations Officer in Oyo State, SP Adekunle Ajisebutu, said he would be arraigned in court after the completion of investigation.

We are fake herbalists, not kidnappers —Suspects caught in hideout with victim TWO suspected kidnappers, Idowu Mufutau and Wale Ige, who were paraded by the Ogun State Police Command last weekend, have denied being kidnappers, saying that were only fake herbalists luring victims through the internet.

The Commissioner of Police in Ogun State, Mr Ahmed Ilyasu, had said that the two suspects were nabbed in their hideout at Ijebu Igbo in Ogun State, by operatives of the Federal Special Anti-Robbery Squad (FSARS) in Ogun State Police Command, while a victim was rescued.

Speaking on the suspects’ arrest at a press briefing held at the command headquarters at Eleweran, Abeokuta, last Friday, the commissioner stated that the FSARS team attached to Ijebu Ode received information on August 31 at about 10:00a.m about an existing kidnappers’ den.

Acting on the information, Ilyasu said his men stormed the hideout where two suspects were arrest-

Idowu Mufutau (right) and Wale Ige ed. He added that a victim, one Mr Anoma Banji, was rescued by the police.

Reiterating the command’s determination to make the state safe by providing adequate security for lives and property, Ilyasu warned that he would not tolerate any act of hooliganism or crime that would jeopardise peace in Ogun State.

But the suspects, in an interview with Crime Re-

ports, denied being kidnappers, saying that the victim came to them to get charms to obtain money from his church members.

Narrating how he became a victim to the suspects, Mr Banji said that all he could recall was the phone conversation he had with someone who he later knew to be an agent of the syndicate.

According to him,

“someone sent me a message on Eskimi, saying ‘hi.’ Then he sent a friend request to me, followed by a phone number which he said I should call.

“Curious to know the identity of the person, I called the number and the voice at the other end said I should come to Ijebu Igbo, Ogun State. They said they have solutions to human’s problems, though I never

told them I had one.

“From that moment, I lost reasoning. I left Ibadan in Oyo State where I reside for Ijebu Igbo without telling my wife. They gave me directions and I was picked with an okada. They took me to a secluded place.

They asked me to remove my dress and took me to a room which was dark.

“About a minute after I entered, I started hearing gunshots and began to shiver, wondering what I was doing in a strange place. After some minutes, the police opened the door and saw me naked. They asked me to put on my shorts. That is all I know.

“I am surprised that the man is saying I wanted to do juju. I am not a pastor, not to talk of having a church. The police can investigate this. I believe they are trying to make up stories to exonerate themselves. I suspect that they wanted to use me for ritual.

Continues on

pg7

7

crimereports

4 September, 2016

Sunday Tribune

Church founder gave us N200 out of every N500 we made from prostitution —Rescued girls It’s a lie, I don’t know them —Church founder

By Oluwatoyin Malik

Z

AINAB, Saidat and Halima (surnames withheld), 19, 16 and 16 years old respectively are girls that should be in school or learning vocation by all standards, but going by the revelations they made, they had been thrown into prostitution by a female white garment church founder before their rescue by the police in Ogun State.

The girls spoke with journalists at the headquarters of Ogun State Police Command last Friday during the parade of one Mrs Idowu Olupinla, who allegedly engaged them in prostitution and made money from giving them out to men for sex.

The state Commissioner of Police, Mr Ahmed Ilyasu, disclosed during a press briefing that Madam Olupinla, the founder of a white garment church, was arrested at Ijoko-Ota area of the state based on the report received by his command that she was using girls for prostitution within her church premises located at 52, Okesina Street.

Ilyasu said that aside the girls that lived with her, the suspect had also been sending other young girls to a neighbouring country for the same trade. He further disclosed that the suspect’s arrest was made possible through the report lodged by the girls on August 20, adding that they had been taken to the hospital for treatment.

Below is the narration of the victims on how they started living with the suspect: Zainab (19) “I followed a friend to the church because she was a member. At that time, a spiritualist who had been in trance was about to deliver visions and messages from God. After the programme, I went back home where I was staying with my friend.

“The following day, Madam Olupinla called my friend, asking to see me.

When I got there, she said I should start living with her, asking whether I did not want all the good things my friends had. Since my

The Ogun State Commissioner of Police, Mr Hamed Ilyasu (third right) with other police officers while showing the suspect, Mrs Idowu Olupinla (sitting), to journalists. Inset are the victims. Photo: Oluwatoyin Malik mother was dead and I left my father a long time ago, I packed my things from my friend’s house and decided to stay with her.

“She started bringing men to sleep with me in the night, and after they must have finished, they would pay N500. The woman would collect N300 out of it and leave N200 for me.

Same applied to other girls staying with her. Each of

us used to have between two and three men per day. I have spent about 18 months with her.

I was there before some other girls came. I also met about nine girls there.

Some of the men used to put on condoms when having sex with us but some other didn’t. Anytime we got pregnant, the woman would give us drugs to abort it.”

Saidat (16) One day, I was in my sister’s shop helping her to sell fish when Madam Olupinla’s daughter came to tell me that a spiritualist in their church was descending from the spiritual realm. I followed her as a friend and that was how I started living with her mother. She started making me to sleep with men

and it was there I lost my virginity.

In between the time I stayed there, whenever I came to my senses, I would return home. But she would call me on the phone and I would return there. Before my father’s death, he came to arrest the woman for keeping me in her house.”

Halima (16)

‘We are fake herbalists, not kidnappers’ I never knew them before.”

One of the suspects, Mufutau (30), who said he is an indigene of Ijebu Igbo, confessed to being a fake herbalist. “I am a fraudster who acts as an assistant to one of us, Ige, who acts as an elderly herbalist. I was the one who usually prepared ‘concoction’ for our clients/victims.

“One Dekunle, who works as a ‘catcher’, uses Eskimi to get victims and it was through it that we got the victim that landed us in police net.

The man came for charms that he would be using in his church. He brought a bottle of schnapps and a loaf of bread,” he told Crime Reports, adding

that he and other members formed the syndicate about three months ago.

The second suspect, Ige, also confessed that he was the one acting as herbalist in the syndicate. “The victim said he has a big church where there are many big men. He said he wanted a charm called Olugbohun which he

could use to get money from members without them asking questions. We collected N5,000, a bottle of schnapps and a loaf of bread from him. We were still on it when the police came to arrest us,” Ige said.

The Commissioner of Police said that they would be arraigned in court after the completion of investigations.

“I followed my friend, Saidat, to the woman’s church and that was how I lost my virginity after I was asked to sleep with men.”

But the suspect, Madam Olupinla, who said she could not tell her age, denied ever keeping any of the girls, claiming that she did not know them. She later changed her words and said that she only knew Saidat “Police came three times and did not see anyone in my church except me and my daughter. It was a woman who said she was looking for her daughter that went under the bridge at Sango area, Ogun State, to pick some girls who she claimed I was using as prostitutes. I don’t know the whereabouts of the woman’s daughter.

She has never stayed with me. And I don’t know any of the girls; neither have I ever aborted for any of them,” she initially stated.

She later said she only knew one of them, Saidat and claimed that it was her ‘husband’ called Aroja who brought her to her church when a member who went into trance recovered to deliver spiritual messages.

“She only spent about a week and left with her husband,” Madam Olupinla stated.

Speaking on how the police got to know about their plight, one of the girls, Zainab, said that problem started when a mother came looking for her daughter and Madam Olupinla denied ever seeing the girl.

“We used to see the girl living with Olupinla and when we were asked, we told the truth,” she said, adding that she was surprised to see the elderly woman denying ever having them under her roof.

36 suspected cultists nabbed in Imo Joe Nwachukwu - Owerri

IN its bid to curb the activities of cultists in Imo State, the state police command has arrested 39 suspected cultists in various parts of the state.

The state Commissioner of Police, Mr Taiwo Lakanu, who paraded the suspects before newsmen at the premises of the state police

command in Owerri last weekend, explained that the feat was accomplished as a result of the information made available to operatives of the command.

According to Lakanu, considering the spate of cultism in the state and intelligence report gathered through credible sources that some notori-

ous cultists were planning to hold initiation party for new members within the Nekede area of Owerri, a tactically-coordinated operation was carried out by men of the state police command on August 24.

The police commissioner listed notable flashpoints within Nekede and its environs as Megabyte Lodge

Umuokoto, popularly known as South Africa; Shrine Tree Square and Pentagon Bar Umuofochia, stating that all the places were being manned and coordinated by operatives of the command.

Exhibits recovered from the suspects included three talking drums of different sizes, sachet of salt, berets, emblems and kegs of palm

wine, while Lakanu said that they all had made useful statements confessing their membership to the Aye confraternity.

He appealed to parents and guardians to monitor the conduct of their children, adding that thorough investigations had commenced with a view to charging the suspects to court.

8

4 September, 2016

Sunday Tribune

specialreport

Girls for terrorists Dons speak on the proposed horse-trade

Going by President Muhammadu Buhari’s pronouncement in Kenya last weekend, a swap deal between the government and Boko Haram may be a reality. However, in this report by BAYO ALADE and NAZA OKOLI, political scientists believe that there is need for caution.

W

HEN President Muhammadu Buhari spoke on the sideline of the recently concluded Tokyo Internationla conference on African Development (TICAD 6) in Nairobi, Kenya last weekend, his statements represented the clearest intention to date, about the government’s plan to engage in a swap deal with Boko Haram.

Despite the fact that the girls have been in captivity for more than two years now, the Federal Government believes that they could still be brought back home alive, if the right people on the side of the terrorists or intermediaries are available.

President Buhari was reported to have said: “I have made a couple of comments on the Chibok girls and it seems to me that much of it has been politicised. What we said is that the government which I preside over is prepared to talk to bonafide leaders of Boko Haram.

“If they do not want to talk to us directly, let them pick an internationally recognised NGO, convince it that we want Nigeria to release a number of Boko Haram leaders in detention which they are suppposed to know.

“If they do it through the modified leadership of Boko Haram and they talk with an internationally recognised NGO we will be prepared to discuss their release.

“We want those girls out and safe. The faster we can recover them and hand them over to their parents, the better for us.”

We want our daughters back

No doubt the government has been under internal and international pressure to break the logjam over the actual location and return of the Chibok girls. Even in recent times the pressure has not abated with the Bring Back

Our Girls group protesting at the entrance of the Presidential Villa in an effort to keep the travails of both the girls and their parents in public domain.

Esther Yakubu, mother of Dorcas, one of the abducted girls, said in a report: “We want our daughters back and now. Sadly, today we have to be here again at the seat of power to drum our pains to Mr. President and his team, that we are tired and are not ready to view another video again from the abductors of our daughters, pains and agony which is so traumatising and killing to us all.

“We want the government of Nigeria and the entire world to know that we are ready to receive our daughters in whichever form and shape they would be released; we are ready to reshape them back to what we all would be proud of.”

Recently it was reported that 23 of the girls’ parents had died, mostly out of frustration. Chairman of the Abducted Girls Parents, Yakubu Nkekki Mbalala, told a news medium in an interview that the twenty-third deceased parent of the girls, named Yakubu Daniel, was buried recently.

Sunday Tribune spoke with political scientists and university lecturers on what the proposed swap deal holds for both sides and what the outcome may be.

No sacrifice is too much

For Professor Francis Anifowose of the Department of Political Science, University of Lagos, “no sacrifice is too much” to be made in order to free the abducted girls. He, however, noted that for this kind of exchange to be balanced, the prisoners must be properly debriefed before they are set free, adding that the Federal Government must maximise the opportunity by asking for more concessions from the terrorists.

Personally, I believe that more bargaining needs to be done, in terms of swapping. What I am saying is, if there is more concession that has to be given by the terrorist, the Federal Government has to pursue that “On the part of the parents, the pain is immeasurable.

Therefore, there is the belief that no price is too high to be paid in order to secure their release. But on the side of the nation, when you look back and reflect on the enormous loss that the activities of the terrorists have caused the nation, one wonders if it is right to release the insurgents who have already been captured.

“Personally, I believe that more bargaining needs to be done, in terms of swapping. What I am saying is, if there is more concession that has to be given by the terrorists, the Federal Government has to pursue that. How many terrorists, for example, are they asking the Federal Government to release? What is the calibre, the category, of the terrorists? Are they the most dangerous ones among them?

“For the sake of these parents, and for the fact that we are talking about young girls who are supposed to represent the future of this nation, it may be considered advisable that the government should just go ahead and exchange them. But if those terrorists have to be released, then they have to be seriously monitored; security agents have to collect a lot of information from them before they are released.

“So, the summary of what I have said is that the Federal Government should just overlook the consequences and share the pain with the parents. No sacrifice is too much to be made to secure their release.”

Asked if Nigeria has ever been faced with this kind of situation, Anifowose said: “Nigeria has never found itself in this kind of dilemma. Even during the Biafran War, there was no such case.”

Continues pg 9

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specialreport

4 September, 2016

Sunday Tribune

‘Swapping has always been a difficult situation’ Continued from pg 8

Swap may not solve problems

Also speaking with Sunday Tribune, Professor Browne Onuoha, who also teaches in the Department of Political Science at the University of Lagos, said for the swap to be meaningful, a theoretical basis for it ought first to be established.

“When these issues come, we look at them from broader perspectives,” he said. “A nation that has focus, that has ideologies that guide it would know why it wants to swap.

I give you examples. In cases in history where prisoners have been swapped to release captured citizens, pay attention to the structure, the organisation of that particular country.

“They are not banana republics; they are countries that have very high values for their citizens; countries that see citizenship as a principle; as part of their constitutionalism. So what I am trying to say is that it is not a matter of swapping. Swapping may not even solve any problem with the type of country we have.

“Do the leaders in Nigeria know the value or the purpose of swapping? Do they know the value of citizenship?

If they knew the value of citizenship, then what happened would not have happened in the first place. So swapping is very good, but it has to be followed both philosophically and politically.

“Swapping is a very major national sacrifice that draws its strength from the life and the will of that particular country. United States could swap; Britain could swap; Israel could swap. But these countries that have what you may call parasitic leaders may not even know the value attached to swapping. So let them swap, but what good would it do our nation?” he queried.

Professor Wale Are-Olaitan, former Vice Chancellor, Olabisi Onabanjo University (OOU), Ogun State, while speaking on the isssue said: “I do not think that the issue of getting back the kidnapped Chibok girls should be looked at as strictly a security or terrorist issue. Lives and emotions are involved and to the extent that some of the girls are alive, it would be the responsibility of the government to attempt getting them back. That is part of the function of government - to cater to the interests of its citizens - and those abducted girls remain bona fide citizens of Nigeria who should attract the attention and action of the government.

“Unfortunately, the government is not in a position militarily to secure the release and return of the girls. So it must be operating under enormous pain of inability of being able to square up to the Boko Haram terrorists to get the girls back.

“In the circumstances in which the government finds itself, it wants to be seen to be making some gestures to get the girls back, hence the offer of swapping the girls with the operatives of Boko Haram captured and detained by the government.

“I believe this offer does not preclude the government from taking military action to free the girls if it becomes feasible. So, perhaps it is better to see this offer as one forced on the government by circumstances. Evidently not a good situation and indeed not palatable - but should be seen as a gesture dictated by circumstances.”

Is Nigeria negotiating from the point of strength in this situation? Professor Are-Olaitan believes that it depends on the peculiarity of the situation. “Every country has to relate to circumstances that cannot be cracked through pointed action, but only perhaps through offers,” adding: “And Nigeria is no exception to this. This necessarily happens many times in the conduct of national affairs as not every issue would be amenable to pointed action.

“When a plane carrying cash from Nigeria for the purchase of ammunition was seized in South Africa, with the cash confiscated, there was nothing that Nigeria could do other than to toe the line of diplomatic channels to seek for the release of the cash. And it was only when South Africa convinces itself of the acceptance of such moves by Nigeria - evidently with some reciprocity - that it agreed to release the cash.

“So when there is no power to achieve an end in any relations, the available means is through negotiation.”

However, the don believes that “the point has to be made that government does not just go into negotiation

When it is established that their daughters have died, they should find a way of letting them know and provide emotional and material support, he said

until it is satisfied that every other means has been exploited without success or it has the perception that no other means would work in the circumstance.”

Unfortunately, the alternative to a swap deal is not palatable - “the Chibok girls would continue to be in the captivity of the Boko Haram elements until the government is able to defeat them and rescue the girls. Which would be like saying the girls would continue to be there until a time nobody knows or indeed forever,” he added.

Asked if the outcome of the deal could be resolved to the satisfaction of everybody, Professor Are-Olaitan said it is not likely.”Unfortunately, a complex issue like the abduction of the Chibok girls could not be resolved to the satisfaction of all parties. Some girls are already dead and they could not be brought back to life. What government is doing is to ensure that not all the girls are lost finally to the abduction. There would be government efforts to see if they could recover the remains of the girls already dead, so that their parents could have some form of closure, but evidently there is nothing that could be done about the case of those dead beyond that.

“The psychological care for all the parents, of course, remains the responsibility of the government - so the government should be seen to be concerned with the welfare of all the parents including those who already lost their girls to death through the abduction.”

Speaking on the same issue, Dr. Emmanuel Aiyede of the Department of Political Science, University of Ibadan, said Nigeria might not have the experience in such a deal but it is a common occurrence in other countries.

“I am not aware of Nigeria being in a situation like this before. But some countries like the United States have been in a situation of this nature, where they have to swap

prisoners for their citizens, sometimes those citizens are soldiers who are prisoners of war.

“A very recent one is the swap of five Taliban fighters for army Sergeant Bowe Bergdahl. Israel is known to conduct prisoner swap, including the swap of dead bodies. It has always been a very difficult situation and a difficult decision. There are cases where some of these swapped terrorists return to conduct an even greater offensive.”

Swap may be positive or negative

For Dr Aiyede, prisoner swap may be positive or negative and Nigeria must be careful as it goes into such a move. “A lot depends on who is swapped and what has happened between when the prisoners were arrested and when they are swapped.

“There is always a risk involved if it involves the swap of living men and women. It is really not a wrong signal to other militants. Rather, it is a risk to counter terrorism. Sometimes it might even be useful. The prisoner may have stayed with the terrorist army, understudied their mode of operation, suffered within it and, therefore, might provide useful information.

“On the other hand, the prisoner may have been traumatised and unable to relate well. So, Nigeria has to tread cautiously. These are religious fundamentalists who are already radicalised and may likely strike again.”

On what should be the fate of parents who have lost their daughters? Dr Aiyede believes it is the responsibility of government to support such families in a variety of ways.

“When it is established that their daughters have died, they should find a way of letting them know and provide emotional and material support,” he said.

10

feature

4 September, 2016

Sunday Tribune

Illegal bunkerers: Ilasamaja

in the eye of the storm

The shut houses

‘Police knew about them for decades’

When the news broke that 12 ‘illegal oil wells’ were discovered in Lagos few weeks ago, not many believed such acts could happen in an urban centre. However, in this report, OLATUNDE DODONDAWA, who visited the area in Ilasamaja, gave the picture of what was actually going on in the community before the bubble burst. Excerpts.

I

T was the week that Lagos experienced its worst rainfall in the year.

It had rained for over 17-hours and several residents lost valuables worth millions of naira. Ilasamaja axis was flooded, while motorists and pedestrians struggled for the narrow way that stretched along the shanties.

Among the shanties were houses built on the Right of Way (RoW) belonging to the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC). It is believed that the houses were built there with the intention of drilling and exploration of Automotive Gas Oil (AGO) otherwise called diesel, from the pipelines buried beneath their structures by NNPC. Some houses on Abeokuta street, 1,3,5,7,9,10, were listed among the most notorious for illegally exploring the mineral resource, just as house numbers 9 and 11 on Ibadan Street, both in Ilasamaja were also listed. Ibadan street is located directly behind Abeokuta street, so both buildings were located under NNPC’s Right of Way (RoW). But it is always was very hard for a first timer to locate the oil wells.

From Ilasamaja bus stop, one will have to navigate through streets like Baale, Salamotu, Adeyiga, Salako, Fabiyi, Alhaji Salau Lane and Oluwasiji streets to link Ogunbowale Street. Abeokuta street is off Adegbite street, an extension of Ogunbowale street and also a slum with a population of over 5,000 people. Shanties are very common in the area, same for beautiful damsels who were either gossiping or doing some laundries. Handsome men and friendly children heartily greets strangers, but majority of them are aware of the illegal activity that most of the residents engage in.

This should be expected because many of the residents are mostly unemployed, self-employed, entrepreneurs or shopowners. After media reports that illegal bunkering had been discovered to be going on in the area, the residents became more uncooperative and except there is

a tip-off (betrayal) by someone among them, it may be difficult for any unsuspecting member of the public to know that such dastardly acts take place there.

On August 12,, 2016, the Lagos State Government combed both streets and discovered several ‘oil wells’ being illegally drilled n the suburb of Lagos State. However, only House number 10, Abeokuta street, was cordoned off and inquisitive passers byes are directed to non-visible inscriptions on the fences of other affected buildings, indicating that the houses had been sealed off. Except for house number 1, which is an uncompleted building, but with huge fence and strong gate, the other sealed houses still have occupants in them. An officer explained that the shop owners were allowed to stay and sell their wares, while the occupants have been asked to leave, except the landlords and the landlady who are now at the Force Headquarters pending the completion of investigations. The officer declined to give further information.

At Ibadan street, where the only houses that have been cordoned off with official tapes, officers on guard did not say anything. He directed Sunday Tribune to the Force Headquarters for any information.

But attempts to locate the exact buildings where oil wells were discovered proved very daunting initially, because the residents suddenly became hostile and aggressive when asked where the illegal oil wells were.

In that heavy rainfall, and despite the hostility of the residents, Sunday Tribune eventually discovered a sealed one-storey building. While approaching the building, a stern police officer emerged from the building and the following conversation ensued: Journalist: Good morning officer Officer: Good morning. How may I help you?

Journalist: Sir, I am a journalist and I’m here sir to do a follow up on the arrests that were made two

weeks ago.

Officer: We don’t want anybody here and I give you 5 seconds to leave this place.

Journalist: Sir......

Officer: (cuts in).....I said leave. The reporter left.

Not so far from House number 10 where he had engaged the police officer, another officer was seen with a food vendor. Without the usual paraphernalia of official introduction, he engaged the officer in a brief conversation: Journalist: Why your colleague come dey embarrass person like that even when I told him who I am.

Officer: Na because we get instruction say we should not entertain anybody on the premises. From the officer, however, it was discovered that it wasn’t only House number 10 that was discovered doing the illicit trade.

Oil bunkering had actually been going on in the area for decades. No one dared report to the government because of the calibre of people involved. “They load out diesel every day in gallons. They used danfo and other vehicles to transport the ‘goods’ and the police too are aware,” one of them residents eventually

Bunkering had been going on in the area for decades. No one dared report to the government because of the calibre of people involved

told Sunday Tribune.

When asked to substantiate on the involvement of the police, he asked “Was it policemen from Ilasamaja that made the arrest?” He expressed no shock at that because everybody knew that police officers had known all along but did not do anything. “It was Lagos State Government that effected the arrest. The men from Ilasamaja police station could not have done so.

“Now that it is raining, just look at the ground and you will see oil stains everywhere. It is dangerous for the inhabitants in the community to live and be exposed to such spills. Several times, some people have gone to the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) to complain about the illegal oil wells because of the dangers it posed to the community. Thank God it is diesel and not petrol which is highly inflammable.

“Instead of arresting the culprits, they joined them and it has been on for years and we are also used to it,” said the other.

When asked why people are yet to desert the entire area, they said that the poor economic conditions may be responsible because people need places to live.

When the rain subsided, Sunday Tribune quickly left the area.

The Lagos State government maintained that the houses in Abeokuta and Ibadan Streets in Ilasamaja remains shut. The state’s Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Mr. Steve Ayorinde, said the step to shut the wells and cordoned off the area was taken by government to forestall loss of lives and property as a result of the looming danger.

Ayorinde, who addressed journalists alongside top government functionaries and the Lagos State Commissioner of Police, Mr. Fatai Owoseni, said a combined team from the police command, the Ministry of Environment, Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency, Lagos State Fire Service and Sole Administrator of Isolo Local Council Development Area carried out a thorough inspection of the entire area and discovered no fewer than 12 of the illegal oil wells.

11

4 September, 2016

Sunday Tribune

12

feature

4 September, 2016

Sunday Tribune

New blood test can spot when breast cancer has become resistant to treatment - and exactly which drugs doctors should use next

B

EING able to quickly switch drugs could dramatically slow cancer’s spread A smart blood test developed by scientists dramatically slows the spread breast cancer, scientists have revealed.

The new test, developed by experts in London, spots when the most common form of breast cancer has stopped responding to standard treatments.

It then tells doctors exactly which drug to treat patients with next, matching the treatment to the genetic make-up of the tumour.

A smart blood test developed by scientists dramatically slows the spread breast cancer, scientists have revealed.

A trial of 783 women showed that using precisely matched drugs doubled the length of time for which doctors were able to halt the progression of the disease.

Being able to rapidly switch drugs is crucial in the treatment of cancer, because tumours evolve and become resistant to medicines.

When a certain drug stops

Zika could infect 2.5bn: WHO warns virus remains an ‘international health emergency’ UN health health agency met recently to assess the status of the Zika epidemic Malaysia reported its first Zika case, while Singapore now stands at 151 Experts analysed travel, climate and mosquito patterns to determine risk Countries with high poverty rates found to be particularly vulnerable More than two-and-a-half billion people are at risk of developing the Zika virus, scientists have warned.

It comes as the World Health Organisation declared the outbreak of Zika remains an international health emergency and noted the virus is continuing to infect new countries.

Malaysia has also confirmed its first case of the virus after authorities in Singapore confirmed they have detected more than 150 people with the virus.

New analysis of travel, climate and mosquito patterns in parts of Asia and Africa found people in these regions were particularly at risk.

A worker fogs around a condo in Kuala Lumpur to control adult mosquitoes Malaysia confirms first case of Zika virus The World Health Organisation declared the outbreak of Zika remains an international health emergency after Malaysia reported its first case of the virus The UN health agency convened its expert committee this week to assess the latest status of the epidemic.

Today, Dr David Heymann, the committee’s chair, said considerable gaps remain in understanding Zika and the complica-

tions it causes.

As such, WHO concluded the outbreak remains a global emergency.

It follows research which found Zika could cause temporary paralysis in sufferers.

Until earlier this week, scientists had tentatively suggested that there may be a link between the virus and Guillain-Barre

syndrome, when the body attacks itself after an infection.

But new data reveals the most definitive link between the conditions.

The report, published as a letter to the editor of the New England Journal of Medicine, found that countries experiencing an increase in Zika diagnosis have seen an identical spike in Guillain-Barre cases.

working, doctors switch onto a different form of medication.

But until now they only been able to do this when a patient starts getting sick again, or by using a painful biopsy to analyse the tumour.

The new test, which could be available within three years, allows doctors to act far more quickly, alerting them as soon as the cancer starts resisting the drug’s effect.

It is one of the first in a battery of ‘liquid biopsies’ that experts think will revolutionise the treatment of cancer.

Breast cancer patients could be spared the misery of chemotherapy with test to predict if their tumour will return A genetic test could spare thousands of breast cancer patients each year the ordeal of unnecessary chemotherapy, research suggests.

By analysing the genetic make-up of a tumour, scientists can accurately predict how likely cancer is to return after surgery.

A new genetic test, called Mammaprint, could spare 14 per cent of breast cancer patients - one in every seven - from having to undergo chemotherapy after their tumour is removed.

Chemotherapy can cause gruelling side effects including nausea, hair loss and exhaustion.

A team of Belgian scientists found that they could accurately pinpoint patients whose tumours were unlikely to return, even if they do not have chemotherapy.

The sensitive tests pick up minute strands of DNA that are shed by a tumour as it grows.

Trials carried out by the Institute of Cancer Research and the Royal Marsden hospital in London found that by using the tests, and then moving patients onto a drug matched to its genetic make-up, doctors were able to halt the progress of breast cancer for six months.

Women who were treated with a drug that had not been DNA matched only had two and a half months before the tumour started spreading again.

Researchers analysed blood samples from 783 women with oestrogen receptor positive breast cancer - the most common form of the disease, accounting for three quarters of cases.

By using the test, scientists identified a single gene called ESR1, which mutates when a breast tumour has stopped responding to standard hormone treatment.

The researchers randomly divided patients into two groups and gave them each one of two drugs.

One group was given a drug called exemestane – which works by blocking oestrogen synthesis.

The others were given a drug called fulvestrant, which degrades the oestrogen receptor protein so it can’t ‘feed’ the tumour.

The results, published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology, showed that patients with the ESR1 mutation responded far better to fulvestrant, which delayed progression of the disease for 5.7 months, compared to 2.6 months on exemestane.

Culled from Daily Mail

13 Continued from

A

4 September, 2016 last week

T the close of poll, the Presiding Officer shall prepare a ballot paper account setting out details of the ballot papers received, number of ballot papers used, and the number of ballot papers unused, and he shall give to the polling agents of each candidate a copy of the ballot paper account duly signed by him.

8. It shall be an offence punishable by imprisonment without the option of a fine for a polling official to fail to perform any duty laid on him by the Electoral Act or Regulations or Instructions.

9. If, as a result of the failure of a polling official to perform his duty, a candidate’s votes are less than those of each of his opponents, or there is a short supply of ballot papers as a result of which registered voters who are present at the polling stations are unable to vote, then in either or both of these cases, another poll shall be held in the polling station in question.

10. At the conclusion of counting at the Counting Station, the Returning Officer shall publicly announce the results, prepare a certificate of the results, and deliver a copy of the said certificate of results, duly signed by him, to all the candidates or their agents in the constituency under his charge. The certificate thus issued shall be conclusive of the election until such election is set aside by a court of law on an election petition.

