12th June 2016 by Nigerian Tribune

NO 2,050

SUNDAY, 12 JUNE, 2016

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CALLOUS! HIV-positive man Pg7 rapes pry 6 pupil

•Claims he didn’t know he was infected

Ambode appoints 57 new LG, LCDA sole administratorsg43 P

Dasuki’s associates issue Pg4 fresh threat •To release videos of money collections on YouTube

MASS RETIREMENT:

Army officers express shock •Say: we were sacked without being queried pg4 •GOCs, over 200 officers affected

GL 17 director demoted to 3 Pg4 GL 10 •As FG orders demotion of 40 GMs, DGMs in aviation agencies

June 12: What we

need from Buhari

—MKO’s son

Pgs2, 3 ,9 & 10

•‘How we got MKO to return home’ •Memories of a fading ‘Democracy Day’ •Afenifere group urges Buhari to release June 12 1993 poll results Pg41

SHUAIBU AMODU: (1958-2016)

What my father told me before his death —Son

Shaibu Amodu’s corpse being carried to his final resting place in Okpella, Edo State, on Saturday. PHOTO: BANJI ALUKO

Pgs11, 12 ,47 •How he died •Buhari, others mourn

12 June, 2016

Sunday Tribune

specialreport June 12: The fading glory of a ‘once celebrated date’

This day 26 years ago, Nigerians went to the poll to elect their president. The choice was between Chief MKO Abiola and Alhaji Bashir Tofa, but the election was annuled. The date stuck in the minds of Nigerians but the memory seems to be fading gradually, writes BAYO ALADE.

HEN the presidential election of 1993 was fixed for June 12, nobody knew the date would stick in the memory of Nigerians for decades to come. The day was calm as reported from all over the country contrary to the fear being expressed in some quarters before then that there was going to be a crisis. The election was declared Nigeria’s freest and fairest presidential election by national and international observers, with Abiola even winning in his Northern opponent’s home state. In the following days, the results began to trickle in with Chief MKO Abiola, the Social Democratic Party (SDP)’s candidate in the lead, trailed by Bashir Tofa of the National Republican Convention (NRC). Against the expectations of Nigerians, the government of General Ibrahim Babangida annulled the results of the election to the consternation of the international community. General Babangida himself stepped aside on August 29? 1993 putting in place an Interim National Government led by Chief Ernest Shonekan. Though Abiola was the presumed winner of that election, opponents always argue that it was inconclusive since no official final results were announced. A political crisis soon arose leading to General Sani Abacha seizing power later that year. In 1994, on the occasion of the first anniversary of the 1993 election Abiola declared himself the lawful president of Nigeria at Epetedo area of Lagos Island, after his return from a trip to solicit the support of the international community for his mandate. After declaring himself president he was declared wanted and accused of treason. He was later arrested and detained for four years, largely in solitary confinement. Abiola died on July 7, 1998 on the day he was due to be released from incarceration under suspicious circumstances shortly after the death of General Abacha. The official autopsy stated that Abiola died of natural causes, but there were insinuations about the actual cause of death alleging that it was a drink of tea laced with poisonous substance. The following years were to be dedicated to what came to be known as struggle for the realisation of the June 12 mandate. In the forefront were the National Democratic Coalition, (NADECO), Campaign for Democracy (CD) among others. Both major groups have, as of today, taken the back seat. Sunday Tribune spoke with the current president of the Campaign for Democracy (CD), Comrade Ifeanyi Odili on a number of issues and why the group is no longer visible in the current political dispensation.

“At a time, CD was in wrong hands. They went into comatose for nine years; a once vibrant CD suddenly became dormant, and could no longer find its voice amidst myriads of problems facing us in Nigeria before we waded in. “The reason for their action remains unknown to many of us. In fact they really betrayed Nigerians because they abandoned the principle and philosophy upon which CD was founded and ran it to suit their narrow fancies. They sold the group to the people in the corridors of power in the last administration. “For the nine years, what they had to show was that they spent over N14 million to remember Dr. Beko Ransome-Kuti and Kudirat Abiola. Where they got the money from remains a mystery till today. CD is the only organisation that its account was rendered but sources of income were never disclosed. Not a dime was reportedly left in the purse of the organization. “Throughout the nine years, this organisation had no bank account and no single office anywhere in Nigeria, save now that we have just secured one at Abuja. When Beko’s son, Brigadier General Enitan was facing Special Military Tribunal, a single statement was not done by CD to seek government leniency on the man whose father was a

source of inspiration to so many of us or call it to order, even when it was obvious that the young man was being tried for his refusal to commit suicide by not confronting the Boko Haram without current day ammunition, save our big brother, a very senior Comrade, Femi Falana (SAN) who took it upon himself to defend him, that man would have been dead by now because he was originally sentenced to death but later commuted to some jail terms and later again returned to service with his rank demoted. “What a naked hypocrisy! All my pleas to the then NAC to lend our voice in the trial were snubbed. They killed the group intentionally and that was the reason CD’s voice has not been heard but now CD is alive. There are tremendous changes; if you have been following us you will ascertain my claim,” he told Sunday Tribune. Speaking on the roles being played by the group as of today, Comrade Ifeanyi Odili said the roles are largely multifaceted and national in scope. “Now that my team is in charge, we have a lot of roles to play. Niger Delta Avengers are at it again, blowing up our pipelines. We need to talk to them for them to see reason why there is the need for peace to reign in our land. Boko Haram is being phased out, Fulani herdsmen are

terrorising Nigerians, killing them in their large number. We will look for them and ask question, this I have taken the pain to discuss with former President Olusegun Obasanjo on 24th of last month, April and part of what he told me was that “Fulani herdsmen are known for going about with pen knives, Fulani herdsmen carrying AK47 is a new phenomenon in Nigeria.” Twenty-three years down the line, how do Nigerians see June 12 and do they still celebrate it? In response to the question on whether the date is still relevant, Ifeanyi said: “Certainly life must go on. Or if I lost both of my parents today, will I not continue with life? “But we must get something clear. June 12 is a defining moment, a turning point in our political life. For anyone to write a book on Democratisation of the Nigerian State without June 12 being mentioned would amount to a life-size intellection fraud because that book is not complete. “Let me ask: Do you know that my wife deserted me while I was in police and SSS cells because of incessant security harassments? Do you know that several lives were involved? Can we easily delete from our memories how they killed and Continues pg 3

specialreport

12 June, 2016

Sunday Tribune

‘If not for MKO, some wouldn’t be in govt today’

OBJ

Continued from

IBB

Tinubu

Abacha

pg 2

ridiculed some very important persons? Where is Pa Alfred Rewane, General Shehu Musa Yar’adua who was poisoned in military prison; Rear Admiral Elegbede was gruesomely murdered under Oworonshoki bridge in Lagos. What about Abiola himself who was killed by an act of international conspiracy? Where is Kudrat Abiola who was murdered in cold blood at Alausa in Lagos? How can we quickly forget them? So, one will be out of point to say that June 12 holds no significance in Nigeria today. “Save June 12, we could still have been under military. These guys at the corridors of power today, where were they when we were facing soldiers eye-ball-to eye-ball? Some of them were busy making jest of us. Look at David Mark who said that ‘telephone was not meant for common man’ is now reaping from where he did not sow, reaping the fruit of our labour and several other ex-service. My brother June 12 is still very noteworthy and momentous.” How does the CD intend to celebrate this year’s anniversary? Sunday Tribune asked Ifeanyi Odili said “Due to paucity of fund, it is going to be celebrated in low key. We are organising a workshop at Abuja, whereof we hope to discuss Nigeria’s crisis, class and nationality. Because we need to find out why are we killing ourselves? There is no country that is waging war on us, so, why are we waging war against ourselves? Also we want to seize the opportunity to give orientation to our members who we have lost their contacts during the nine years of CD’s silence. “We have located them and we are waking up their consciousness to the present reality. And finally, June 12 has to be celebrated and I am presenting it before Mr. President because all of them are reaping the fruit of June 12. We will continue to celebrate it because we cannot forget the fallen heroes and those who laid their lives and those who paid so greatly for the course of democracy in Nigeria.”

But we must get something clear. June 12 is a defining moment, a turning point in our political life

Ifeanyi Odili, CD Chairman

Kudirat

Tofa

Shonekan

‘Our reflections on June 12, 1993 election’ Senator Remi Okunrinboye “JUNE 12, 1993 was a major loss in Nigeria, a colossal loss to the nation. That was the time when most people in this country came together and were united to dump issues of religion, ethnic bias, and determined to move Nigeria forward by voting for MKO Abiola. It was a great loss to the nation. “Nigerian democracy would have grown beyond this stage because the nation would have outgrown some of the teething problems we are tackling now. “If the election had been upheld, we would have moved several steps forward. So, it was a colossal loss to the nation from which we are yet to recover. However let’s hope that the lesson of June 12 had been learnt so that we can all come together as a people to alleviate the suffering of our people.” Oladayo, Personal Assistant, Ilasa “The botched election was the freest and fairest election in the history of Nigeria. Nigeria has not really achieved that integral part of democracy and hence, it is still crawling in its drive for true democracy.” Mr Olumide Ogunkua “June 12, to me, is a rebirth in Nigeria, and that was the time Nigerians knew that irrespective of one’s ethnic background, if one is a good product, then one can be voted as leaders. “June 12 has really rearranged all the major sentiments in Nigeria which had been on for many years and that’s why if a Muslim/ Muslim ticket could be given the leadership of the country at that material point in time, I want to believe that it is the triumph of quality over sentiments. “Nigeria might have moved forward if the June 12 election had not been annulled, but the renewed hope the election gave Nigeria could have been another chapter in the history of this country and

it might not have moved the nation forward in the sense that what came after the June 12 annulment was the integration of some who are perceived as minority into the governance of Nigeria. “If the election had not been annulled, Obasanjo might not have been president, Jonathan too wouldn’t have been president. So, the aftermath of the annulment of June 12 gave birth to a renewed hope that Nigeria could still be better.” Ogunniran Babatunde Samson, administrator, Agbado “In the history of elections in Nigeria that I have witnessed, the 1993 election was the best so far in terms of the way it was conducted. It was not bloody and therefore generally acclaimed the freest and fairest. “I believe we are moving forward. This is because since 1999 when Nigeria came back to democratic rule, there have been no military interruption in our democratic process.” Mr Donald Ofor, entrepreneur, Surulere “ T h e botched election was an unbelievable achievement because for once Nigerians spoke with one voice through the ballot by electing the late Moshood Kashimawo Abiola as their President. “To a large extent, I would say yes and this is because we have been able to sustain democratic rule for 16 years uninterrupted but government of the day should move away from politics and ensure that the dividends of democracy are provided for the masses of this country.”

news

12 June, 2016

Mass retirement: Army officers express shock

HERE is palpable tension in the military, following the sudden and compulsory retirement of over 200 senior army officers. The officers were reportedly contacted on phones, on Friday evening, to come to the office and pick their retirement letters. According to an impeccable source, “officers retired were not called for any interview only for them to be invited and collect their retirement letters. Acting Director, Army Public Relations, Colonel S.K Usman, in a midnight statement, on Saturday, said that the Army Council had approved the retirement of some army officers with immediate effect. According to him, the officers were found to be partisan in the 2015 general elections, while others were found to be indicted in the arms purchase scam. He added that the retirement affected mostly Major Generals, Brigadier Generals, Colonels, as well as Lieutenant Colonels and a Major. A top military source confided in Sunday Tribune that the institution was out for vendetta, as most of the officers affected were Brigade Commanders and General Officers Commanding (GOCs) who were in charge of states where the All Progressives Congress (APC) lost the 2015 general election. “I am sad because most of the people affected are either from the SouthWest, South-East and South-South,” the source lamented. He affirmed that there was heightened tension as nobody was sure what would happen in the next minute. Some of the officers affected were GOC 7 Division and now a Director at Army Headquarters, Major General M.Y. Ibrahim; GOC 2nd Division, Ibadan, Major General L.C Ilo; GOC 3rd Division, Jos, Major General F.O Alli; Commander, Operation Pulo Shield, Major General Emmanuel Atewe, as well as Major General S.D Aliyu and Brigadier General Dahiru Abdulsalam. Others were former ADC to late President Umaru Yar‘Adua, Brigadier General M.D Onoyivita; former Director Operations, Army Headquarters, Brigadier General L.M. Bello; as well as Brigadier

General Koko Essien and Defence Attache, Clinic, Brigadier General Lawson. The statement recalled that not too long ago, some

officers were investigated for being partisan during the 2015 general elections. “Similarly, the investigation by the Presidential Committee investigating

defence contracts revealed a lot,” it said. According to the statement, some officers have already been arraigned in court by the Economic and

Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). “People should therefore not read this out of context. The military must remain apolitical

Sunday Tribune

and professional at all times. We must applaud and support this laudable and bold initiative by the government,” the statement noted.