11. It shall also be provided in the electoral law that candidates for the election and their agents shall not be placed under any disability during the period of election; that is to say, if any of them commits an offence he shall immediately be put on bail, pending the election.

12. Every candidate for election, whether or not he is opposed by another candidate or candidates at such an election shall be voted for, provided that where only one candidate stands, he shall poll not less than 25 % of the total number of registered voters in his constituency.

13. At least sixty days’ notice shall be given before the day appointed for the holding of election, during which all parties contesting the election and their respective candidates may file or submit all papers and pay all monies required in connection with the election.

14. Every polling booth shall have at least four compartments instead of two, and the number of polling officials shall be increased pro tanto.

15. There shall not be more than 500 registered voters to a polling station.

Awo’s thoughts PATH TO NIGERIAN GREATNESS

Under the new dispensation Charter of stability and progress*

16. It shall be the duty of FEDECO: (a) to provide adequate and effective lighting for every polling station and counting station, and (b) to provide motor vehicles or watercrafts for the collection of ballot boxes from polling stations, and for the transportation of such boxes to the counting stations.

17. To facilitate the requirement in 16 (2) above, the Federal Government shall construct, where necessary, an all-season motorable road to link every polling station to the counting station.

18. The FEDECO shall cause to be printed and published a complete list, together with description of locations, of polling stations and counting stations in each State, and shall not later than sixty days before election day make copies of such printed list available free of charge to every registered political party for everyone of the candidates nominated by the party for the election.

19. Each polling station shall have an Official Number clearly and legibly marked on it and no place than the one so marked shall he used as polling station.

20. Not later than thirty days before the election takes place FEDECO shall designate the polling stations where collection of ballot boxes shall commence, and shall communicate such designation in writing to all the candidates at the election through their respective political parties.

Sunday Tribune

21. The polling agents of each of the candidates at the polling station where the collection of ballot boxes begins shall accompany the ballot boxes from the place of first collection, and shall travel in the same vehicle or watercraft which carries the ballot boxes right up to the counting station.

22. It shall be an offence for any FEDECO official to prevent polling agents from travelling in the motor vehicle or watercraft carrying the ballot boxes.

23. Each candidate shall be entitled to appoint a maximum of two polling agents for every polling station and a minimum of six counting agents for every counting station, and each such agent shall be entitled to an allowance for food on polling and counting days: such allowance shall be fixed by FEDECO and it shall be paid to each agent by FEDECO and not by the candidate.

24. The present subvention payable to political parties shall be quadrupled; but payment shall be made to each party after the elections, only in proportion to the votes scored by each party.

25. All the five elections shall be held on the same day in only one State at a time, every other day. Accordingly, there shall be five polling booths in every polling station.

26. FEDECO shall cause the Register of Voters to be revised and printed, and shall make one copy available free of charge to each of the candidates contesting the elections not later than thirty days before election day. A candidate who so desires may purchase not more than one copy of the printed register through his political party.

It can be said that these twenty-six proposals speak for themselves. Nevertheless, in order to clear any reasonable doubt, it is necessary to make some comments and observations with specific reference to the kind of mischiefs and frauds which the proposals are designed to combat and cure.

In the first place, the requirement that candidates shall be nominated or sponsored by a number of electors is a relic of British feudalism. Up to 1832, franchise in Britain was restricted to feudal landowners. But by the Reform Act of 1832, franchise was grudgingly extended to the middle classes - that is copyholders, long-lease-holders, householders, and other tenants, excluding the working classes. Even this limited franchise, under which about half of the members of the Commons were landowners and freeholders drawn from less than thirty families only, this limited franchise so outraged the Duke of Wellington, a leading Tory that he predicted that “henceforward no gentleman would be able to take part in public affairs.”

To be continued

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voxpop

4 September, 2016

What is the right punishment for man who rapes his daughter?

Sunday Tribune

Taiwo Olaniyan I think the best thing is to leave everything in God’s hands because He is the one who can give the right punishment.

But notwithstanding, he should go to jail coupled with hard labour to teach others a lesson.

In recent times, cases of fathers raping their daughters have been on the rise, despite that nature and the law frown on such abominable acts. AYOADE ADERINTO sought people’s views on what should be the right punishment for such atrocity.

Joseph Faokunla For a man to commit such a wicked act, it means such a person is highly irresponsible I suggest that he should be sentenced to at least 20 years imprisonment as a punishment for the act.

Tobi Afolabi If a father can rape his daughter, that means he doesn’t care about his family. I think capital punishment, a death sentence to be precise, is not out of place for such despicable act.

John Udoh Such an act is not morally right neither is it biblically right. My ideal punishment for such person is life imprisonment. They should also ensure that he sees a psychologist. But I am against death sentence for such a person. Life imprisonment is okay.

The best punishment is death by firing squad. This act is an abomination and he has to pay severely for such

Eunice Iwikin I wouldn’t advise a death sentence for such a man but I think the right punishment is that his right as a father of that daughter should be withdrawn and also that he should have no form of communication with her again.

Ismail Adeyemo After the man is tested and found to be psychologically stable, he should be sentenced to a period of 50 years imprisonment with hard labour.

Abidemi Salami The man should be sentenced to life imprisonment, in order to teach him a lesson. There, he should regret his action. But this should be after investigations have been carried out and the man is found guilty.

Victor Udoh For such a man, I think the best punishment should be death by firing squad. This is an abomination and he has to pay severely for such.

15

4 September, 2016

children’sarena

Sunday Tribune

Olaide Sokoya ollydesanmi@yahoo.com 0807 449 7425

educative Our teenager’s class is

Sunday school interaction makes us to know one another better

omi 12 years Ayantoye Oluwabusay

Amusan Opeyemi 13 years

is the eresting programme My church’s most int teenagers’ service. ctive h, we have our intera In the teenagers’ churc reae Th s. tie ivi act l and other session, Sunday schoo er and e us to know one anoth son for this is to ensur train us for the future. and erience with each other Lastly, we share our exp the m fro lot ation. I do learn a discuss about our educ teenagers’ programme. with yerful and not to relate We learn how to be pra bad friends.

My church’s most interesting programme is the children’s Sunday school and the interactive programme during church service. This makes us to know one another, play with ourselves better and to know more about Jesus Christ.

We also share our experiences with one another , we learn new songs, especially our holiday camping.

Also, we have Girls Auxiliary programme during which we normally go to camp to learn more about the word of God and for the girls to know how to dress well and to know the type of friend we move around with.

My church’s most interesting programme “Lydia group” is for well-behaved ladies

Oladokun Precious 13 years

‘GA’ helps my spiritual life Opeseitan Moyosoluwa 13 years Most interesting programme in my church is the Girls Auxiliary programme.

It holds every Saturday and we always fast every second Saturday of the month. This programme helps my spiritual life.

The programme is for girls only between the age of 10 and17. The group consists of the maiden, princess, queen, and the queen with scepter.

We share our experience with other church members and ask our Girls Auxilliary counsellor about what is not clear to us in the bible and learn more about Jesus Christ.

poem

Don’t cry for me, Africa Because I will never let you out of my mind I hear your voices; people of Africa I hear your cries; people of Africa I see pain in your eyes people of Africa It is hard to describe what you people of Africa are going through Poverty strikes you all people of Africa Don’t cry for me Africa Because I will keep you in my prayers, people of Africa Power to the people of Africa People of Africa, lift your spirit higher Lord is the light and truth, people of Africa The Lord sends you a message from His heart to you, people of Africa He said because I love you I will answer your prayers I hear your prayers Don’t cry for me Africa Because you have a friend that is the Lord People of Africa continue doing the Lord’s work Make a wish, people of Africa

The Lord’s Supper is best Royal Ambassador

Fehintola Victor 15 years parade is well respected Ayeni Otito-Jesu, 17 years The most interesting programme in my church is the annual partaking of two ordinances; Believers Baptist and the Lords Supper.

My church believes that Jesus Christ is Lord and Saviour, that the bible is divinely inspired word of God that serves as final written authority for living out the Christian faith.

Besides, my church believes that the committed individual Christian can and should approach God directly and that individual gift of ministry should be shared.

My church’s most interesting programme is the Royal Ambassador’s Parade that is held at the end of the service and it is always in a military form.

The parade is made up of the paraders and a general commandant.

The uniform as well interests me which is navy blue; it is cool and fits every member of the organisation that puts it on.

The uniform creates a lot of respect because, it’s in a military pattern and it is well recognised by the military. This organisation is not only found in Africa but in different continents like Asia, Australia, Europe and North America.

The people of Africa are looking at the Lord, face to face Lord, here is no paradise We dream a little dream said the people of Africa to the Lord The People of Africa, Pray that the Lord will give each other strength every day Don’t cry for me Africa Save the people of Africa Strengthen the people of Africa each day Because I’ll be there in your dreams people of Africa Don’t cry for me Africa The people of Africa need hope to heal their land The Lord rose up on you people of Africa Don’t cry for me Africa My heart will go on Once I close this door of the ship, I will sail across the Atlantic Sea.

J

My church’s most interesting programme is the Lydia presentation programme. On the presentation day, the Women Missionary Union (WMU) will present some gifts to the Lydia lady, likewise the Lydia group will present her some gifts too and teach her on how to behave and build a home.

The Lydias are well behaved mature ladies. This programme helps the Lydia group to know how to behave well when they get married. But before you can get to this Lydia stage, you need to pass through some stages starting from Sunbeam to Girls Auxiliary to Lydia group.

Moreover, Girls Auxiliary go for camping to write examination and you need to pass before you can be promoted to another step before you can get to this Lydia stage.

ld eek i Ch e w th f o

ke

Throw away your Sorrow A doctor had just treated his patient of high blood pressure and told him to always avoid thinking too much and learn to forget and throw his sorrows away. When the hospital bill was later handed to him, he threw it away. The doctor asked him why he did that. He replied, ‘but I was only following your advice.”

Deborah Benjamin, SS1A, King’s International College, Moniya, Ibadan, Oyo State.

Sandra Ayomikun Ayodele clocked Happy birthday and many happy returns

10

16 WITH cases pending at both the High Court and the Court of Appeal on the raging royalty battle in Ijesaland, the most convenient argument would be to let the judiciary have the usual final say as anything said in the course of the litigation could be deemed subjudice. Very sound argument. Any in-between intervention would further appear an interloping act, considering that the two major institutions that exercise both the traditional and institutional authorities over the feuding parties, have taken positions.

But I’m touching on this delicate subject matter for two reasons. One, its huge potential for clannish conflagration with lethal result. Two, this intervention is a preachment for peaceful resolution before a simmering volcano gives way.

Peace is sine qua non to development and what is mixing in Itapaland, comprising Erinmo, Igbajorayo, Ooyekun-Ijeda and Omo-Ijesa, is going to threaten the peace of the whole state when it is done brewing, because it is about the extremely-emotional issue of chieftaincy, superiority, homage-paying (isakole) alleged land-grabbing and attempts at re-writing historical facts which would allegedly make a landlord not only become a tenant, but having no claim whatsoever to any portion, in whatever guise, of what should be his, by heritage.

As we speak, the paramount ruler of Itapa-Ijesa, ObaOlapadeAgoro is locked in titanic battle with Elerinmo of Erinmo, ObaOdunayoAjayi. Expectedly, their people, particularly young men who mostly retire everyday from farm to idleness, are queuing behind them. If objectivity isn’t allowed to prevail in the supposed intervention by the involved authorities, regardless of the outcome of the on-going litigation, it may not be long before devil would find work for those idle hands, who have been toughened by the vagaries of the only way to survive; everyday of hard labour, with bulging muscles.

When their likes are “inspired,” the ruinous acts they are capable of, are better imagined.

Sadly, these communities have lived together for more than 200 years in peace before this crisis. The popular historical narrative which the state government and incumbent Elerinmo are disputing (the sacking of Agoro as Owatapa is before the court) is that the progenitor of Itapa-Ijesa and first Owa-tapa, ObaAdugbolohunbiara, originally from Igbo-tapa in present day Ile-Ife, was said to have, in the spirit of accommodation, accommodated the other four including the first Elerinmo, in his domain, carving out kingdoms for the four tenants and collecting royalties from them. Strangely however, there isn’t any portion of the land today, with Itapa nomenclature emblem.

But should such strange generosity now give room for a sleight of hand against history? You wonder why past ElerEDUCATION Minister, AdamuAdamu, shocked the whole country when he said last Monday that 25.3million Nigerian children and youths are out of school. This development has bestowed on Nigeria the despicable prize of the country with the highest number of out of school children.

The news is as galling as it is gnawing. Over 25million Nigerian children who ought to be in school are out of school? That is preposterous. This is more so when it is realised that children under 15 years of age constitute about 45 per cent of the country’s population and the out of school kids are not being engaged in any valuable venture. They are street kids, allowed to waste away their lives and make a mess of the potentialities of the nation.

Twenty five million Nigerian children out of school will in a few years translate to 25 million Nigerians who will grow up with no form of marketable skills. It means 25 million youths without any prospect of any worthwhile employment. It means 25 million potential bomb throwers, armed robbers, kidnappers, pipeline vandals, drug traffickers, human traffickers and prostitutes. It means 25 million Nigerians who will be a pain in the neck of their compatriots and a bulwark to their country’s development.

However, the little comfort that comes from this disheartening news is that the government is not just sitting by lamenting. According to the minister, steps are being taken to redress the situation by enrolling about three million of them every year. This had better be true because the stark reality is that if nothing is done, the number will continue to rise and there may come a time when there would be more Nigerian children out of school than there are in school. I shudder to ponder on what that portends for the nation.

According to UNICEF, 40 per cent of Nigerian children in the North aged between six and 11 do not attend any primary school, especially girls. In the South-East, the number of boys shunning school is also alarmingly on the rise. Dropout rate in primary schools across the country is put at 30 per cent, while only 54 per cent transit to Junior Secondary Schools.

I think the question that should agitate the minds of policy makers and all well-meaning nationals of the

4 September, 2016

0811 695 4647

olanreade@yahoo.com

Osun royalty battle

inmo didn’t challenge the status quo until the ascension of the incumbent? Would the current stiff assault against status quo have anything to do with other top-of-the-pack traditional rulers allegedly backing the Elerinmo for personal friendship sake? Isn’t this needless crisis a tacit confirmation of a clique taking over the traditional institution in the state, fixing members on vacant thrones by fire, by force even when such princes aren’t qualified or the people and oracles rejecting them? Is a brotherhood, allegedly rooted in business links, sealed with official imprints, gradually taking over traditional

With Sulaimon Olanrewaju 08055001708

lanresulaimon@yahoo.com

25.3 million Nigerian kids out of school?

country is that despite the obvious advantages education confers on the educated, why is the idea of enrolling their children in school still repugnant to some parents? Why is it that in spite of the Universal Basic Education programme of the government, school enrolment appears to be on a downward slide? If education is free up to the Junior Secondary Class Three, as we have been told repeatedly by federal and state governments, why are parents withdrawing their children from schools?

Why is it that while the enrolment figure in primary and secondary schools is nose diving, the number of children engaged in child labour is on the increase? A survey of any Nigerian street will reveal a daily increase in the

Sunday Tribune

stools in the state?

No personality directly or remotely connected with the on-going crisis is of any interest here; only due process and peace. It would be for the people to have the traditional ruler they deserve because imposition that would eventually hurt their interest, could be vehemently rejected to the point that the appointing authority would give up, but no battle royale should worth the peace of the state. Any blood that is shed in that axis over this brewing crisis would be on those who should arrest the coming chaos by doing and saying what is right. Such blood will also be demanded of them, both in this life and hereafter. A stitch...

Easy, Team Magu My friend and brother, Wilson Uwujaren, EFCC mediaminder, last Thursday, got me joining a team to inspect the commission’s Lagos provision for detainees. Though the Head of Operations, Mr IlliyasuKwarbai, representing Mr Ibrahim Magu, tried to downplay the significance of the “openness” show, by insisting it was a periodic indulgence, the “display” was no doubt a response to the stinging criticism of Team Magu’s alleged underhand tactics against suspects.

What was on display looked good enough and I was buying into it until a mischievous on-line publisher pointed out that the detainees’ restroom, which we inspected, were better deodorised than the ones within the office complex. I used a restroom there too, but I reserve my comment.

Considering the “unprecedented” recovery success of Team Magu, there may be some truths to the accusations against its adopted style because it is un-Nigerian to willingly return looted funds, but these aren’t normal times. The anti-corruption war can’t be the conventional arrest, bail, perpetual injunction charade but you can’t also cast out demons using the name of Beelzebub. Anything illegal or unconstitutional, done to cure kleptomania, won’t make such therapy acceptable.

Team Magu, without doubt, is passionate but must be law-abiding. Corruption may be narrowly seen as illegal possession of wealth. But it isn’t about what is taken but the act of taking it. This makes any illegal act corrupt. If EFCC is illegally bending and squeezing suspects, then Team Magu is corrupt!

Wisdom demands it is time Team Magu stopped behaving like someone with whitlow on the five fingers, because one sad political culture in Nigeria is that over-pious lieutenants are always steaked when warring parties need barbecue for peace party.

number of young children taking to street trading, hawking ‘pure water’, kola nuts, sweets and biscuits or serving as motor boys and food sellers’ maids. Why is it that parents are more comfortable giving out their teenage daughters in marriage than giving them education? Are the schools meeting the expectations of the parents and pupils? Are the facilities good enough? Are the schools factoring in tribal and religious elements into the learning system?

Experts have come up with many factors; social, religious, tribal and economic, as being responsible for the preference of some parents to keep their children out of school but the Nigerian constitution has made the responsibility of educating every Nigerian child that of the government.Section 18 (1) of the 1999 Constitution states, “Government shall direct its policy towards ensuring that there are equal and adequate educational opportunities at all levels.”Section 18 (3) states that “Government shall strive to eradicate illiteracy; and to this end government shall as and when practicable provide (a) free, compulsory and universal primary education; (b) free secondary education; (c) free university education.”

So, the government is liable for every child that is out of school because it has the constitutional responsibility to ensure the education of all Nigerian children. Consequently, states that have criminalized parents’ failure enroll their children in school should be commended. The rising number of the nation’s out of school children is a failure on the part of the government at all levels. The government should apply the same zeal with which it fights pipeline vandalism, insurgency, armed robbery and kidnapping to ensuring that all Nigerian children are enrolled in schools. This is not just because it is a constitutional matter, but especially because the continued existence of the country may well depend on it.

It has been argued that unemployment and poverty gave rise to the insurgency in the North, the rising armed robbery cases in the South-West, kidnapping in the South-East and restiveness in the South-South but unless the syndrome of out of school children is fought with resolve and reversed, the current security challenges confronting the country would be a child’s play compared with what could happen in the future.

17

4 September, 2016

What fatherhood

has taught me —Olamide

hing n as Badoo, has everyt ow kn ise rw he ot i, uced ej Olamide Aded rd label, YBNL, has prod co re s Hi t. en om m e . Olamide, on working for him at th unle Gold and Lil Kesh ek Ad s ar rst pe has su ’s two of Nigeria his brand of music that ith w s es cc su ed rd co is interview the other hand, has re e music industry. In th th in r te af ht ug so a n. e made his nam e journey has just begu th ys sa er pp ra e th O, with SEGUN ADEBAY

W

HAT has been happ ening to Olamide?

I have been concentratin g on music. Music is my life.

It is the only thing tha t I know. Music gave me the heading when every oth er thing failed me. I ha travelling to different ve been countries for tours an d promoting my brand YBNL has become a big . brand that needs to be well propagated in the right direction for us to achieve the target we set out to achieve.

What is your target?

To keep entertaining Ni geria, Africa and the wo rld at large with good music till I breathe my last.

You have become a popular brand with in and outside the shores of the country . You have had soldout shows across Africa and parts of Europe. But some people believe that your brand may no t last. How long do you think you can go with YBNL? Those who are saying that don’t know how pa ssionate I am about music. My relationship with music is not someth ing I really can explain to you. It is beyond me . Sometimes, when I loo k at the songs I have done and how everythin g was arranged, I always ask myself how did it happen? In the last few years, I have com e to the conclusion tha God and my passion for t music have brought me this far and it will take me even higher tha n this level. I have zero time to attend to other things except music. Wh en I am not performing at shows, I am either recording a new song or working on something that is closely related to music. I don’t know wh ere God is taking my bra nd, but I will continue to work hard. I am a posit ive person. I have never believed I would not be successful. I have always known that my talent wil l pave the way for me.

You said you have been going on tours, could you tell us about it?

I have had tours in the US, London and even Ma laysia. It has not been easy because you have to be up and doing. This is the best time to make my stay count and I am grateful to God for how far we have come. Some people say I am at the top, but I laugh. I usuall y laugh because I have not even got to the level that I am aiming for. I ha ve more than five gigs lined up for me across Eu rope in September. This is my job. I am ready to take on any challenge that comes with it.

Continues on pg20

Sunday Tribune

18

4 September, 2016 Segun Adebayo tegbollistic@yahoo.com 08116954644

Sunday Tribune

Seyi Sokoya seyi_sky@yahoo.com 08075166585

MTN retains Iyanya, Saka, Praiz, Chidinma as ambassadors

Kcee, Don Jazzy, Tiwa Savage, Harrysong not listed STORIES BY SEGUN ADEBAYO

T

HERE are indications that telecommunications company, MTN, may have terminated the services of some of Nigeria’s music superstars’ ambassadorial deals with the company as information reaching R suggested that no fewer than seven A’list musicians did not make the list of the 2016-2017 ambassadors.

Although, the company did not state the names of the artistes whose names may have been dropped, it was gathered that some popular celebrities, who were mainly musician have had their one year contracts with MTN terminated.

R gathered that MTN retained the services of Iyanya, Praiz and Chidinma who were winners and participants of its Project Fame music reality TV show.

Announcing the new set of ambassadors for 2016/2017 in a release made available to R and

signed MTN’s General Manager Consumer Marketing, Richard Iweanoge, the company stated it would in order to continue to support the development of the entertainment industry by financially empowering Nigerian artistes and musicians through the promotion of content on its various digital platforms.

Iweanoge added that, “With the significant investment made so far in Nigeria’s music industry, MTN remains and will continue to be one of the biggest supporters of the music industry. We have a track record of consistently providing the stage for some of Nigeria’s biggest artistes to shine and express themselves”.

According to the statement, music ambassadors for 2016/2017 are: Praiz (Praise Adejo); Iyanya (Iyanya Mbuk); Chidinma (Chidinma Ekile); Falz (Folarin Falana);Tekno Miles (Augustine Kelechi) and Skales(Raoul Njeng-Njeng).

Four other ambassadors include

I never said I would feature Nicki Minaj — Kcee

FIVE Star Music act, Kcee, has denied a report which claimed that he planned to feature female American rapper, Nicki Minaj. Kcee said though he had plans to feature a foreign act in one of his songs, but Minaj was never in his plans.

The Tinana crooner in an interview monitored by Razzmatazz on HipTV on Thursday evening disclosed that he was surprised when people started twisting his words about his intention to collaborate with an international act, adding that “I never said I was going to feature Nicki Minaj. When people started talking on the social media that I wanted to feature Nicki Minaj, I decided to keep quiet, because that was never the plan. I don’t know who told them about Minaj, but I decided not to talk about it because it was not necessary. I know that the rumour would soon go away when we reveal the real person”.

Speaking on why his much-talked about collaboration with a yet-to-be revealed international act was yet to manifest after two years, Kcee disclosed that the deal had been called off, saying “The deal is off. I really don’t want to mention names now because we are trying to resolve the issue amicably. I paid some substantial amount of dollars to this guy, but we didn’t hear anything from him after two years. I asked him to refund my money, but he promised to refund”.

Saka,(Hafiz Oyetoro);Nedu (Steve Onu);Osuofia(NkemOwoh) and Adamu Zango.

Also speaking, MTN Executive, Amina Oyagbola said, “MTN remains proud to be associated with the growth and development of the careers of all our ambassadors, past and present. We specially thank all our former ambassadors for their immense contributions to building our brand and making us the network of choice in Nigeria.

We will definitely continue to maintain the strong and mutually beneficial relationship with them through the monetisation of their content on all our digital platforms - MTN Music+, CRBT and VAS.” It was, however, surprising that popular names such as Don Jazzy, Tiwa Savage, Kcee, Davido, Harrysong did not make the list even as efforts to reach some of them through their social media platforms and mobile phones as of the time of filing this report proved abortive. Messages sent to Kcee and Davido were not replied.

My husband’s condition is stable —Julius Agwu’s wife

AS fans of popular comedian, Julius Agwu continue to express their fears over his state of health after news emerged that the comedian was rushed to a London hospital on Tuesday when he reportedly collapsed during his comedy show, Crack Your Ribs, his wife, Ibere, has come out to calm the nerves of his fans.

Ibere in a message released on Thursday evening thanked Nigerians, especially his fans for their prayers, while also informing that her husband’s condition was stable.

There were fears that Agwu, who had a brain surgery last year, was in a state of coma after pictures showing the comedian in hospital bed surfaced on different social media platforms.

According to her “let me also use this medium to defuse the fears created by some media outlets that had good intentions but used old pictures from Julius’ May 2015 craniotomy, and many people mistook it for his current situation. The pictures displayed on social media in the past 72 hours are old pictures and do not correctly represent his current situation”.

Ibere who confirmed that her husband was admitted due to stress, added that “Julius was admitted due to stress-related issues that necessitated proper rest and rehabilitation. As many of you may already know, he had several shows lined up in the UK during the Nothing Hill Carnival. By the grace of GOD Julius is doing well and receiving adequate care The statement read: “Thank you all!!! On behalf of my husband Julius Agwu, my children Zahra and Zadok and the entire Reel Laif Entertainment family,

I say a big THANK YOU to all that have wished us well; prayed for us and shown concern during the past 96 hours. We thank God for his faithfulness and his restoration power. As you continue to keep him in your prayers, it is our sincere prayer that God will do for you what no man do! Ephesians 6v8.

Thanks and God bless you all. Ibiere Agwu.

19

razzmatazz

4 September, 2016

Sammy is back on the ‘Hustle’

Cobhams Asuquo, Waje, others for Henessy Artistry Live today THE Hennessy Artistry Live RnB and Soul Show by music producer, Cobhams Asuquo, will again display list of stars and talent discoveries for this year’s event billed to hold today at Hard Rock Cafe, Lagos State.

The event, described as the biggest RnB show of the year, will feature artistes including: Soul singer, Waje, Brymo, EME vocalist, Shaydee, singer, Tjan and Ruby Gyang along with other talents like Funbi, Falana, Faith, Omolara and D’Tone Martins.

Cobhams, who will direct the procession, promised to combine perfect blends of individual styles in the RnB genre as guests will also enjoy a variety of Hennessy’s popular cocktails.

Hennessy Artistry, launched in 2006, focuses on celebrating music and discovering unrecognised talents.

Sunday Tribune

House on the Rock, others premiere Ebola film ‘93 Days’ Stories By Seyi Sokoya

T

HE House on the Rock Church, Natives FilmWorks, Michelangelo Productions and the Bolanle Austen-Peters Production are set to host the premiere of the Ebola movie- ‘93 Days’ on September 13, at the Rock Cathedral, 4th Roundabout, Lekki-Epe Expressway, Lagos State.

Starring Bimbo Akintola, Danny Glover, Tim Reid, Somkele Idhalama, Keppy Ekpenyong Gideon Okeke and other actors, 93 Days is a story of dedication, sacrifice and resilience which celebrate the courage shown by the First Consultant Medical Team, the Lagos State and Federal Governments and organisations in combating the Ebola virus, which broke out in Nigeria in 2014.

The movie tells the story of how a few sacrificed their lives at the frontline of the battle against the Ebola virus, some of who lost their lives, but not without saving several lives. Noteworthy is the late Dr. Stella Adadevoh whose role was played by Bimbo Akintola.

Working with her younger colleagues, her early detection of the disease in a patient and insistence on treating him contributed greatly to limiting the spread of the disease. The movie has the central themes of triumph, heroism and a country’s determination to rise above the storm.

Sunny Ade honoured in Houston Ahead of his 70th birthday celebration, popular Juju muscian, Sunday Adegeye, otherwise known as KSA, has been honoured in Houston, United States, as part of the activities marking the birthday.

Aside activities lined-up by KSA and the birthday committee, some organisations and personalities within and outside the country have begun to celebrate the music legend ahead of the September 22 birthday.

In a related development, KSA recently received an award of excellence as an honourary citizen and goodwill ambassador of the city of Houston at the Mayor’s office at a birthday reception organised to celebrate the music legend in a grand style.

The event, hosted by MC Ajele, was also graced by celebrities from all walks of life, while it also featured performances from various cultural groups. Juju musician, Melloh Rhythms, also dazzled at the event.

In his usual way, the Afro beat legend thrilled the audience with his dance performances.

Speaking on why they partnered with the producers, the Senior Pastor of House on the Rock Church, Pastor Paul Adefarasin, said, “House on the Rock’s mission is to work together with everyone that is investing in building a transformed nation, a better Nigeria, and this essence ties strongly into the courage displayed by Dr. Stella Adadevoh and her colleagues who brought hope to a nation that was being threatened by devastation, at the expense of their own lives. This is the kind of love and sacrifice that can truly bring transformation to all.”

One of the producers of the movie, Bolanle Austen-Peters, in

her statement, said, “93 Days is a masterfully crafted story of bravery and sacrifice and is definitely a must see. It showcases the best of Nigeria; it is powerful, gripping and an emotive piece. I am more than proud to have played a part in this project.”

The movie, which depicts the greatness and drives home the importance of unity in conquering and overcoming challenges, was supported by the Lagos State government and organisations .

The new movie has also been selected among the films to be screened at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) in September.

X3M Music act, Sammy Yakubu, is set to enter the mainstream of the music industry with his new single Hustle.

Hustle, a positive call to action and nod to industry that speaks to the present times is an encouraging, up-tempo manifesto that promotes the ideals of hard work and perseverance especially among the youth.

It opens with a scenario where Sammy sings of a certain level of achievement; Small money inu apo/driving round town in my moto/come back home to my ile.

But Hustle is interested in loftier ideals than the glorification of cheap materialism.

In the succeeding verses, Sammy employs his vocal ability to narrate the importance of working hard and the lengths he has gone to achieve the inspirational picture he paints on the refrain.

Produced by Echo, the song’s structure is simple enough to follow. Arranged in refrain-chorusverse style, the bits are played multiple times to guarantee the instant radio friendliness of the material.

Sammy’s semi-nasal vocal inflection is right at home with the

Lagos agog with LCC 5th edition THE fifth edition of the Lagos Comic Convention, an event that serves as a rallying point and gathering of comic lovers is slated to hold in Lagos State on September 17 at the NECA House, Alausa, Ikeja.

The one-day ‘trade fair’ styled event will feature exhibition/ sales, keynotes and panels, multiple rooms for workshops,

master classes and presentations and an area dedicated to co-working, networking and interactive installations, while it will also showcase competitions and movie screenings.

The founder of the convention, Ayodele Elegba, noted that “This year’s edition promises to be bigger and more impactful. Every year the convention has grown to be bigger and better than the last in terms of organisation, crowd participation and quality of speakers and this year’s edition promises to be no exception. Already we have speakers confirmed from four countries; the UK, US, Kenya and Germany.”

Speaking further, he said: “We will also be having workshop sessions, the kids zone is going to be bigger and better as they have the opportunity to participate in mentorship programmes, learn crafts, photography, graphic design, comic book making, digital painting and so on. We are calling on product vendors who are interested in showcasing their wares to get in touch and also sponsors who will like to have their brands associated with the convention to come on board so that together, we can develop this industry.”

Ajebo to reward fan with N.2m at Unleashed 3 POPULAR comedian and cartoonist is back with the third edition of his comedy show. The show which is tagged Ajebo Unleashed season 3 is set to hold at the MUSON Centre, Onikan, Lagos State, today.

In a bid to give back to his fans, Ajebo will be giving away N200, 000 to a lucky fan, who is able to create a funny video skit.

The comedy show since its inception in 2014 has witnessed a sizable turnout due to its delivery of comedy, dance and music performances and is fast becoming a household name.

According to Ajebo, the show will go beyond comedy. “It will go beyond just comedy, it will be a theatrical performance.

Animation which is an integral part of the Ajebo brand will not be left out. We have spiced up the comics to give an altogether enthralling performance. It will be a comedy show like no other”.

20

glitz

4 September, 2016

Sunday Tribune

g n i t e p m o ‘I’m not c

’ y d o b y with an Continued from pg17

How would you describe the transformation your life and career have experienced in the last few years?

I am enjoying my career. I am having fun with what I am doing. I really don’t see it as a transformation, because nothing has changed about me, except for the music business that has grown and expanded beyond what we expected. We can’t complain but to keep working hard in order to meet up with the demands of the industry. Yes, things have changed in one way or the other and one has grown over the years. There are bigger responsibilities now and I thank God for how far I have come. I appreciate my fans, who have always been there with me since Day One. I would not have come this far without them. That’s why I always connect with them in my songs. I pay attention to their reactions to my songs. I know what they want, they know I can deliver and that’s exactly what I am concentrating on. The music will continue to flow from my side and I will appreciate if they keep embracing my songs. People call me a workaholic and I am comfortable with it.

God has used music to turn my life around and I remain thankful to God and my fans for the love You were once rated as Nigeria’s most featured artiste. How do you manage to jump on different songs without sounding the same?

It boils down to my passion for my craft.

As I said earlier, music is my life and I am very passionate about it. My love for music makes the job easier for me. I don’t have to think twice before I jump on any song. It comes naturally. I embrace collaborations regularly because they help me to reach out to people. Many people don’t know Olamide. I am very passionate about making people happy. It is not even about the money. When I see people singing my songs, I am always moved to give them more. Anytime I am approached for collaborations, I find it hard to turn down the offer.

Some people say money connects you to any new collaboration, how true is this?

That’s not true. If it is money, I would not have been in most of those songs that I have appeared. You know why? If I don’t connect with something, I don’t do it. No matter how juicy that thing might seem. I don’t rule out money, but money does not motivate me. Let me tell you that if my spirit connects with any song, then I believe it is the right song for me and I’ll give my best to see it come to reality. I will use everything I have to push the song.

How would you define good music?

Music, for me, is a combination of good sounds and melodies healing to the bones and appealing to the soul. People must be able to connect with your music. That is what I understand as good music.

You are a father and an entrepreneur. You also run a label that has become very popular in the music industry. How have you been handling these responsibilities?

For me, I just have to focus on the right things. I can’t do everything by myself.

I have a team that works with me on every project that I am involved in. As one grows in life, there is the tendency that responsibilities will increase. One has to be very careful not to mix up the whole thing. That is where what I called focus comes in. As an entrepreneur, I know what I am supposed to do and it does not clash with my responsibility as a father. We all want to be responsible in life. Nobody wants to be a nuisance. Being a father is one of the things we all crave for. The level of one’s success in life is measured by how one is able to manage his responsibilities effectively. If you can manage these things very well, you won’t have any problem.

Tell us about your relationship with Lil Kesh and Adekunle Gold. You have been able turn their lives around; you should be proud of what you have achieved with their careers.

What is the feeling like?

There is no special feeling. It is just the grace of God and I give all the glory to Him. To me, I feel like I am doing what God wants me to do, which is to help others grow. I have always said it that I would use whatever God has given me to better the lot of others.

The irony of it is that, whether I do it or not, God will raise another man to do what you feel too big to do.

If it is the will of God that Lil Kesh and Adekunle Gold will be successful in music, whether I support them or not, they will still fulfill their destinies. They already have what it takes to succeed; I only helped them with the platform to make it faster and better.

The competition in the music industry is rife, especially among rap artistes. How do you intend to catch up and stay relevant?

I don’t even see the competition that people keep talking about. Maybe that’s why I am not bothered. Everybody is busy doing music. Nobody is stopping.

I am not doing music because I know there is competition. I am not doing it because I want to edge out some people. I am doing it to entertain my fans.

So, there is nothing to catch up with as far as I am concerned. The only compe-

tition that I have is myself. Once I am able to understand the concept of trying to be better than my last production, then I am okay.

industry?

We are cool. I have worked with Vector, same as MI and others.

What’s your relationship with MI, Vector and other top rappers in the

But you seem to have a special bond with Phyno…

I don’t know what you mean by having a special bond. I can only tell you that we have the same story. We are very close to the people and the people love our songs. We both know what our fans want and we don’t shy away from it. I think one major thing is that we have almost the same background. We struggled from having nothing to creating platforms for others to grow and succeed.

I will stop hustling until I am more popular than Coca-Cola. That tells you that I am not stopping. I have not even achieved 10 per cent of what I want for myself.

How successful is Olamide and how big would you want to go?

I will stop hustling until I am more popular than Coca-Cola. That tells you that I am not stopping. I have not even achieved 10 per cent of what I want for myself. Let me put it this way, I have achieved 10 per cent of my 150 per cent target.

21

4 September, 2016

Sunday Tribune with Segun Adebayo tegbollistic@yahoo.com 08116954644

PEOPLE

places&parties

Aleey Giwa marries in style

T

HE wedding day is a joyous and important one and so it was for the Lagos State Deputy Police Public Relations Officer, Aliyu Giwa, otherwise known as Aleey Giwa and his wife, Afinnih Oyin, as they got married in style last week amid pomp and circumstance.

PPP had reported that the police officer, who is famous with inspirational postings on his Intsagram account

had concluded plans to get married to his long time lover.

The day started with the Nikah ceremony and climaxed with grand reception at the Haven Event centre, GRA, Ikeja, Lagos State.

It was a well-attended ceremony that had top ranking police officers, society bigwigs, politicians and many celebrities in attendance.

It was an event that many people who attended will not stop talking about in a jiffy.

Funke Adesiyan gets her groove back CHANGE is the law of life and those who strictly hold on to the past or the present are certain to miss out on the future. Actress turned politician, Funke Adesiyan understands this fact better than many of her colleagues who lost their

groove and failed to get it back. Although, she is still nursing the wound occasioned by her loss in the last election, when she lost her bid to win a seat in the Oyo State House of Assembly, the tall and busty actress is not one to give up easily.

Shortly after the election, Adesiyan announced she would be enrolling at the New York Film School, where she had been studying in the last six months.

Information reaching PPP suggested that Adesiyan is back in the country

and has appeared on a few locations with a trimmed body that will give her colleagues a run for their money. Those who should know informed PPP that Adesiyan will still put herself forward for political engagements in future.

IN life, honours and rewards fall to those who show their good qualities in action. For Dapo LamAdesina, there could not have been another better

moment for him to have been rewarded for his unwavering passion at making life more meaningful for the people, particularly the youth who he sees as

the future of the country.

Little wonder, his people, nicknamed him ‘Omo Oloore’ after his father, former governor of Oyo State, Lam Adesina. The lawmaker representing Ibadan North-East/Ibadan SouthEast has a way of coming out with his head up in all situations.

Last week Wednesday was not an exception to his towering profile as he bagged an award of excellence as the Most Outstanding Honourable by the Federation of Oyo State Students Union at the Polytechnic Ibadan at its annual Oyo Day celebration.

The award, which Dapo

described as a big honour was presented to him by the President of Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII), Chief Wole Akinwande.

Dapo Lam shines again

Coral pageant organisers roll out plans RED Bulb Events, the organisers of miss coral pageant, have concluded plans to launch its 2016 edition themed “Feast of the Royals”. The pageant is one that celebrates culture, brings to light the beautiful blend between the modern youth and African tradition, also celebrating beauty of all kinds.

Thus, its core idea is to

allow each contestant enhance the inner and outer beauty of the Nigerian woman, while they gain selfconfidence and passion.

This pageant, according to the organisers is open to young Nigeria females between the ages of 18 and 27. The pageant is in search for the next regal ambassador who has charisma, fun and trend.

PPP gathered that the winner will take part in the South Africa Fashion Week and join a top modelling agency in South Africa.

The 1st runner up takes a laptop, a year shoe supply, sleek makeup pack and other consolation prizes.

The 2nd runner up takes home a refrigerator, sleek pack and consolation prizes.

22

4 September, 2016

makeover

Sunday Tribune

Rita Okonoboh 08053789087 tribunemakeover@gmail.com

Makeup: Glitter is the new regular

Prepare the face The first step is to set the eyebrows and foundation Working the crease The crease of the eye should be con-

toured. If it’s a smokey look, the dark colour, that is, black or dark brown that will be used should be applied at the outer corner or the eyelid.

Applying glitter glue The glitter glue is then applied on the eyelids to ensure that the glitter stays on. Another way is to apply eyeshadow to the lid,

used directly above the liquid or gel liners on the eyelids.

Use eyeshadow shields Don’t forget to use eyeshadow shields to prevent glitter particles from falling onto the skin. The glitter eyeliner (liquid), which can be used as a replacement for the regular black liquid or gel liners, can also be

Finishing Finish up the look by applying a very suitable colour to the lips and blush on the cheeks.

PHOTOS: Touch Of Gracie Beauty Parlour

Achieving perfect graphic eye makeup GRAPHIC eyeliners are fast becoming the new regular for eye makeup. Simply put, graphic eyeliners are unique eye designs and can take up just part of the eyelids or the entire eye balls. Online fashion site, StyleCraze, offers a tutorial on how to achieve graphic eyeliner: Step 1: Start applying an eye primer to prevent creasing and fading of the eyeshadows.

Then, draw a small triangular shape at the outermost corner of the eye. Start by connecting an imaginary line from the lower lash line to the brow bone area of the eye to locate the outer most V of the eye. It is best to use a creamy kajal for this step as it will help in easy blending of the product later.

As the makeup look is modern and graphic, we can use a cellotape at the outermost corner of the eye. It will act as a guideline for the eye makeup and will also create a sharp wing at the corner of the eye.

Step 2: Create a thin line in the crease area of the eye. Start by drawing smaller strokes from the innermost area of the eye to the outermost corner of the crease.

Ms Grace Shaba

then use the finger tip or makeup brush to apply glitter on the eyeshadow.

Step 3: Take a smudge brush or a pencil type brush to blend the sharp edges in the eye

makeup look, so if you have messed the eyeshadow or the kajal, you can easily use a cotton swab and clean out the edges.

Photo: www.tricociuniversity.edu

M

AKEUP trends evolve over time and the new big thing is glitter. According to Ms. Grace Shaba, Chief Executive Officer of Touch of Gracie Beauty Parlour, Niger State, who shares some tips on using glitter in makeup with Makeover, glitter particles are used in makeup for the eyes, lips and body.

It’s perfect for jazzing up the eyes and other parts of the body. Glitter is now used for bridal makeup, creating smokey eyes, among other options.

Glitter is available in various forms such as glitter dust (loose); glitter eyeliner, and glitter pencil. However, because glitter makeup is laced with pigments that may not be very safe for the skin, care should be taken while using it to avoid contact with the eyes and also with the glitter glue. Below are steps to applying glitter makeup on the eyes:

makeup softly. Use a light hand to softly blend the kajal inwards to the centre of the eye, leaving a small space empty in the moving lid of the eye.

Step 4: Then, set the applied creamy kajal with a matte black eyeshadow to improve the colour intensity and also set the formula to prevent creasing. It is best to keep the crease area of your eye very sharp and neat for this

Step 5: Take a deep black liquid eyeliner and mark out your crease area of the eyes to give a sharp and clear graphic look to the eyes.

Rest your little finger on your cheeks for balance and start drawing the eye liner slowly in soft short strokes. Then, apply a shimmery cream base to the centre of the moving lid area of the eye. This step will help in adding light to the eye makeup and also make eyes appear bigger.

Step 6: Apply a light champagne-colour eyeshadow in shimmer or satin finish above the cream eyeshadow, which was applied earlier. This step can be done with fingers as well as using a brush. Apply the same creamy black kajal to the waterline area of your eyes. Then, apply the required amount of mascara to offer a thicker lash effect. Clean any fall outs and conceal the under eye area to give a sultry and neat effect to your eyes.

Apply a soft champagne or cream-colour shimmery eyeshadow to the innermost corner, brow bone area and the tear duct area of the eyes to highlight your eyes. With this step we complete the graphic eye makeup look.

23

4 September, 2016

sundayzest

Sunday Tribune

With Victory Oyeleke victoryoyeleke@yahoo.com

Nigeria in recession:

What lies ahead

R

ECENT statistics indicate that Nigeria has fallen into recession for the first time in more than a decade with 2.06% economy growth contracting between April and June.

The negative growth of two consecutive quarters, which the country had gone through means it had met the generally accepted definition of a recession. While things have always been tough in Nigeria, and previous recessions were taken as part of standard economic austerity, this recession will be one of the hardest.

Brent crude oil sales account for 70% of the government’s income and with the falling price of oil, the coffers would not be as robust as it normally used to be. Brent crude oil sold for $112 a barrel in 2014 and $48 on Wednesday, August 31st, 2016. Though prices have recovered a few times over the last year, they are below what producers need to drill profitable wells.

As a result, even before this recession, major oil companies in Nigeria had to decommission more than twothirds of their rigs and lay off thousands of workers.

A devalued naira in a recession is a recipe for hardship. According to experiences of recession, the value of any currency depreciates during a recession, as was the case in the UK during the 2008 recession. The pPound fell nearly 20% experiencing a significant depreciation.

However, Euro and Dollar were less affected. This might be because the US and most Eurozone economic power were not in services like the UK but in manufacturing and producing Currently, Nigerian is more dependant on the provision of services.

Mobile phones-GSM was introduced into the Nigerian market in 2001 and created jobs that never existed in such scale in Nigeria. The provision of service rather

than the production of goods provided many with financial security.

Domestic air transport in Nigeria also started thriving from early 2000. Aero Contractor, ADC Airline, Bellview, Kabo Air, IRS Airlines to name a few all created job opportunities for thousands of people.

Private schooling was also a cushion many fell into for employment.

If what happened in the West during the 2008 recession is anything to go by, then harsher time ahead is inevitable.

Already, Aero Contractors, the oldest domestic airline in Nigeria has suspended flights and placed its staff on leave.

Two international flights in June also suspended flights to Nigeria due to the economic crisis- low demand and foreign currency restrictions.

When push comes to shove, other things will take priority over recharge cards, and mobile phones which inevitably leads to less demand for the service and as such, layoffs follows.

This period will be the most trying for most businesses, however; some will be hit harder than others.

Financial information from the UK recession gives a glimpse into what people consider unnecessary during tough times.

Hospitality Industry: The first thing consumers cut during tough time is eating out. This had a dire consequence for the industry in the UK where pubs and restaurants are still recovering from the recession while other sectors are beginning to boom. Hotels and motels will also be affected, as people would also spend less on vacationing.

Airline industry: The ripple effect from the hospitality industry will trickle down to the aviation. With people looking for cheaper ways to travel around, chances are road would be more affordable than air. If it is not a priority, then people mainly cut travel during recession. Pilots

and flight attendants are directly affected. Already Iberia and United Airlines have halted services to Nigeria. Indirectly, such cuts will affect flight engineers and even down to airport cleaners and airport taxi drivers.

Construction: House building, road construction and maintenance, and construction of any kind take the back seat when budgets are being tightened as a result, both the local bricklayer and engineers working with big companies will suffer the same fate.

Cement and Concrete Product Manufacturing: The halt in new projects and slowing of existing ones in the construction sector will produce a domino effect that hurt other industries that are dependent upon it. Cement and concrete product sellers and manufacturers might have to diversify to outlive the recession.

Carpentry: The need for carpenters and carpentry is highly influenced by economic status, which is linked to construction of houses. For this reason, carpenters will see a significant loss in job opportunities.

Office Supplies, Stationery, and Gift Stores: Vendors including those selling school supplies took a hit during the UK recession.

Printing: Although this sector saw a decline in theWest, it might not necessarily be the case in Nigeria as businesses from churches might boost sales, unlike the UK where churches holding conferences are not as much, and the majority of them uses digital means for advertising.

Furniture Stores: People mainly hold off making major purchases during tough times. Furniture usually falls into that category, and home furniture stores suffered as a result.

Newspaper, Periodical and Book: buying of newspapers and books is not usually a priority during an economic downturn.

24

Sunday Tribune

Sunday Tribune

4 September, 2016

glamour

People think,

as movie stars, you must

have money —Sheyi Ashekun

Oluwasheyi Temitope Ashekun, a Mass Communication graduate of Babcock University, Ilisan Remo, Ogun State, is a Nollywood actress and producer. In this interview with TAYO GESINDE, she speaks on her foray into acting, how she almost quit the industry, among other issues. Excerpts:

Educational background OR my primary education; I attended Command Children School, Bony Camp, then I went to Reagan Memorial Baptist Girls Secondary School, both in Lagos State. For my university education, I attended Babcock University where I studied Mass Communication.

F

Foray into acting I got into the movie industry professionally in 2010. I acted in a soap opera in 2006; I was in school and getting education was my first priority at that time. So, I didn’t want anything to get in the way. I had to wait until I graduated and did my National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) programme in October, 2009, before I decided that acting was what I wanted to do. Having made that decision, I started speaking with people I knew could be of help. I met Alhaji Akeem Balogun (Olasco films) who sent me to Adebayo Tijani and that was how the journey started in 2010 The journey so far I have experienced the high, low and everything in between. There were times when it looked very good and promising and there were times when it was draining and

discouraging and I considered quitting, but I thank God for the good people who believed I could do it and encouraged me to keep doing it. Today, I’m happy I listened to them. I give all thanks to God. I have featured in quite a number of movies, like Agbelebu, Onikaluku; Eni Owo, and Iman.

I have produced two of my own movies entitled Fifehanmi and Aranbada.

Most challenging role so far without one hindering the movement of the other. I’m I am yet to play a role I would tag ‘challenging.” not in a competition with anyone. I simply choose to focus on myself, my growth and development. I want Other things I do aside acting to be as versatile and as flexible For now, acting is all I do. This job requires as possible so that I time for one to grow. I’m giving it that time now. can interprete my characters the best Role models way I can.

Some of my role models are Ronke Ojo, Fathia Balogun, Omotola Jalade Ekehinde and a few others.

Coping with competition The sky is wide enough for different birds to fly

On provocative dressing, again, your confidence is what matters. If you feel you have the body to pull it off, please, go for it.

25

With Tayo Gesinde temiligali03@yahoo.com 08054727801

Pains and gains of being a celebrity The gains are: going to a place and being recognised and getting things that normally would take time done in a couple of minutes because you are known and people love you and want to assist you. The pains are that you can’t do things and get away with them.

So you constantly have to be careful and some people even expect you to be a superhuman. Also you spend more, because people think you have a lot of money because you are on TV. Most embarrassing things that fans have done to me People expect you to know them because they know you. They start talking about you right to your face and claim you are not greeting them. Sometimes, I feel they expect you to greet everyone on the road whether or not they know you. If you greet me, I will answer politely and respectfully.

Assessment of Nollywood Nollywood is growing and I’m so proud and feel lucky to be part of the growth.

Philosophy of life My philosophy of life is “To yourself, be true.” Be true to yourself and your conscience always.

How I handle my male admirers Most male fans are courteous and respectful, but the ones that choose to be disrespectful, I set them straight.

Definition of style My definition of style is; be comfortable and wear things you feel good in.

Beauty regimen My beauty routine involves a lot of sleep when I’m not working, I try to eat right and spend time only with people that give me positive vibes.

Fashion obsessions Shoes. I love shoes a lot.

Opinion on toning My opinion on it is this: if it boosts your self confidence, then go for it because in the end, confidence is the major thing you need to reach any height.

My take on provocative dressing On provocative dressing, again, your confidence is what matters. If you feel you have the body to pull it off, please, go for it. However, you have to consider the community you are living in, the beliefs of the people and how liberal or rigid they may be, so you don’t get hurt.

My view on cosmetic surgery Whatever you choose to correct, please do it for yourself; your happiness, to boost your self-esteem and not for anyone.

Special treat When I want to pamper myself, I go on vacation outside the country. I receive less calls when I’m away from work. I just rest, see new places and do some shopping.

Qualities I want in a man Respect for God, for himself, for everyone he comes across and, of course, for me.

Advice for aspiring actors Life is not a bed of roses, so be prepared to work.

Acting is not a joke; it’s not child’s play and you don’t get to the top the moment you get in. You grow gradually and if you are tenacious enough, you will surely get there.

26

4 September, 2016

With Akintayo Abodunrin akinjaa03@yahoo.co.uk 08111813058

Olutayo Irantiola, the initiator of cultural advocacy programme, Yoruba Lakotun, appraises the impact of the initiative a year after its inception

O

NE year after the commencement of Yoruba Lakotun, how has the going been?

The journey of one year seems like forever. The episodes come in quick successions and we have been moving from one level of strength to another. It is an unpopular journey in an age when everyone thinks Westernization is ‘civilization’ whereas; we are civilized people in our way. It is unfortunate that we are the ones that have relegated ourselves when the attention of the world is on our culture and literature.

Our advocacy with Yoruba Lakotun is yielding fruit —Irantiola

of Nigeria; Shobam Palm Wine, the official drink of the event; our matron, Madam Iyabode Aboaba; everyone who have attended and performed at the event.

Has the feedback you’ve been receiving justified holding the program?

The feedback has been great from those who have been a part of the programme and those who have seen the video online and through the media. We are being encouraged by the number of people who have a different orientation now based on our advocacy. Parents are starting to trace their steps to their roots while children are picking words in Yoruba language.

What was the initial goal of Yoruba Lakotun and would you say they are being realised?

The initial goals of Yoruba Lakotun are to be an avenue for cultural renaissance; to celebrate Yoruba writers and literature; cre-

Irantiola ate a platform for creative people in other genres of cultural performances. We ensure that all these goals are achieved at each edition.

Who have been your supporters?

There are a lot of people who have thrown their weight behind Yoruba Lakotun. We are grateful for all the support that we have enjoyed from our principal partner, Ethnic Heritage Centre, Ikoyi; a centre where people are taught the three major languages

Playing for unity A review of Uzor Maxim Uzoatu’s Doctor of Football by Michael Jimoh CHRONICALLY distrustful of the military or political rulers, scornful of economic policy makers and executors, Nigerians of all stripes almost always present a united front when it comes to one thing: football That unity is the subject of this unusual but charming play, Doctor of Football, by a professional dramatist who has taken on an uncommon theme and presented it with characteristic brio. Less competent playwrights would have baulked at the double task of staging a short, action-packed drama and a soccer match simultaneously on stage in a short time frame. But not Uzor Maxim Uzoatu, graduate of Dramatic Arts from the University of Ife in the halcyon days of the department when Wole Soyinka was Head of Department. Uzoatu was also a player on the campus team for years.

Uzoatu is now a senior journalist in Lagos, having worked in various capacities in as many media houses. In between his newspaper work, Uzoatu turned his attention to serious literature and, in the process, has written ‘God of Poetry’, a collection of his poems, ‘The Missing Link’, a satirical novel on Darwin’s theories on evolution. ‘Doctor of Football’ is his first published play, published and performed in 1979 but now reworked, reedited and recently republished.

The conflict in Doctor is simple and straightforward: determination to win a match. To do that, three or so teenagers approach a native

doctor to prepare charms for them to become victors in the encounter. (If you think Uzoatu’s subject is so far-fetched, just think of the charges and counter-charges once lobbed and parried by Supporters Clubs of local and national teams in Africa for seeking the services of medicine men to decide matches.)

At any rate, the magic-seeking chaps lose to their opponents. Disgruntled, they accost the Juju man and demand for their money. The native doctor refuses. From then on, the accusers and villain trade words and even threaten themselves, the boys with police while the sham medicine man menaces the footballers with the mystical powers of the gods.

Written for only six characters, any one would assume he/she is reading about an on-going match, complete with jerseys, balls, whistles, goal posts, referees, yellow and red cards. The audience doubles as spectators. Set in the main character’s shrine, the Doctor of Football aka DOF in the play is a rambunctious rascal who capitalizes on the childlike innocence of his victims but cannot quite contain their stubborn insistence on getting back their money.

One of them is Ahmed, the most vociferous of the boys who sees through Doctor for what he truly is – a conman. Bassey also recognizes Doctor as a fraud. But the other two, Bayo and Timi, are more naïve, and so are somewhat sympathetic towards the old man, a penurious simpleton who has turned to crime to survive life’s unfairness. All of them carry this racy, risible drama along at a heady pace, what with their testy and often funny dialogue with the old Doctor.

As in a football game, DOF is divided into

First and Second half instead of Acts and Scenes that separate actions in plays. There is Injury time, as well. Reminiscent of a real match are some of the actions which segue into the dialogue: After collecting a second payment from the hoodwinked lads, Doctor hides the money in his pocket chanting “Inside the net, inside the net.” Also, he sings “Over the bar, over the bar,” when he is hard done by. Yellow and Red cards are issued at will, not counting the fouls each time the kids become too confrontational.

Exposed in the end, Doctor runs off and hides in the audience, blasting away on his whistle to signal the end of the game/ play/ action. Not yet, as the boys search for and drag him to the stage, insisting that there is injury time also, at the same time discharging him of his loot.

But Uzoatu’s denouement does not come until one of the boys, Nnamdi, long taken for dead after a cruel encounter with a tyrannical ruler, is recognized and reunited with his father, the dubious Doctor himself.

The message of unity through soccer shines through in DOF, starting with the name of the characters. More important is, after the altercation between the villain and his accusers they all end up as one happy family. That buoyant ending sometimes reflect the moods and actions of Nigerians in post-match situations involving the national team: previously non-speaking neighbours suddenly make up, usually over some rounds of drinks at home, in bars or just about anywhere - win or lose.

•Jimoh, a literary journalist and writer, lives in Lagos.

Given the preference for Western culture, clothes, food and even names, don’t you think people will see Yoruba Lakotun as just your own personal fancy?

This preference for Western culture happened in the last 30 to 35 years when the elites chose to prepare their children for the Western world while the middle class tried to imitate them.

However, in order to communicate effectively in your second language; one must be grounded in the mother tongue. People like Professors Wole Soyinka, Chinua Achebe, Niyi Osundare, Remi Raji are all versed in their mother tongue and this has set their writings apart. These are some of the numerous examples that have stood out because they are grounded in their mother tongue.

Yoruba Lakotun has many parts; our activities will soon be felt in other areas too.

We would reward children who excel in the language through different competitions and provide content in the language too. We cannot afford to abandon our culture despite her richness for the second coming of the Americans to teach us our language.

You are an author and you initiated Yoruba Lakotun to revive and promote Yoruba language but your published work is in English. Can you write Yoruba and when are you publishing in the language?

My first work is in English language which is a biography titled ‘Life and Times of Revd J.A. Okesiji, JP’ while my second work is titled ‘Thought Patterns’ written in English and Yoruba languages. We have an anthology of poetry written by different poets in Yoruba language co-edited by Oyeleke Odoje and I. However, we are still searching for a publisher who is willing to embark on this journey of renaissance with us.

Now that the program is one, what are your plans for the celebration?

The celebration of the anniversary has started. We are appreciating all our partners for the journey so far till date and we would converge at Ethnic Heritage Center, Ikoyi for the grand finale today (September 4).

We would have a Yoruba writer and other guests from corporate and social Nigeria as we learn from the sage.

Apart from Yoruba Lakotun, you also have a literary program for children in correctional institutions, how is that going?