$2.1bn arms deal: Dasuki’s associates threaten bombshell •Say we have videos of money collections •Threaten to release details on YouTube Taiwo Adisa-Abuja

LOYALISTS of the embattled former National Security Adviser (NSA), Colonel Sambo Dasuki, have threatened to release damning records of some personalities who collected huge sums of money from the former security chief but are now denying same. The loyalists, who spoke to Sunday Tribune in confidence, said that they were shocked to discover that some of those who collected huge sums from Dasuki are now behind his predicament. A source close to the former NSA said that his loyalists were surprised to see certain persons who collected some amounts from Dasuki denying the same and also working behind the scenes to ensure he is not released from detention. “We have now known the

real reasons Sambo Dasuki is still incarcerated even after three courts have granted him bail,” one of the sources said, adding that certain influential persons might have influenced the administration to keep him behind bars under the pretext of “corruption fighting back.” “The threat coming from some associates of the former NSA is real. They are serious about their determination to release the recordings of his meetings with people, some of them now in government who denied that they ever received money during such meetings,” one source said. The source said that he was aware of the trend of investigations and interrogations Dasuki has been made to undergo, apparently at the instance of some powerful persons, adding that he has had ev-

erything screened including wristwatches, eye glasses, buttons, pens, cufflinks, tie clips, rings and related objects. The sources added that they had refrained from making comments before now because they believed that the main trial would commence, adding that with the delay in the commencement of the trial, some of them in possession of damning records might release them. “I can assure you that the loyalists of the former NSA had refrained from commenting all this while because they thought the main trials would commence and verdicts would be given. “It’s however becoming a refrain for the government to say ‘ah, corruption is fighting back’, anytime you have something contrary to the trains of the

administration not minding whether there’s merit in such comments or not,” one associate said further. It was learnt further that loyalists of Dasuki are of the view that the genesis of his continued detention, dated back to December 2015 when he was granted bail after perfecting some bail conditions. They said that his camp then released certain information to put a lie to the denials on security circles by some persons who have been linked with the Dasuki probe. “Some of his loyalists threatened upon his perfection of bail conditions last December that he would come out to show the world that some of the denials in public domain do not hold any water. After that, the forces vowed that he would rot in detention,” the source said.

One of the sources further said: “We have witnesses and recordings of these visits. A man received two retired army officers in his private sitting room, called his nephew to collect the bag and would thereafter say he saw nothing, heard nothing. This is very laughable. “How did his nephew who has never worked in his life get over N850 million in his bank account in a new generation bank? “Let them cover what they think they could, and we would certainly spill the beans for Nigerians to see their hypocrisy. “All of us would meet in court. But before then if they keep denying, we would release some clips on both YouTube and other forms of social media for the world to see their nakedness.”

Embrace dialogue, Tompolo begs Avengers

•True federalism, antidote to underdevelopment in Nigeria —IYC From Ebenezer Adurokiya and Austin Ebipade

FORMER leader of the Movement for the Emancipation of the Niger Delta (MEND), Chief Government Ekpemupolo alias Tompolo has, again, appealed to members of the Niger Delta Avengers (NDA) to cease fire and embrace dialogue with the Federal Government. Tompolo made the appeal on Saturday in a statement personally signed and made available electronically to Nigerian Tribune in Warri, Delta State. He expressed sadness that various political jobbers and fake negotiators have merged from government circles to take advantage of the proposed dialogue at the expense of the Avengers and the militarised Niger Delta region. “Even till now, the military has not returned the symbol of authority they took away from the Egbesu Shrine and other valuables in Oporoza community during the May 28, 2016 invasion. “It is pertinent to state that I have not heard and seen in any part of Nigeria, even the most volatile North Eastern

part of Nigeria, where Boko Haram has been killing innocent people, the way the military desecrated the traditional worship centres in Gbaramatu Kingdom. “This is a clear oppression and intimidation of the peace loving people of Gbaramatu kingdom, Another dangerous dimension my traducers have introduced into this issue is the allegation that some of my closest men are coordinators of the Niger Delta Avengers,” Tompolo said. He denied the allegation of his membership of the NDA, adding that his associates, Benji Ekeremor, Super and Owomor also known as VIP, are coordinators of the NDA. “And this is currently trending in the social media, that Benji Ekeremor, Super and Owomor aka VIP are the coordinators of the Avengers. “The truth of the matter is that I can no longer endure these blackmails from my traducers, as I have seen that they are not resting on their oars, as they have vowed to implicate me by all means necessary,” he la-

mented. He bemoaned the agony of the people of Gbaramatu kingdom whom, he said, had deserted the area for fear of the repeat of 2009 bombardment. “One thing you guys may not be aware of is that you have not only succeeded in militarising the Niger Delta region now, but also succeeded in giving birth to so many negotiators and political jobbers within the government circle, who are very serious rumour peddlers in the country now. “As for the people of Gbaramatu kingdom, they have not known peace since you guys started the bombing of oil facilities as they have been harassed, intimidated, violated and invaded on daily basis by the Nigerian military under the guise of looking for members of your group (Niger Delta Avengers) and my humble self, who they have criminally and wickedly linked to the Niger Delta Avengers,” he added. The former militant assured members of the Avengers of the sincerity of the Federal Government if

they sheathe their swords. “I wish to reiterate that you guys must stop the bombing and destruction of oil facilities in the Niger Delta region now and embrace the dialogue option from the Federal Government as it is (dialogue) the only pragmatic means in resolving a crisis, no matter how huge and complicated such crisis is. “And I believe fervently that the government is serious and willing to end this crisis in the Niger Delta region. Enough is enough,” he warned. Menwhile, peeved by issues of underdevelopment in the Nigerian State, President of the Ijaw Youth Council (IYC), Udengs Eradiri, has said that true federalism is the answer to issues limiting economic advancement of the country. Speaking with journalists in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, Eradiri averred that it was same issues of imbalance and underdevelopment that the doyen of the Ijaw struggle, Isaac Adaka Boro and Ken Saro-Wiwa died for. The IYC President, added that these same issues of

underdevelopment threw up MEND, the Willinks Commission and that the IYC, formed in 1998, was to address issues of resource control, self determination and total emancipation of the Niger Delta which Niger Delta Avengers are also talking about. Eradiri said that the issues are not far-fetched, as the Ijaw people need their environment cleaned up and developed, against the backdrop of the blowing of pipeline that has brought mass pollution to the environment, and the incessant cases of oil spillages. Eradiri noted that “the practice of fiscal federalism has been long overdue, every state should control its resources and contribute to the centre and in doing that, issues of IPOB, Boko Haram, Fulani herdsmen and the Avengers would be resolve amicably.” The IYC President urged President Muhammadu Buhari to focus more on the economy and that the selective probe and arrest of corrupt officials should be discouraged.

news

12 June, 2016

Sunday Tribune

Niger Delta militants declare ceasefire, give conditions for peace

By Dare Adekanmbi

HE Joint Niger Delta Liberation Force (JNDLF), which emerged in solidarity with the Niger Delta Avengers (NDA) a few weeks ago, has announced a ceasefire following Federal Government’s offer of a dialogue. JNDLF had threatened to blow up aircraft through the launch of anti-aircraft missiles as part of planned effort to shut the country’s airspace. In a statement, the group said government would need to fulfill certain conditions if it wanted the temporary peace to continue, adding that they were not negotiating for pecuniary benefit but for the genuine development of the Niger Delta. Part of the conditions was the immediate release of Colonel Sambo Dasuki (retd), who is standing trial for alleged mismanagement of $2.1 billion arms funds; unfreezing of the bank accounts of Government Ekpemupolo also known as Tompolo; establishment of Maritime University in Okerenkoko, Delta State, among others. JNDLF named the governors of the Niger Delta region as their representatives in the proposed dialogue, but threatened to go after the governors should they betray them. “We shall continue to engage in dialogue if our demands are met. Our representatives for the dialogue, especially the governors and others will not betray our demands with the Federal Government. “Any betrayal on their own part shall be viewed as betrayal of the entire region and we shall go after

them immediately, as they know our mode of operation and that they will not escape from us. “There is no gainsaying the fact that we made our earlier promise to launch

six missiles simultaneously against some targeted areas. But this was waived aside as a result of appeals made to us through email by the Federal Government and some inter-

national nations to open talks with Buhari. “We saw some genuine aspiration on the part of Buhari, who made several contacts to us to see reason with them over the is-

THE national chairman All Progressives Congress (APC), Chief John Odigie-Oyegun, has assured Nigerians that President Muhammadu Buhari is laying a foundation for a new Nigeria. Odigie-Oyegun made this remark while responding on behalf of all the awardees at the University of Ibadan Alumni Association (UIAA) luncheon and awards ceremony held at the Bishop Richard Finn Auditorium, University of Ibadan, as part of activities marking the annual programmes of the association.

therefore declared ceasefire in order to negotiate with the government if it is a true reflection of what they have in mind to develop the Niger Delta region,” the statement read in part.

We ignore our problems while they escalate —Obi of Onitsha

The Akarigbo and paramount ruler of Remoland, Oba Michael Adeniyi Sonariwo (second left), the celebrant; Chief (Mrs) Folasade Towobola Ogunbiyi (third left); former Ogun State governor, Chief Gbenga Daniel; Chief (Dr) Yemi Ogunbiyi, the Asiwaju of Remoland, Chief Solomon Kayode Onafowokan (right) and Sir Adebukola Adebutu Kessington (left), during the installation of new Iyalode of Remo, Chief (Mrs) Folasade Towobola Ogunbiyi, held at the Akarigbo’s palace in Sagamu-Remo, Ogun State, on Saturday. PHOTO: D’TOYIN

Wear church garments to school from tomorrow, Osun CAN tells Christian students Oluwoel Ige-Osogbo

THERE was tension in Osun State, on Friday, as the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) of the state chapter began to mobilise Christian students to wear church garments to schools from tomorrow. Sunday Tribune learnt that Christian leaders in the state had agreed that by Monday, Christians students will begin to wear religious garments, including boys brigade, white

garments, choir robes, girls’ guide uniforms, among others, to their respective schools. Sources disclosed that a meeting where the decision was taken was attended by heads of blocks of CAN and messages have already been sent to churches to mobilise their members during church services today. The development came as the principal of Christ African Middle School, Osogbo, Mrs A.O. Micha, was said to have sent some female Muslim students,

who dorned hijab out of the school. It was learnt that a Muslim female teacher pleaded with the principal to allow the students to stay with their hijab, but the principal allegedly ignored her pleas. When some members of Muslim Students Society of Nigeria (MSSN) heard about the development, they mobilised with intent to storm the school, but the timely intervention of Osun State Muslim community pre-

Buhari is laying foundation for a new Nigeria —APC chair By Tunde Ogunesan and Wale Akinselure

sue of under-development of the region. “And since he (Buhari) had set the ball rolling for a clear negotiation with us, there is no problem without solution. We have

The occasion was chaired by the former Vice President, Alhaji AtikuAbubakar, who was represented by the Pro Chancellor of the University of Ibadan, Dr Umar Mustapha. Oyegun said the current economic hardship in the country should not be blamed on President Buhari, adding that Nigerians voted for him to right a situation that had become bad. “People voted for him to solve these problems. We took over a nation with such bad shape and none of us is happy because the price of crude oil collapsed in such a manner that it did not give anybody time to plan to work out a fall back

situation. “The only assurance I can give is that yes, things are bad, hard, the people of this nation are suffering. But they have a president who, rather than proffer plastic solutions, has decided to make himself virtually a sacrificial lamb in establishing a foundation for a totally new nation. “It is hard work, tough work. In the period of pregnancy, there is going to be a lot of pain and we are already in it. Buhari cannot solve all the problems, he has a fouryear term, our prayers is that God makes him strong and fit enough because he is one of the few people who have the self-

sacrificing courage to take the kind of decisions that are vital. “All of our institutions have to be rebuilt because today, they’re existing on false foundations that cannot deliver development. Yes, we will go through hard times,” he said.

vented the crisis from snowballing. It will be recalled that a judge of the Osun State High Court, Justice Jide Falola, had delivered a judgment, allowing female Muslim students to wear hijab to schools. The suit was instituted by Osun State Muslim Community against the state government. The state chapter of CAN, however, decried the judgment, vowing to appeal the matter in the higher court, just as it threatened to direct Christian students in the state to start wearing church garments to schools. Mrs Micha denied sending female students, wearing hijab away from the school, arguing that she only ordered the female Muslim students to remove their hijab, insisting that hijab would not be allowed in a Christian school.

Ramadan message [All] praise is [due] to Allah , Creator of the heavens and the earth, [who] made the angels messengers having wings, two or three or four. He increases in creation what He wills. Indeed, Allah is over all things competent.Whatever Allah grants to people of mercy - none can withhold it; and whatever He withholds - none can release it thereafter. And He is the Exaltedin Might, the Wise.O mankind, remember the favor of Allah upon you. Is there any creator other than Allah who provides for you from the heaven and earth? There is no deity except Him, so how are you deluded? —Surat Fatir verses 1-3

NIGERIA has for long ignored the problems threatening its nationhood and solutions proffered to solve the problems have always been swept under the carpet. This was statement was made by the Obi of Onitsha, IgweNnemeka Achebe, at a reception organised in his honour by the Ibadan School of Government and Public Policy, in Ibadan, Oyo State, on Saturday. The monarch said this at a reception organised in his honour by Ibadan School of Government and Public Policy in Ibadan, Oyo State, on Saturday. He said although mistakes were bound to happen, Nigeria had always pretended that the nationhood was a perfect arrangement because “we don’t want to admit our mistakes.” He said, “one point that we must not ignore is that in any organisation, in the lives of individuals, mistakes are bound to happen. The purpose of mistakes is for us to learn from them, correct them and move forward. “But in Nigeria, there is the tendency to pretend and ignore our mistakes because we don’t want to admit. We live in the mistakes and they get worse. And then, it takes a long time to bring about change in our ways and looking for alternatives.” The monarch said a commission set up by past governments had proffered solution to some of the economic problems of Nigeria but the recommendations were ignored. “About a month ago, the government announced that the price of petrol had been partially deregulated. Thirteen years ago, I was the chairman of a commission of enquiry appointed by the then president, Olusegun Obasanjo, to look into the same issue.” “There is a challenge for the traditional institution and educational institutions like the ISGPP to be more active in order to solve our past mistakes. We must live as role model to our society.

12 June, 2016

crimereports

Sunday Tribune

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

11-yr-old threatened to report me if I didn’t have sex with her —Suspect No, he abducted me on my way from vigil —Victim By Oluwatoyin Malik

“S

HE asked me to have sex with her and threatened that she would put me in trouble if I did not. The girl was the one who was troubling me, asking me to have sex with her. I told her she was too young but she insisted, saying she had been having sex before coming to me. “When I attempted to have sex with her, I discovered that my manhood could not enter her private part. I don’t know whether her hymen was broken through fingering. But I succeeded in having sex with her two times. She was with me for four days before I was arrested.” These were the revelations from a 65-year-old plumber, Mr Akinlolu Ogunlade, who was arrested by the Anti-Kidnapping Squad of the Oyo State Police Command over the abduction and defilement of an 11-year-old Primary Two pupil, Titilola (not real name) at a period when children of her age were being celebrated all over the world to mark International Children’s Day. Disclosing the suspect’s arrest to journalists on Thursday, June 9, the Oyo State Commissioner of Police, Leye Oyebade, described Ogunlade as a serial rapist who abducted young girls, kept them in his house and turned them to sex slaves. Oyebade said that the suspect abducted his latest victim on Saturday, May 28 on her way from a church vigil and kept her in his hideout until she was traced there on Wednesday, June 1, after initial efforts to locate her proved abortive. The police commissioner stated that the suspect would be arraigned in court after diligent investigation. Narrating her ordeal, Titilola told Crime Reports that the suspect picked her when she was return-

ing home from vigil in her church. According to the young girl, “I live with my grandparents at Abidi Odan at Akobo. I went to vigil on Friday May 27. After prayers, we slept in the church. By the time I woke up, everybody had left, though it was not yet daylight. But vehicles were passing by. “I stood up, closed the church door and left to go home. On the way, I noticed that someone was beaming a torch ahead. I ran and as I wanted to jump over a gutter, someone carried me from behind. He took me to his house. Every day, whenever he was going out, he would lock me in and on his return, he would have

The suspect, Mr Akinlolu Ogunlade sex with me till he would be ready to go out again. “I never had sex before he had sex with me. I bled the first time he did it. I

cried but no one came to my rescue. Whenever anyone was passing by and they heard my voice, they would enquire from Baba

what was happening and he would cover my mouth with a piece of cloth and reply that he was beating his child for her disobedience. I was with him from Saturday till Wednesday June 1 before I was rescued.” Crime Reports learnt that the medical report obtained by the police after the girl was taken to the hospital indicated “hymen not intact.” But the suspect claimed the victim lured him to have sex with her. According to him, “the girl hawked waterleaf to my house at about 11a.m. on Friday, May 27, asking me to help her buy the four portions of the vegetable which totalled N40 so that she could

use it to buy food. I gave her N100 and she said she had no change. I left the money with her and asked to bring the change later in the evening. I didn’t come home that night as I went to my duty post as a security man. “I was surprised to see the girl on the passage on Saturday when I returned home. She helped me to pick the vegetable and after I cooked, she ate with me. She later pleaded to be allowed to stay with me, saying that she had nothing to do at home. She later told me that she had been given out in marriage to someone in the North but that she ran back home. I asked her if she had experienced sexual intercourse and she said yes.”

Imo police parade 60 suspected criminals

Some of the suspects Joe Nwachukwu - Owerri SIXTY suspected criminals involved in various crimes ranging from kidnapping, murder, armed robbery to obtaining by false pretences, among others, have been arrested by the Imo State Police Command. Addressing journalists while parading the suspects at the police headquarters, Owerri, the state Commissioner of Police, Mr. Taiwo Lakanu, said the arrest of the suspected criminals was made possible following the commitment and efforts of the officers and men of the

command. According to him, many of arrested suspects had been arraigned in court after police investigation, while others were on the verge of being charged to court. Mr. Lakanu disclosed that Chimezie Clement (31), Lucky Duru (24), Nwaneri Uzochukwu (28), Nnamdi Ndukwu (35), Favour Chukwuemeka (28), Chinenye Elekwuya (31) and John Ikporobu were arrested in their hideouts at new Owerri, in connection with kidnapping, armed robbery and other crimes committed recently.

Among their victims, Lakanu stated further, were a veteran journalist kidnapped at World Bank, Owerri; a man with a Lexus Jeep at Akwakuma, Owerri, and another man with his girlfriend at Ikenegbu Owerri. Also kidnapped were a man and a lady at Concorde Hotel area of New Owerri. The commissioner also disclosed that two suspects, Njamanze Obuneke (29) and Chimezie Clement (31), were arrested on May 15, in connection with the kidnap of a journalist with Excel magazine on May 5, 2016 at Emekuku on Umuahia road while he

was travelling to Mbaise. Mr. Lakanu said that on May 30, 2016, there was an attempt to kidnap Bishop Ezeugo Ekewuba of Overcomers Parish along Avu road, Owerri West Local Government Area, but he was saved by his orderly who engaged the hoodlums in a shootout, with some of them escaping with bullet wounds. He revealed that a sixman syndicate which posed as money doublers defrauded a female victim of N13 million. During interrogation, one of the suspects, Chinalo Ani, reportedly confessed to have

received N1.2 million from the loot. The commissioner disclosed that on May 25, 2016, his men rescued one Chioma Oleka whose Pastor, Delight Arinze in charge of Water Ground Ministry, Atta in Nnenasa Njaba Local Government Area, lured to Nwangele River on the grounds that she was possessed by mermaid spirit. The pastor allegedly pushed her into the river to drown but the lady later survived, after the pastor went away with her Lexus Jeep with number plate No KPR-243, thinking that she was dead.

crimereports

12 June, 2016

Sunday Tribune

I did not know I was HIV positive before I had sex with her —Rape suspect Adelowo Oladipo - Minna

ERIOUS concern has been raised on the health status of a 12-year old female rape victim in Suleja Local Government Area of Niger State, as one of the two suspects arrested by the state police command in connection with the case, one Emmanuel Nwachukwu, has confessed to testing positive of HIV/ AIDS after being screened by doctors in a public hospital in the state. Nwachukwu, a 52-yearold man and a builder by profession, stated this while being paraded by the police in Minna along with the second suspect, Chinedu Andrew (22). The two suspects were accused of raping a Primary Six pupil, Bright (not real name), whose mother is said to be a close family friend to the wife of the first suspect and a neighbour to both suspects. According to Nwachukwu, “I have tested positive to HIV/AIDS, but before the test was conducted, I did not know I had the virus.” He said he did not rape the girl, but made love with her, adding: “She told me she was about 15 years old.” He further stated that he was married and blessed with four children. Giving an insight into how he got involved with the rape victim, the suspect said: “One afternoon in November 2015, Bright came to my residence when I lay on my bed . “She climbed the bed and was touching me. I asked what her problem was because I saw her as a young girl, but she responded that I would not understand. She kept on playing with me and when I could no longer hold myself, I made love to her.” The suspect further explained that when he realised that the girl was wayward, “I started telling her that I was going to report her to her mother but she responded that she was going to tell her mother that I was the one that had been making love to her.” Also, the second suspect, Andrew, confessed to defiling the young girl but claimed that she agreed to be his girlfriend when he informed her that he was aware of her love affairs with the first suspect, who happened to be the father of his bosom friend.

From left, Chinedu Andrew and Emmanuel Nwachukwu

The SSS2 student narrated his story thus: “I used to see Bright with Oga Emma

(Nwachukwu) sometimes in his house. One day, I asked her what she was

doing with Oga Emma as I was always seeing them together.

“I advised her against dating a man old enough to be her father and she replied that it was the man that was pestering her for sex.” Andrew added that no sooner had he given the advice to the victim than she started touching him in some sensitive parts of his body, after which he quickly stripped his clothes and had carnal knowledge of her. Andrew said that his love making sessions with Bright continued, but that did not stop him from revealing the first suspect’s escapades with the young girl to his son. This, he stated, made Nwachukwu unhappy. “It was Oga Emma who went and informed Bright’s mother that I was

sleeping with her daughter. This made the woman to report the case at the police station and I was arrested. I felt I had not done anything to warrant being arrested by the police because I felt I was innocent as the girl voluntarily agreed that I should be her boyfriend. I also told the police that I was not the only one sleeping with the girl and mentioned Oga Emma’s name.” When Crime Reports contacted the state Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Bala Elkana, he confirmed the incident, saying that the suspects would be charged to court, as investigations into the case had been concluded. He however refused to talk on the health status of the first suspect.

RRS officer arrests car-snatching syndicate member, cheats death By Oluwatoyin Malik

AN undercover police working with the Rapid Response Squad (RRS) of Lagos State Police Command, Iliasu Saidu (34), recently arrested the ring leader of a suspected fourmember car robbery syndicate and cheated death by whiskers after he was shot by the gang leader. He has, however, been praised by the Lagos State governor, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode, for the resilience and doggedness he displayed. Crime Reports learnt that the operative, Iliasu Saidu, (34), sustained an injury on the right leg after he was shot by the leader of the syndicate, one Wale Jamiu a.k.a Ijebu, who, unknown to him, had been monitoring him. But the police operative, despite his gunshot wound, still managed to pick his pistol and shoot the suspect in his right thigh, leading to his arrest. When the information reportedly got to the state governor, he reportedly ordered immediate transfer of the police officer to the Emergency Unit of the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH) for a comprehensive medical attention. According to information gathered by Crime

Reports through a police source, the RRS undercover team had two days before the incident got a lead to a robbery case with the arrest of one Musa Sadiq, a tailor at Obalende area of Lagos Island, who was receiving stolen vehicles from robbers. Most of the vehicles, according to Musa, were sold to buyers in Kaduna and Kano states. The RRS undercover team had reportedly worked on Musa who provided links to the robbery suspects, which made the shot RRS officer to disguise as an intending buyer of a Lexus which was snatched at gunpoint in Okokomaiko, in a bid to arrest the four-member gang. The undercover team reportedly took Musa along with them after tutoring him on how to comport himself and play along with the RRS team. But, as they were devising their plan, their target too was being very careful not to expose his syndicate members. The source further disclosed that after several hours of delay tactics by the robbers aimed at ascertaining the true identity of the buyer, they finally brought the Lexus SUV to Alaba Market to pick the buyer at about 9:00p.m. The source further re-

vealed: “Then, the detective told the gang that he should be allowed to drive the car himself. They gave him the car but they were telling him the direction to take. After it was agreed that that he should go and bring money for the vehicle, the RRS operative reportedly informed his colleagues who had positioned themselves in the vicinity of the hotel where the transaction was to take place. “But one of the robbers told the ring leader that

The RRS operative, Iliasu Saidu on hospital bed. Inset is the suspect, Wale Jamiu, with the Lexus SUV recovered from his gang he suspected that policemen were around the hotel vicinity. By then, the detective was with the ring leader. One by one, the robbers, who were outside the hotel premises started to leave. As the ring leader also made to leave, the detective grabbed him, resulting in an immediate response from his gang

members who started shooting while other operatives also engaged them in a shoot-out.” Crime Reports’ source added that it was at this point that one of the robbers shot the detective in the leg while the policeman, in turn, shot the ring leader and eventually arrested him with the SUV.

features

12 June, 2016

Sunday Tribune

Inside the overgrown car park where exotic cars have been abandoned by their rich owners

•The car park in Chengdu, China, is home for at least two Bentleys, two Land Rovers and three Mercedes Benz •There’s over 200 vehicles in various conditions that have been abandoned by their owners for different reasons •Officials are struggling to decide what to do with the vehicles and weeds and bushes grow around the cars

HESE startling images show an overgrown car park, where cars totalling millions have been left abandoned and taken over by weeds. Inside this small lot in Chengdu, China, there are at least two Bentleys, two Land Rovers, three Mercedes Benz and even the odd motorbike according to People’s Daily Online. They all have one thing in common - they’ve been abandoned by their owners. There are over 200 vehicles, dubbed ‘zombie cars’, in the lot. The place they’re kept in is called a ‘tyrant’s car park’ because of the value contained in the storage space. Some of the cars have been kept in the same place for more than two years as bushes and trees grow up around them, shielding them from the out-

side world. The two Bentleys, one a Bentley Continental GT and another Bentley Flying Spur, are worth at least 3 million Yuan (£300,000) each in China. Then there’s the Audi, Land Rover and Mercedes Benz. Majority of the vehicles are involved in ongoing criminal case either directly or indirectly, which means they can’t be claimed by their owners. Others have been abandoned as they were ready to be scrapped or their owners lacked the correct paperwork. The cars have become a headache for the local authorities, who struggle to decide what to do with them. While some have been cleared for auctions, others continue to arrive and be stacked up in the graveyard of cars. Source: dailymail.co.uk

A Mercedes Benz SUV in the car park

Abandoned: The vehicles have been abandoned by their owners, often over a space of years. Many were swallowed by the plants

Controversial: Majority of the vehicles are involved in ongoing criminal case, which means they can’t be claimed by their owners.