That is the beauty of bilingualism which the children of today are being denied off. I read with these children to take them out of the confines of where they are kept and also engage their minds. I have discovered that they are very intelligent and all they need is someone who cares enough to engage them outside of their routine.

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4 September, 2016

thepolity Against the backdrop of the disruption of the Jumaat prayer attended by Governor Yahaya Bello as part of activities marking the 25th anniversary of the creation of the Kogi State, YINKA OLADOYINBO examines the chain of events leading to the incident.

K

OGI State in the North-Central part Nigeria was again in the news in the last one week, in continuation of the political crisis that has engulfed the state since the completion of the last governorship election. The government of the confluence state had rolled out the drums to celebrate the silver jubilee of the creation of the state with some programmes lined up to add spices to the fourday event.

The programme started on Thursday and was expected to continue on Friday, with a special Jumat prayer at the Lokoja central mosque. The prayer session, however, turned out to be a stoning session as the state governor, Alhaji Yahaya Bello and his entourage was reportedly attacked by some people, who hauled various objects at the governor. The situation was said to have degenerated as the governor allegedly hurriedly left the environment after observing the prayer.

The latest development in the state, according to political pundits, is confirming that the political landscape of the state was yet to be devoid of crisis. Many had expected that, having won at both the Election Petition Tribunal and the Court of Appeal, the governor would enjoy the support of the political class and the people across board.

However, that was not to be, as it is obvious that Bello is now fighting many battles on many fronts.

The problem had started with the governor’s emergence as the candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) as a replacement for the late Prince Abubakar Audu for the supplementary election of December 5, 2015. Since he was named by the national secretariat of the party, there has been no love lost between his political camp and that of the late former governor, headed by his deputy governorship candidate, Honourable James Faleke.

The situation got worse when Faleke, who was supposed to be a deputy governorship candidate to Bello, rejected the offer and challenged the declaration of Bello as governor before the tribunal, a development that was novel in the political lexicon of Nigeria.

The governor later faced stiff opposition from the State Executive Committee (SEC) of his party which passed a vote of no confidence in him after accusing him of running the government like his personal estate. The party officers had accused the governor of appointing people that never worked for the APC or were involved in the process that led the party to victory into offices. The members of the SEC, led by the state chairman, Hadi Ametuo, therefore asked the national secretariat to call the governor to order or else the APC might go into extinction in the state.

Besides, the governor also went through a leadership crisis that crippled the state House of Assembly for over six months and

Undercurrents of Kogi’s political game

The workers connection

Gov Bello prevented the legislative arm from performing its statutory responsibilities. Upon assumption of office on January 27, 2016 by the governor, it was obvious that there was the need for a change of guard for the sake of even distribution offices, at the legislative arm of government as both the governor and the then Speaker of the House of Assembly, Momoh Lawal, were from the same Okene Local Government Area of the Kogi Central Senatorial District. The crisis brewed when the governor insisted on a member of his party and minority in the House should emerge as the speaker. After about six months of bickering, maneuvering, political horse trading and legal tussle, the crisis was resolved.

But as all the political crises were unfolding, the governor, in fulfillment of his promise, commenced the processes of cleansing the state civil service of rot and corruption, which he said, had characterised the system since the creation of the state. This he started with the setting up of the General

Odigie-Oyegun, APC national chairman OlusolaOkuntimo-led committee for staff screening. The committee had as part of its mandate, the determination of the actual work force of the state with the aim of having a clean payroll.

The constitution of the committee was based on the belief and findings that there was an endemic corruption in the civil service, which is largely allegedly being perpetrated by the top echelon of the service in collusion with some lower officers. As a result of this, before the committee commenced its assignment, the governor sent many top civil servants at both the state and local government on compulsory leave, apparently to prevent interference in the work of the committee. Those affected by the step were the Head of Service, permanent secretaries, Directors of Local Government Administration, treasurers, cashiers, education secretaries, among others.

Observers in the state had lauded this bold step of government at cleansing the service, but were skeptical about the implementa-

tion of the report. The pessimism was as a result of past experiences where such move were made by past administrations who allegedly found it difficult to implement the reports of the committees put in place for such exercises. The people of the state across political and ethnic divides were of the opinion that if Bello can be sincere with the exercise and at the end ensure that the rot is cleaned, he would have written his name in gold as it was believed that billions of naira are being lost to the fraudulent inclusion of ghost workers on the payroll.But while the exercise lasted, the tension in the state increased. Some of the moves of the committee, which had representatives of the organised labour as members, pitched it against the leadership of the workers and this eventually led to the workers pulling out of the exercise. The development also consumed Okuntimo as he was removed by the governor based on the demand of the organised labour.

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inter

Decisive moment APGA, others are my opponents, not PDP —Obaseki

Mr Godwin Obaseki is the governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Edo State. In this interview, he expressed optimism of victory, just as he raised the alarm over alleged plot by the PDP to unleash mayhem on the day of the election so as to truncate the exercise. Excerpts:

H

Godwin Obaseki

O W optimistic are you of victory?

We have campaigned extensively. If you recall, this is the second time I am embarking on this kind of campaign. During the primary, I went through the 192 wards. The campaigns for the main election has been more detailed, I went to communities I did not have the opportunity of visiting during the primaries and it has been quite revealing. Firstly, it would be a miracle for PDP to win in Edo State because as we have gone round the communities, we just don’t see their presence. We don’t hear their message, probably because they don’t have any message. In every community we have gone to, we can point to a project that the APC government has undertaken and that explains the popularity of the party. The issue in most communities is that they want more. It is easy to argue that, given our track record of performance, they should allow us to continue to provide for them. Unlike that of PDP, whose track record was so bad that in their 10 years, there was nothing to show the people of the state. So, that being the fact on ground, it has been easy to appeal to the voters to vote for me as the APC candidate and my running mate, Philip Shuaibu.

The second issue is that we have been able to counter their lies because without any message to send, they have gone round to tell lies to people, campaign of calumny, lies to create tension and anxiety and prepare the place for violence. For them, the only way they can win is for them to unleash violence and steal ballot boxes to produce fake results and we know clearly they are working on such strategies. There is evidence and we have reported to security agencies. They are importing people from neighbouring communities to come and cause mayhem so we can have inconclusive election. We also have evidence of the people they brought in to register during the voter registration exercise. You could see from the incident at llushi, where they attacked my campaign train.

Due to the frustration and fear that they are going to lose the election, some of their supporters are even acting the violent script even before the day. They cannot even hold it back anymore.

So, they are masters of propaganda. While we are campaigning, the PDP leadership is using the ill-gotten money to oil their propaganda machine and misinforming the people. Much of their proposed theory is to deceive people, give them false impression that they are winning.

No concrete message for the people. They are selling a message about the future when they destroyed the past.

They go to the markets, trying to create fear, using the current economic crisis to campaign. But we have gone round to explain to people that these are the same people who caused this economic recession, destroyed our economy. You know we are campaigning in riverine areas and those are the areas they are targeting, places like llusin, Gegelege, Agenebode. Our borders are the areas they intend to perpetrate violence and there is evidence they have brought in people in Oredo, Egor and Ikpoba Okhai. They planted at least two militants each from the Niger Delta in each of the units in these metropolitan ar-

eas so that they can cause mayhem that may lead to inconclusive election.

That is their strategy and we have told security agents.

But is this recession problem not affecting your party in the campaigns and the elections ahead?

In the case of Edo, we know the people are very enlightened. We have been explaining to them that the recession is global. But what is more important is what we have been doing to solve the problem. Campaigning round the state, I found out that in the rural areas, people are beginning to make a lot of money due to rise in prices of goods. But we have told them prices will come down as a result of these productions we are seeing. In most areas with tarred roads, we see people drying rice; people going to their farms to harvest yam and lorry loads of foodstuff coming out. So, we have been selling a message of hope that the recession is only temporary. And because they trust us, they are buying into the message. The other advantage we have is that they have tested the PDP before and they don’t see PDP as an option. When we ask them, they said sometimes they don’t even know who the PDP candidate is, whether it is Ize-Iyamu or Iduoriyekemwen. So, even their members are confused, while many of them felt APC is the only hope and they are joining us every day. So, PDP has no hope in this election. For me, the real opponents I have are that of APGA, Osaro Onaiwu and others but not PDP. So, I laugh when they resort to making comments in the papers. They only exist in the papers not on ground and for me it is another 419, so that the PDP governors will bring money for them to share. Of course, those guys are 419 guys who have been there since 1999, making money from deceiving people.

But it is all over for them in Edo. APC in Edo led by Governor Adams Oshiomhole has buried them and we will bury PDP continuously.

Any fear of anti-party?

Nobody in APC will do anti party. That was Ize-Iyamu’s prayers because he called several APC members to come and play the trick he knows best and work against their own party. But they shunned him. The reconciliation effort we have done has been very successful. You would have noticed that some of our colleagues, who were aggrieved after the primaries, have been working very closely with the party in their various wards and local

APC in Edo led by Governor Adams Oshiomhole has buried them and we will bury PDP continuously.

governments. We are all together. I was even touched seeing our members contributing money for the campaigns in their various wards. I am so grateful to them.

What is also interesting and what helped us is the wave of defection from PDP to APC. Our people are working in unison, particularly in the local governments like Orhiomwon, Uhumwonde. Those are the areas we had concerns before. But those areas are solid now and under the control of APC. The leaders of the party there are working together now.

People see you as a stooge to Governor Oshiomhole. How real is this?

I keep saying to them that if I was a stooge for the last eight years and that led to the amount of development and progress that we have made, then if being a stooge will lead to the progress of my people, I will rather be a stooge to my people than being a non-stooge that will steal our common wealth. It is nonsense. What is the issue? The issue is about development, about utilising our wealth for our common good. So, if being a stooge means utilising public funds for the betterment of the people of Edo, if being a stooge means I am not going to meet with any godfather to decide on how my budget will be implemented, then I will rather be such a stooge. One of the PDP candidates, Ize-Iyamu, has all his life been a stooge to the Igbinedions. Starting as a personal assistant to Lucky Igbinedion, chief of staff to his government and later the most powerful Secretary to the State Government, who signed the sacking of over 7,000 workers who are crying of pension which the Oshiomhole’s administration is paying today. Let me tell you, we need to begin to change the paradigm. I keep asking people to tell me in specific terms what the Oshiomhole’s administration have not done in the last seven and a half years. So, what is wrong about propagating and continuing with those strides? We must redefine our politics from these brain dead hawks in our politics who think they can continue to destroy and distract our people. The issue is: what did you do with political authorities? Being in the back room of this administration in the last seven and a half years, I directed the policies more. I pointed to the Comrade governor, the direction we should go. So, did that make Adams a stooge? Sometimes try and understand their logic, because of their poor education which has never allowed them do other things in their lives. They make those silly arguments about being a stooge. If with all we have achieved under Oshiomhole made me a stooge, I accept.

Then let Ize-Iyamu also accept that he is a stooge to Igbinedion and let him take the blames of the failure of the PDP for 10 years. At least, with that you will expect him to toe the path of honour by withdrawing from the contest.

What is your message to the Edo people?

I want to first and continue to thank Edo people because across the state, I have found out during our campaigns that we have groups and communities which voluntarily endorsed me, assuring me that they will vote for me. My appeal is to security agencies to ensure that they monitor the process to ensure we have no violence. If we have an election, free, fair and credible, that is devoid of violence, I am certain we will trounce the PDP, no matter who they decide to produce as the candidate. I will pick at least 80 per cent of the votes come September 10.

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4 September, 2016

in Edo State

How I will make Edo prosperous —Ize-Iyamu

Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidate in Edo State, Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu, speaks on the reasons he is in politics, his assessment of the incumbent government in the state and plans for Edo State if elected. BANJI ALUKO brings excerpts.

A

S a pastor of the Redeemed Church, many think you are not supposed to be involved in politics. Do you really think you should be on the podium campaigning for votes or the pulpit talking to the congregation?

The truth of it is that, for a long time, there have been quite some wrong teachings among us Christians. In the past, there was this wrong teaching about poverty, that rich men cannot make heaven and only poor people will make heaven. So, a lot of Christians will shun good jobs and say no, ‘if I take that job, I will not make heaven.’

Later, they realised that there was no scriptural basis at all for such belief. When Jesus talked about how hard it will be for a rich man to make heaven, he was referring to those who carry riches above the things of God, not that rich men cannot make heaven.

Rich men can make heaven if they use their wealth in a manner that will please God. In fact, your riches can actually guarantee you heaven if it is well used. So, that was one wrong teaching then.

It is the same thing with politics. You say Christians should not be involved in politics, but it is through politics that leaders emerge. Are you saying Christians should not be leaders and yet politics and the actions of the leaders affect our daily lives, then what are we talking about? It is true that in Nigeria, politics is seen to be very dirty. It is so because we have allowed the wrong people to be in it.

When you have bad people in politics, the system will be bad. So basically, because good and decent people do not participate in politics, that is why we are facing what we are facing. It is time that we take the bull by the horns and be active in politics to reverse the system. As the Bible puts it, when the righteous rule, the people are happy.

I have garnered experience in politics and governance. I was a Chief of Staff and former Secretary to the Edo State government. I am a lawyer by profession and farmer.

Edo is blessed with solid minerals. What do you plan to do with these assets as governor?

Edo State is rich in mineral and agricultural resources.

Edo North, for example, is one of the richest senatorial districts in terms of mineral deposits in the country with 18 known deposits, including gold, marble, limestone, phosphate and many others. Edo State ought to be a land of plenty, but we have in the last eight years had a government without vision. That is why I am appealing to every eligible voter in Edo that they have the power to effect a change on September 10, 2016. It is the power to ‘change the change.’ Under the APC government, what we have had is a daily cycle in which we struggle to make a living.

Cost of living has gone up and the prices of fuel, kerosene, rice and tomatoes have all gone up. Our people are wondering what went wrong. I say now is their time to take the future. They must vote to change the direction in which APC is leading us as a country. This is our chance; we must seize the moment.

How would you rate the outgoing government in Edo state?

For the last eight years in this state, the government has never asked the people any question. I believe we must give the government back to the people. In Edo State, we are close to having a little boy, who was born in Be-

nin, who attended primary school in Benin, who went to secondary school in Benin, who attended the University of Benin and worked in Benin as the governor.

That is me. There is hunger in the land. There is chronic unemployment in the land. There is poverty in the land. When there is poverty in the land, our women bear the brunt. We must reverse this situation.

What are your plans if you get elected as governor?

My plan is simple and is contained in a brochure called the Simple Agenda. We cannot expect to build a safe and secure state when we have not taken steps to create jobs for our young men and women. In the past eight years, all the industries that used to provide jobs for our young men and women have been closed down by an insensitive government. Where is Edo Line? Where is Bendel Breweries? Where is Bendel Insurance? Where is Urhonigbe Rubber Factory? Where is Uromi Fertilizer Plant? Where is Ehor Fruit Juice Factory?

I strongly believe that government must first take care of its responsibility towards the people before it can have the moral right to ask the people to take care of their responsibility towards the government. To this end, I declare that we will review the excessive multiple taxation burden in this state and in consultation with the people, evolve a simple tax structure. I am prepared from Day One to work assiduously towards increasing opportunities to be skilled, to be equipped and to be empowered with a small business loan in the communities to give our people the power and be ready to prosper. All 192 wards in Edo will have a social welfare officer whose job it will be to be the first point of contact on issues of maternal mortality, infant mortality and balanced child nutrition up to the age of five. They will visit you in your homes to ask you how government can help you.

On infrastructure, we must resolve to build the infrastructure of the mind and soul where brother cares for brother and sister cares for sister and we all care for our senior citizens. We cannot allow our senior citizens retire into penury. On education infrastructure, we must first train our teachers to be the best so that they can change the way we reward them and the way they teach. We must equip every school with a computer laboratory to enable our children function and compete with their counterparts across the world. Every Edo student in tertiary

Where is Edo Line? Where is Bendel Breweries? Where is Bendel Insurance?

Where is Urhonigbe Rubber Factory? Where is Uromi Fertilizer Plant? Where is Ehor Fruit Juice Factory?

Ize-Iyamu

institutions will be entitled to bursary award.

What about a critical infrastructure like road?

We plan to evolve a system that makes our six dry months work for us like 12 months by introducing double shifts in road construction contracts. On health infrastructure, we plan to build a healthcare system that is second to none in Nigeria. A figure of 17 per cent maternal and infant mortality is unacceptable and must be reversed. We will build well-equipped primary healthcare centres in every local government across the state to bring healthcare to the doorsteps of our beautiful mothers, wives and daughters. It is estimated that two out of every 25 women die of breast cancer every year in the state. Awareness is the key and catching it early makes it possible to get a cure.

We must build cancer screening centres in every market across the state for early detection. We must protect our women.

On manpower development and training, we will equip the Edo youth to be the most productive youth in Nigeria.

A society that trains its youth is a society that plans to succeed. Changes will be made to our educational curriculum such that every child would pick four different skills to learn from JSS1-JSS3. They would then be required to specialise in one skill from SS1 to SS3. When that child is ready to graduate from secondary school, they will have a WAEC certificate in one hand and a trade diploma in the other hand. For adult men and women who are unemployed and poor, we will provide them a way out of poverty. Every local government will operate a skill acquisition programme on one hand and a food programme to go along with it. It is cheaper to train people and guide them out of poverty than to buy guns and build prisons. When people see a pathway out of poverty, they are not likely to resort to crime.

How do you hope to make Edo attractive for foreign investors?

I plan to engage the private sector in the revitalisation of all neglected industries in Edo and in the establishment of new ones. We intend to build industrial clusters in each of the three senatorial zones with ready to go Certificate of Occupancy and a five-year tax holiday. Let the word go forth therefore to the four winds of Nigeria, North, South, East and West and beyond the shores of our great country that Edo is open and ready for business. We plan to lead from the front.

There is no better and faster way to create employment than through agriculture. We plan to build agricultural settlements in all three senatorial zones and bring back Commodity Marketing Boards to buy produce from farmers. We plan to put 500,000 hectares under cultivation in the first four years. Portions of land will be allocated to 100,000 young farmers who will employ up to 10 persons per hectare to address the scourge of unemployment, hunger and poverty in the land. In addition, we will establish microfinance companies in every local government to help empower small and medium scale business people.

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Sunday Tribune

LCDAs will bring government nearer to people —Onakoya Chief Babatunde Onakoya, an All Progressives Congress chieftain in Ogun State, in this interview with BAYO ALADE, speaks on new local council development areas and why he is supporting Governor Ibikunle Amosun’s government. Excerpts:

Y

OU have been a notable political figure in the politics of Ogun state for several years now. But before joining politics what were you doing?

I have been in business all through even till now. I am into automobile business and estate management with branches in Lagos, Ibadan, Abuja, including my home town, Atiba. I also have investment in hospitality and agriculture, just to mention a few.

You are the chairman mobilisation committee of the Senator Ibikunle Amosun Campaign Committee (SIACO). Who is sponsoring the group?

God Almighty. He only puts me in charge because when myself and the executive of the group counted the gifts that we shared, only God could have done that. We are also happy that God did not disappoints us.

What then brought you into politics?

Service. It is simply the desire to serve. When you have it in mind to help people of your community, you can do so on personal basis. But for greater impact and coverage, it is better to join politics because there is no amount of personal effort that can be put in place that will be more effective than being in government to assist the people.

Local council Development Areas are springing up in states across the country at a time that people feel the existing local government areas are not performing well. What is your view on this?

I believe in LCDAs. They take the local councils nearer to the people. Some local governments are big, such that many communities are still far away from the people. We need more so that our people can feel government impact in their communities.

Are you not saying this because you are a beneficiary of the recent creation of LCDAs in Ogun because some of the chairmen are from your group?

Well we thank God for that, but most importantly, as I told you, government must be brought nearer to the people.

Go to the developed parts of the world, you will see what I mean. If people had been useful to their community even before joining politics, they would do better in politics which was what I told you earlier. Consistency and loyalty

be the governor of the state and I called my people together to support him. We started with Operation Light up Ogun State in 2011 and we spread the message to all nook and cranny of Ogun East Senatorial district. Thank God he won the election.

After his first tenure, we did a review of his achievements and compared it with the past administrations and we saw that they were too numerous to count. We then decided to start campaigning for his second term in 2015. That was how the journey began. Immediately after the ban on politics was lifted, we began to mobilise potential voters, more than 50,000 of them and we had meetings every week for almost two years and distributed gift every week.

are the qualities that brought those candidates to emerge as chairmen. And that is very important in politics. Yes, some are from my group and that is because we are capable and serious-minded people and the governor recognises that. In nutshell, our governor deserves our appreciation because he also appreciates people.

Your group is devoted to working for Governor Amosun. Why is this so?

Senator Amosun is a hardworking man and I have known him for over 30 years. After serving as a senator, he aspired to

Talking about the present administration under Amosun, how would you rate it?

He is a wonderful governor. I’m telling you that no other administrator has performed like him since the creation of this state. We are lucky to have Amosun as the governor of Ogun and he has been able to put a lot of things in place.

There is no conflict in the House of Assembly, if we want to talk about projects; there are many completed ones and there are ongoing projects also. Go and see what is going on in the model schools project embarked upon by his administration, including a lot of business opportunities coming up in the state. The sky is the limit. If the federal allocation had remained stable, we could even have achieved more.

What advice do you have for the politicians?

Well, my advice is we should keep to our words and promises to the people Have you kept yours?

I want you to visit my secretariat. You will have that answer. I try my best possible and I make sure that I keep to my words.

I’ll rather develop Kogi than share money —Bello continues from pg27 The situation was further aggravated when the workers could not get their salary for the period the screening lasted. While the government claimed to have paid the workers fours month, many of the workers faulted the claim as some were said to have only received between one and three months.

Many people believed that the attack on the governor at the mosque was orchestrated by some people who were aggrieved over the failure of government to pay their salaries after being made to face a series of screening. The assertion was later confirmed by the Maigarin of Lokoja, Alhaji Muhammed Maikarfi, while addressing the youth of the town, during their solidarity rally for the governor. He pointed out that it was not Governor Bello alone in the country that was battling to pay workers’ salaries, noting that the immediate past administration left four months unpaid salaries.

Speaking on the tension in the state, the executive director of the Centre for Human Rights and Conflict Resolution, Idris Abdul, said the situation was a self-inflicted and a product of the attitude of the present administration to governance. He noted that Bello’s approach to governance was largely responsible for the situation in the state.

In the same vein, the state chairman of the Inter Party Advisory Council (IPAC), Ibrahim Itodo, is of the opinion that the governor was yet to match his promise

with action as pledged during his inauguration in January. He also opined that the internal wrangling in the APC was having its toll on the quest for development in the state.

He said, “The political situation in Kogi State is comatose. We have not fared well in the past 25 years and the major problem is within the political parties because of inadequate adherence to the principle of internal democracy. The APC came in at a time when we were yearning for real development and for proper change. But the change mantra we have noticed in Kogi is the opposite. So politically, we have not done well because dividends of democracy are not available right now in the state.

On the possibility of the manner of the emergence of Bello being responsible for the situation, Itodo said, “I don’t think the manner of emergence of the governor is a contributory factor to the events in the state. The governor ought to have called

the party leaders to a town hall meeting and charted a way forward together.”

But in all this, the governor is of the view that the major challenge that his administration has is the failure of the people to move away from the old ways of doing things. He said his coming to government had brought a new horizon into governance. Bello believes those benefiting from the corruption of the past are behind the agitations in the state. The governor, who spoke through his Chief Press Secretary (CPS), Kingsley Fanwo, however said he had placed his hands on the plough and was not ready to look back, as he had a covenant with the people of the state to entrench good governance.

He said, “The government of Alhaji Yahaya Bello is not the kind of government that will not expect this kind of tension. Things are changing in the state. The political climate is really going through a lot of changes and that is why those who feel they are

Bello believes those benefiting from the corruption of the past are those behind the agitations in the state. He said he had placed his hands on the plough and was not ready to look back.

losing out in the political chess game are trying to fight back as hard as they can. Politically, we know that it is a battle against some very powerful forces within and outside the party and who were not happy with the divine mandate given the governor of the state. They are using all the machinery they have to fight the government. The governor will continue to remain committed to his words of giving the best to the state, regardless of the feelings of external forces, who feel they must always have their way.”

Fanwo was, however, of the opinion that certain things were responsible for the incident at the central mosque. “The incident was not basically targeted at the governor as a person. That is why we maintained that the governor was not stoned. What happened was as a result of many reasons.

One of the reasons is that the Kabawa Boys are used to politicians coming to give them money not to foment trouble. But the governor doesn’t buy into that arrangement.

What he rather wants to do is to empower them.

“The second reason is that the political leaders in Lokoja/Koto are losing out in the political calculus of the state and they feel that one of the ways to win back their place is to continue to embarrass the governor so that he will dance to their tune. We know that some miscreants were sponsored to cause confusion in the mosque and to paint a picture of a state in crisis. But it failed because the governor was able to do his supplication and left.”

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politicscommentary

4 September, 2016

Sunday Tribune

Osun at 25: The beat continues

By Isiaka Adeleke

D

IVINE providence, coupled with a very selfless urge to serve the people, primarily informed my incursion, as they would say, into “the murky water” of politics. But at the same time, I must emphasise that politics in itself flows in my family. My paternal grandmother, Madam Adeboyin, was one of the outstanding Iyalodes that Edeland has ever produced. Vibrant and effervescent! She gave birth to my father, late Balogun of Edeland and a senator in the Second Republic, Papa Raji Ayoola Adeleke of blessed memory. I believe in part that the commitment to serve the people was reinforced by the past activities of my illustrious lineage.

As of 1989, I saw the need to join the foray to participate actively in the politics of old Oyo State, out of which Osun State was later carved out. My university days in the United States witnessed students union activities, which has become part and parcel of me. I took the plunge and was determined to prove my mettle, though I was the youngest of all the contestants, where we had the likes of late Chiefs Kolapo Isola, Haruna Elewi, Chief Oderinu, Honourable ‘Dosu Ladipo, among others.

I travelled the length and breadth of old Oyo State, making overtures to the electorate as to my intention to serve them. Thank God, that even as of today I have friends in far-flung areas like Ago Are, Ago-Amodu, Tede, Saki, Okeho, Eruwa, Iganna. When, eventually, Osun State was created, the job became a lot easier, as I had fewer places to touch in campaigning for the governorship race. Osun is a well knit state, with clusters of towns. Hence, campaigning was a bit easier. The primaries took place under the defunct Social Democratic Party (SDP) and by God’s grace, I won the general election and became the first elected executive governor of Osun State on January 2, 1992 at a memorable occasion held at Osogbo township stadium.

As for my blueprint when I resumed office as governor in 1992, the priority was to get the staff deployed from old Oyo State to settle down to work, because the bedrock of any administration is its human resources. Hence, we were determined to make the new state grow in leaps and bounds. We made efforts to give the civil servants all the encouragement necessary, though accommodation posed a lot of problems. But we succeeded in laying a solid foundation. And Osun today could boast of one of the best civil service in the country.

One important lesson which our government learnt from the past development plans in Nigeria is the inadequate coordination and integration between physical plan and economic development plans.

We discovered early enough in the life of our administration that Osun is highly urbanised and the conglomeration of the satellite towns was used to an advantage.

The government I led went ahead and built a state capital that was functional and beautiful. A Capital Territory Development Authority was established for the planning and development of the 40,000 hectares of land designated as the Osun State Capital Territory.

A master plan was worked out by our administration, through which areas were marked out for development into residential, industrial, agricultural and forestry purposes. In pursuit of the urban renewal programme of our administration between 1992 and 1993, the first thing we did was to build a ring road (that is today called Oba Adesoji Ader-

Governor Rauf Aregbesola

In Osun, we still have many hurdles to cross.

We should re-discover ourselves and know that self-help is the best help. At 25, Osun should be a giant, a shining star, a reference point in everything progressive and developmental. emi Road) to remove the flow of traffic from the inner city to ease passage of commuters coming from Ikirun, Iwo, Ilobu, Halleluyah and Dada Estate and going to Ile-Ife and beyond.

We also built the Isiaka Adeleke Freeway to ease traffic flow for people going from Oke-fia axis to Ilesa road, through OdiOlowo, Asubiaro, Isale –Osun. To achieve this goal, I went to the World Bank in Washington and obtained a loan with which we started the Ring Road.

Through the same World Bank loan, our administration was also able to open up the Ojo-Ara-Ejigbo road, Apomu-Orile Owu among others. I am happy that the roads under reference were completed by succeeding administrations, thus opening up the areas to faster economic progress.

I was totally poised for a new era in the state, but the abrupt termination of our

government by the late Sani Abacha junta, brought an end to the realisation of some of these goals.

But I thank God that succeeding administrations also contributed immensely to the urbanisation of towns in Osun State particularly the urban renewal programmes being embarked upon by Mr Rauf Aregbesola’s government. It is my prayer that he will see all his laudable projects to fruition for the benefits of the people at the grassroots.

As for the agitation for the creation of Osun State, I must commend the laudable roles of the founding fathers of which my own father – Papa Raji Ayoola Adeleke, was one. Together with late Chief Kola Balogun of Otan Ayegbaju, they co-chaired meetings which were always held at my father’s house in Ede with Chief Tunji Abolade as secretary and Chief Diran Fagbougbe as publicity secretary, among other foremost traditional rulers and other eminent citizens. They fought tooth and nail to see that Osun State was created by the administration of General Ibrahim Babangida. It was a Herculean task, as so many innuendoes came up, among which was where the capital would be sited. But at the end of the day, sanity prevailed and Osogbo was chosen.The founding fathers of Osun State should not be relegated to the background. They should be given due recognition and honour befitting their efforts. For without them, perhaps there would not be anything called Osun State today.