Gone: Dust has gathered on the surface as well as inside while vines and weeds have sprung up all around the vehicles (pictured)

One of the Bentleys currently parked in the car park in Chengdu, which has been dubbed ‘tyrant’s car park’

9 feature

12 June, 2016

Sunday Tribune

What we expect from Buhari’s govt — Abdul Abiola

Abdul Abiola, son of late Chief MKO Abiola, the business mogul and acclaimed winner of June 12, 1993 Presidential Election, speaks on his late father’s political struggle, the need for celebration of June 12 anniversary, his advice to government, among others, in this interview with BOLA BADMUS. Excerpts:

he June 12 Anniversary is coming up very soon, a few days from now, can you reflect on what has come to be celebrated June 12, 1993 anniversary? For me, I would say that for over the years, we’ve celebrated June 12 as a way of getting the government to accept or recognise the day and also recognise the man that majority of people voted that day as their choice. At a time, it wasn’t the government that was staying in the centre that was in the states in the South-West. So we were looking for a situation where we could get the PDP government at that time to, you know, do so that is accept or recognise the day and also recognise the man. So that was the angle we were taking, but with this change mantra, we hope that government would just acknowledge the role June 12 played in the country’s history. But when you look at June 12 as a date, what do you think Nigeria gained going through those struggles for its actualisation which never came about? We gained a lot you know. For once, we had a situation where somebody a Yoruba man came out to ask for votes and people actually came out to vote and the election was adjudged the freest and fairest in the country at that time and even till now. So it was more or less a situation where the country decided on one man to go into that election. And even though the election was annulled and even though the power that be at that time also knew that there was outpouring of support for that election, there was no way they could go back to disannulling the election. Yet the people were resolute in their decision. Even though it was a Muslim-Muslim ticket, people still voted. It was a very great thing in our country. We can see that part of the gain was the recent change over of power from one party to the other at the centre without any problem. If that wasn’t the situation then, probably the military would have taken over because it was very dicey at that point. So we actually had that as something to look back to and say we actually gained a lot through June 12. Your father, late MKO Abiola, promised a lot to deliver to the country and people are thinking that if he had been president then, perhaps Nigeria would have moved far ahead, but now 17years after Nigeria started this democratic journey, some are now saying Nigeria has not moved far enough and it is like we are in cyclic, do you agree with this? Having said all that for June 12 election annulment and all that has passed away, it seems that Nigeria has not really been moving on its own. It seems Nigeria was

Abdul Abiola

controlled by external and internal forces. Even now, we still find out that we are not in control over our own destiny and I think it is very important that we start to control our resources and actually make things for ourselves. And that we start to call on our own representatives to attend to that immediately. And you can see what is happening, the austerity is getting hard, it is biting and there is no sufficient funds in the economy. I think it is very important that we now start to demand the best from our elected officers.

It is not just enough to say that you are a leader, you have to prove to the people that you are a leader, by looking for internal ways to increase IGR to help your people in need, it is very important to look inwards now. What we need to do is to look at how to fix our own problem now before it becomes a catastrophe. Now with all the efforts your father put up and he eventually died in the struggle, will you say the family is regretting such step he took to realise his mandate that claimed his life? I can only regret the action that I take. For me, I would say I understand what my father wanted to do and the message he was trying to get across. But quite a lot of people would not understand where he was coming from. But I am sure now when they look back, and whenever they looked at the decisions they made, they would see that some of them actually have adverse effect on the people, which they might have known immediately then. So it shows you should be very careful of what you do. How has the family fared over the years because late MKO left a business empire, and he was a nationbuilder? Like I am saying, I would say Allah protects and guides us all. So I can’t really say

it is a very bright period, but I know a lot of people in the country had never had the opportunity we had. But I understand that if my father were to be alive and my mother were to be alive, things might have been different. Whatever issue the Abiola family is facing now can all be traced to the head of the family who is Kola Abiola. If he had done the right thing when he should have most of the people who were laid off at ITT, Abiola Bookshop and all other companies, they wouldn’t have been laid off. You see when people are not focused, and they don’t do what they are supposed to do but they are doing other things, this is where we find ourselves. So for me, I have so many examples to look at when I want to do things to know if I am doing the right thing or not. It is very important that my father’s legacy doesn’t just waste away when he is no more alive. He was bigger than just to be forgotten. So my goal is to see how I can help to make sure he is not forgotten anyway. In a nutshell, what are the demands you are making on the government in respect of June 12 and your late father? I would like to just encourage the government to be strong and I pray that Allah would grant them the patient and courage to do the right thing and be able to move the country in the right direction.

10 interview

12 June, 2016

Sunday Tribune

June 12: How Abiola was convinced to return and claim mandate

Senator Remi Okunrinboye, was a prominent character in the June 12 struggle in the country. He speaks on his involvement, what really informed his decision and, reasons for stepping aside from Afenifere among other issues. HAKEEM GBADAMOSI brings the excerpts:

eminiscing on your involvement in June 12 struggle, can you share the experience with us I actually got so enmeshed in it because of the fact that I supported MKO Abiola to become a candidate. But before then I know there was this division that either you support MKO Abiola or Babagana Kingibe and Yoruba elders got together and persuaded all of us to support MKO. There was a big meeting held in Owo and when that decision was taken, nobody had any other choice but to fall in line. Everything went on as if it was a joke, there was the Jos Convention which I supported with all my facilities and resources because MKO didn’t believe those of us from Ondo state will give him support, even when I led the delegation of the honorable members and leaders to him at Ikeja to assure him of our support, he accepted it with a pinch of the salt and when we were departing, he wanted to give us money which we rejected and we told him we didn’t come for money, that we came to simply pay our support. MKO was surprised, that nobody has ever come to that place refusing money and that was how I gradually began to stand out. With the support of Pa Adekunle Ajasin, Adefarati, N. F Aina and Akosile who was then the Secretary of SDP, people got ready to go for Jos convention and they stopped here in Owo because there was no money and I told them no problem and made money available for our transportation. When we got to Jos, my very bosom friend and brother, Evangelist Olumilua, had his support for somebody else but we insisted that we should support MKO Abiola who eventually scored more than 80 percentage of the votes with delegates of Ondo State also supporting him. So when the election was won and they refused to announce the result and MKO was still galvanizing support, he visited us about two or three times in the Senate and had meeting with him once and the executive of the party had several other meetings with him. But with the annulment and when it dawn on us that the result was not going to be announced and the Senate was beginning to lose focus, I then joined the Senate President then to call a meeting in Benin in order to pull efforts together and to revalidate that mandate and that was how we got Pa Ajasin fully involved in the struggle. I reported to the whole Afenifere of Yoruba nation all that were ongoing may eventually lead to the election never to be announced and it was analysed and we wrote a memo and I was mandated to take the memo to the Senate, to read it and get the Senate to galvanize support for the actualisation of June 12 and these went on bit by bit. But unfortunately contrary to our expectations, the memo couldn’t even be presented. This went on until eventually there was a very nice meeting in Lagos in the house of the former governor of the region, General Adeyinka Adebayo. Many leaders were present and the decision was

country. The fact that I’ve travelled to virtually all parts of the world and saw development and I know we are not even on that path here and I know their effort was as a result of democracy. I believe if we are having this democracy, we will be on the path of getting there one of these days, and again we are on the path of getting one of the best Nigerians to be President and being denied that fact, this was a very major motivating factor and that of course, I also want to be recorded on the good side of history as a man who stand for the truth, as man who believes in the truth and a man if necessary can die by the truth and sacrifice for my country. By now Nigeria should have been extremely good, people will have money in their pocket, economy would be buoyant, infrastructural development would have been enormous but seventeen years of democracy, we are still far away and unfortunately things are getting tougher, people are getting poorer and people are beginning to ask why this democratic thing?

Senator Remi Okunrinboye taken that a force should be put in place for the struggle of the actualisation of June 12. That led to the invitation and support of other zones in the country. That was how people like Ndubusi Kanu, Suleiman, and several other people got involved. I was at the centre of it all, I was working closely with Chief Bola Ige, Pa Ajasin, Pa Adesanya, Gàníyù Daudu, Jafojo, and many others until there was another meeting in Lagos where it was resolved that MKO should be asked to come back to the country and that he should declare himself as the President. Some of us at that time didn’t think it was totally right, we believe the struggle should be out there and we should let the larger crowd to take control. But the man was invited back. I do remember when we sat in his house and made a call to him that he should return, and when that decision was taken that he should come back to claim his mandate but I asked a question that if this man declared for presidency and is arrested, what will be the next step. I was not the secretary of NADECO at that time, Opadokun was the secretary and it was answered generally that if the man come and he’s arrested, they will put him in Ikoyi prison and once they put him in Ikoyi prison, thousand of people would sit in front of the prison, but I asked again that suppose the man is not put in Ikoyi but somewhere else. That time I was talking like a real young man and I made them to realise that all of us in the struggle are not rich enough to do anything because some of the expenses are being taken care of by people like Pa Rewane, me and few others and most of us are not extremely rich but those who are rich are not in politics and not in the struggle with us. So, money was very scarce, but however, doggedly I was doing what I was do-

ing because I had the conviction that the election that was won and adjudged as the best cannot just be thrown away just like that. Looking back very seriously I realized that we just fought, struggled for the good people of this country and thank God democracy is here today and everybody is enjoying it. What made you to risk your life despite having military dictatorship at that time and was there any regret? You see, sometimes I sit back to ask myself that who and what was the motivating factor? But nothing than patriotism, love for this country and the people of this

So when the election was won and they refused to announce the result and MKO was still galvanizing support, he visited us about two or three times in the Senate and had meeting with him once and the executive of the party had several other meetings with him

You mentioned Afenifere as a key factor in the June 12 struggle, at what point did the group come in and the struggle seems to tear the group apart as some members did not believe in the June 12 struggle Afenifere is a socio-cultural organisation that was involved in politics even from the days when I was still a young man, in the days of Papa Awolowo and others . But I think at that point in time, Afenifere stood out for truth, even though they never loved MKO Abiola, it never mattered. He was not part of them and actually MKO worked against Afenifere because I do remember at a stage when the argument was very hot, some members of the group said that the man (MKO) can be sacrificed, I won’t quote names here for obvious reasons. It was at the time that I said to myself that so anybody can be sacrificed. But of course wiser counsel prevailed and said No, we must join this cause; we must join the struggle because it’s a just cause. I think and believe that Afenifere did what can be considered as just in the affair of things. But you are part of the people who struggled for this democracy and what you want at that time is good governance, looking at socio-economic situation of the nation, would you say people are happy with this our democracy Generally overall, people are happy to have democracy but people are not happy that the product of the democracy is so far away from them. Maybe one of the mistakes we made in those days is that the struggle was just the struggle. We didn’t focus enough on its fallout. I always tell a lot of people that we struggled to give MKO the mandate but we didn’t plan on how he would manage the mandate. Our focus was not sharp enough and it is so unfortunate.

11 tribute

12 June, 2016

Sunday Tribune

SHUAIBU AMODU (1958-2016)

Last moments of an accomplished Gaffer Banji Aluko -Benin City

ETAILS of how former Super Eagles coach, Shuaibu

Amodu, died has started to come to light as his cousin and the Edo State Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Prince Kassim Afegbua,

disclosed that Amodu was discovered dead in his Benin apartment on Saturday morning. Another cousin of the late tactician, Akuri Afegbua,

further told Tribunesport that Amodu complained of chest pain on Friday and saw a doctor the same day. The duo spoke at the Stella Obasanjo Hospital in Benin, where Amodu’s body was deposited before being taken to his hometown of Okpella, in Etsako East Local Government Area of Edo State on Saturday morning. The Edo State Commissioner said, “we were to-

gether yesterday (Friday). He came to my house in the morning and we were discussing Keshi. He told me he would be travelling to Okpella this morning (Saturday). Later in the day, he was at the police station to see one of the family members, who was arrested. “Later in the night, he only complained of chest pain, and we called a doctor to check his blood

pressure and it was 140 over 100. He was advised to take his drugs and stop participating in the Ramadan fasting. “He later led the Tarawih (Ramadan night prayers) for the family. After the prayers, he went to bed after eating. “He was discovered dead in his room at about 4.00 a.m. when they went to wake him up for the (Sahur) pre-dawn meal.

He died a frustrated man —Cousin Amodu

A cousin of the late Shuaibu Amodu, Akuri Afegbua, has disclosed that the former Nigeria coach died a frustrated man as “his financial status was bad and his entitlements were not paid.” Akuri stated that, “He (Amodu) complained of

not being paid and he had no money to take care off his immediate family. I think the purpose of his visit was to put in a bill for his payment.” He alleged that the late coach was being owed by the Nigeria Football Fed-

eration (NFF) and the Edo State government. Amodu resigned last September as Executive Director of Edo State Youth Football Development Agency and was the technical director of the NFF before his death.