Scarcity of funds was among the major challenges that my administration faced at inception. My maiden budget, christened Foundation Budget, was N964,102,850.00, amd was meant for provision of free and functional education for our children; eradication of diseases through provision of free basic health

services; agriculture, among other. These lofty ideas were threatened with the reduction of the share of state governments in the federation account from 30 per cent to 25 per cent.

We tapped into other internally generated revenues, without hardship on the people. I should also recall that our government was able to turn the satellite campuses of Ibadan Polytechnics at Iree and Esa-Oke to full-fledged polytechnic and colleges of technology, while not losing sight of the upgrading of colleges of education at Ilesa and Ila. Another challenge we faced as a government was the absorption of school teachers and non-teaching staff of Osun origin who were forced to return home, thereby bringing additional financial burden. Cabinet formation in my time was a seamless exercise. Men and women of integrity were brought on board, presented to the state Hose of Assembly for screening and they performed optimally. Round pegs were in most cases, put in round holes and where there were lapses, I did not hesitate to apply the big stick no matter whose ox was gored.

Osun State, in my profound judgment, has not done badly since its creation. The military administrators did their best, while I commend successive civilian administrators. Chief Adebisi Akande was able to put up one of the best secretariats in Nigeria today. It is in fact second to none. Prince Olagunsoye Oyinlola was pragmatic and courageous in establishing a state university, with satellite campuses in different zones of the state. He tried his best under the prevailing circumstances that he found himself. Government is a continuum.

Mr Aregbesola, I should say, is giving his best to the service of Osun State. He has put forth giant strides that will only be appreciated after his departure from office. Leaders with conviction often shape the outcomes in that arena. Politics is flooded with moments of joy, excitement and anxiety, hence the Abacha coup that ‘swept’ me from office was an act of God. The almighty puts into position of authority, whoever He wills and removes from office, whomsoever He wills. To God alone belongs the sovereignty of the heaven and the earth. So, I have no regrets leaving office via the Abacha coup. After all, I am alive to tell the story.

As for my message to Osun at 25, I call on all citizens at home and in the diaspora to continue to contribute their quotas to the accelerated development of the state.

Concerted efforts should be put in place by every well-meaning Osun indigene to transform the state positively for the benefits of the underprivileged and the voiceless, who are in the majority. Let us rally round our leaders, who should in turn, show compassion and love to the governed.

In Osun, we still have many hurdles to cross. We should re-discover ourselves and know that self-help is the best help.

We should stop buck passing, grab the bull by the horns and move Osun many steps ahead of its peers. At 25, Osun should be a giant, a shining star; a reference point in everything progressive and developmental. Let us learn to love ourselves and continue to sharpen our destinies and those of generation yet unborn, so that in the next few years, our dear state would be Dubai of Africa. Yes, we can! We should. Happy celebration.

•Senator Adeleke, the first executive governor of Osun State, is chairman, Senate Committee on Capital Market.

opinion Need for continuity in Edo State

32

By Sunny Edoja

T

HE people of Edo State will go to the polls to choose Adam Oshiomhole’s successor this weekend. The campaigns have reached a crescendo, as the two major candidates, Godwin Obaseki and Pastor OsagieIze-Iyamuare selling their parties.Edo people don’t need to search far before making up their minds on who among the candidates to vote for.

Apart from the fact that Obaseki, who is flying the banner of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has a good head start because Oshiomhole has given him a lot to market, in terms of achievements, the electorate are not sure who the authentic candidate of the PDP is between Pastor Ize-Iyamu of the Senator Ahmed Markarfi-led faction of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and Matthew Iduoriyekemwen of the Ali Modu Sheriff faction. For this reason, the electorateshould to vote for the candidate whose candidacy is sure, and whose party has transformed the state in the last seven years.

Considering the antecedents of the two parties in the state, there is no gainsaying the fact that Edo should borrow a leaf from Lagos State, where an unbroken chain of progressive governments makes it the most economically viable state in Nigeria, increasing her Internally Generated Revenue from a meagre N600 million in 1999 to an average of N23 billion in 2016, with a plan to hit N30billion monthly in 2017 and N50billion in 2018.

The governor of Edo in 1999, Lucky Igbinedion spent two terms and left the state in ruins. Lucky was re-elected through the usual PDP magic and the state was the worse for it. Professor OserheimenOsunbor succeeded Igbinedion, after rigging out Adams Oshiomhole in 2007. But the Court of Appeal overturned his victory and declared Oshiomhole the actual winner on November 12, 2008.

While agreeing that the period Osunbor spent as governor of the state (May 29, 2007 to Nov 12, 2008) was so short for proper assessment, the fact remains that no meaningful achievement would have been recorded by his administration, even if it had not been terminated by a judicial hammer. As ProfessorOsunbor noted on why he left the PDP, “I was not loyal because I refused to share the money meant to develop the state while I was the governor. That was why they started fighting me.” Osunbor meant well for Edo people, but the hawks who sur-

rounded him in his party wouldn’t have allowed him to work. It was the same Mafia that the comrade governor fought to a stand-still and rescued the state from the jaws of vampires!

There is no need for further proof that the PDP as a party never meant well for the state. Edo should not lose her opportunity of voting for continuity as they have tested both parties and can conclude which party has actually done better, in terms of human capital development and infrastructure. Yoruba would say “otigbepowo, otigbomiwo, o timoeyi to wuwoju” (you have lifted water and you have also lifted palm oil, so you know which is heavier).

Edo people should know by now that any break from the present progressive government will spell doom for the state.

What has Oshiomhole done in seven and a half years to make continuity in Edo imperative? The rot inherited

by Oshiomholewas especially visible in the education sector, with the reign of miracle centres known for awarding undeserved grades to students for a fee. Oshiomhole embarked on surgical operation of the education sector and

4 September, 2016

Sunday Tribune

it was successful because the state that used to be graded 30th position in performance at national examinations has now moved to the second position. Edo is tuition-free for both primary and secondary school students, while buses were provided for school children. This has encouraged school enrolment and learning.

Oshiomhole excelled in massive construction of roads in the state capital and all the major towns down to the remotest village in Benin. It is obvious even to the blind, that road network in Benin and other parts of the state has greatly improved. Oshiomhole created a conducive environment for investment such that Edo became a haven for investors. The budgeting system was remodelled such that capital expenditure was given priority unlike in the past when recurrent expenditure was higher. The result of this are the projects spread across the state.

This has attracted many other businesses such as the bamboo wood furniture company in Anegbete, ceramics tiles company in Benin City and Yongxing steel company, which have recruited and trained over 1,500 youths who are now gainfully employed.

Oshiomhole transformed the Ambrose Alli University at Ekpoma and made it a true citadel of learning. He built and commissioned three lecture theatres, two world class laboratories for medical and sciences students; completion of the moot court that was abandoned in 1991; the agriculture extension services department; the Fine and Applied Arts department, and the Building department.

The monthly subvention of the university was increased from N100million to N250million, even as many projects are still ongoing in the university. He equally increased the monthly subvention of other higher institutions in the state.

When other oil-producing states are owing workers salaries running into six months, Oshiomhole is not only paying salaries promptly, but he has almost completed building a brand new Edo State University located at Iyamo, which can compete with any other university in the world.

Obaseki’s choice as a successor comes handy in this period of economic recession as he combines political value with the capacity to manage resources in difficult times.

This combination is good for continuity and there is no doubt that Edo people will be the gainers if they vote APC. Sunny, a public affairs analyst, wrote from Benin-city.

Before Edo is set on fire…

By Sufuyan Ojeifo I invite you to take a critical look at political events in Edo State ahead of this weekend’s governorship election. There is no doubt that the fortune of the APC in Edo has plummeted, and since there is no likely quick fix in sight, its main political actors have resorted to threats. They want to unleash Armageddon on a state that is already gripped by hunger. By allegedly planning to rig the forthcoming election, the APC government is preparing the ground for anarchy.

The fear is strengthened by a bizarre development in Edo, which has further fuelled suspicions that the APC is committed to perpetrating electoral fraud. The development is called hunt for thugs (similar to the talent hunt show), and it is basically fashioned out to assemble the most daring of the area boys in town ahead of the poll. Today, thuggery is considered the highest paying job in the state, with a lucrative recruitment scheme such that if you can stake the unexpected as an area boy, just expect a call from Oga at the top to be enlisted for the task ahead, in a desperate bid to impose a “puppet-candidate” on Edo. They have threatened that a particular candidate will only be governor over their dead body. But unfortunately for them, the people do not want them dead yet. Even though they have made up their minds to vote out the APC, they want the APC leaders to be alive to witness the consequences of their action of betraying the people’s trust.

Though there is an increased consciousness on the part of the people to frustrate any plan to manipulate the election, it is, however, necessary for the law enforcement agencies to be on the guard, as impartial security outfits working to keep and ensure the peace and stability of the state. The mood in Edo is now that of a people ready to defend their mandate and protect their state against any internal or external forces of destabilisation.

There is, however, a major concern, the kind that was witnessed during the 2015 elections, when an accreditationtechnology of card reader was introduced and used against the provision of the Electoral Act and the common sense of testing it at smaller elections before a large scale application.

Aside the fact that the innovation was an unmitigated disaster, the Supreme Court has since ruled on its applicability

and asked the electoral body to appropriately include it in the Electoral Act if it so desired.

But it appears the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) is again up to something else in the Edo and Ondo states elections with yet another introduction of an electronic platform for collation of results. This has not been captured by any law or guaranteed by the Electoral Act. It is called e-collation and e-transmission of results.

Already, some political stakeholders have started raising serious suspicions on the integrity, applicability and acceptability of the e-collation platform. They are wondering why INEC is going ahead with an innovation that has not been captured in the Electoral Act and which efficacy has not been tested in smaller elections and reruns. They are worried that there is a likelihood of conspiracy somewhere, as witnessed during the last elections when, after ignoring all pre-election concerns, INEC later made a U-turn in the middle of the game and announced that card reader should be jettisoned where it did not work.

There is also an informed fear that the e-collation, as planned by the INEC, may be manipulated to produce imaginary figures. INEC must sincerely address this concern to show that it is indeed an unbiased umpire. However, it is incumbent on the opposition parties in Edo, beyond the expression of worry, to take further steps by seeking pronouncement of the court on the applicability and acceptability of this e-collation platform. They must also make a strong case that it is illogical for the INEC to again test an innovation, which is not circumscribed in the Electoral Act, in a major election when it had the opportunity to test it in several reruns and bye-elections but failed to do so.

Moreover, since the INEC has refused to release the card readers’ data on the 2015 elections, it therefore, has no moral authority to introduce another technology without first perfecting the previous one. Such action should include getting the National Assembly to amend the Electoral Act to accommodate the e-collation platform. The truth is, there is more to it than meet the eyes in the sense of urgency by the INEC to have the e-collation platform tested in Edo and Ondo elections.

My fear is that the plot to rig the election as well as the introduction of the e-collation platform could unsettle the state. This is because the people are now ready to take their collective destiny in their hands. They have become so enlightened that they have gone past the era when an individual would lord it over them.

If Brother A succeeds in installing his chosen candidates, he will become the new face of the ultimate godfather in the state, whose perceived misdeeds in office will be overlooked by his cronies. Edo people know this. This is why any attempt to rig with a view to frustrate the emergence of their will and the crystallisation of their mandate will certainly be vehemently resisted. There is ample time to prevent Brother A or any other person for that matter from setting Edo on fire in a desperate bid to have his way. Edo is our collective heritage, not anybody’s private estate; we have to salvage it from all manner of political shenanigans in the interest of our generation and future ones.

•Mr Ojeifo sent this piece viaojwonderngr@yahoo.com

33 WHENEVER someone says something that gets a people somewhat confused, the common man out there simply says he is talking grammar. That appears more like what the two major political parties, the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) are doing in the face of the griming economic outlook painted by the report of the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) last week.

It looks amazing how the two main parties, which should be at the forefront of the search for solutions at this time, have chosen to dance naked in the market square, even in the face of fire outbreak.

Last week, the NBS released figures which confirmed Nigeria had slipped into recession fully. In Q2, the country was romancing the danger and the Minister of Finance; Mrs. Kemi Adeosun described it as “technical recession,” declaring that a favourable economic outlook would be in place from September. But Q3 was bad, very bad. The troubles are hitting the ceiling fan. At least fourteen airlines have left Nigeria for neighbouring countries, Ghana being a major beneficiary. But the report that Aero Airlines, First Nation Airways and Innoson Motors are suspending operations brought home the dangerous picture. Economy has hit the all-time low. The worst in some 30 years.

A number of reasons are being adduced for the emerging scenario including the ludicrous idea of blaming the looting of the nation’s commonwealth in the past but I admire the submission of industrialist, Sam Ohunabuwa in a television programme last week, when he said you can blame anything and anyone for your situation but the critical thing is to produce results. He is an actor in the business world and he does know that excuses do not boil an egg.

Rather than follow the practical steps being taken by organizations like the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) and the Organised Private Sector (OPS), which are daily proffering solutions and options that could see the nation out of the woods, our political actors are speaking grammar in the face of a devastating inferno.

The PDP kicked off the grammatical excursion last week when it asked the President to resign his position for plunging the economy into recession. You may excuse a political party in the opposition for saying whatever it likes of the government in power but you cannot excuse any recourse to criticism without charting a way forward.

That the statement by the PDP did not contain any possible options out of the woods is hurtful to the decaying scenario.

The party’s Director of New Media, Deji Adeyanju in a statement in Abuja said: “Nothing better showcases the AS of the time of putting down my thoughts on this topic, coach of the Nigerian U-23 team that won Bronze in the just concluded Olympic games, Samson Siasia, was yet to be paid his outstanding five months salary. And this is despite the fact that a foreign coach has been appointed who will be paid in dollars.

The NFF Secretary-General, Dr Mohammed Sanusi, explained that the stringent procedures of the Treasury Single Account (TSA) were responsible for the delay.

“The money is already there in our account, but we need to regularise the TSA procedures before we can claim the money. We are almost through with the process.” I hope it would be paid as soon as this almighty TSA procedure is done with.

Sometimes, I can’t help but wonder at our way of showing gratitude. Here is a team that brought the nation the only glory from the Olympics, despite all the hardship the team went through before and during the games. Yet, the only concern of the NFF officials is how to deal with the team for having the audacity to tell them off! No official welcome, no meeting with top government officials, not even a handshake from the president or his representative. And even before he came back from Rio, the football body withdrew the only official car assigned to Siasia from his wife. How vindictive can we get!

The way the NFF has carried on so far, it is as if the gentleman, the most decorated African football coach at the Olympics, having also won a silver medal in Beijing in 2008, is being punished for the money given to the team by Japanese Plastic surgeon and billionaire KatsuyaTakasu. The doctor had given the team $390,000 to share for winning the bronze medal, Nigeria’s only medal, at the Olympics.

The NFF had raised objections to the money gifted to the team and had called for an investigation; insisting that the money should have been routed through the NFF for onward distribution to the team.

But Siasia explains, “The man was just curious how a team that was neglected and abandoned could arrive in Rio under five hours and defeat the Japanese team that had all they needed and have been put together for over

4 September, 2016

the lynxeye with Taiwo adisa

08072000046

Talking Grammar in the face of economic recession

absolute ineptitude and incompetence of the Muhammadu Buhari administration than the GDP, inflation and unemployment figures released by Nigerian Bureau of Statistics.

“These figures reveal what we have repeatedly said over the last 15 months – the Nigerian president is destroying the Nigeria economy.

“For the avoidance of doubt, some of these figures include GDP contracted by -2.06% in Q2 2016. In contrast, the economy grew by 2.35% in Q2 2015. Q2 was worse than the -0.36% shrinking of the economy in Q1 2016; headline

frontrow with Toyin Willoughby Muyi 0805 500 1769 toyeenz@yahoo.com

Walking in Siasia’s shoes

three years, that was his amazement.” He said the entire amount of $390,000 was shared equally among all the members of the team, including the supporting staff.

“The Japanese benefactor said $200,000 and $190,000 was supposed to be for bronze medal and it was split among the players and officials equally. It is not my personal money and this must be made clear. What I got was what every other player or official in the team got about $14,000 dollars each.

Sunday Tribune

Inflation for July 2016 stands at 17.1%. It was from 16.5% in June 2016; food inflation was 15.58% for July 2016 from 15.3% in June 2016; portfolio investment declined to an estimated $245.3m in Q2 2016. This represents a 9.5% from $271.0m in Q1 2016 is a far cry from $2.81 bn in Q2 2015 and FDI declined from $211.1m in Q2 2015 and $174.4m in Q1 2016 to an estimated $133.0m in Q2 2016.”

He further declared that “Nigeria is in its worst economic state in 29 years – dating back to 1987 when the nation had to take harsh steps to recover from President Buhari’s policies of 1984-85.

“As with 1984-85, companies are fleeing our shores in droves. Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) recently stated that 272 companies have shut down in the past one year.”

The APC, in a statement signed by its National Secretary, Hon. Mai Mala Buni expanded the adversarial mode when it accused the PDP of plunging the nation into the current mess.

Rather than sympathize with Nigerians who are at the receiving end of the troubling economic situation, the APC scribe came around to excuse the ruling party from the woes. He also did not tell Nigerians any new thing that could elicit hope. If all the stories the Secretary wanted to tell are already out there, why issue a statement at all?

After restating that the APC led government was “solidly committed to resuscitating the economy in the quickest possible time and in the best interest of the people,” the party’s scribe said: “For the umpteenth time, the PDP lacks the moral basis and credibility to comment or condemn the government on the economy after the mess it left behind. Instead, the PDP must apologize to Nigerians.

“The warning signs were glaring to the immediate-past administration but it chose the path of economic sabotage by looking the other way and squandering the country’s commonwealth – a reckless decision that has brought the country to its knees.”

He went on to narrate the often repeated story of Treasury Single Account (TSA), the frequent foreign trips and the 2016 budget which he said is targeted at diversifying the economy. By failing to give a fresh perspective, but merely repeating the nearly two year old refrains, the APC did its government no good.

Like Ohuanbuwa submitted during his television appearance, results are all that matter now, talking grammar won’t get us anywhere.

“The man came to Salvador where we played and gave $200,000 as draft to me and also gave $190,000 to Mikel because he cannot write a cheque to every member of the team. He made it simpler so that we all can share the money and now we are paying to the individual accounts of the boys. The money was never meant for me or Mikel alone but for the entire team including the doctors and other backroom staff”.

Apart from being impressed by the performance of the boys, DrKatsuyaTakasu is also a great fan of the Nigerian football team and he must have been following the progress of football in the country for some time.

This definitely must have given him some knowledge of the kind of politics played in Nigerian sports and how greedy the officials could be. This probably explains his decision to write the cheques in the names of both the coach and the captain of the team. And he didn’t do it independent of the Nigerian authorities, an official letter from the Nigerian Embassy in Tokyo was written to the team, introducing DrKatsuyaTakasu and acknowledging that he was well known to the Embassy.

If I were in Siasia’s shoes, I would take the same steps and damn the consequences. He has indeed done well for the team and for the country, and he and his team should have been treated like the heroes they are rather than being treated so shabbily because of the greed of some officials.

As Siasia observed in one of the interviews he granted after the Olympics, perhaps they were so treated “because most of them (the NFF officials) were actually waiting and praying for us to fail. But we disappointed them by winning that medal.” What a shameful attitude!

The NFF’s treatment of the dream team tends to support the generally held view that no one serves Nigeria and comes out with his/her dignity intact. As someone said, “you either come out with a bad reputation among your kinsmen or you come back dead.”

It is a shame though that despite the many billionaires (genuine or otherwise) that bestride this country none but a foreigner thought it fit to rescue these boys. It is a shame indeed.

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4 September, 2016

ON THE

Sunday Tribune

With Bolanle Bolawole turnpot@gmail.com 07052631058

lord’sday Why kill in God’s name?

“AND when the men of the city arose in the morning, behold, the altar of Baal was cast down, and the grove was cut down that was by it, and the second bullock was offered upon the altar that was built. And they said one to another, who hath done this thing?

And when they inquired and asked, they said, Gideon the son of Joash hath done this thing. Then the men of the city said unto Joash, bring out thy son, that he may die: because he hath cast down the altar of Baal, and because he hath cut down the grove that was by it. And Joash said unto all that stood against him, will ye plead for Baal? Will ye save him? ...If he be god, let him plead for himself, because one hath cast down his altar...” – Judges 6: 28 – 32.

God does not need any man to fight His battles for Him. Bible teaches that the right hand/arm of God does valiantly and gets Him the victory. In fact, it is God that fights our battles and never the other way round. He is also the One who gets us the victory. Since the Bible also teaches that the weapons of our warfare are not carnal but mightier to the pulling down of strongholds, then, God’s own weapons cannot be AK-47 or bows and arrows. God has more and better means and is better able to fight His battles by Himself. Besides, our world has become just too complex for the adherents of any religion to overcome everyone else by sheer force of arms. Killing in the name of God for whatever reason(s) is nothing but a wild goose chase. It is an exercise in futility.

Some have said that religious intolerance in Nigeria has political underpinnings.

I dare to say it is more than that. Those perpetrating the heinous crimes of butchering/maltreating others in the name of religion know they can get away with it. If they know they will be caught and sanctioned, many will recoil from their criminal acts. Why they get away with their impunity is because they have the support of the political authorities. The powersthat-be believe in what these criminals are doing and support them. They may not by themselves carry out the killings because they are too politically exposed to do so. But they hide behind the curtains and give the criminals cover. They let them get away; and where arrests cannot be avoided, they secretly order their release in a short while.

Where prosecution cannot be helped, they allow the criminals escape from detention/ jail or frustrate any diligent prosecution of the case so that the judge would have no choice but to throw away the case in open court for lack of diligent prosecution or on technical grounds. That is when the judge himself or herself is not a part of the conspiracy!

The barbarity of cold-blooded killings is bad enough. But the hypocrisy that underlines the utterances of religious and political leaders is worse. It is, in fact, the real reason this criminality has not abated.

Lots of lies, half-truths, and denials are peddled that will not help us get anywhere near a solution. The two main religions of Christianity and Islam both have their roots in father Abraham through Ishmael, for the Muslims, and Isaac, for the Christians.

It is lies that both religions do not/did not

support proselytising by the force of arms.

What of the Crusades and the Jihads? It is also lies that both religions do not/did not support, even encourage or compel/ command, honour killing. In the Bible, I know of Phinehas (Numbers 25: 1 – 11); the sons of Levi (Exodus 32: 25 -29); and Elijah (1Kings 18: 9 – 40). Some Muslims practise honour killing to this day. It is banal to say both religions do not/did not see heresy/blasphemy as a crime deserving capital punishment. People were burnt at the stakes for heresy in distant times.

Innumerable Nigerians have lost their lives on accusations of blasphemy. Gideon Akaluka, the recent Zamfara killings, to mention but a few. Jesus Christ Himself was crucified on accusations of heresy/ blasphemy. It is lies from the pit of hell that religion taken and practised as a total way of life is compatible with democratic norms and values. Take, for instance, the Hijab controversy, the Jehovah Witnesses’ attitude to national anthems or the Seventh Day Adventists’ to Sunday as workfree day! Religion is the unquestioning submission to dogmas and beliefs, even where they are no longer rational in present circumstances or where there are better, more efficient ways of going about the intendments. Much of what we call religion is, at best, the culture of Palestine. Ossified in religion and marooned in the past, we shall continue to reap crises; we must move away from dogmas and embrace salvation.

God’s response to Prophet Elijah who, out of so-called jealousy for God, caused 450 prophets of Baal to be put to death not only shows He was not impressed but also that He had a better way of going about His business. In like manner, Jesus Christ scolded Peter for resorting to the force of arms (John 18: 10; Matthew 26: 51 - 54).

We have all been guilty; those who are yet to accept this should now do so and stop living in self-denial. Playing the ostrich will not do. A growing number of Christians and Muslims – Christians especially - have since moved away from honour killing; killing in the name of God; proselytising by force and have embraced peaceful means of doing so. May their tribe grow! Persuasion is the

norms these days. Grace has also replaced an unquestioning devotion to (the curse of) law, as the Apostle Paulaptly describes it, and salvation has taken the place of blind devotion to religion for religion’s sake.

We, however, still have a large number of adherents stuck in dogmas; half-truths, outright lies, and things they do not even understand, least of all which they can intelligently interrogate or defend. May they see the light!

French Emperor Napoleon Bonaparte said: “Alexander, Caesar, Charlemagne and I have built great empires: But upon what did they depend? They depended upon force. But long ago Jesus started an empire that depended on love and even to this day millions will die for him.” Where are the empires built by Alexander the Great and others today? They have all become history! American civil rights activist, Martin Luther King Jr., said: “Somewhere, somebody must have some sense; men must see that force begets force, hate begets hate, and toughness begets toughness...

Hate distorts the personality of the hater... You can’t see right. The symbol of objectivity is lost...Hate destroys the hater as well as the hated...because if you hate your enemies, you have no way to redeem (them). But if you love your enemies, you will discover that at the very root of love is the power of redemption...There is a power in love that the world has not discovered yet. Jesus discovered it centuries ago.

Mahatma Gandhi discovered it ...years ago but most men and most women never discover it. For they believe in hitting for hitting...an eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth; they believe in hating for hating...”

Little wonder, then, that Christ (Matthew 5: 38 – 48) commanded us to love even our enemies!

Two weeks ago, I received a message on my WhatsApp number and it possibly explains why today’s Christians do not believe they have any business killing in God’s name. Read on: “Some years ago, during an interview with an American magazine, John Lennon (popular singer), said: ‘Christianity will end; it will disappear. I do not have to argue about

that...I am certain. Jesus was Ok, but his subjects were too simple. Today, we are more famous than him’ Lennon, after saying that his group, ‘the Beatles’, was more famous than Jesus, was shot six times (and, of course, he died. I am sure today’s generation of music lovers will ask, who Lennon is; and who arethe Beatles).

President Tancredo Neves of Brazil said during the presidential campaign that if he got 500,000 votes from his party, not even God would be able to remove him from office. Sure, he got the votes, but got sick a day before inauguration as president and died. Cazuza, bisexual Brazilian composer, singer, and poet, during a show in Caneico, Rio de Janeiro, puffed out smoke from his cigarette and said, “God, that’s for you.”

He died in a horrible manner at age 32 of lung cancer. The man who built the Titanic was asked by a reporter how safe it was. He replied: “Not even God can sink it!” The Titanic sank on its maiden voyage! Actress Marilyn Monroe was visited and preached to by preacher Billy Graham but she told him: “I don’t need your Jesus.” A week later, she was found dead in her apartment.

Bon Scott, a singer, in 1979, sang “Don’t stop me; I’m going down all the way, down the highway to hell.” On 19th February 1980, he was found dead, choked by his own vomit. In Campinas, Brazil, a group of friends, drunk, went to pick up a friend.

The worried mother of the girl prayed, “My daughter, go with God and may He protect you.” She responded: “Only if He (God) travels in the trunk. Inside here, it’s already full.” Hours later, news came that they had been involved in a fatal accident and everyone died. The car could not be recognised, but the trunk (booth) was intact! Inside it was a crate of eggs and none of it got broken! Christine Hewitt, Jamaican journalist and entertainer, said the Bible was the worst book ever written.

In June 2006, she was found burnt beyond recognition in her motor vehicle.

The most terrifying of these instances, to me, is that involving the crate of eggs. If God is God, then, He can fight His battles.

Only a god needs human intervention in whatever form or guise.

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4 September, 2016

Sunday Tribune With Rita Okonoboh tribunechurch@gmail.com tribunechurch@yahoo.com 08053789087

tribunechurch CAN: The long road to 40

As the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) marks its 40th year of existence, RITA OKONOBOH appraises the beginning, present and future of the association, especially in terms of achievements, challenges and impact.

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HEN on August 27th, 1976, the then military government, under General Olusegun Obasanjo, called together several church leaders for a meeting at Dodan Barracks, Lagos, for the purpose of discussing the introduction of the national pledge and salutation of the national flag in primary and secondary schools across Nigeria, by various calculations, it was obvious that the formation of Nigeria’s apex Christian body was in the offing.

There are various acAkinola counts that are stated as the beginning of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN). According to information from CAN’s supposedly old website, www.cannigeria.org, after the meeting at Dodan Barracks, Onaiyekan Mbang the church leaders decided to hold another meeting at a place close-by, and the spot chosen was the Catholic Secretariat opposite the Race Course bus stop. It was at that meeting that it was decided that a unifying body be set up for the purAyokunle pose of spreading the gospel, and of several the Catholic Sec- such as provinames suggested, the retariat of Nigeria sion of welfare Christian Association (CSN), the Chris- packages; holdof Nigeria (CAN) was setian Pentecostal ing discussions on lected.

Fellowship of Nigeria breaking down tradiCAN was registered un(CPFN)/Pentecostal Fel- tional barriers of diviOkogie Oritsejafor der the perpetual succession lowship of Nigeria (PFN), the sion among churches; the Act Cap 98 of Federal Republic of Organisation of African Instituted establishment of two standing Nigeria (now Corporate Affairs CommisChurches (OAIC) and the TEAKAN/ECWA committees geared towards a joint translasion) in Lagos on December 19, 1986, with fellowship. tion of the Bible into different Nigerian lanthe then Reverend Father Anthony Okogie, According to another CAN website, which guages; the production of a Christian syllaPastor J.G. Sakpo, Charles Williams, Reveris more current, www.canng.org, CAN bus for primary and post-primary schools end Monsignor John Ogbonna and Clifford has women and youth wings, a national ex- in the country at the time, among numerous Mobolaji Smith as its trustees. ecutive council consisting of 110 members achievements, including in politics and inSince 1976, seven church leaders have (which elects the president), and a General ternational recognition with the most recent served the organisation as president. They Assembly of 304 members (which ratifies being the July 2016 inauguration of another are Dominic Cardinal Ekandem (late) from the president’s election). international arm of the Christian Associa1976 till 1986; Anthony Cardinal Okogie tion of Nigeria (CAN) in South Africa. from 1988 till 1995; Prelate Sunday Mbang Achievements and impact However, in spite of its achievements, from 1994 till 2003; Primate Jasper AkinoFor an organisation that has lasted for 40 CAN still has challenges on issues especially la from 2003 till 2007; Archbishop John years, it is only commendable that the as- relating to ethnicity, denominationalism Onaiyekan from 2007 till 2010; Pastor Ayo sociation has made much impact. Iheanyi and political leanings and influences, issues Oritsejafor from 2010 till 2016, and the M. Enwerem, in his text, A Dangerous which have dogged the association from current president, Reverend (Dr) Samson Awakening: The Politicization of Re- military times till present.

Ayokunle, who was elected in July 2016. ligion in Nigeria, notes the achievements According to Francis Kehinde Adebayo CAN currently has five blocs made up of of CAN to include cooperation among in his article entitled “A Missiological Histhe Christian Council of Nigeria (CCN), its members; establishment of initiatives tory of Christian Association of Nigeria,”

Bishop counsels royal fathers on idol worshipping Pg35

What President Buhari must do to get things right Pg37

Economic crisis:

Nigeria needs prayers

—Prophet Ajayi

Pg38

published in the Journal of Philosophy, Culture and Religion, “The creation of the World Council of Churches, the devolution of power on the Roman Catholic Church in Nigeria and Vatican II are factors that forged a new relationship with non-Catholics in Nigeria. The All-African Council of Churches and the Christian Council of Nigeria also prepared the ground for practical ecumenism. On regional level, the northern Christian association and the fellowship of Northern churches (EYN4) prepared the ground for protestants to break the barrier against other Christian bodies in the north.

“From the political angle, there was the call for patriotism and solidarity after the Nigerian civil war of 1967-1970.

Further to this was the takeover of schools by the government. This also coincided with the denial of visa to foreign missionaries and the tax placed on foreign aids for mission in Nigeria. The disunity of the Nigerian church took a dramatic turn when the church was asked to be represented before the Federal Military Government in February 1976. Events during and after this meeting culminated in the invitation by the Catholics to the protestants for a meeting at their secretariat in Lagos in August 1976. That meeting formed the Christian Association of Nigeria primarily as mouthpiece and safeguard for Christians’ interest in Nigeria.”

The future Of recent, issues of infighting, especially as it relates to the issue of leadership, have been making headlines, and have led many Christians and even non-Christians to wonder if the association is fulfilling the purpose for which it was created.

On the state of internal crisis, while assuring Christians that efforts were ongoing at restoring unity to the association, Reverend (Dr) Ayokunle, in an interview, stated that “we are meeting those in court and those not in court and reconciliatory moves are ongoing. We need everybody because a house divided against itself cannot stand.

What we are saying is that the enemies we have outside are more, and we shouldn’t be having crisis among ourselves.”

Speaking on the plans for the future of the organisation, Ayokunle stated that there were a lot of plans to ensure that the association did its duty to ensure that Christianity enjoyed its rightful place in Nigeria, in the efforts to ensure peaceful coexistence Continues on pg37

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4 September, 2016

With Olaide Sokoya ollydesanmi@yahoo.com 08074497425

churchnews BSN plans marathon Bible reading

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HE Bible Society of Nigeria (BSN) has concluded plans to hold the 2016 Marathon Bible Reading, the General Secretary of the organising committee, Mr Dare Ajiboye, said.

Ajiboye made this known in a statement made available on Friday in Lagos State that the programme, billed to hold in Lagos from Monday to Friday, would hold at 50 different centres simultaneously.

He stated that the event would give participants the opportunity to read the Bible in their native tongues.

He noted that “the programme will be declared open on Monday, Septem-

ber 5 at Shepherd’s Flock International Church.

“It is scheduled for Lagos from September 5 to September 9 at 50 different cen-

FG charged to diversify economy

From left, District Overseer, Reverend Martins Olaomoju; Convocation Chairperson, Pastor (Mrs) Taiwo Ogunsegha; Ikorodu 1 District and Axis Coordinator, Reverend Kunle Obadina and his wife, Revrened (Mrs) Ranti Obadina at the 3rd District Convocation and Appreciation Service at the District Headquarters Church, Ebute, Ipakodo, Ikorodu, Lagos State.

tres simultaneously from 9.00 a.m. to 5.00 p.m. daily.

“The unique feature of this programme is that it gives the participants opportunity

to read the Bible aloud in their own native languages.

“Bibles in different languages such as English, Isoko, Igala, Igede, Ebira,

By Remi Anifowose THE Federal Government has been charged to, as a matter of urgency, find a lasting solution to the economic recession in the country.

The call was made by Pastor (Dr.) Mrs. Ronke Ojo, wife of the Oyo State Chief of Staff to the Governor, during the 12th annual women conference of Sanctuary of Christ Evangelical Church.

According to her, “We have seen that mineral resources in terms of oil and gas have almost failed us in this country. We have been to several other countries where they do not have oil at all and they are living better than we do.

“We should go back to the land; we should go back to agriculture. If the Nigerian government can emulate other countries of the world, our economy will be transformed,” she said.

She added that diversification would create employment opportunities for the citizenry and increase the revenue base of the government, while imploring the government to grant loans to youths to engage in mechanised farming.

While speaking on the annual women conference with the theme: “A mother in Israel,” Mrs. Ojo admonished all women to rise to the challenges of womanhood and pray like mothers for the peace of the country, adding that they should always perform their responsibilities like mothers at their respective homes.

From left: Pastor and pastor(Mrs) Olugbeminiyi Snr; General Overseer of The Word of His Fresh Grace Ministry, Reverend and Pastor (Mrs) Ademola Akinpelu; Pastor Joe Odihi and wife, Pat and others during the annual thanksgiving service of The Word of His Fresh Grace Ministry, Area 1, Academy, Ibadan, Oyo State.

Sunday Tribune

Yoruba, Efik, Igbo, Hausa, Nupe, Khana, Urhobo, Fulfude, Jju, Bokyi, Edo, Arabic, Tiv, Itsekiri, Kanuri, among others, will be on display for the participants to choose from,” he said.

Ajiboye urged Christians to take advantage of the programme as it promised to be spiritually rewarding.

“Participants, irrespective of denomination, age or sex, will have a three-fold joy by participating.

“There is joy in reading the Bible in their languages, helping someone else hear the word of God in a new

way and joining others in continuous reading of the Bible,” he said.

The Bible Society of Nigeria is a non-profit-making interdenominational Christian organisation that translates the Bible into Nigerian languages, publishes and distributes it and also raises funds for Bible work.

The Society has complete Bible in 24 Nigerian languages and gives Bibles free to old people’s homes and orphanages, people with visual disability, prisoners, the deaf, among others.

Economic recession is causing low attendance in churches, says cleric PASTOR Olumide Okeyode of Unity Baptist Church, Ilorin, Kwara State, on Friday, urged the Federal Government to evolve palliatives measures that would cushion the effects of current economic hardship in the country.

Okeyode made the call in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Ilorin.

The cleric emphasised the need for government to take bold steps to regulate the skyrocketing prices of commodities, especially food items.

He said “government needs to intervene as soon as possible into the present

economic situation in the country to avoid revolution.”

According to him, the economic downturn had also affected the Church in terms of attendance and offerings.

This, he explained, was due to the low standard of living.

He noted that “Churches have low turnout in terms of population as well as a drastic drop in the contribution of members.”

He, however, called on the masses to be prayerful and keep their faith in God Almighty, stressing that “prayer will work wonders.”

He said the increasing number of marriage collapses in recent years was worrisome.

“It used to be a thing of the western world but in the past 10 to 20 years, it has slowly crept into the Nigerian society. Reports

show that there are 12,000 cases of divorces yearly in Nigeria.

“The family is the basic unit of society through which God inculcates values to children, who in turn build society and the world at large. In other words, a broken family produces broken children, which leads to a broken nation,” he said.

The Director of Communications of the Catholic Archdiocese of Lagos, Monsignor Gabriel Osu, said: “as Christians, we do not approve divorce, once a marriage validation has been consummated, there is no room for divorce.

Osu said that divorce was on the increase because such marriages were conceived in deceit.

“Simulation in marriage is a situation where one or either party goes through the process of exchange of marital vows knowing that they are not compatible.

Clerics identify factors causing marriage breakups TWO clerics on Friday identified deceit, poverty, lack of love, incompatibility, desperation and absence of family values as key factors responsible for the high divorce rate in Nigeria.

Speaking with the News

Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in an interview, the clerics said that most couples entered marriages without having concrete knowledge of what marriage was all about.

Chairman of the Lagos State chapter of the Christian Association of Nige-

ria, (CAN), Mr Alexander Bamgbola, blamed increasing divorce cases on a lack of fear of God and passion for sin by couples.

Bamgbola argued that if a marriage was contracted without fear of God, it would never end well.

Nigerians should not be distracted by dwindling economy —Obadina

By Olaide Sokoya THE Axis Coordinator of the Ipakodo 1 District of the Foursquare Gospel Church, Reverend Kunle Obadina, has charged Nigerians not to be distracted by the dwindling economy of the country, but remain focused on God, humble themselves and always pray.

Obadina, who was honoured during a sendoff programme organised by the Foursquare Gospel Church of Ipakodo district, Ikoro-

du, Lagos State, last Sunday, added that the current challenges of the nation called for fervent prayers, while he urged people to always seek the face of God for a great transformation.

He added that, “The recession is not peculiar to Nigeria, even happened in the Bible days. The Israelites who are children of God also faced similar problem in the wilderness. It even got to a stage where they ate their children, but we don’t pray for such in Nigeria. All Nigerians must pray hard

to overcome this present challenge and I know that Go will restore and heal the land.”

The event marked the third district convocation tagged “Platform for Greater Works” and a sendoff service for Reverend Obadina who had once served as the district overseer.

In his remarks, the district overseer, Reverend Martins Olaomoju, acknowledged the impact of his predecessor: Reverend Obadina in the uplift of the church, while he noted

that “Our calling has been so defined that we should not allow sentiments and elements of compromise to becloud our sense of judgment or to lose focus.”

In the same vein, the chairperson of this year’s convocation, Pastor (Mrs) Ogunsegha, stated the significance of the event was opportunity for the children of God to come together and give account of what they have done for the whole year, according to the rules and regulations of the Foursquare Church.

37 tribunechurch

4 September, 2016 to.

The founder, Christ for All People’s Church, Ojo, Lagos State, Prophet Samuel Oyadara, speaks on current challenges facing the country, in this interview with BOLA BADMUS.

W

HAT is your take on the current state of the country?

We thank God for his favour and grace over us and for ensuring the oneness of the country till today. What I think is happening is that we have not been observant enough. God has said it before that there would be problems and worries for countries that do not worship Him enough. Everything has a beginning and an end. No matter how difficult, the end would come one day.

Concerning the change that we are expecting, we have said it before as we were sent by God that it is not now and cannot be effected by those who are currently in positions of authority. So, Nigeria needs a lot of prayers to bring about change of everything and people should know that the change begins from me and you. We should leave everything to God so that he can bring relief to the country.

How about the challenges we have faced in recent times, especially with security?

What I want you to know is that Boko Haram, IPOB and the militants are not spirits; they are human beings. What I want to say is that if God wants to punish a country. He can use every way to make that possible. If it escapes from one problem, God can inflict another problem on such country so that we would know we have not reached where we are destined to reach. The missing Chibok girls are still being expected to return. You will recall that I said that if they are to return, not all of them would do so.

What I see in all this is that all of us, including leaders and followers, should live as God expects of us. That is the only way we can avoid war and ensure peace because as it is now, there is no love among us in this country. Even though we mouth national unity, there is no love amongst us. We only love ourselves but we don’t serve God enough. Until we follow and obey God, things cannot be right.

Nigeria is in economic quagmire right now and there is poverty and

t n e d i s e r P What o d t s u m Buhari hunger in the land, while promises made by government have remained largely unfulfilled. How would you address the current situation of the economy?

As a child of God, and I say it with authority from above, nobody should expect that things are going to improve or the pains are going to be less severe, but we should just pray. Between now and December, you will see what will happen. In the name of Jesus, we would not experience war.

Regarding the economy, you can see

Sunday Tribune

that prices of things, including food items, are high and even the security of lives is not guaranteed, and it is said that the primary purpose of any government is security. The country needs prayers from me and you. And the problem is that people find it difficult to follow the words of prophets. What is the solution to Nigeria’s problems? God knows it. It is in the hands of the leaders; they should seek the face of God. I mean they should do so through those pastors and prophets who are not looking for envelopes. There is nothing difficult that God cannot provide solution

President Muhammadu Buhari was reported to have called on spiritual leaders to continue to pray for the country, even as he assured that his government was doing its best to improve the situation in the country. Are spiritual leaders praying for Nigeria?

True, he may call on them, but there is a way you call on people if you are desperately looking for something. It is one thing to ask people to pray, it is another thing to call for those who are genuine men of God. It is only God that can intervene in the matter on ground now. How do you seek the face of God? It is through fasting and prayers.

When those who are genuine prayer warriors cry unto God, by the time they do that for a month or two, God would tell them what to do. It is not about sitting in a well furnished office and rolling around on a chair. And for those being patronised by government, God doesn’t relate with them anymore, they are only left with mere big names.

For instance, I have not heard that the country organised a programme with prayer warriors. Any government that wants to succeed must do this. Whatever thing that needs rebuilding would be difficult to achieve initially, but the difficulty would be surmounted thereafter. Our prayer for the country is that all of us should live peaceful and abundant lives; work should be available for people; there should be housing for the homeless and security should be provided. This country should be feeding other countries. The land is fertile enough; there is nothing you plant that would not germinate. We pray that God will open the hearts and minds of our leaders.

If you have the opportunity to meet President Muhammadu Buhari, what advice would you give to him?

I would tell him that the money to rebuild Nigeria is in Nigeria. Secondly, I would let him know that the blood that has been shed is crying for justice. Something is drawing the anger of God. If that is stopped, then the anger would stop. But the problem is that they don’t know how to stop the blood spilling; they are only fighting physical war, whereas the war ravaging Nigeria is spiritual. There are some secrets the president needs to know over which he should take action. If he takes steps, definitely Nigeria must change for the better.

CAN: Impact, challenges, future Continued from pg35

among Nigerian citizens.

According to him, “this CAN administration will do its best, and I can assure you that I will not rest until all those who are passing through hard times and victims of insurgency are properly taken care of, either through CAN, the government, or nongovernmental organisations. For churches in the North without Certificates of Occupancy (CofO), if the situation demands it, we will get lawyers to address that issue.

For any church that is denied CofO, we will get records and reasons for such denial and may have to challenge that in the court of law. For the Nigeria Inter-Religious Council (NIREC) which seems to be moribund, we will look at what led to that state of moribundity.”

According to Adebayo in the article earlier mentioned, published in 2015, “though each leader talks about unity of the Nigerian church, the will to redirect the CAN from the political pressure group and watchdog to a more dynamic ecumenical movement is absent. This can be achieved if leadership

emergence is depoliticised, and government recognition is played down.

“So far, CAN has achieved a lot for Christians in Nigeria, its vibrancy depended largely on the charisma of its presidents.

Presidency has been rotated principally between the CCN and the PFN; it was only in 2005 that it achieved a location in Abuja.

Undoubtedly, it enjoys more loyalty now than before, thus, it can become more ecumenically relevant by confronting primordial missiological issues that divide the Nigerian church. The same could become a basis for unity, in other words, mission could be-

come the goal of the unity of the church in Nigeria. Evangelisation of Nigeria cannot be achieved by a divided church neither can a politicised association confront the terrorism and radicalisation of Islam that has engulfed the North.

“The Bible presupposes a church united in diversity, it is one body with many parts, universal yet territorial, eternal yet temporal. The church is one, and the Lord prayed for that unity as recorded by John the Apostle. The mandate to the church is in recognition of its unity, the Great Commission is not to a local assembly or just a union of

The will to redirect the CAN from the political pressure group and watchdog to a more dynamic ecumenical movement is absent. This can be achieved if leadership emergence is depoliticised, and government recognition is played down

congregations. The different denominations in Nigeria and the world over are implicated in the great command to love, and implied in the great commission to disciple all nations,” Adebayo stated.

With the strong standing the organisation has achieved over the years, if internal crisis is addressed as required, the spread of the gospel taken as priority as against the unnecessary clamour for leadership positions and government recognition, preaching of true brotherly love which can foster unity and peaceful coexistence, which will in turn ensure a developed and peaceful nation, is prioritised, then the association can have an even stronger position to tackle the perceived enemies outside the organisation.

CAN has recorded much impact and this is made obvious by its position, not just in Nigeria, but on a global scale. The association has the capacity to transform Nigeria into the best country on earth. It is only hoped that for an organisation with such a massive following, especially for the reason that all Christians are represented by CAN, the future of Christendom in Nigeria shines within and beyond.

38 tribunechurch

4 September, 2016

Why churches are in problems —Prophet Ade Ajayi

Prophet Emmanuel Ade Ajayi is the overseer of Christ Apostolic Church, Oke Iselogo headquarters, Felele, Ibadan, Oyo State. In this interview with OLAIDE SOKOYA, he speaks on religious and national issues. Excerpts:

Y

OU received your calling 50 years ago and established your church twenty-one years after. How would you compare the Christianity then with this present time?

All I can say is that it’s been God. Comparing the church now with the time we started, there is a clear difference. In the past, people had much time for God; Christians worshipped God with all their hearts without any compromise. But now, civilisation has turned everything upside down. The more civilised people become, the further they move away from God. In fact, people respected clerics so much at the time; they honoured and respected them. But now, we have false clerics and it has contributed to the disrespectful way clerics are addressed.

In the past, when a pastor or a prophet said: “Thus says the Lord,” people believed that truly, God had spoken. But the case is different now.

What ware the challenges you faced in the course of your calling?

I was very young when God called me; I was 20 years old. I could remember in 1966, God instructed me not to sleep throughout the night because I was to receive a visitor.

So I kept praying, while at the same time, thinking of the kind of visitor that would visit in the middle of the night. At, exactly 1:00a.m., I heard loud banging on my door.

I stood up from where I was praying and asked: “Who are you? What do you want?”

The person kept quiet and later left. As the person was leaving, the footsteps sounded heavy as if there was an earthquake. Immediately, I heard the voice of the Lord, saying, the visitor was a devil but He (God) had made me triumph, and that something great would happen soon. At 7:00 a.m. the following day, something great happened indeed.

So, I have faced so many challenges in this ministry, but I thank God for this grace.

We have so many churches in Nige-

ria, as well as a seeming increase in crime rates. What do you think is the problem?

By the time I came to Ibadan, the churches then were numbered. But now, we have so many churches and what I have observed is that many pastors want to be independent. They don’t want to be controlled by anybody. The more churches we have, the more crimes. We are in the end time. What is happening in our country today should tell us that we are approaching the end of the world. All the horrible happenings like bomb blasts, ritual killings and gay relationships are pointers to this fact. They are sins against God. These are perilous times.

How would you assess President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration’ performance so far?

He is trying but what I can say is that peo-

ple expect immediate results which is not possible. Let’s just exercise patience with the president. I can only advise him to invite some experts in the country who can lead him right.

What is your advice to Nigerians in these hard times?

I implore Nigerians to be more patient with the government: we should not say because things are tough, we should engage ourselves in acts that are uncalled for. Also, let our government be considerate; they should feel and understand what Nigerians are going through. Let us all come together as one to move this nation forward. Finally, we should not relent in prayers; prayer is the answer to all the problems we are facing.

The only thing we need in this country is the mercy of God. There is time for everything.

We must learn to wait for God’s time.

livingword

By Bishop David Oyedepo Call 7747546-8; or e-mail: feedback@lfcww.org

What is in the Name of Jesus that heals?

JESUS is the Great Physician and He introduced Himself as the physician who Jeremiah prophesied about in Jeremiah 8:22: Is there no balm in Gilead; is there no physician there? why then is not the health of the daughter of my people recovered?

The Bible also says: But when Jesus heard that, he said unto them, They that be whole need not a physician, but they that are sick. But go ye and learn what that meaneth, I will have mercy, and not sacrifice: for I am not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance (Matthew 9:12-13; see also Mark 2:17).

One of the great prescriptions of this Great Physician to rescue us from the siege of the wicked one and bring an end to every satanic ordeal in our lives, is the name of Jesus.

But, what is in the name of Jesus that heals?

The anointing of Christ, the anointed One, resides in the name: ‘Christ’ means the ‘Anointed One’. The Bible says: Because of the savour of thy good ointments thy name is as ointment poured forth, therefore do the virgins love thee (Song of Solomon 1:3).

In the record of the healing of Aeneas, who was paralysed for eight years, the Bible says: And there he found a certain man named Aeneas, which had kept his bed eight years, and was sick of the palsy. And Peter said unto him, Aeneas, Jesus Christ maketh thee whole: arise, and make thy bed. And he arose immediately. And all that dwelt at Lydda and Saron saw him, and turned to the Lord (Acts 9:33-35; see also Acts 8:5-8).

That means it was the anointing in the name of Jesus that terminated Aeneas’ eight-year siege. That same anointing can terminate every affliction that has ravaged our body, lives and destinies in an instance, when we invoke the name of Jesus. However, it is important to know that the name of Jesus only answers for those, who have accepted Jesus Christ as their Lord and Saviour. That is what being born is all about. If you are set to become born again, you can say this prayer in faith: “Lord Jesus, I come to You today. I am a sinner. Forgive me of my sins. Cleanse me with Your precious Blood. Deliver me from sin and satan to serve the Living God. Today, I accept You as my Lord and Saviour. Thank You Jesus for saving me!

Now I know I am born again!”

Your Life Counts

Sunday Tribune

by Tunde Jaiyebo 0803 406 2013

The importance of favour (II) LAST time we began looking at the issue of favour. We need people and people need us. People are the channels through which favour will be released into our lives. Favour manifest in a person’s willingness to use what they have (time, money, resources, contacts, skills, etc) to actively advance our lives. Favour is extremely important and it is a force which is unbeatable. Once the force of favour is released it is unstoppable. It will bypass every barrier and opposition to get its job done. Favour is the oil that makes the wheel of life spin smoothly However, the presence and operation of favour on its own by itself is insufficient. It is easy to get favour and lose it.

Whenever favour shows up it needs two other forces to make it sustainable and effective. Favour opens doors-it sets us up to have opportunity. It is what will give us a platform to be seen and recognized. It is what brings us to the limelight but wisdom is what provides the competence needed to maintain, sustain and retain the promotion favour brings. We must desire to operate under the force of favour but we must also make acquisition of wisdom a priority.

Without wisdom one will be a misfit for the door favour opens.

Without wisdom favour will be a waste.

Wisdom is what will help maximize and effectively utilize the opportunity favour brings. Favour usually gives us a platform but wisdom is what will help us use the platform well. Wisdom is the exhibition of what we can do. It is our competence. When favour opens a door then, wisdom empowers us to exhibit our competence to get the job done. Boldness is also a major factor when it comes to favour.

Boldness is what will help us step into the door and seize the opportunity favour provides.

The indispensability of wisdom and boldness is necessary Favour moves people from obscurity to prominence, from the bottom to the top, from nothing to everything, from zero to hero.

To attract favour we must be diligent in our chosen field. Diligence attracts increase and sustains favour. Men are attracted to diligence. “Diligence is the mother of good fortune, and idleness, its opposite, never brought a man to the goal of any of his best wishes.” Miguel De Cervantes “Do you see a man diligent and skillful in his business? He will stand before kings; he will not stand before obscure men.” Proverbs 22:29 When we are diligent in our chosen field we position ourselves for favour.

Slothfulness cuts favour off us. We must be meticulous, particular about details, painstaking and extremely diligent.

“The separation of talent and skill is one of the largest misconceptions in modern society. Talent is something you born with, but skill can only be attained through Hours and Hours of hard work perfecting your talent as a craft which is why talent will fail you without skill.”

Will Smith If we are to walk in favour we must be excellent people. Excellent announces, advertise and recommends.

Concluded For enquiries/comments please send email to charismokola@yahoo.com

39

tribunechurch

4 September, 2016

Sunday Tribune

dawnofanewera sundaysermon

with Most Revd J.O. Akinfenwa

with Pastor Sunday Adelaja

Bishop of Ibadan Anglican Diocese

Senior Pastor of the Ukraine based Embassy of God Church

The priesthood of all believers

e-mail: pastor@godembassy.org

The purpose of nations (2) LAST week I began with the first installment in the series, THE PURPOSE OF NATIONS, using Biblical passage to introduce this topic and emphasizing that God recognizes our diversity. I emphasized that God makes a very loud statement by saying that no matter our differences; culturally, ethically, racially, etc., we are all united by one Spirit. The message is clear.

It is the spirit of God that makes us one. It is in God that we are all one and equal, yet not cancelling our diversities. Only God can do that, a celebration of diversity!!!

Coming back to our main message, what I am going to focus on today is that every nation, every ethnic group, every culture, and every country under the sun has a definite purpose for their creation. More significantly, it is essential that each one of these nations, discover their purposes.

Let me quickly point out that there are general purposes for all nations as well as more concrete and specific purposes for each nation.

In regards to how to discover the specific callings and purposes of each nation, that would be a discussion for another day. Following the events of the aftermath of the flood, according to Genesis 10:5, “From these the coastland peoples of the Gentiles were separated into their lands, everyone according to his language, according to their families, into their nations.” After the flood, when the survivors began to grow, increase and multiply, God almighty saw the need to distribute nations by territories, lands, languages, families, tribes and nations. Obviously, this distribution and separation into lands and territories, happened only after the event of the Tower of Babel as recorded in Genesis 11:7-8, when the languages were first divided.

“Come, let Us go down and there confuse their language, that they may not understand one another’s speech.” So the LORD scattered them abroad from there over the face of all the earth, and they ceased building the city.”

Even though the events leading to the division into languages at the tower of Babel was indeed a tragic one, yet it is obvious that God had a place in his heart originally for nations, languages, continents and diversity in general. Especially since as seen above in Gen.10:5, God had intentionally divided the people by their languages to their various lands, territories and nations.

Why was God doing all these? Anyone who has studied the acts of God would

Anyone who has studied the acts of God would tell you that our God is not a chaotic God

tell you that our God is not a chaotic God. He is not confused, disorganized, disorderly or unthoughtful in his actions and deeds. Which means everything he does is well thought out. If he decided to create diversity through nations, people groups, tribes, nationalities, then he definitely has a purpose for it. He has a purpose for every tongue, a purpose for every tribe, a purpose for every ethnic group, a purpose for every nationality and a purpose for every country and nation. At this time my friends, have you started wondering what the purpose is for your nation? What the purpose is for your tribe? What the purpose is for your people group? Is there any purpose for Nigeria? Is there any purpose for our composition? Could there be any reason why we all came together to become a country? Is there any place and purpose for every tribe? Each language?

Each nation?

Friends, how beautiful would it be to just have a glimpse into the mind of God. That is where I am trying to take you to in this article.

By the way, I hope you still have not forgotten about PELEG. I am simply reminding you of it, not that I’m ready to talk about it yet. Let’s do more discussion on the purpose of nations before we get back to PELEG. Here we go, let’s look into a very crucial scripture for our studies today: Deu. 32:8 “When the Most High assigned lands to the nations, when he divided up the human race, he established the boundaries of the peoples according to the number in his heavenly court.” (NLT) There are several things to take note of in this scripture: 1. It is God Almighty who assigned and divided lands to the nations.

2. Note that lands are divided to nations.

Nations therefore are God’s idea.

3. God gives land to nations as their inheritance. That is, God as a father gives out inheritance to his children, to his heirs.

4. When God divided the lands, he established boundaries for each nation.

5. God is interested in race, hence he had races divided according to their kind.

6. The beauty of the New Living Translation of the Holy Bible is the last part of this verse that says “according to the number in his heavenly court”. It tells us that the diversity we see here on earth in cultures, traditions, languages and nations, is in conjunction with what and how it is obtainable in heaven.

This passage above, goes a long way to confirm the fact that God is a purposeful God. He does everything with already planned out intentions and purposes. He does nothing by accident. God is an organized God. He has goals and purposes for everything he does or creates. So ladies and gentlemen, God has purpose for your nation. Which means God has a purpose for your nationality, God has a purpose for your tribe, God has a purpose for your clan, God has a purpose for your lineage, God has a purpose for your household, God has a purpose for your family and God has a purpose for you.

To be continued next week

Continued from last week AT one time the disciples wanted our Lord to stay in a place. He said, Mark 1:38 ... Let us go into the next towns, that I may preach there also: for therefore came I forth.

Our Lord was a man on the go! He was always going towards the direction of need.

He was always shining his light in darkness, so that darkness could go away.

Who needs a lighted candle at twelvenoon, or in a room where a 2000Watt bulb is switched on? A candle is needed in a dark room. The true child of God is needed in the dark places of this world, and today’s church needs people with a strong sense of calling who will take up that challenge and carry the light of Christ into the dark world around us. There are too many anointed souls hiding away in church pews and wondering “where is the God of Elijah?”

Meanwhile, all they need to do is step out towards the palace of Ahab, and they shall find out that they are actually the Elijahs of God that the world has been waiting for.

The Bible says, Romans 8:19 For the earnest expectation of the creature waiteth for the manifestation of the sons of God. We have many persons who bear Christian names in the Senate and in the House of Representatives. How many of them can be said to be manifesting as people called by Christ into those Chambers? How many ministers in the federal executive are acting as people called by Christ into the federal cabinet to go and shine His

light?What about governors with Christian names? And Christians who are captains of industry?We can go on and on.