12 shuaibu amodu (1958-2016)

12 June, 2016

Sunday Tribune

10 things to know about Amodu By Wale Emosu •Amodu led the BCC Lions of Gboko to their first FA Cup title in 1989, beating Iwuanyanwu Nationale 1-0 in the final. •As a footballer, he played for Dumez of Benin City and Niger Tornadoes of Minna. •In 1990, he led the BCC Lions FC to win that year’s edition of the African Cup Winners Cup title. The Nigerian team defeated Club Africain of Tunisia to win the title.

The late Amodu

NFF owes Amodu 7-month salary —Peterside Idah By Ganiyu Salman

ORMER international, Peterside Idah has said the late Nigeria coach, Shaibu Amodu was owed seven months salary by his last employers, the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF). Idah, a former Udoji United goalkeeper revealed this through his twitter handle, idahpee@IdahPeterside, while paying his tribute to the four-time Super Eagles coach. It is believed that the late Edo State-born tactician was on N800,000 monthly salary as the Technical Director of the football federation since October 2014. Idah, now a pastor based in South Africa, also appealed to the NFF to treat the remaining employees better. “NFF please pay the ones that are alive, got a call from him [Amodu] that he has not been paid for about seven months. “My coach, my mentor, my friend, my boss is dead #RIPAmoduShuaibu. “Amodu Shuaibu, elegant dresser and the most generous man I know on earth death, death, death please leave us alone” he tweeted. Idah, recalled some of his unforgettable moments with the former Orlando Pirates coach. “In 1992 he came to the Eagles camp in Otta to look for me, all he said was come and play for me, I fol-

lowed like a disciple. “He called me the other day and spoke to me for over two hours, all we talked about was football, football, football. God can’t handle this. He kept telling me this people no go kill me. “This is too much I was his media officer (for) two

years, he would sit me down and tell me his plans. He was a show man,” Idah stated. The former Sharks of Port Harcourt goalkeeper also called on authorities to always take care of their employees as he recalled the invaluable roles played by the erstwhile Lagos State

Nigerian coaches mourn Amodu THE President of the Nigerian Football Coaches Association (NFCA), Bitrus Bewarang has described the death of another of his notable members, Shuaibu Amodu as another deadly blow that will be very difficult for the Nigerian coaches and football family to comprehend. “Amodu is an icon in the coaching profession in Nigeria. “Imagine we have not finished mourning one of our great coaches Stephen Keshi, and within four days, the news of the death of coach Shuaibu Amodu is coming as a “Tornado” to us. “The achievements of Amodu in coaching can not be quantified in this country. He loved the coaching profession, and stood solidly to ensure that no one relegates the indigenous coaches to the background. The incidents of these few days should

re-awaken our consciousness on the need to fully lay more emphasis on the development of our football and the welfare of the coaches and players. “The demise of these two strong members of this association within the same week, calls for immediate prayers for us, and our families. God Almighty would console all of us and may his soul rest in perfect peace. “I call on the Edo State and Federal Government to immortalise him. His passion for the game of football and profession should be emulated by all his colleagues. His hardwork and ability to give results anytime he is given an assignment should also be emulated by his colleagues,” Bewarang, a former General Manager of Plateau United said in his tribute to the former Orlando Pirates of South Africa coach.

governor, Mr Raji Fashola who helped former football stars who were in need of help during his tenure of office. “We must set up a fund to look after these guys. I miss Fashola we need more state governors like him. “We need to look after our own. State governments, associations, those that have served our country deserve double honour. our friends are dying,” the former Moroka Swallows of South Africa player lamented.

•He refused the Nigeria Football Association’s offer of a foreigner’s technical assistance to the BCC FC in the club’s prosecution of the 1990 Cup Winners Cup competition. •In 1991, he became the first Nigerian coach to lead a Nigerian club defending an African football title to the final of the competition. The BCC Lions FC lost to Power Dynamos of Zimbabwe in the final of that year’s African Cup Winners Cup competition. •He became the first local coach to win a World Cup ticket for Nigeria. The Super Eagles, in 2001, earned a ticket to the 2002 Korea-Japan World Cup under Amodu. •The second World Cup ticket to be won by a local coach for Nigeria was also courtesy Amodu. This he achieved in 2009 against the 2010 World Cup in South Africa. •He was the first and the youngest Nigerian coach to lead the Nigerian national football team to play at the iconic Wembley Stadium. The England-Nigeria friendly played in 1994, was won by the hosts 1-0 and Amodu was aged 36 years. •Amodu led the Nigerian national team to the maiden edition of the FIFA Confederations Cup. The tournament, then known as King Fahd Cup, was hosted by Saudi Arabia in 1995. •He had spells with the Nigerian national team in full capacity four times. The fifth one, which was in 2015, was in interim capacity.

Amodu believed so much in indigenous colleagues —Lulu Saliu Gbadamosi -Abuja FORMER president of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Alhaji Sani Lulu Abdullahi, has described the death of the NFF Technical Director, Shuaibu Amodu, as “one death, too many”, coming barely less than a week after the demise of Amodu’s one-time assistant in the Super Eagles, Stephen Keshi. Lulu, who was short of words to describe the news of Amodu’s demise on Saturday, said the death of the former BCC Lions of Gboko coach was a big blow to the country’s football development. “This is coming now that he was just appointed the Technical Director in the NFF. A position where he would have impacted positively to the younger ones his knowledge that have

seen him qualify the country for two World Cups and also been the first coach to bring the now rested African Cup Winners’ Cup to the Northern part of the country,” Lulu stated. The erstwhile NFF boss noted that Amodu was passionate about the coaching profession, declaring the the late coach believed so much in Nigerian coaches. “Shuaibu loved the coaching profession and believed very much in indigenous coaches. We pray that God Almighty should accept his soul in His bosom. “We have lost another rare gem in Nigerian football. Adieu Coach Shuaibu Amodu,” Lulu stated. Meanwhile, the Football Club Owners Association of Nigeria said it received the sad news of Amodu’s

exit with a rude shock and a heavy heart. The association made this known in a statement on Saturday jointly signed by its Chairman Barrister Isaac Danladi and its executive secretary, Alloy Chukwuemeka. It called on all football stakeholders to immediately commence special fasting and prayers for the football fraternity stressing that, the death of the two former Super Eagles coaches (Stephen Keshi) calls for a sober reflection within the sector. The club owners further advised football stakeholders to embrace routine exercise and medical check up, both for the active and non active sports personnel, as the rate of heart related problems is becoming rampant in the society.

12 June, 2016 Continued from

Awo’s thoughts PATH TO NIGERIAN GREATNESS

On the campaign trail

Fundamental issues in Nigeria’s economic development

Sunday Tribune

last week

1978

4019.7

27.0

1085.3

228.9

282.5

21.9

26.9

5.7

1979

4502.1

27.5

1238.1

710.8

713.1

57.4

57.6

15.8

1980

5042.4

28.0

1411.9

995.5

1084.7

70.5

76.8

19.7

1981

5647.5

28.5

1609.5

1316.4

1488.1

81.8

92.5

23.3

1982

6325.2

29.0

1834.3

1312.6

1540.1

71.6

84.0

20.8

1983

7084.2

29.5

2089.8

1418.0

1635.2

67.9

79.1

20.0

1984

7934.3

30.0

2380.3

1559.1

1814.7

65.5

76.2

19.7

1985

8886.4

30.5

2710.4

1669.3

1936.4

61.6

71.4

18.8

1986

9952.8

31.0

3085.4

1562.0

1929.9

50.6

62.5

15.7

1987

11147.1

31.5

351 J.3

16006

1977.7

45.6

56.3

14.4

1988

12484.8

32.0

3995.1

1640.9

2027.6

41.1

50.8

13.1

1989

13983.0

32.0

4544.8

1687.0

2083.7

37.1

45.8

12.1

1990

15661.0

33.0

5168.1

1656.1

2054.9

32.0

39.8

10.6

197073

7957.5

22.1

1759.8

353.5

387.8

20.1

22.0

4.4

Table 8.6 Estimated Recurrent Expenditure By Levels, All States (1979-1990 (N) Primary Level Year

Excluding Textbooks

Textbooks

Secondary Level Total including Textbooks

Excluding Textbooks

Textbooks

Tertiary Level Total including Textbooks

Excluding Textbooks

Textbooks

Total including Textbooks

1979/80

711,177 ,000

135,450,000

846,627,000

402,574,725

67,059,788

469,670,513

280,946,400

12,965,400

293,911,800

80/81

802,998,585

152,886,048

955,884,633

770,788,148

25,700,705

796,488,853

351,120,000

14,280,000

365,400,000

81/82

864,312,630

164,671,606

1,028,984,236

1,227,270,419

40,921,971

1,268,198,390

445,146,000

18,096,520

463,242,520

82/83

930,085,371

177,242,408

1,107,327,779

1,833,623,928

61,109,460

1,894,733,388

564,060,000

22,935,720

586,995,720

83/84

1,000,996,951

190,637,628

1,191,634,579

2,531,959,021

84,381,000

2,616,340,021

720,192,000

29,278,880

749,470,880

84/85

1,073,254,624

204,400,398

1,277,655,022

3,298,163,663

109,930,585

3,408,094,248

914,700.00

37,188,000

951,888.000

85/86

1,159,508,285

221,008,212

1,380,516,497

3,748,723,354

124,948,565

3,873,671,919

1,161,963,000

47,248,080

1,209,211,080

86/87

1,248,025,359

237,795,730

1,485,821,089

4,138,023,484

137,890,549

4,275,914,033

1,476,756,180

60,045,671

1,536,801,851

87/88

1,343,047,400

255,944,200

1,598,991,600

4,453,616,445

148,421,983

4,602,038,428

1,876,192,850

76,291,775

1,952,484,625

88/89

1,445,589,971

275,189,484

1,720,779,455

4,793,297,082

159,786,378

4,953,083,460

2,384,054,976

96,925,408

2,480,980,384

89/90

1,555,712,225

296,276,636

1,851,988,861

5,158,847,476

171,928,068

5,330,775,544

3,083,854,581

125,391,076

3,209,245,927

To be continued

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12 June, 2016

Sunday Tribune

The new fad called baby showers L By Olaide Sokoya

IKE many other western and cross-cultural practices which have crept into the Nigerian social space, the idea of Baby Showers is now gaining ground by the day. A recently married woman was said to have attended a baby shower party. The party had all the trappings of opulence. When the woman got home, she put her husband under pressure to host her and her friends to a baby shower too. Her husband, who is not as rich as her firend’s husband, complained that he could not host the party. Arguments ensued and she got beaten up which almost landed her in hospital. A Baby Shower party as practised is held in anticipation or recent birth of a child which involves gift presentation to the mother. Other cultures host baby shower parties to celebrate the transformation of a woman into mother hood. But traditionally, baby showers are held only for the family’s first child and only women were invited. According to regular practise, because the party centers on gift-giving, the baby shower is arranged and hosted by a close friend and not by a member of the family as it is considered rude for families to beg for gifts on behalf of their members. However, this custom varies according cultures or regions. In some, it is expected, and customary for a close female family member to host the baby shower and this is often the baby’s grandmother. When a baby shower is held after the birth of a baby, an invitation may be combined with a baby announcement, but most baby showers happen before the baby is born. Any time after conception is fine, but a shower is a welcome diversion toward the end of pregnancy. Besides, it just doesn’t seem real if the expectant mom isn’t sporting a big belly. Instead of showering the mother with gifts, it is better “sprinkle” her with just a few necessities. As the name suggests, a sprinkle is a light shower. If the child is a second or third child, mothers typically already have most of the supplies needed to care for a baby. When is the best time to have a baby shower? A baby shower should be held four to six weeks before the due date, unless the honoree prefers to have it after the child is born (for example, if her religion encourages this or if she has chosen to keep the baby’s sex a surprise and doesn’t want gender-neutral gifts). Sometimes, for religious, cultural or other reasons, parentsto-be prefer not to receive gifts until after the baby is born (in certain traditions, it’s considered bad luck or pre-emptive to acquire baby items beforehand). In that case, the mother could begin some preliminary planning, but wait until after the baby is born to set a shower date. If an event planner had been tasked with organising the shower, it is better to always consult with the parents-to-be first. They may be able to warn about scheduling conflicts. One may have to accommodate the schedules of best friends, grandparents and work colleagues. Nothing is worse than planning a party and sending out invitations, only to find out that the most important people can’t make it. Significance of baby shower Baby shower is conducted to help the

changes in her body which do not usually allow her to feel at ease. So if the person, for whom the party is hosted, is not comfortable, there is not much joy in celebration. It is best to consult the mother-to-be on when she is most comfortable with the baby shower and it is usually held towards the end of the pregnancy term. Generally it is planned six weeks before the due date of birth. An Indian baby shower ceremony is usually conducted during the seventh month of pregnancy.

mother-to-be feel completely relaxed and prepare for welcoming the new life. Baby shower is a customary ritual that has acquired the form of celebration of welcoming the new life that is soon to be born. The objective of baby shower is to basically shower the mother-to-be with necessary support, advice on what she ought to do and not do during and after her pregnancy and bless her with good wishes and gifts. The entire family and friends participate in this celebrating of excitement of having a new life amidst them soon. Who hosts the baby shower? According to Mrs Samsom Sarah, a businesswoman, baby showers can be hosted by anyone like relatives, parents of the pregnant woman or her in-laws, her friends, office colleagues or school buddies. In the earlier days, baby showers used to be hosted by churches, but now, it is a relaxed celebration where people close to the couple participate and have a great time. It is an opportunity to help the mother-to-be feel completely relaxed and greeted and surrounded with support, so that she does not feel anxious with the new chapter that is about to begin in her life. Anyone can throw it with the exception of the expectant couple. A female marriage counsellor, Pastor (Mrs) Banke Bello said, “today it is appropriate for anyone to host a baby shower as long as there’s a legitimate reason. For example, some parents-

to-be live far from their hometowns, and their mothers and siblings want to host a shower so that long-time friends can attend.” When is the baby shower held? Choosing the right time for the baby shower is very important. Usually, people refrain from hosting the baby shower during the first trimester of the pregnancy. There are various reasons for it. It is traditionally believed in various cultures that it is best to avoid divulging the news of pregnancy as soon as the conception happens. This is to avert the possibility of attracting an evil eye. Apart from such superstitions, it is not feasible to arrange a baby shower in the first few months of the pregnancy as the woman undergoes a lot of problems and

Choosing the right time for the baby shower is very important. People refrain from hosting the baby shower during the first trimester for various reasons.