Beloved, at a point in the scriptures, the Lord said, “Whom shall I send, and who will go for us?” Isaiah 6:8 Today also, the voice of the Lord is sounding in the same manner over this nation, Nigeria. And those of us who have encountered and experienced Jesus Christ are in a vantage position to respond to the call of the Lord.

Shall you say today to the Lord like Isaiah said, “Here am I; send me”?

God is looking for men to send intovirtually all aspects of our life as a nation.

Practically all sectors are in darkness today. And they are all suffering from human problems. It has been said that Nigeria has no natural disasters, only human disasters.

Could this be because Ezekiel 22:29-31 is true for our nation?: Ezekiel 22:29-31 The people of the land have used oppression, and exercised robbery, and have vexed the poor and needy: yea, they have oppressed the stranger wrongfully. And I sought for a man among them, that should make up the hedge, and stand in the gap before me for the land, that I should not destroy it: but I found none. Therefore have I poured out mine indignation upon them; I have consumed them with the fire of my wrath: their own way have I recompensed upon their heads, saith the Lord GOD. To be continued next week

theapostolicmessage

By Pastor (Dr) G.O. Olutola JP.

Divine answer to salvation need of man Continued from last week If you find yourself not being able to overcome certain sins in your life, you need to come to Christ and surrender your life totally to Him. Those born of God overcome sin because the root of sin has been uprooted in them by Christ John in his epistle says, ‘we know that whosoever is born of God sinneth not, but he that is begotten of God keepeth himself and the wicked one toucheth him not (I John 5:18).

Jesus Christ also came to extend his invitation to the heavy laden. He said, ‘come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.

Thus he exhorts believers, ‘take my yoke upon you, and learn of me’, for I am meek and lowly in heart; and ye shall find rest unto your souls’ (Matthew 11:28, 29).

Being the water of life, Jesus Christ extends invitation to the thirsty. Are you thirst? Do you want to drink of the water of life and thirst no more? Are you willing to have refreshing water? Come to Christ because He is the river, whose stream never runs dry. Come to Christ, drink and never thirst again. In the last day, the great day of the feast, Jesus stands and cries, saying, “if any man thirst, let him come unto me, and drink. He that believeth on me, as the scripture hath said, out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water” (John 7:37-38).

Also to the unpure and the fearful, Jesus is extending invitation so as to get them out of the problem. He promised not to cast out those that come to Him. He had

shed His blood to cleanse us of all impurity, wash us clean, shinning, to be worthy to stand before God. The book of Revelation 22:17 is an invitation to all. The invitation goes thus: ‘And the spirit and the bride say, come and let him that heareth say, come and let him that is athirst come and whosoever will, let him take the water of life freely’.

Jesus Christ has fulfilled the purpose for which He came into this world. He has perfected man’s redemption and destroyed the works of the devil. He has played his part, only for man to play his own part too.

Sinners need to accept Jesus’ invitation and come to repentance before the door of grace is shut. The untrusted, the fearful and the unrighteous, all need to forsake their evil ways and come to Christ because He is the only way to the Father; He is the path to heaven. You need salvation; Jesus has brought that salvation to all who believe Him. He is the answer to all the fruitless searches man indulge in the name of religion of all types. Come to Jesus today and have life eternal.

Prayer points: 1. Lord Jesus let your blood wash me of all my faults and presumptuous sins.

2. Give me your grace to be able to submit myself totally to your work of salvation.

3. Lord God, shed your spirit in my heart today to bring me to repentance of my evil ways.

4. I need life more abundant, Lord destroys all the works of the devil in my life.

Concluded

40

4 September, 2016

language&style Emphasizing…

S

AMPLE 1: “Although all efforts to get official military confirmation were unsuccessful, a very reliable military source in Delta confirmed that seven suspects were arrested in the early-hour operation, adding that recovery of explosives, arms and ammunition were also made.”(Pipeline Bombings: Tompolo on Fire, The Sun, Sunday, 29 May, 2016) We are interested in identifying the subject of the verbwere which occurs in the following context: “recovery of explosives, arms and ammunition were made.” This is a matter of concord. Note that even in this relatively short paragraph, the reporter has demonstrated sufficient familiarity with the principle of concord.

For example in the clause, “all efforts to get official military confirmation were unsuccessful”, the plural verb-form, were, correctly reflects the plural nominal subject, “all efforts.”

Similarly, in the clause “seven suspects were arrested,” the choice of the verb-form,were, is in consonance with the plural noun, suspects.

Now let’s go back to the clause under examination: “recovery of explosives, arms and ammunition were made.” We have noted the choice of the plural verb-form, were. The question is this: Where is/are the plural noun(s) that influenced the reporter’s choice of the plural verb-form? To the immediate left of that verb we have three nouns, two of which are in the plural: explosives, arms, and ammunition. That these nouns together constitute a plural entity is beyond question.

The issue that should concern us is whether those nouns, severally or collectively, should be allowed to influence the choice of the verb-form. The ‘voice’ of my grammatical education tells me that the appropriate noun that should guide our choice of the verb is recovery. This, of course, is singular. That being the case, the verb should be changed to its singular form: was.

Sample 2: “She will also do herself a favour by not emphasizing on gender as this could boomerang.”(Between the Olympics and Hillary, The Sun, Sunday, May 8, 2016) The only reason for bringing this excerpt to your attention is the error found in the phrase, emphasizing on. The particle on is intrusive.Some Nigerians have this habit of allowing the particle on to collocate with the verb emphasize. They would say, “The chairman emphasized *on the need for probity in the handling of the company’s affairs.” The proper thing to say is: “The chairman emphasized the need for probity in the handling of the company’s affairs.”

Other defective sentences and their corrected versions are as follows: Defective: The professor emphasized *on the importance of regular reading as a means of developing one’s capacity. Corrected version: The professor emphasized the importance of regular reading as a means of developing one’s capacity. Defective: The doctor emphasized *on the need for exercise as a way of maintaining a healthy body.

Corrected version: The doctor emphasized the need for regular exercise as a way of maintaining a healthy body.

Defective: The guest lecturer encouraged the developing African nations to emphasize *on mechanized agriculture as a means of guaranteeing food security. Corrected version: The guest lecturer encouraged the developing African nations to emphasizemechanized agriculture as a means of guaranteeing food security. Defective: This regime is emphasizing *on training and re-training of staff.

Corrected version: This regime is emphasizing training and re-training of staff. Defective: The instructor emphasized *on the need to maintain a clean and hygienic environment.

Corrected version: The instructor emphasized the need to maintain a clean and hygienic environment.

Readers should note that although the verb emphasize does not take the particle on, the noun emphasis does.

Please read the following sentences: 1) The new regime places emphasis on probity and accountability. (Compare: The new regime emphasizes probity and accountability.) 2) The

by Samson Dare 0805 500 1770 samsonadare@yahoo.co.uk

Sunday Tribune

line

life with

Niyi Osundare

Random Blues emphasis in the western world is on increased technology.

(Compare: The western world emphasizes increased technology.) 3) The emphasis here is on herbal medicine (Compare: Here we emphasize herbal medicine.) 4) The workshop will place emphasis on the participants’ ability to pronounce words correctly. (Compare: The workshop will emphasize the participants’ ability to pronounce words correctly.) 5) This government is placing emphasis on security. (Compare: This government is emphasizing security.) 6) Any training in English should lay emphasis on clarity of expression. (Compare: Any training in English should emphasize clarity of expression.)

Similarly, some users confuse the particle/preposition that should go with the verb prepare (or its noun preparation) with the one that goes with the adjective preparatory.

They would say, preparatory for instead of preparatory to. Read the following sentences: 1a) We are preparing for exams. b) We have bought materials in preparation for exams. C) Materials have been bought preparatory to exams. 2a) We are preparingfor the construction work. b) We have cleared the site in preparation for the construction work. C) We have cleared the site preparatory to the commencement of construction work. 3a) INEC is preparing for elections. b) INEC has been procuring materials in preparation for elections. C) INEC has been procuring materials preparatory to the elections. 4a) We are preparingfor the meeting. b)The hall has been tidied up in preparation for the meeting. c) The hall has been tidied up preparatory to the meeting. 5) a) I am preparing for resumption. b) I have bought new books in preparation for resumption. c) I have bought new books preparatory to resumption. 6) a) The Super Eagles are preparing for the match. b) The Super Eagles have gone to the camp in preparation for the match. c) The Super Eagles have gone to the camp preparatory to the match.

Note the following: prepare for; preparation for; preparatory to.

A similar error is noted in the expression: solicit *for.

The verb solicit, let us note, does not need the particle for.

Please read the following sentences: 1) The boys went out soliciting help for their sick mother. 2) Orphanages are allowed to solicit funds by law. 3) There is no law permitting beggars to solicit money. 4) Like individuals, nations can solicit aid from other nations. 5 Soliciting help takes something away from a person’s dignity. 6) Students should feel free to solicit books from publishing companies.

As another example, some Nigerians would say : “at the verge of...” instead of: “on the verge of...” Please read the following sentences: 1) I came into the country on theverge of the general elections. 2) Now that the company is on the verge of economic breakthrough, nothing should be done to reverse its fortune. 3) The world seems to be on the verge of inventing the vaccine for the Ebola Virus Disease (EVD).

4) The Security Council intervened at the appropriate time: the country was then on theverge of anarchy. 5) The help came at a time I was on the verge of bankruptcy. 6) War broke out on theverge of independence of the country.

The verb form also takes the particle on: 1) The delirious outbursts verge on lunacy. 2) The expression of doubt verges on malicious suspicion. 3) His condition verges on absolute poverty. 4) Her level of education verges on illiteracy. 5) The hedging vergeson dishonesty. 6) The man’s spiritual condition vergeson apostasy.

The verb border also takes the particle on and is synonymous with verge on: 1) His insensitivity borderson misanthropy. 2) The happy-go-lucky attitude borders on laziness. 3) Your attitude to your friend’s success borders on jealousy. 4) The way he has been hiding information on the matter borders on insincerity. 5) The man’s consistent refusal to obey his seniors borders on rebellion. 6) The insurgency borders on national insecurity.

They swung too far left They landed on the right Say, they swung too far to the left And they landed on the right Furious winds behind their sails They lost their bearing, then their sprite Unable to dream himself He became an interpreter of dreams Hen hen, unable to dream himself He became an interpreter of dreams He lost his covenant with the river Now he seeks the blessing of vagrant streams Menacing like a badly pulled tooth Painful like an own goal Say, menacing like a badly pulled tooth Painful like an own goal Life’s race drips with sweat From poll to distant poll We are not at war with peace We are only at peace with war Hear? We are not at war with peace We are only at peace with war Tongue-twisting our way to perfidy In ways frankly dubious and fatally raw

Tell a lie countless times And watch it become the truth Hear? Tell a lies countless times And watch it become the truth Your famous house of falsehood Is like a mouth without a single tooth

41 news

4 September, 2016

Sunday Tribune

Nigerian women critical stakeholders in nation building —Aisha Buhari Adelowo Oladipo - Minna WIFE of the President, Hajiya Aisha Buhari, has described Nigerian women as critical stakeholders in the affairs of the country, adding that their primary concern is to always complement the efforts of their husbands or the men folks.

She stated this on Saturday at the fundraising launch and unveiling of the Cancer Screening Centre of Raise Foundation, the pet project of Dr Amina Abubakar Bello, a consultant gyneachologist and wife of the Niger State governor, Alhaji Abubakar Sani Bello, in Minna, the state capital.

She stated this while reacting to former Head of State, General Abdulasalami Abubakar’s remark that Nigerian men are now becoming endangered species, adding that “women are now overtaking us’in the scheme of things in the country.”

Some of the 23 suspects, arms and ammunition paraded at Ogun State Police Command at the weekend. PHOTO: OLUWATOYIN MALIK

Race to pick candidate for Reps’ bye-election hots up in Lagos APC Bola Badmus - Lagos

A

S the Lagos State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) plans to hold fresh primaries to pick the party’s standard bearer for the House of Representatives bye-election into Ifako-Ijaiye Federal Constituency of the state, the party appears to have broken into camps with each of the camps canvassing different position on how the exercise should hold.

The seat became vacant following the death of Honourable Adewale Oluwatayo Elijah, who died in Abuja on July 21.

While it was learnt that one of the leaders of the party is said to have pre-

ferred that fresh party primaries should be held for the three remaining aspirants out of the four that contested and lost to the deceased lawmaker, others within the fold wanted the exercise thrown open to allow new aspirants to join the race.

The late Elijah had four challengers for the party’s ticket. They were Demola Doherty, Yomi Ogunnusi and Abiola Josiah, while the fourth contender, Mr. Moroof Adefolabi, died during the last Hajj exercise.

As the statutory 90 days allowed for the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to conduct bye-election to the vacant seat draws nearer

and the party is yet to come out with a date for its primaries to pick a candidate, more aspirants have since joined the race.

It was gathered that while Tope, the son of the deceased lawmaker, is said to have indicated his interest to vie for the vacant seat, one Mr. Kayode Aremo, the personal assistant to the same former legislator is also said to have shown similar interest, a development which some political watchers see as possible indication of crisis within the late Elijah group.

Other new contestants, it was learnt, are Benjamin Olabinjo, who is currently the Special Adviser to the Governor, Ministry of Commerce and Mr Adekunle

Ooni, Alaafin laud Lagos Assembly’s efforts at preserving Yoruba heritage Chukwuma Okparaocha - Lagos THE Ooni of Ife, Oba Enitan Ogunwusi, has commended the Lagos State House of Assembly for its laudable steps towards promoting and preserving the rich cultural heritage of the Yorubas.

Oba Ogunwusi gave the commendation when the speaker of the assembly, Honourable Mudashiru Obasa, led other members of the House on a courtesy visit to the monarch’s palace in Ile-Ife, Osun State.

The traditional ruler also lauded the legislators for conducting their Thursday plenary sessions in Yoruba language, while also commending the Assembly on the recent Yoruba summit organised by the House towards making learning of the Yoruba language compulsory in public and pri-

vate schools in Lagos State.

Oba Ogunwusi who is the fifty-first Ooni of Ife also urged the lawmakers to immortalise the founding father of Lagos, Olofin Ogunfunminire, noting that Lagos was unique in the history of Yorubaland.

Earlier, the speaker, Obasa thanked the monarch for his presence at the Yoruba summit and the giant strides he had taken in promoting unity among traditional rulers.

The speaker disclosed that the summit had earned the Assembly numerous awards from notable groups in the country and abroad and assured that the House would continue to support efforts to prevent Yoruba culture from going into extinction.

Similarly, the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi, has urged Yorubas to unite in order to ensure growth and development of the

race.

Oba Adeyemi who gave the charge when members of the Lagos Assembly visited him in his palace in Oyo, stressed that God had blessed the Yoruba race in several ways.

The traditional ruler, maintained that the Yorubas were the first to achieve feats in human endeavours such as journalism, medicine, land survey and law across the country.

Oba Adeyemi who noted that the mastery of the Yoruba language helps in proficiency in other languages admonished Yoruba youths never to neglect their culture for a foreign one.

Obasa also thanked Oba Adeyemi for supporting the Yoruba summit organised by the Assembly, while pledging that the submissions of stakeholders at the summit would be implemented.

Olayinka, the Personal assistant to the Chairman of APC, Lagos State chapter, Otunba Henry Ajomale.

Responding, spokesperson of the party in the state, Mr. Joe Igbokwe, said the APC was resolved not to impose any candidate on the party and, therefore, committed to holding an open primary to pick the most acceptable person amongst the contestants.

Lead City International School introduces six core skills into curriculum

By Kehinde Adio AS secondary schools in the country prepare for resumption for the 2016/17 academic session, Lead City International School, Jericho, Ibadan, Oyo State, has introduced six core skills in its curriculum to improve the academic performance of its students in their various subsequent certificate examinations; foreign and local.

The six core skills are; critical thinking and problem solving; Communication and collaboration creativity and imagination. others include citizenship, digital literacy, student leadership and personal development.

Speaking with the Head of teachers in the school, Mrs Tolu Owoeye, on Friday, she stated that the introduction of the new academic programmes formed part of the school’s strategy aimed at improving learning in the subsequent academic sessions.

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Sunday Tribune

Oyo lawmaker lauds constituents, donates items

By Segun Adebayo

Bishop Rowland Peters, College President of International College of Ministry (right), Reverend Professor Ademola Akinpelu (middle) and Dr Emmanuel A. Aromolaran (left), during the 17th graduation of International College of Ministry held at Inaolaji Estate Area, Sharp Corner, Oluyole, Apata, Ibadan, on Saturday. PHOTO: D’TOYIN

Sallah: Rams go for N250, 000, N180, 000 in Abuja, Lagos, Ibadan 3 factors led to high cost —Ram sellers’ chairman

By Our Reporters

A

BOUT eight days to Ed-El-Kabir celebration, prices of various sizes of rams have gone up astronomically in cities like Abuja, Lagos, Ibadan and many other parts of the country, Sunday Tribune findings have revealed.

At the Federal Housing ram market in Kubwa, Abuja, where Sunday Tribune saw ram sellers setting up stands with their rams just arriving, potential buyers were seen trooping out to inquire about the prices of each category of rams.

Checks revealed that the prices were higher than what the rams sold for in 2015, with a small size ram now being sold for N30,000 as against N17,000 it was sold last year.

A medium ram went for N40,000, whereas it sold for N30,000 last year.

But at Bodija, Liberty Road and Sabo areas of Ibadan, Oyo State, findings revealed

increase in prices of rams, depending on sizes and buyers’ negotiation skills.

While medium size rams went for between N40, 000 and N45, 000, at Bodija and Liberty Road, it was about N100, 000 and N180, 000 in Sabo, where the biggest ram was sold at N250, 000.

An auto dealer-turned-ram seller, who identified himself as Alhaji Danladi, said his rams were costly because he raised them in his residence, adding that, that was why they were lookimg well-fed.

At Zuba ram depot, Abuja, a medium ram, which was sold for between N30,000 and N35,000, now costs between N60,000 and N65,000, while big ones go for between N100,000 and N180,000.

It was even discovered that apart from their high cost, rams were not even available in the most of the markets visited at Gwagwalada, Zuba, Mararaba, Nyayan, Lugbe, and Mpape.

A seller at Zuba ram market, however, told the Sunday Tribune that the prices

would fall when more rams arrived during the week.

Checks by Sunday Tribune at Ogudu in Ojota area of Lagos State revealed that a big ram is sold for N135,000, while medium ram goes for between N60,000 and N70,000.

A buyer, who identified himself as Mr. Quadri Adeleke, noted that the prices of rams have gone up too high.

He, however, said, “People are getting wiser. Instead of an individual family buying a single ram, people now come together to purchase rams.

“As for my family we are not buying a ram this year.

Instead of buying a big ram, we are going to buy a cow which I am sure will last us for a long time.”

A visit to the Meiran ram market in Meiran area of the Lagos-Abeokuta High way showed numerous rams and red goats but with very few buyers coming along to buy.

Some of the very few buyers, who were seen in the

OPC commends Fayose over anti-grazing law Olalekan OlabuloLagos THE Oodua People’ s Congress has commended the Ekiti State governor, Ayodele Fayose for the antigrazing law,which was recently passed into law in the state .

The national coordinator of the group, Otunba Gani Adams described the law as a “ right step in the right direction “ The OPC chief said “ Going by the wicked records of Fulani herdsmen who have turned the clean and

clear rivers of their host communities in the southwest area of the country into rivers that flow with human blood “ Adams added that “ the action of Ekiti State governor, Ayodele Fayose and the state House of Assembly to pass the anti-grazing bill in the state is highly commendable.” .

He also stated that “ The bill, which prevents herdsmen from carrying weapons is indeed a good step in the right direction and should be applauded by all right-

thinking people across the country” “It is no longer news that the herdsmen have been acting with impunity in communities across the South-West. They have killed, robbed and raped hapless citizens without any action taken against them by the security agencies”.

He also said that “ This seeming sense of insecurity and helplessness by the people is a dangerous trend that portends danger for the peaceful coexistence of Nigerians.”

market, lamented the high cost of rams less than two weeks before sallah.

Findings made by Sunday Tribune showed that the smallest ram in these markets goes for N55,000, as against N40,000 during the same period last year, while a big ram is sold for as much as N200,000 and N180,000.

A buyer, Akinola Ismael, said he contemplated buying a ram a couple of months back when he believed the prices would have been very good for him, but the thought of the stress of keeping and feeding the animal made him change his mind, but now he wished he had done that.

Isiaka Idris from Kano State, who is chairman of Federal Housing Ram Sellers Association, said although people were complaining and crying that there was no money, what they needed to know was that the sellers did not steal the rams.

Idris gave three reasons the prices are on the high side this year.

According to him, ram dealers from Niger Republic, who used to supply rams, would not be able to do so this year owing to the closure of the border following the current battle against insurgents.

He stated that a sack of ram feed that used to sell for N2, 000 has now increased to N5,000.

Another factor, which also affected the price, according to him, has to do with the increase in transportation fare.

He urged the Federal Government to ensure that salaries of workers were paid before the Sallah day to enable people have a hitch-free celebration and also for sales to improve.

THE lawmaker representing Ogbomoso North Constituency in Oyo State House of Assembly, Olawumi Oladeji, has lauded her supporters for the public show of love, loyalty and support since she emerged as their representative.

She stated this during a meeting with the supporters at Bode - Eniafe, Masifa-Aguodo ward, Ogbomoso.

Oladeji, who was received by thousands of her supporters, also thanked them for remaining steadfast with the former governor of the state, Otunba Christopher Adebayo Alao-Akala, whom she described as a father and mentor.

According to the lawmaker,” It has been a while that l have had the privilege of rubbing minds with you since you voted me into office as your representative. I am also using this opportunity to intimate you that l have been trying my best to facilitate tangible things that will add values to the progress and development of our constituency.”

She stated further that her presence in their midst was to appreciate them with the little token at her disposal, promising that she would soon come up with an empowerment programme, which would benefit everybody in the constituency.

Remain committed to development, Kumuyi tells Wike THE General Superintendent of Deeper Life Christian Ministry, Pastor William Kumuyi has encouraged Governor of Rivers State, Nyesom Wike to remain committed to the development of the state as the church will continue to back him in prayers.

This is as Governor Wike declared that the state is dedicated to God who has been faithful despite the evil machinations of the enemies.

Speaking during a courtesy visit to the Government House, on Saturday, Pastor Kumuyi advised Governor Wike never to be distracted in his pursuit of development for the state.

He said that he was in the state to bring divine solutions to human problems, noting that the state would overcome her challenges to be a leading light in the country.

The cleric noted that because the Rivers State Government has honoured God, it will get divine visitation that will address all the challenges that the people of the state are facing.

He said: “The challenges we face are temporal. God will use us to bring a time of peace and security to the state”.

Pastor Kumuyi added that the future is bright for Nigeria and Rivers State, saying that the present challenges will pass away.

Responding, Governor Wike noted that the visit of the General Superintendent of Deeper Life Christian Ministry to Rivers State will attract spiritual blessing to the state and help the state attain further Grace for rapid development.

10,000 farmers to benefit from pilot rice anchor programme in Kano Kola Oyelere-Kano KANO State governor, Dr Abdullahi Umar Ganduje has said about 10, 000 rice farmers in the state are to benefit from the Central Bank of Nigeria, (CBN) Rice Anchor Borrowers Programme, under the first phase, during current wet season.

He added that the first batch of 5,540 beneficiaries had been cleared for participation in the programme while the rest were awaiting clearance from the apex bank.

Disclosing this on Saturday during the flag-off of the programme at Bunkure Cattle Ranch in Bunkure Local Government Area, Dr Ganduje explained that more farmers would be involved in the programme during this year’s dry season and subsequent rainy seasons.

According to him, “it is envisaged that thousands of rice farmers in the state would take advantage of the programme, aimed at creating profitable linkages between over 600, 000 small scale farmers and large scale processors in Nigeria, with a view to increasing agricultural production and extensively improving capacity utilisation of integrated mills.”

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FG set to ratify memorandum on e-govt —Minister Bola Badmus-Lagos

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EDERAL Government, on Saturday, through the Minister of Communications, Mr Adebayo Shittu, in Lagos State, declared that ICT sector remains essentially an easy avenue to shore up the country’s revenues, buoy the economy and create job opportunities for the country’s youth.

He also disclosed that in a matter of days, the government would approve a memorandum before it that would transform the way business was being done in Nigeria.

He said this at the inauguration of a company, Avidor Services Limited, which is into production of EMV bank cards, GSM

cards, ID cards, among others.

Speaking at the event attended by the Oyo State governor, Senator Abiola Ajimobi, who was represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Lekan Ali, the Managing Director, Odua Group of Companies, Mr Adewale Raji, and chairman of Avidor, Professor Oladapo Afolabi, who was a Head of Service of the Federation, Shittu described the ICT sector as a growing one with potential and, therefore, the need to focus on it in the attempt for the President Muhammadu Buhari administration to bring about his e-government policy drive.

“A memorandum that would be considered in a couple of days that would

move Nigeria through ICT by transforming the way we do business is now before our Federal Executive Council.

“We will all be promoting the concept of the cashless economy like the other parts of the world. But we believe that when our e-government policy comes on board, every aspect of government business will be affected, you can stay in post office and renew your international passport, among others,” the minister said.

“The ICT sector is a growing sector, it is a sector that has the potential.

For instance, other sectors like agriculture, we are trying to encourage people to go into it, but our children have already keyed into it.

“So it is very easy for us to promote ICT and use it to

create jobs, use it to restore our economy and get back on track,” the minister assured.

While lauding the initiative of Prof. Afolabi and urging other stakeholders to also take part, the minister promised full collaboration with Avidor to enable it take its share of the market.

“We are also seizing this opportunity to invite all other stakeholders to key into ICT sector road map which has been developing in the country,” he said.

Speaking, Governor Ajimobi said the venture was desirable at this time in the nation’s history now that insecurity had become a threat in Nigeria, projecting that the company, Avidor would attract much more patronages than expected.

Sunday Tribune

Monarch urges youths to embrace entrepreneurship THE Alake of Egbaland, Oba Adedotun Aremu Gbadebo, has urged youths in the country to embrace entrepreneurship as an alternative in seeking for white-collar jobs that are non-existent.

The traditional ruler gave this advice at an empowerment programme organised by the Egba Economic summit (EEC), held at Ake Palace, Abeokuta.

While handing over equipment to beneficiaries at the programme, Oba Gbadebo noted that only entrepreneurship could address the increasing unemployment rate in the country.

Unemployed youths would do well by utilising their God-given talents and skills to earn better living instead of seeking for scarce paid employment,” he said.

“Many youths in Nigeria are exceptionally talented but have abandoned their gifts in search of white-collar jobs which are no more in existence,” Oba Gbadebo added.

The organisers of the empowerment programme and chairman of Egba Economic Summit (EES), Mr. Tunji Sunmonu, enjoined all youths in the state to shun crime and engage themselves in entrepreneurship which guarantees safety.

He noted that it is imperative for the unemployed youths to take the advantage of the programme to exhibit their God-given talent in earning money for their living.

“The programme is free of charge for the unemployed youths in the state and it is very important for the youths to come and showcase their talents in order to live a well meaning life instead of resorting to begging and looking for white collar jobs” Sunmonu said.

FG to commence new women empowerment programme Bodunrin Kayode-Maiduguri MINISTER of Women Affairs, Aisha Alhassan, has said that the Federal Government will soon commence a Government Enterprise and Empowerment Programme (GEEP) to assist women.

The minister, who flew into Maiduguri, Borno State, this weekend, said this during the graduation of 155 trainees from the Air Force Base in Maiduguri.

She commended the graduands for benefiting from the training programme and also expressed happiness with the capacity building exercise for coming at a time when women are in need for training exercises to improve their personal incomes.

According to her, economic growth can be achieved if all women are empowered adding that it would help even their husbands at the home front.

From left, former Oyo State governor, Dr Victor Omololu Olunloyo; Deputy Governor of Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Mr Bayo Adelabu; Chief A. Odunlade, representative of Olubadan of Ibadanland and the chairman on the occasion, Chief Areoye Oyebola, at the public presentation of the Taj-Mahal by the Adegoke Adelabu Dynasty and Adegoke Adelabu Foundation (AAF), Oke-Oluokun, Ibadan,on Saturday. PHOTO: TOMMY ADEGBITE

Sultan of Sokoto declares Sept 12 Eid-el-Kabir THE Sultan of Sokoto, Sa’ad Abubakar III, has declared Monday, September 12, as Eid-ElKabir Day. This followed the declaration of Saturday, September 3, as the 1st of Zulhijja, 1437 AH.

This is contained in a statement signed by Sambo Junaidu, Chairman, Advisory Committee on Religious Affairs, Sultanate Council of Sokoto.

“The committee, in conjunction with the National

Moon Sighting Committee, had received reports from various moon sighting committees across the country. ”The reports confirmed the sighting of the new moon of Zulhijja,1437 AH,

Ogun permanent secretary dies two days after swearing-in Olayinka OlukoyaAbeokuta ONE of the newly swornin permanent secretary in Ogun State, Mrs. Olubunmi Odumusi, is dead.

Odumusi, aged 57, died in the early hours of Saturday, two days after she was appointed.

She, alongside 13 others, including indigenes of

Kogi and Abia states, were sworn in by the Ogun State governor, Senator Ibikunle Amosun, on Thursday.

In a statement issued by the state government, Odumusi was a senior civil servant in the state Ministry of Information and Strategy.

She was described as a hardworking, conscientious and dedicated worker who served the Ogun

State government for 31 years.

Governor Amosun, while commiserating with the Odumusi family, prayed for the repose of the soul of the departed.