Where to host the baby shower The best option is to host the baby shower at the place of the host. But the most important point to note is that the expectant mother should be in a comfortable state and ensure that she does not have to travel much or move around in any manner that might cause any possible discomfort. Some people try to be creative with places and themes. Such ideas are great in order to bring in the uniqueness or fun element. But in the process the fact that the pregnant mother is not under any stress must not be overlooked. Gifts for the baby shower This is surely a tricky affair as guests might wonder whether they ought to be buying gifts for the mother or for the baby who is about to be born. From the practical point of view, baby shower is an occasion to gift necessary items that are required by the mom-to-be or for the baby after it is born. So the best possible idea is to get gifts both for the mother and the baby. For instance you can opt for a gift set that has a pamper set for the mother and a cute booty set for the baby. Alternatively, you can also gift the mother some spa manicure, pedicure or massage session. Remember, the most important aspect of a baby shower is to ensure that the joyous fun element is there at the party. Take note that the food and beverages that are served to the expectant mother is not in any way unhealthy for either the mother or the unborn baby. Select the menu according to the favourites of the mother, but at the same time make sure that the items are healthy for her.

12 June, 2016

children’sarena

Sunday Tribune

Olaide Sokoya ollydesanmi@yahoo.com 0807 449 7425

Words from the kids

What I want to become in future Kazeem Alaba, J.S.S 3, 11 yrs I want to become an aeronautical engineer. I want to be able to build and construct jets, aeroplanes and helicopters. I really love the profession because it helps to make life convenient for the people who want to travel around the world for medical check-up. I will really love to be able to build this for my country.

Ayanlola Michael J.S.S 3, 14 yrs I want to become a doctor in the future; I am very passionate about people’s lives and I will like to help with their health. Moreover, doctors are very relevant in our society today. While in the line of saving people’s lives, I will also want to make my money so that I will be able to cater for my family.

Apariola Gloria S.S.1, 14 yrs I want to become a lawyer in the future so that I will be able to help innocent people who are being wrongly accused. I want to be able to help people so that their rights will not be trampled upon. The poor suffer over crimes while the rich and popular go scot free. Even lawyers that are supposed to defend them are running after these wealthy people.

OF Cake BRIEF HISTORY The term “cake” has a long history. The word itself is of Viking origin, from the Old Norse word “kaka”. Although clear examples of the difference between cake and bread are easy to find, the precise classification has always been elusive. For example, banana bread may be properly considered either a quick bread or a cake. The Greeks invented beer as a leavener, frying fritters in olive oil, and cheesecakes using goat’s milk. In ancient Rome, basic bread dough was sometimes enriched with butter, eggs, and honey, which produced a sweet and

Students are from ACCESS College, Oke-Ado, Ibadan. Kuforiji Gbolahan J.S.S.3, 14 yrs When I grow up, I want to become a doctor so that I will be able to diagnose diseases in patients and will also be able to treat them. Nowadays you see people falling ill and most people do not have access to a doctor, I want to be able to treat people when there is an outbreak of a disease. Doctors are life savers, without them around people will die without medical treatment.

Ajibola Mariam, S.S. 1, 14 yrs I want to become a lawyer in the future; they are law makers and uphold justice in the country, it’s a very nice job. I told my parents when I was young that I wanted to become a lawyer because I love the way they dress and speak fluently and confidently in court rooms and my parents told me then that I needed to work hard to accomplish that and that is what I have been working towards.

Abdullahi Aminat, S.S 1, 15 yrs I want to become a banker because it’s a good job that can can be proud of. Banking jobs suit women a lot and that is one of the reasons I will like to become a banker. Bankers are very hard working, disciplined and smart and these are the attributes I admire in them and will want to see in myself. cake-like baked good. Latin poet Ovid refers to the birthday of him and his brother with party and cake in his first book of exile, Tristia. Early cakes in England were also essentially bread: the most obvious differences between a “cake” and “bread” were the round, flat shape of the cakes, and the cooking method, which turned cakes over once while cooking, while bread was left upright throughout the baking process. Sponge cakes, leavened with beaten eggs, originated during the Renaissance, possibly in Spain.

Fun Fact Duck • A male duck is called a drake. • A female duck is called a hen, and a baby duck a duckling. • Ducks are omnivores. • They feed on aquatic plants, small fish, insects, worms, grubs and more. • Diving ducks and sea ducks search for food fairly deep underwater. To be able to stay underwater more easily, diving ducks are quite heavy. • Dabbling ducks feed on the surface of water, on land, or by ducking their head underwater. • The male Mallard has a glossy green head, grey wings and belly, while the female has a brownspeckled plumage. • All ducks have high-

ly waterproof feathers due to the feathers interlocking nature and waxy coating. • Ducks have many economic uses. Their feathers, particularly their underlying 'down' feathers, are used in many products, while the white Pekin duck is the most common variety raised for eggs and meat. • Ducks have featured as popular cartoon characters over the years, such as Walt Disney's Donald Duck and Warner Brothers Daffy Duck.

ek ild e we h C f th o

EmmanuelOluwatimilehin Adebowaclocked Many happy returns.

Compiled by Temitayo Iliasu

12 June, 2016 “If it isn’t hurting, it isn’t working —Maggie Thatcher

T wasn’t until noon of Friday, production timeline for this page, that I was able to string something meaningful together. And it was, what you just read up here. Everything is so badly and sadly mixed that one needs to stay calmer than required to remain sane and sober enough. Isn’t then about time we made a sense of this nation, coming up with genuine and enduring solutions, instead of the elite pretension that has characterised leadership in the country and the emotion-blinded following that has helped sustain the lie of leadership? Constitutional lawyer, Dr Tunji Abayomi made a lot of sense Friday morning on a national TV magazine programme, dissecting the fresh burst of crises in the NigerDelta. I guess many, including his colleague-lawyers, don’t always take him seriously on issues because of the jocular persona he cuts. He spoke to the essence of nationhood with profound clarity I never knew he possessed despite appreciable affinity. If you ask a precocious toddler today, he will tell you it’s leadership problem. This strait-jacket escapism has provided a haven for the following to self-absolve as if leaders are sourced among the aliens. We are all the problem and if we are desirous of making it work, we all must be the solution. I agree completely with Dr Abayomi on the hypothesis of perception of injustice as being at the root of ethnic unrest, mutual suspicion and resort to violence, as being witnessed across the land today. I also agree with him that isolated wheeling-dealing with arm-bearing ethnic bandits masquerading as freedom fighters won’t uproot the pervasive discontent, pooping up in different ethnic enclaves. Does it mean those agitating in North-East as Boko Haram, South-East as Biafrans and South-South as militants, don’t have a case to push? Far from it. Only that whatever the demands are now, can’t be met under the prevailing governance system of ethnic winner-take-all. Meeting isolated needs can only encourage more of such agitations since violence against the state is now wrongly perceived as bargaining aces. Where does this leave us all? A realistic move by the government of the day to commence a process of a new socio-political and economic shift for a new governance order. I will break it down. We, Buharists must first derTHE 23rd anniversary of the freest and fairest election so far in the history of our nation, the June 12, 1993 presidential election, which comes up today, provides an opportunity for the government at the centre to correct the injustice meted out to the winner of that election and the symbol of the struggle, Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale Abiola, but nothing in the air indicates that the government will travel that route. Perhaps more painful is the fact that South West state governments that used to honour the memory of Abiola by not just declaring the day as a holiday but by also organising programmes in his honour appear to have consigned all of that to the dustbin of history. Abiola has been blotted out of the consciousness of those in government both at the state and federal level. But that is a disservice to the memory of Abiola. For the avoidance of doubt, June 12 was a pan-Nigerian mandate. The phenomenon that is known as June 12 is neither about Abiola nor the Yoruba race; it is about the collective desire of Nigerians from all walks of life and political divides to move against military dictatorship. It was a day Nigerians rose to wrest Nigeria from those who held it by the jugular, shoving behind everything that stood against their unity. Without any doubt, June 12, 1993 presidential election is the precursor of the current Fourth Republic, the longest in the nation’s chequered history. And it would not have been if not for the resolve of Abiola to stake all he had to ensure that the military did not rubbish the expressed desire of Nigerians for democratic governance. In the course of seeking the validation of his mandate, he lost almost everything he had. After his self-declaration as the President-elect at Epetedo, he lost his freedom as he was subsequently arrested by the state, clamped into detention and tried for treason. To debilitate his ability to finance the struggle, his vast business empire was clipped. It was said that his oil block licences were revoked. This resulted in a reduction in the flow of funds to the late billionaire. After this came the grounding of his Concord Airline, Summit Oil International and African Shipping Line in that order. The National Concord came under a severe attack as

0811 695 4647

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Making sense of it all

obe him of invincibility, infallibility and all-knowing cloak. This telepathic aura is misleading him. It is one reason his first year in office was a disaster. Thankfully, he now appears to be resisting the destructive egging-on. I warned on this page immediately after his election that it would be his choice to make South-East and SouthSouth that didn’t largely vote him to be part of his Nigeria. He obviously saw no need for cohesion and decided to treat them as a conquered territory. By the time he made his major lopsided appointments and defended it with the infamous wobbly arithmetic formula of 97 to 5 appointment-by-vote ratio, Avengers and IPOB were already born in the minds of the rejected. Those who encouraged him loudly then, rationalising that the zones had had their fill under the immediate past administration should be wiser now that the Avengers are making it a case of “kaka k’eku maje sese” (wasting all

With Sulaimon Olanrewaju 08055001708

lanresulaimon@yahoo.com

MKO Abiola still on the cross 23 years after

the government of the day repeatedly proscribed it. Other businesses of the late politician were not spared, they were all hit by Abacha’s hammer and many of them did not survive the onslaught. Today, virtually all the businesses are dead. It got so bad that one of the administrators of his estate, Edwards Angell Palmers & Dodge, wrote a letter to the family, dated May 30, 2008, in an effort to clarify the family’s misunderstanding about the late business mogul’s property in its custody. According to the company, Abiola was indebted to some organisations and had become bank-

Sunday Tribune

instead of not benefitting). Those characters boasting on social media and other public platforms that the former president and his people had no choice but to let go of political power in the wake of the outcome of last presidential election, should also know better now. The arms and grenade being used to cripple the nation’s economy and by extension, the entire system, weren’t obviously purchased yesterday. We owe Goodluck Jonathan one, just like our president has rightly pointed out, even with all his foibles. Nigeria must be re-thought and it isn’t about secession. A dangerous political leadership precedent had been set with Boko Haram and ethnic violence to wrestle power. When former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar made the infamous threat of violence against Jonathan as sitting president, I warned here that an unending vicious circle was being inadvertently drawn. If a lasting systemic solution isn’t found, who says an armed struggle won’t evolve again from the North when another Southerner takes Aso Rock whenever that happens again. The ambitious 30-year Ogoni clean-up is commendable but disaffection with the Nigerian state is all over, including in the North, thought to be licking the honey now. Buhari is in his second year with the possibility of six more. His signature anti-corruption project is fading with the first year. What is that to do again after shaming all opposition leading-lights at a go? Turn on his own? Or maybe rebels within? Or those who would want to stand against his second term? Then what? We would be back to the same old governance story. A token here, a flash there. Time will run out and his much-heralded presidency would become history like his predecessors-in-office. His administration like Olusegun Obasanjo’s, may even end up as a part of the problems to be solved in near future. But if Buhari so wishes, he has a golden opportunity to remain the issue in our nationhood desire. He shouldn’t bother about the messengers of restructuring like Clark and Atiku whose motive could be political. Their message is the gospel truth at this befuddling juncture. The starting-point for the president is accepting that the inherited structure won’t carry, sustain and ensure success for his Change Agenda. The anger in the land is scorching and the last one year hasn’t helped in mollifying it. There is a need for a holistic dialogue, not only with Avengers. rupt because of his involvement in the 1993 presidential election. The company added that there were no substantial funds belonging to Abiola withheld by international banks as part of the money had been used by Kola, his eldest son, to clear his father’s debts. Edwards Angell Palmers & Dodge reasoned, “If some huge sum existed offshore, the question that has to be asked is, why was it not used during Chief’s lifetime to discharge this indebtedness? We believe, as was set out in the 3rd March report, that Chief MKO Abiola, for all his fabled wealth prior to his election campaign, was effectively bankrupted by his efforts.” Apart from the loss of his fabled fortune, Abiola also lost his vocal wife, Kudirat, who had teamed up with NADECO members to continually demand the validation of the June 12, 1993 election and recognition of Abiola as the winner. She was shot at a very close range in Ikeja by agents of the state. Abiola himself died in detention on July 7, 1998 almost a month after the death of Abacha and the assumption of office by General Abubakar Abdulsalami. For all the sacrifices made by Abiola, the least the nation owes him is national recognition as a hero of our democracy. While it is not clear why Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, who directly benefitted from Abiola’s sacrifice, and Alhaji Umaru Yar’Adua, his successor, never deemed it fit to bestow national recognition on either Chief Abiola or the June 12 issue, former President Goodluck Jonathan’s attempt to rename the University of Lagos after Abiola was rebuffed and scuttled by many acclaimed Abiolaists. But President Muhammadu Buhari has an opportunity to right this wrong by recognising the date for what it represents in the nation’s history. Apart from naming national monuments after Abiola, the most enduring honour to the nation’s martyr of democracy will be the recognition of June 12 as a public holiday. It is only then that Chief MKO Abiola, who has been unjustly hung on the cross since the freest election was annulled, will be free from the hook of the cross and take his much deserved rest. Twenty three years is too long a time for anyone to hang on the cross.

12 June, 2016

Six years after winning the popular reality TV show, Big Brother Africa, Uti Nwachukwu has never looked back. He has used his popularity, good looks and talent to earn himself a space in the entertainment industry and the Delta State born media personality appears to still want more out of life. The man who loves to call himself Sir Uti recalls his early beginnings in the industry and hints at how far he wants to go on the job in this interview with SEGUN ADEBAYO.

INCE you came into limelight some years back, your career has taken different dimensions. You have come out as an actor, a TV presenter and even a writer. In spite of your many engagements, you don’t seem to be looking back, how would you describe the journey so far? It is obviously the grace of God. It is not about who works the hardest, if you go on the road and you see bricklayers and wheel barrow pushers, you will conclude that they are really working hard. At the end of the day, it is just God that crowns one’s efforts with success. But on my part, what I have done is that I have kept my head on the ground; I never saw my Big Brother Africa (BBA) victory as a way to rest on my oars. I have never felt like I have won money; I am now a superstar. For me, BBA was just advertising the product I was selling, which is my brand. Despite winning the BBA, it was said that some producers still didn’t believe you have got the talent to be an actor, how challenging was that moment for you?

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I can’t sacrifice

my career for marriage now

It was not really difficult as much as you have painted it now. BBA remains one of the biggest reality shows in Nigeria and arguably the most watched reality show in Africa. So, coming out, I didn’t spend time playing around because I have got some millions in my account. It is just God’s grace that people find me to be likeable and easy to work with. The kind of charisma that I bring to my work makes it more interesting to work with me. It was not that difficult for me, because my brand was and is still very marketable. The talent was there; very raw. Though, I had to brush up all my talents one after the other. It was just the extra grace of God. What was the first major challenge you had to fight off when you were about to start? The moment I left the BBA house, a lot of people felt I would become too expensive and inaccessible but I had to prove them wrong. I wanted to know that I have not changed. So, I walked up to movie producers and quite a number of production houses to tell them that any shows they had, they should call me for auditions. So, that’s how I got Jara. Rita Dominic in-

u w k u h c a w N i —Ut

troduced me to Desmond Eliot, and I kept telling him that I wanted to act. Anytime I went for events, a lot of people were criticising me, but they didn’t know that that was networking for me. I made sure I appeared at every major event and the good thing about it was that I was being paid. It was not that easy for me despite winning BBA, I still had to move from one event to another to let people know that I can mcee their events and act too. I had to let people know that I was ready to work and that I am open to negotiations. I made sure I was very approachable. I stay in touch till today with my fans and supporters, because I am a product of a reality show, so I try as much as possible not to let people down. You are also very active on social media… It is just part of what I have been doing. I try to be open to people as much as I can. I communicate my feelings to my fans and I let them know that nothing has changed and nothing will change. When I meet people, I have never said no to a picture; I just try to remain approachable and very focused on my jobs. The jobs have to keep coming so that we can stay on top of our game. I tell

people that I am open to jobs anytime. You are open to all kinds of jobs? Laughs…not all kinds of jobs in the way you are suggesting. I mean good jobs. That’s why you don’t see me in every movie, because I am always choosy when it comes to taking jobs, so that when I do a movie, everybody will know that for Uti to be on this movie, it has to be a good job. Would you mind to reveal the first thing you did with your money back then? I just made sure I was comfortable. I grew up in a very comfortable home; we never lacked anything we wanted. Without my support system in Lagos, there is no way I would have survived in Lagos. What do you mean by your support system? I mean my family. I was treated very nicely. So you didn’t grow up in Lagos? Yes, I grew up in Delta State. I am a son of the soil. I grew up in Ughelli and Sapele. Continues on pg20

12 June, 2016

Segun Adebayo tegbollistic@yahoo.com 08116954644

Stories By Segun Adebayo

INCE April 4, Legend Extra Stout has been touring the country with an unusual mix of musicians. Usually, branded experiential shows pick the rave of the moment— people with new albums or songs in the top 10— for these types of shindigs but Legend is not toeing that line. What Legend is doing with its Real Deal Experience is this: every fortnight or thereabout, it selects a city and then finds the artiste with the most die-hard followers in that town to go play there. So far, Oritsefemi has played in Okokomaiko, Lagos; Kcee has performed in Onitsha; Timaya was at the Joseph Yobo Mini Stadium, Port Harcourt; and 9ice headlined the show at the Cultural Centre, Ibadan. In all of these venues, it appears that Legend has had its expectations met. According to executives inside Nigeria Breweries, makers of Legend, the purpose of the concerts is to ignite real connections between the stars and their fans. Even though the crowd could have simply shown up just to enjoy a night of music and free drinks, as well as the chance to win prizes in the ‘Taste, Tell and Win’ games

Seyi Sokoya seyi_sky@yahoo.com 08075166585

that are part of the event, many of them come because they love to have a special moment with the featured artistes. Incidentally, the artistes are also happy to visit these locations. It is a majestic homecoming for them all, they say; which is why, in between their sets and even afterwards, they harp on about what a great opportunity it is to entertain their “own people” again. Take Timaya, for instance, he was exceedingly grateful for the opportunity to reconnect with the Port Harcourt crowd. He broke down and cried, thanking his loyal fans. “I always love performing in Port Harcourt,” he said after the show. “It brings back so many memories and the crowd tonight was spectacular. They made me feel at home— almost like I never left.” And that was not so different from what the others said. After his performance in Okokomaiko, Oritsefemi told reporters that, “Seeing all these people makes me feel really good. Of course, tonight is very special for me because I’ve come here to my street roots in Lagos to perform. I hope to continue making my people happy and I want to give a special

Urban Legend:

How Kcee, Oritsefemi, Timaya, 9ice wowed Nigerians shout out to Legend for connecting me back to my people.” In Onitsha, Kcee summing up his gig like this: “Tonight is the most

that Funke and JJC are soaked in each other’s love. While JJC’s housemate, Moe Musa had vacated their Lekki house to allow his friend have some privacy, Funke is also flaunting what could be seen as an engagement ring on the social media. Since news broke out that the two were dating, none of them has come out to deny it. As things stand now, it was gathered that they may opt for a quiet wedding and formalise their union anytime from now.

fun I’ve had on stage in a long time. The fans were absolutely unbelievable. It was really nice to come back here to the East and

make my fans happy. Big ups to Legend for making this possible and I really hope to come back and do this again.”

KSA’s radio commences operation AFTER a successful three-week A release by the broadcast outtest transmission, King Sunny fit’s Executive Director, Mr ClemAde’s M&C FM off its full com- ent Ige, said the board of directors mercial operation today. of the station was mindful of its national vision in putting together a professional team headed by Mr. Donald Falayi to achieve “ a reference outfit” in the history of broadcasting in Nigeria. “We took enough time on the drawing board because M&C FM is strategically different from the pool in terms of orientation and goal. You are going to listen to a medium that will reflect Nigeria in many aspects that are conceptually designed to inspire practically everybody, young and old.” On the board of the station which has King Sunny Ade as Chairman, are eminent professionals which include Dr. Yemi Farounbi, respected media administrator and diplomat; Mr Dejo Olugbodi, one

Funke Akindele flaunts engagement ring NOLLYWOOD actress, Funke Akindele, has a lot up her sleeves at the moment. She’s currently in the United Kingdom to celebrate Jenifa’s Diary’s global success, which was premiered in the UK on Friday. That is not the only reason why she’s currently happy as information reaching R revealed that the actress is savouring every minute of her time with her new lover, JJC, who has three children from three women. The two loverbirds have managed to keep their love affair secret, but it is becoming clearer

Sunday Tribune

of Nigeria’s finest broadcast engineers, and Mr Clement Ige, a veteran jounalist. The station, Ige said, will be inaugurated a few days after the commencement of its full operation.

razzmatazz

12 June, 2016

Sunday Tribune

Gospel Hotspot Africa bags Best Online Platform award

Why I quit MTV Base

after 4 years

—Stephanie Coker Stories By Segun Adebayo THIS news may not be going down well with fans of MTV Base Africa VJ, Stephanie Coker. The TV host has called it quits with MTV Base Africa after four years and she seems to be happy about her decision to move on. Though she would not reveal her next move, but her statement on Instagram suggested that she was moving into something bigger. Weeks after speculations were rife that she would be moving away from MTV, Coker finally announced that she had left the station after serving as a VJ/host for four years. During her time on the station, she worked on programmes like ‘Street Request’, ‘The Big Friday Show’ among others. She also acted as a host on various shows and awards ceremonies. This was what she wrote on Instagram: “ Today has been an emotional day. Looking back on the last 4 amazing years as a VJ on MTV Base, I still remember walking through the doors not being able to contain the excite-

ment that my little dream of working with such a world renowned platform came true (my mum probably checked up on me a million times). “From working with a fantastic team, travelling the globe interviewing some of the most talented acts and keeping you all entertained on the carpet, it’s been nothing short of an exciting, challenging and fulfilling experience that I’m most grateful for. “However, today, I wanted to share with you first that I’ve officially left MTV and embarking on another exciting chapter. Am I nervous? Hell yes, but it’s time for the next level. It’s always hard to say goodbye but these memories will forever live in my heart. “To the entire MTV, Vimn and DAT family, thank you. More importantly, thank you so much to the viewers and my supporters for the incredible love and energy you give me daily to be the best version of myself! I want to give you more and that’s why I can’t wait to share exciting news with you very soon.”

GOSPEL Hotspot Africa has won the Best Online Platform in Africa at the recently concluded first Trumpet Africa Gospel Music Awards In South Africa. “The event had in attendance other top gospel online platforms across Africa, but Gospel Hotspot Africa emerged winner in the category and the CEO of the brand, Arubuola Ayodele, was full of praise to the organisers of the event for appreciating his work. Speaking while recieving the award in Nigeria from Tehila Crew which represented the brand in South Africa, Ayodele said he never expected to win the award though he put a lot

of efforts into his job to make his brand known across Africa.

He said the award came as a suprise to him and he would not rest on his oars to keep promoting gospel songs from within and outside Nigeria. “We will like to say a big thanks to God. May God bless the organisers Of Trumpet Africa Gospel Music Awards as well as our online audience, contibutors and patrons; you are our greatest motivation,” he said. Also present at the award presentation were gospel singers such as Mike Abdul,

Monique Adam of Spagetti Records and a host of others to spice up the award celebration at Forest Stream Studio & Gospel Hotspot Studio in Lagos State. Mike Abdul in his speech said the time had come for Nigerian online gospel promoters to take their right places in Africa. According to him, “I am very glad that I am part of this event today because Gospel Hotspot Africa has done well over the years and I am indeed very proud of what the young man has achieved for himself in the last few years.”

Malaika wins Best Collaboration Album of the Year FUJI Music Star, Alhaji Sulaimon ‘Malaika’ Adekunle, has won the Best Collaboration Islamic Music and Associated Nominees (IMAN) album of the year-IYAMI. The album featured five female artistes. Malaika was said to have won the award based on his creativity. The awards ceremony was held at Oregun, Lagos State, on Sunday, May 22. After the award was presented to him, he said: “Alhamdulilahi, I just got the

award for the Best Music Collaboration Of The Year 2016. My sincere appreciation goes out to my entire numerous fans worldwide for the great support. I will not let you down.” The last that was heard from Malaika was the duet he did with Dammy Krane, Nana Dance, that is trending till date and Malaika Alayeluwa Fans Day that was held in April.