The governor also prayed that God grants the husband of the deceased, her children and colleagues she left behind in the state civil service “the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.”

on Friday, September 2, 2016, which was the 29th day of Zulka’ada, 1437 AH. ”The Sultan and President, Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), accepted the reports and accordingly declared Saturday, September 3, as the first day of Zulhijja, 1437 AH. ”Therefore, Monday, September 12, which will be equivalent to 10th Zulhijja, will be marked as this year’s Eid el-Kabir,” it added.

The statement further quoted the Sultan as felicitating with the Nigerian Muslim Ummah and wished them Allah’s guidance as well as blessings.

The Sultan urged the Muslim Ummah to continue to pray for peace, progress and development of the country.

NBC DG praises civil defence boss security initiatives DIRECTOR-GENERAL, National Boundary Commission (NBC), Dr. Mohammad Bose Ahmad, haspraised the achievements and security initiatives of the Commandant General of Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Alhaji Abdullahi Gana Muhammadu, and for his “dynamic leadership in synergy among the various security agencies.”

Speaking in the office of the Commandant General, NSCDC, Dr. Ahmad said the aim of the visit was to seek the cooperation and collaboration of the corps in discharging the commission’s mandate as boundary manager across the country and the nation’s international borders.

“The collaboration with sister agencies like NSCDC, Customs and Immigration Services will be useful in identifying actual points where smuggling and diversion is taking place in the nation’s borders,” he stressed.

Group harps on passage of PIB Ebenezer Adurokiya-Warri A group in the Niger Delta region, the Centre for Peace, and Environmental Justice (CEPEJ), has urged Nigerian Lawmakers to pass the Petroleum Industry Bill (PIB) into law.

National Coordinator of CEPEJ, Mr Sheriff Mulade, speaking from Accra, Ghana, at the weekend, decried the delay in the passage of the PIB into law by the National Assembly.

Comrade Mulade said that the PIB in Ghana had been passed into law, whereas that of Nigeria was still being delayed for no clear reasons.

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Owners of demolished structures in Ikoyi duly served notices —Lagos govt Bola Badmus-Lagos

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AGOS State government has vowed to intensify efforts to rid the state of illegal structures, just as it said that owners of the buildings demolished in Ikoyi on Thursday, were duly served with contravention, removal and quit notices before the exercise was carried out.

Commissioner, Ministry of Information and Strategy, Mr Steve Ayorinde, disclosed this in a statement issued on Saturday, saying that the government had noted the flagrant disobedience of building regulations, and had, therefore, resolved to ensure removal of all structures that were in contravention of the law.

This is just as Ayorinde said the state government was desirous of restoring the original master plan of all residential areas in the state. He lamented that “arbitrary location of kiosks, illegal parking lots, unapproved mechanic workshops, roadside restaurants and other un-

planned commercial centres, have contributed in no small way to distorting physical planning designs of the state.

“In our effort to maintain a sustainable, organised, liveable and friendly environment, the government will not renege on its declared stance of zero tolerance for structures and properties without development permit or approved building plans.”

The commissioner also warned that all those who chose to erect illegal structures in violation of the state’s laws, in order to take advantage of third parties, would not only have those structures removed, but also be prosecuted.

According to Ayorinde, the affected buildings in Ikoyi were situated in an area originally designated as residential, but the developers, without recourse to the state government, commenced development of industrial and commercial concerns in these locations, thereby distorting the master plan of the area.

He said the structures also caused environmental nuisance, traffic snarls and, more importantly, a security threat to the neighbourhood.

On the allegation that the buildings were not duly served with necessary contravention, stop work and removal notices, the commissioner said that the government would not succumb to blackmail in any form.

“We have evidence of service of all statutory notices. The buildings were also marked with the X red oxide to call the attention of the owners to physical planning contraventions,” he said.

“Having served the Statutory Contravention Notices on the offending structures, and when owners of such structures failed to remove them within the statutory notice period, we were compelled to remove such structures.

This government is committed to following due process and will strictly enforce provisions of the law on this subject matter,” he added.

Sunday Tribune

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SUNDAY

Sunday Tribune

Editor: Ganiyu Salman 08053789060 tribunesporteditor@yahoo.com

Anichebe savours Moyes’ reunion at Sunderland

N The General Officer Commanding, 2 Division of the Nigerian Army, Major-General Kasimu Abdulkarim (first right) with the Commander, Nigeria Force Detachment, Ibadan; Air Commodore Emmanuel Akinbayo (second left) and other officers while addresssing journalists during the route march. PHOTO: OLUWATOYIN MALIK

Route march enhances fitness –GOC Abdulkarim

By Oluwatoyin Malik

THE General Officer Commanding of the 2 Division of the Nigerian Army, Major-General Kasimu Abdulkarim has reiterated the importance of armed forces keeping fit through regular exercises, saying that they help in keeping sound mind in a sound body.

The GOC stated this at the weekend when he led troops from the Division as well as officers of other security agencies along some roads in Ibadan, Oyo State during a 10-kilometre route march, accompanied military and police bands.

The security agencies

which joined army troops in the route march include the Nigeria Police Force, The Nigeria Air Force, the Nigeria Customs Service, The Nigeria Prisons Service, the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, The Nigerian Immigration Service, the Nigeria Security Civil Defence Corps, the Federal Road Safety Corps, the Directorate of State Services, as well as members of the National Youth Service Corps.

The route march started from Letmauck Barracks, 81 Battalion of the Nigerian Army at Mokola area through Mokola Roundabout, University College

Hospital (UCH), Total Garden, state government secretariat, Agodi area, Awolowo Junction, Bodija, Housing Corporation at Bodija, Sango Elewure Junction to Coca-cola-Ajibade-Veterinary road, back to the starting point.

Speaking with journalists during the walk, Abdulkarim said that its essence was to bring all the services and security agencies together to promote espirit de corps, adding that it would help them to know how to operate together anytime there are engagements involving security agencies to improve security in Oyo State.

IGERIA striker, Victor Anichebe has said he is delighted to reunite with his former manager at Everton David Moyes at Sunderland.

Anichebe, who joined Sunderland on a year’s deal as a free agent until the end of the season after his contract at West Bromwich Albion was not renewed had played under Moyes between 2006 and 2013.

Anichebe is being brought in as emergency cover after an injury to Italian Fabio Borini left Jermain Defoe as the club’s only recognised striker.

Anichebe, who made more than 130 appearances under Moyes at Everton, said his relationship with the Scot had tipped the scales in favour of joining the Black Cats.

“He (Moyes) brought me through as a young player and was a big factor in me

coming here,” the striker told the Sunderland website (www.safc.com).

“I had a few options in England and Europe but the manager was a huge pull for me. He knows me inside out and I feel like he can get the best out of me.”

The Nigeria international was released by West Bromwich Albion in July after failing to score in 14 appearances in all competitions last season.

Customs beat Immigration at para-military volleyball tournament

By Tunde Busari

NIGERIAN Customs volleyball team yesterday proved their pre-match rating with a convincing win over Nigerian Immigration team at the final of the first edition of the para-military volleyball tournament held in Ibadan.

The three-day tournament brought together Nigeria Police, Nigeria Prison and

Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) at the volleyball court of the Lekan Salami Stadium, Ibadan.

Nigerian Custom started the game with confidence upon which they built to overwhelm their opponents in a 3-0 scoreline.

Kayode Ajilore, an ex-national star, put up some efforts to save the face of his team but the customs main-

tained their lead until they earned the last point.

Earlier, Nigeria Police had defeated the FRSC team with 3-1 to win third place behind Immigration and Custom.

The final match was witnessed by the acting General Manager, Oyo State Sports Council, Gboyega Makinde and former volleyball coach, Tunde Adeleye, among others.

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THE

Sunday Tribune

Fabio Lanipekun 08050498512 lanipekunfabio@yahoo.com

Usain Bolt seven years ago

W

HEN I first saw Usain Bolt at the age of 15 on the race track, I knew I was watching a future world champion. What I didn’t know was that I was privileged to see the greatest sprinter of all time, as I testified seven years ago in this column of 23 August 2009.

Rio 2016 Olympic Games have proved and confirmed it – Bolt has become the first triple/triple sprinter to win the 100, 200 and the 4 x 100 metre relay, back to back.

This is how I serenaded it in the August 2009 piece. Enjoy it.

“I have been a fan of Jamaica sprint marvel, Usain Bolt since the Osaka Championships two years ago. As a teenager he was so impressive in the 200 metres but was narrowly beaten by American Tyson Gay. Even then I did point out in this column that the world should watch out for the lanky fellow.

Today after winning and setting new world record in the 100 metres 9.58 at the Berlin championships, people are already hailing him the greatest athlete of all time. By setting three world records at the Beijing Olympics last year, Bolt certainly qualifies to be so lionized, as nobody else had ever done so.

To win the Olympic gold in three events at the same Olympics, is huge, to set new world records in the three is awesome. American Jesse Owens won four gold in Berlin in 1936, Carl Lewis also four in Seoul 1988, but did not set new records in all.

Some other athletics buff may prefer the winning streak of Ed Moses in the 400 meters hurdles, African romancists may nominate Abebe Bikila of Ethiopia for winning Africa’s first gold in marathon in 1960.

Bolt set for a race at the just-ended Rio Olympics.

Cuba’s Alberto Juantorena’s Montreal 1976 historic double 400 and 800 meters gold medals remain unbeatable, making him the only one in history to win gold in the sprints and middle distance race. Usain Bolt’s three gold medals and three world records easily overshadow all of these, but I believe that the Jamaican has not really reached his full potential.

For as long as he likes, Bolt may continue to set new marks in the 100 and 200 metre mark. If Bolt succeeds in breaking Michael Johnson’s world record 43.18 seconds the tag of being the greatest ever will become

unassailable. So to Usain, go for it.”

And by the time Usain Bolt anchored the Jamaica relay to win in Rio, my jubilation knew no bounds. I had conferred a similar honour on tennis legend, Roger Federer, way back in 2005 and he is still basking in glory, Argentine football supremo Lionel Messi is next and the football world is still at his feet, American boxer, Floyd Mayweather is just one professional fight to become the greatest ever whenever he achieves the perfect score of 50/50 professional fights, he would have rubbished the achievement of Rocky Marciano.

Rio disaster IF only Nigerians knew the number of sports available at the Olympic Games that are not provided for them by the sports authorities their anger will know no bounds. The 2016 Summer Olympic programme featured 28 sports and a total of 41 disciplines and 306 events.

But we were only prominent in one – football. There were 47 gold medals in athletics; Aquatics (Swimming, Diving, synchronised swimming, water polo) 46 golds, Archery 4; Badminton 5; Basketball 2; Boxing 13; Canoeing 16; Cycling 18; Equestrian 6; Fencing 10; Field Hockey 2; Football 2; Golf 2; Gymnastics 18; Handball 2; Judo 14; Modern Pentathlon 2; Rowing 14; Rugby sevens 2; Sailing 10; Table tennis 4; Taekwondo 8; Tennis 5; Triathlon 2; Volleyball 2; Beach Volleyball 2; Weightlifting 15; Wrestling 18.

54 countries including Kenya, South Africa, Ethiopia won at least one gold medal, and Nigeria were among the Zero back markers. Since our participation from 1952 we won medals in boxing, athletics, weightlifting and taekwondo. We have been vastly non-competitive in most other sports disciplines, but since the introduction of the Paralympic Games Nigeria have been pulling their weight. Rio 2016 may not be an exception.

The seven wrestlers paraded by Team Nigeria at the justended Rio Olympics. None of them won a bout.

Arsenal fans tell Wenger to sign Kanu after hat-trick

By Ganiyu Salman YOU won’t believe it but Arsenal fans have called on manager, Arsene Wenger to consider signing one of the team’s legends, Nwankwo Kanu again.

Reason: This follows Kanu’s heroics on Saturday when his hat-

trick and goal from Robert Pires gave Arsenal Legends a 4-1 win over AC Milan Legends in a charity match at the Emirates Stadium.

The captain of the 1996 Olympics gold winning squad who came on as a substitute broke the deadlock in the 27th minute when he connec-

Nice didn’t gamble to sign me —Balotelli MARIO Balotelli insists Nice of France has not taken a gamble by signing him on a free transfer from Liverpool FC. The 26-year-old joined the Ligue 1 club to end an underwhelming two-year stint with the Reds, where he scored just four goals in 28 appearances after being signed by Brendan Rodgers in a £16m deal.

Balotelli also scored just one Serie A goal on loan at Milan last season and former Liverpool defender, Jamie Carragher joked that Nice were “still paying over the odds” when landing the Italian for nothing.

But while he admits the pressure is on to perform this season, Balotelli is adamant he does not represent a

risk for Nice and believes it is best club for him.

“It was a footballing decision to come here,” he said. “There were other successful clubs who wanted me, but I need above all else to play this season. This season needs to be a good season.

“My career in football is very different from what has been written about me ever since I was 16 so I don’t think I am a risk.

“In the last two years the only problem has been the lack of game time due to physical problems. I don’t think I am a gamble at all - I have to be right physically and to do that, I only have to play. I only need to play regularly – mentally I am fine.”

ted Emmanuel Petit’s cross with a header into the far corner of the net.

Fans of the Gunners immediately after the goal resorted to the chants of, ‘Wenger, Wenger, sign him (Kanu) up!’ as they continued to revel in a thoroughly enjoyable afternoon of football.

AC Milan Legends drew parity in the 40th minute through Christian Vieri who cashed in on a goal mouth scramble to beat David Seaman.

Kanu put the Gunners back in the lead in the 72nd minute with another spectacular header this

time off Luis Boa Morte’s free kick from the left side.

The former Ajax and Portsmouth forward completed his treble of the day nine minutes later when he converted the penalty kick awarded his side after Robert Pires had been axed in the box.

Pires too in the 86th minute appeared on the scoresheet as he scored Arsenal’s fourth goal before Vieri again reduced the tally when he rebounded in a penalty which was well saved by Jens Lehmann.

Kanu speaking after the match

Nwankwo Kanu (left) closes in on AC Milan’s Marcel Desailly during Saturday’s novelty game at the Emirates Stadium.

said scoring a hat-trick for Arsenal Legends was a “special” moment for him.

“This is special because of The Arsenal Foundation, what they are doing and the work they want to achieve,” the two time African Footballer of the Year told www. arsenal.com.

“It’s a special hat-trick. It is always, always good to see the supporters and to entertain them!” he added.

The game which was to raise £1 million for the Arsenal Foundation’s mission to build pitches for children in UK (London), Jordan and Somalia, also featured retired high-profile footballers except Kolo Toure, who has already played three games in the Scottish Premier League this season for Celtic United.

Gilberto Silva, Freddie Ljungberg, Martin Keown, Marc Overmars and Ray Parlour, were also among the Arsenal Legends, while Milan Glorie also paraded Paolo Di Canio, Cafu, Marcel Desailly and Alessandro Costacurta, among others in the novelty game.

47 sport

4 September, 2016

Sunday Tribune

Today’s match is test ahead Eagles clash —Zambia coach GEORGE Lwandamina says today’s dead-rubber 2017 Africa Cup Group E qualifier against Kenya, is a springboard for next month’s 2018 World Cup qualifier against Nigeria.

Zambia will kick off their 2018 World Cup Group B qualifying campaign, with a home date against Nigeria on October 3.

Second placed Zambia and bottom of the log, Kenya have six and four points respectively heading into their final Group E qualifier, behind leaders Guinea Bissau who have qualified with a four point lead and a game in hand on 10 points after beating Chipolopolo 3-2 last June.

“Every game is a serious game whatever perceptions people have of this match,” Lwandamina said.

“We have the World Cup qualifier coming up and we should establish our starting point, that is how serious this game is.

“Do we have a team that can serious compete during the World Cup qualifiers? Or do we have to start all over again?

“The answer will be known on Sunday (today).”

Zambia, though, will be without two notable players for the final Group E qualifier at Levy Mwanawasa Stadium in Ndola.

AFCON 2017 qualifier:

Iheanacho’s goal dims Taifa Stars

By Oluwabunmi Ajayi

A

Osimhen

Osimhen is future of Nigerian football —Ighalo WATFORD striker, Odion Ighalo has described Victor Osimhen as “the future of Nigerian football” after training with the youngster in the Super Eagles camp before Saturday’s clash with the Taifa Stars of Tanzania.

The Edo State-born teenage striker, could however, not make his senior international debut yesterday in Uyo against Tanzania.

Osimhen in next January, is due to sign a professional contract with German Bundesliga side, Wolfsburg.

His move to the German side came on the heels of his superlative performance at the 2015 FIFA U-17 World Cup in Chile, where he emerged the record top scorer of the tournament

with 10 goals and also helped the Golden Eaglets to win for the record five times.

“Osimhen is a good player.

He is young, fast, very sharp, he is the future of Nigeria,” remarked Ighalo, who scored 15 goals for the Hornets last season.

“I have watched him in training these past few days.

He is a youngster who has confidence and he is not afraid to take on defenders.

“And With time and hard work, he will be one of Nigeria’s best strikers.”

Osimhen, who has already been capped by Nigeria’s U-20 as well as the Olympic team, featured for the Eagles in Wednesday’s test match against Nigeria premier league side, Akwa United.

78th minute’s goal by Kelechi Iheanacho on Saturday, gave a wasteful Super Eagles a 1-0 win over the Taifa Stars of Tanzania, in a 2017 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) group qualifier decided at the Akwa Ibom International Stadium, Uyo. It was the first game since Franco-German coach

Gernot Rohr took over the Eagles job last month.

Fans who had obviously hoped for a goal harvest in a dead rubber game at the Nest of Champions went home disappointedly as the Eagles wasted a number of scoring chances that could have made nonsense of the visitors if well utilised.

However, Saturday’s match also served as a build up for the Super Eagles ahead of next

month’s group B clash with Zambia in a 2018 World Cup qualifier in Ndola.

Watford striker, Odion Ighalo began the catalogue of misses in Uyo as he hit the ball wide after receiving a pass from Iheanacho in the box barely two minutes into the game.

Captain John Mikel Obi set a pass in the 12th minute for Ahmed Musa, but the Leicester City star failed to utilise the chance.

Mikel’s header a minute

...Victory, good start for Rohr ---Shorunmu FORMER Super Eagles goalkeeper’s trainer, Ike Shorunmu has said the victory of Nigeria in the 2017 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier over Tanzania’s Taifa Stars, is a boost for the new manager, Gernot Rohr to kick-start his reign.

Kelechi Iheanacho’s 78th minute goal had earned the three-time African champions three points in the inconsequential match in Uyo, as Egypt has already grabbed the group’s sole ticket to Gabon 2017.

“The important thing is that we won the AFCON clash against Tanzania giving the new manager, Gernot Rohr a perfect start to his reign.

“At least, we need to start from somewhere to commence the repair work in the Super Eagles.

“I’m certain the victory makes everybody happy and it will boost the side morale in preparation for the World Cup qualifier next month against Zambia.

“The AFCON win is a

good start as well as the score line which is decent and unlikely to put any pressure on the coach.

“If Eagles had won the AFCON clash with as many as four or five unreplied goals, the heat would have been unbearable on the coach in the next match.

“I’m satisfied with the overall performance and I hope they take a measure therein in subsequent matches.

“Of course, Eagles performance is heart-warming

Rohr

that they can comfortably match their opponents in the World Cup race.

“No country is a pushover any more as we are bringing in new players to the fray others are doing almost same thing.

“I believe Eagles have already started well, it’s for the entire country to queue behind the coach to bring out the best in performance from the team,” the former Eagles keeper told Supersport.com.

Iheanacho later from Musa Mohammed’s cross missed the target.

Manula in the 24th minute denied Iheanacho of scoring, while Victor Moses wasted another chance two minutes later when he shot wide at close range.

Moses in the 33rd minute also lost chance as Manula reacted quickly, while the Tanzanian keeper also in the 42nd minute pulled off a big save to prevent Ighalo from hitting the back of the net.

Mikel, was replaced by Wilfred Ndidi in the 63rd minute as the captain’s armband was handed over to the Leicester City’s record signing, Musa.

Brown Ideye came on to replace Ighalo in the 73rd minute as the Eagles intensified efforts to get a winner.

After a catalogue of misses, Manchester City’s starlet, Iheanacho in a display of sheer brilliance created a space to shoot at the edge of the box which eventually beat goalkeeper Aishi Manula for the only goal of the match.

FC Mainz of Germany defender, Leon Balogun, was booked during added time as Wolverhampton Wanderers’ goalkeeper, Carl Ikeme maintained a clean slate for the Eagles in the formality game.

Meanwhile, The Citizens have lauded the performance of their player, Iheanacho.

“Kelechi’s wonder strike gives Nigeria’s Super Eagles a 1-0 win over Tanzania. Well done, Kelechi!”

Manchester City wrote on its official twitter handle.

SIDELINES NIGERIA’S MOST INFORMATIVE NEWSPAPER

4 SEPTEMBER, 2016

NO 2,062

www.tribuneonlineng.com

N200

With the country in excruciating economic condition, Nigerians are now devising various ingenous methods to beat economic hardship. Good and services are being repackaged to attract patronage. Who says good things can’t come from a bad situation?

Yoruba nation: Know yourself (II)

T

HE Yorùbá people, at over 50 million in population, are the largest single indigenous Black African people in Africa and in the world. Only two other Black African peoples - the Hausa and the Igbo – come close to them in populationin West Africa, although a composite people (the Hausa-Fulani, made up of the Hausa and Fulani together) might be as large or somewhat larger. All other Black African peoples in Africa are considerably smaller than these three in population. All three belong to West Africa, and wholly or mostly to Nigeria.

According to Nigerian official estimates, the Yorùbá number about 45 million in Nigeria. The same estimates make the Hausa-Fulani nations together about 48 million and the Igbo about 40 million.

However, the Nigerian official estimates are commonly known to be unreliable and they are always disputed.

Further to the west, Yorùbá population in neighbouring Benin Republic plus Togo Republic is commonly estimated at about three million. In a 2008 public lecture in Ibadan, Prof.WandeAbimbola (former Vice-Chancellor of Obafemi Awolowo University, Ife, and former Nigerian Senator) stated that the homeland of the Yorùbá does not end in Togo but extends a little into eastern parts of Ghana, where there are tens of ancient Yoruba towns, some large and some small. It is not known, however, how large the total Yoruba population is in these eastern parts of Ghana.

The Yorùbá speak one language, the Yorùbá language. This one Yoruba language has many provincial and local dialects; but all these dialects are mutually intelligible.

Generally, the Yoruba people speak of themselves as one large family which contains many sub-families or sub-groups differentiated mostly by their dialects.Among the Yoruba, the differences between the sub-groups and between their dialects are constant sources of humour. All Yoruba people know that, in their nation’s long history, people have moved, relocated and intermarried so much that today, there is hardly any Yoruba person who cannot trace his or her family roots to various places and various sub-groups in Yorubaland.

(How wonderfully entertaining a game it would be if every Yoruba person writes the little that he or she knows about his or her family roots, including family Oriki, and a platform is created for displaying and comparing these. How much we Yoruba would thereby come to know about our great history).

The Yorubaare one of the most ancient

NPFL fixtures Heartland vs Kano Pillars vs Plateau United vs Rangers vs Warri Wolves vs Abia warriors vs Akwa United vs Lobi Stars vs El-Kanemi

Ikorodu United Sunshine Stars Shooting Stars Rivers United Nasarawa United IfeanyiUbah MFM, Lagos Enyimba

2 Niger Tornadoes 0

peoples of West Africa. Studies in the archaeology and anthropology of West Africa, as well as studies in the evolution and growth of languages in early West Africa, all show that the Yoruba are one of the many peoples or nationalities that first evolved in West Africa – other such peoples being the Nupe, Igala, Gbagyi, Igbo, Edo, Ijaw, etc. Archaeologists and historians believe that each of these peoples has lived in its present homeland for at least 6,000 years. Fanciful traditions that any of these peoples are comparatively recent migrants from the Middle East, or are descended from the Jews, have no foundation in known facts.

The Yoruba are famous as the creators of the most urbanized indigenous civilization in Black Africa’s history. Unlike all other Black African peoples, the Yoruba have built, and lived in, many towns and cities

ential countries of the Western world. It is a little bigger than Canada, about as big as Spain or Poland, about four times as big as Portugal or Sweden, over six times as big as Denmark or Switzerland. Of the 53 countries of Europe, only five (Russia, Germany, France, Great Britain, and Italy) have populations that are larger than the population of Yorubaland in Nigeria; two (Spain and Poland) have populations about equal to the population of Yorubaland in Nigeria; and each of all the remaining 47 countries is smaller than Yorubalnd in Nigeria.

Of the fifty-four countries of the continent of Africa (besides Nigeria), Yorùbá population in Nigeria is smaller than those of only three countries – Egypt, Ethiopia, and Congo (Kinshasa), a little larger than the population of the Union of South Africa, and considerably larger than the population of every one of the remaining fifty

during the past 1000 years. Other Black African peoples might have no town, or one town, or a few towns separated by large expanses of forests or grasslands; only the Yoruba owned tens of towns located at short distances from one another throughout their homeland. Why the Yoruba developed so differently from the rest of Black Africa is not yet known to historians.

From east to west, the Yorùbá homeland starts close to the western banks of the Lower Niger in today’s Kogi State of Nigeria, stretches westwards through the rest of south-western Nigeria (in today’s states of Kogí, Kwara, Èkìtì, Ondo, Osun, Oyo, Ògùn, and Lagos, with a small slice in the Delta State), across southern and central Benin Republic, and stretches across Togo Republic – and, according to Prof.Abimbola, a little into eastern Ghana.It is commonly estimated that about 80% of the Yoruba homeland territory lies in south-western Nigeria.

In comparison with the countries of the modern world, the Nigerian part of the Yorùbá Nation is, in population, bigger than many of the richest and most influ-

countries. In West Africa, Yorùbáland in Nigeria is considerably larger in population than the combined populations of the four countries of Benin Republic, Togo Republic, Liberia, and Gambia.

In land area too, Yorùbáland in Nigeria alone is, in comparison with the countries of today’s world, quite a large country. The exact statistics of it in Nigeria is difficult to ascertain, but it is usually estimated to be about 95,000 square miles. At that size, it is slightly larger than the territorial size of the United Kingdom, and many times the size of European countries such as Belgium, Holland or Portugal.

Beyond the Yoruba homeland in West Africa, varying sizes of pockets of Yorùbá Diaspora are found in various countries of West Africa, especially in Sierra Leone, Liberia, Ivory Coast, Gambia, Mali, and others. Their greatest concentration is found in Sierra Leone where they number about one million in population in the Greater Freetown area. Beyond West Africa in tropical Africa, a large Yorùbá diaspora, numbering about two million in popula-

INSIDE

•Iheanacho’s goal dims Taifa Stars •Arsenal fans tell Wenger to sign

Kanu after hat-trick

tion, is found in the Republics of Sudan and South Sudan, and a smaller one in Central African Republic.

Beyond Africa, varying sizes of populations of persons of Yorùbá descent, resulting from the African Diaspora of the Atlantic Slave Trade era, exist in many countries of the Americas – in countries like Brazil, Cuba, Colombia, Puerto Rico, Haiti, Jamaica, Grenada, Barbados, St. Kitts, St. Vincent, the Dominican Republic, Uruguay, Venezuela, Trinidad and Tobago, Panama, Bahamas, Suriname, the United States, etc.

In these countries, more and more Black persons who originally came from other nations of Black Africa have been claiming Yoruba descent. The reason for this is that Yorùbá culture has been the one outstanding pillar of African personality and cultural pride in these countries. Consequently, the number of people who identify themselves as Yorùbá has kept increasing over the centuries, especially in more recent times. Today, Yorùbá descendants number about 50 million in Brazil (a country of 194 million), and about six million in Cuba (a country of about 13 million). A total of over 100 million Black persons in all the Americas are thus identified today as Yorùbá descendants.

Finally, in the decades since the independence of Nigeria in 1960, conditions in Nigeria have resulted in the emigration of an ever-swelling stream of educated Yorùbá to various parts of the world. It is probable that over 4 million of such Yorùbá emigrants have made their homes in countries of the Western world – United Kingdom, United States, Canada, and some countries of continental Europe. In each country where they have settled, Yoruba immigrants constitute a highly educated immigrant citizenry.

Because of the growing expansion of Yorùbá cultural influence in the Americas, educatedYorùbá people in homeland Yorùbáland in West Africa tend to identify more with the Black peoples of the Americas than do any other indigenous African people. The Yorùbá elite in Nigeria now commonly claim that the total population of Yorùbá people plus Yoruba descendants worldwide is close to 200 million.

The idea of a “Trans-Atlantic Yorùbá Nation” is growing in the Americas, and it seems likely to become a significant factor in world affairs soon. When the Ooni of Ife recently visited the United States, he was received everywhere by enormous crowds of Yoruba and Yoruba descendants, and many citizens of Brazil and Cuba frequently asked him when he would take them back home to their Yoruba homeland.

Results:

2017 AFCON qualifiers: Nigeria 1 Tanzania 0 Ethiopia 2 Seychelles 1 Angola 1 Madagascar 1 Cameroon 2 Gambia 0 Ghana 1 Rwanda 1

Pools:

2, 7, 11, 13, 17, 20, 26, 31, 33, 41, 42, 47 Today’s Matches: 06 and 08

Printed and Published by the African Newspapers of Nigeria PLC, Imalefalafia Street, Oke-Ado, Ibadan. E mail: sundaytribuneeditor@yahoo.com Website: www.tribuneonlineng.com MANAGING DIRECTOR/EDITOR-IN-CHIEF: EDWARD DICKSON. EDITOR : SINA OLADEINDE. All Correspondence to P. O. Box 78, Ibadan. ISSN 2712. ABC Member of the Audit Bureau of Circulation. 4/9/2016