Nigerian Breweries names Flavour ambassador NIGERIAN Breweries Plc has announced musician and highlife exponent, Flavour N’abania, as brand ambassador for the leading South-East beer brand, Life Continental Beer. The brand made this choice to further reinforce its commitment to the heritage, essence, connection and affinity with the people of South-East. “We are excited to announce today that Flavour has joined the Life Continental Beer family as brand ambassador. Flavour, who is known for his unique ability to sing fluently in Igbo language, strongly represents what the brand stands for,” said Kufre Ekanem, Corporate Affairs Advis-

er, Nigerian Breweries Plc., while speaking at a press conference organised to unveil the partnership. “This partnership underscores the brand’s dedication to the Igbo values of industry, resourcefulness and enterprise - values which Flavour aptly embodies,” he said. “Just as Life Continental Beer defines the Igbo in every consumer, Flavour exudes the aura which exemplifies the typical Igbo man.” Flavour expressed his excitement as brand ambassador, saying: “For me, joining the Life Continental Beer team feels like I have found my way back home. The brand has always been a symbol of the Igbo heritage. “If you go anywhere and you hear Life Con-

tinental Beer, at once, the Igbo man and his entrepreneurial spirit comes to mind. I’m very proud to be associated with a beer I can finally call my own, a beer that pushes the frontiers of progress.” The deal, which was signed at the Nigerian Breweries Plc corporate head office in Lagos State, is to run for two years during which Flavour will appear in Life Continental Beer advertising and marketing campaigns. He will also feature in the brand’s online assets and make special appearances at events.

Mr 2Kay drops new video

POP sensation, Mr 2Kay, has released a new video for one of the renditions off his Count It All Joy EP titled, “Wood”. This is one of the most popular songs off the EP, which was released in February. The video for “Woods” was initially intended for online audience only, but considering the subject matter of the song and the outcome of this video, it may not only go viral, it will definitely

get mainstream rotation – both on radio and TV. The video, which begins with Mr 2Kay vibing to the beat alone, cuts into a scenery, with each frame captivating the viewers, plus - the message of the song is very relatable. The Grafton records signee delivers a fine performance from start to finish.

20 glitz

12 June, 2016

‘How I spent my

BBA $.2m’ Continues from pg17

So you were spoilt as a child? I wouldn’t say I was spoilt but I don’t think there was one thing that I needed as a child that I didn’t get. So, as I said, my support systems in Lagos are my siblings. They made sure I had everything I needed. How long have you been keeping your dreadlocks? In 2009, I had an identity makeover. I just felt like I had to reverse my life because I went through a lot before then. What did you go through? Let’s just keep talking about my dreads for now. So, I wanted to have a new me and not what anybody thinks about me or what has happened before then. I grew into my own person and I have no apology for being what I wanted to be. I had just graduated from the university then, so in 2009 I decided to keep my hair this way and it has been like this since then. It does not cost much to keep it clean. I am not too crazy about my dreads. Does it bother you that despite the popularity of your brand, you have not been able to tie down deals with telecommunications companies like some of your colleagues do? It does not matter. Most of the time, you will ask yourself how good are these deals? If I get a good deal, I will sign but I am not one of those people that they will sign for N3 million and they go and lie to people that they were signed with N30 million. A lot of my colleagues have lied so much about these things, but for me it is not worth it. I am not someone that would do things just for money. If I am telling people that I am endorsing a product, I want to be able to stand by that product anytime. But you signed with Martini, was it worth it? Yes, everybody can attest to the fact that that was a good brand and that Martini has now become the main thing at occasions and parties. So, I am not one of those people that would rush to endorse deals. If a brand loves me and I love them, I will sign the deal and we will create a beautiful relationship. It seems entertainers now see endorsement deals as the way out… It is true. Everybody now sees endorsement deals as the way out; everybody wants to get signed on one deal or another. For me, I am a unique person. If I am doing anything, it has to be unique. I don’t follow the crowd. When the deal is right, you will hear from me that I have signed a deal. I thank God for my life, deal or no deal; there is always something on the table for me. Go and find out, anything I attach my brand to is always the best. Anything that I have talked about, you will find out that I am always the pioneer. It is not in my place to go and lobby. When a good deal falls on the table, I will sign it. The kind of destiny and grace I have is that nothing will ever affect me or my brand negatively. I am of those people that even when you try to do something bad to them, it turns to be a blessing for us.

What about scandals, you have been linked with one or two in the last few years, did they also turn out to be blessings? I will tell you this, anything that I didn’t do while I was staying in my father’s house; I will not do now that I am staying alone. Scandals can come, but they won’t even move me an inch. I have managed to live my life the best way I can and I leave the rest to God. Anything that comes after that, we will handle the way it comes. Let me also let you know that the quest for fake life leads people to do different outrageous things. For me, the only reason they have tried to link me to any scandal is because they felt this boy is too clean; there must be something about him that we need to push out for people to see. They managed to link me with unfounded tales but God helped me. Why would anybody do that to you? I was surrounded by the wrong people then and you that the industry has a lot of envy and jealousy. When they can’t find something to bring you down, they will manufacture stories. At the end of the day, those lies would end up making your brand popular because a lot of people would be interested in knowing what is happening. It is not that I stay away from scandals but I have never been a scandalous person. I have been naughty and mischievous growing up, which is why I was interesting to watch on BBA. I am very lively and playful. I was that guy that likes to always come up with something, but I have no business with scandal. What has happened to your relationship with some of the ladies you met during your time at the BBA house? Hmmmm…BBA is a world of its own. Sometimes when you are in that house, things that don’t make sense to you before will start making sense to you. But when you come out and you face the real world again, you will realise that everything inside there should just remain there. You know people want to follow your life to see what has happened beyond the show, and that may cause a lot of pressure and tension on you. Most times, when you want to carry on with that relationship, especially if you are someone who wants to keeps your brand working; it is going to be pressure on you. It is a different thing if you come out with your relationship and you go underground, but in my situation, I was not ready to go underground with anybody because what I am doing now has always been my dream. The only thing left for me to do is to

Everybody now sees endorsement deals as the way out; everybody wants to get signed on one deal or another.

Sunday Tribune

take my brand international. You can’t live your relationship life out there; it will be destined to fail. Your TV show, Jara, has become a popular one, especially with Helen Paul as your co-host, did you ever think you could work together? I never knew we could ever work together. We never knew each other personally. Yes, I was a fan of that lady with a special voice and she said she enjoyed watching me on BBA as a naughty boy. When we auditioned for Jara, the producers and organisers kept asking if we had b e e n friends before, but we said no. They had to audition us for a couple of times, but they told us that the minute they auditioned us for the first time, they knew they had found their hosts for the show. It has been great working with them for six years, and we are just entering our seventh season. It is my daily job. You are friends with Tiwa and Tee Billz and you shared your view on their break-up on the social media, how did you receive the news? The truth is that you can’t get a lot of real friends in the industry, the few ones you get, you have to keep them close. Tiwa and Tee Billz are my good friends. I am someone that people listen to when I speak, so I had to let people know that you don’t take sides when things like that happen. You just have to pray for the couple and wish them well. I was not forcing anybody to take my opinion. It was really sad for me. What project are you working on right now? I just finished working on a project called Duplicity. It was premiered on Africa Magic last week. In two days, I am going to Port Harcourt (Rivers State) to attend the AMAA awards as a nominee for the role I played in the movie called Breathless. It is my first ever AMAA nomination and I am very happy about it. I am crossing fingers and hoping that I win. The movie will be premiered in the Cinema on July 1 and I am very excited about it. It is a huge step in my career. Do you think settling down will affect your showbiz life? If you are a passionate and ambitious

person, one will have to suffer for another. I have not got to the stage of my career where I am ready to sacrifice my career for anything. I will be lying to myself about being ready to settle down or not. At the end of the day, you can never tell these things. If God says, I should marry tomorrow, who am I to say no?

12 June, 2016

entartainment

Sunday Tribune

with Segun Adebayo tegbollistic@yahoo.com 08116954644

How fun took over in the air during premiere of ‘The CEO’ By Joan Omionawele UNTIL the D-Day, Africans were held swat as to what to expect from the premiere of Kunle Afolayan’s movie, The CEO, which was recently

J’Tehela Gospel Extravaganza berths in US By Seyi Sokoya FOR the first time in the United States, gospel artistes from all denominations will be performing under one canopy from the Eastern to the Western parts of Nigeria, from Ireland to South Africa, from Haiti to Jamaica to Trinidad and Tobago. This was disclosed by one of the coordinators of the event, Joan Sylvester during a chat. She revealed that the event, J’Tehela Gospel Extravaganza, billed for July 15th and 16th in Miami, United States of America will witness the gathering of about 24 artistes across the globe, with about 15 from Nigeria. Artistes expected to join the train from Nigeria include: Esther Igbekele, Remi Olabanji, Chioma Jesus, Dammy Jare, Oba Sioni, Seyi Pleasure, Bayo Apata, Steve Pelemo, Ola Johnson, among others. According to Joan Sylvester, praising God together moves Him. “It is good to praise God together, this is one thing God cannot do for Himself and we are doing it for God in a unique way. She also informed that this is the first time her organisation is taken artistes from Nigeria to United States of America for this concert, though this is the second edition of the event.

premiered aboard an Air France flight AF149, a premiere which blew the mind of many with epic milieu. With robust fanfare, exictement and merriment, Afolayan raised the bar again last Wednesday with a unique sky experience and perhaps the first-of-its-kind in Africa, as passengers joined the cast and crew and other celebrities to enjoy first-hand, the most publicised in-flight screening of the pan-African movie en-route Paris. It all started with a red carpet at the Murtala Mohammed International Airport’s departure arena, where

stars of the movie who converged from different parts of Africa alighted from the elegant Peugeot 508 and walked into scores of camera flashes and waiting microphones. Guests were shuttled from 6pm from the designated open field close to the airport car park, a section clearly marked ‘Peugeot Pick-up Point.’ While other airlines’ passengers were curious at the convergence of the army of stars and enormous branding of the airport area for the occasion, those flying Air France that night seemed to have fore knowledge of their participation in the historic premiere on the spectacular Airbus A340-300. The passengers that had earlier checked in their luggage preceded by the usual immigration/customs procedures towards a pre-boarding cocktail, hobnobbing, photo-session and music from a standby Nigerian disc jockey.

D’banj grateful to God for successful career By Seyi Sokoya

LADAPO Daniel Oyebanjo, also known as D’banj has atributed his successful career in the music industry and gift of life to God, just as he also acknowl-

ANTP mourns as Henrietta Kosoko is buried By Seyi Sokoya THERE was a new twist to the burial arrangement of late actress and wife of veteran actor, Henrietta Kosoko, on Friday. She died on Monday after a protracted battle with diabetes. Her husband, Jide Kosoko as of the time of filing this report was still brooding over the sudden death of his wife, who he claimed to be a big part of his existence. Kosoko was said to have concluded plans to bury his wife at Atan Cemetery in Lagos State until Herietta’s family truncated the plans, insisting that she would not be buried outside their homestead. A leading member of burial committee who did not want his name mentioned said that the reason for the cancellation of the Lagos funeral arrangement was not unconnected with the fact that Henrietta’s family from Delta State insisted that their daughter must not be buried outside her homestead. Meanwhile, president of

the Association of Nigerian Theater Practitioners (ANTP), Comrade Victor Ashaolu, on behalf of the association has commiserated with the former president of the association and veteran actor, Jide Kosoko over the demise of his wife. Ashaolu said that the news of the late actress came as a rude shock, while he noted that the association has commenced plans to celebrate her.

eged that he would have not become famous without the support of his fans, parents and loved ones. The ‘Emergency’ crooner who clocked 36 last Thursday, in his goodwill message in appreciating God for adding another year to his years, expressed his gratitude to God for his life.” He wrote on his Facebook page, “As I turn a year older, I want to thank the Lord for my wonderful journey, life and for making my dream of being a vessel of visible hope to my generation come to life. He added that, “I am grateful to you Lord, mum and dad, family, loved ones and my fans. Ac’s Kokolets and mamalets. I won’t be here without you guys and for that I am humbled. love you all. OooSssHhhEee.”

When In Da House gave it all for Ibadan children y Seyi okoya of fun when ITBwas anSavenue an Ibadan-based entertainment outfit, In Da House Entertainment, treated some children in the city to unlimited fun as part of the activities to celebrate Children’s Day. The event with the theme: “Every Child has a Potential” held at the popular Recreation Club swimming pool side at Sabo in Ibadan, Oyo State, also showcased different talents displayed by the children, while many of them

were excited to play various games and competitions. The head of the outfit, Mr Adeniyi Ayandokun, said they were delighted to host pupils from various schools within Ibadan, adding that, “We will continue this programme and I know God will help us to continue to impact into the younger generation positively. We also thank everyone that supported the event, especially Sweetco, Sumal Foods, Nigerian Tribune, Startime, among others.”

12 June, 2016

Sunday Tribune

12 June, 2016

Sunday Tribune

12 June, 2016

glamour W

HAT I have been doing lately It has been acting and presenting all the way. I have been visiting one location or the other and at the same time presenting shows. Honestly, it has been a busy schedule for me and I thank God for the grace and strength to push through. How I have been able to combine the two without clash It has been God’s grace. Even with the fact that it is a recorded programme, it is still tasking and time consuming. The love and passion I have for acting are unquantifiable. I have been able to manage the two without any clash through divine wisdom. It is two different acts, but are sort of entwined. I love acting and broadcasting because it is all about entertainment. My first love between acting and broadcasting Acting is my first love. I’m passionately in love with it. This is what makes me lively and I am ready to face the game. Being an enterttainemnt personality and a presenter at the Sound Vision Entertainment is my secondary call. How I ventured into acting I ventured into acting nine years ago. Acting was a dream right from my tender age, so I picked up a course in acting at PEFTI owned by Wale Adenuga, then I decided to join the Yoruba genre under the tutelage of Murphy Afolabi and like they say, the rest is history. But for me, the journey has just started. Experience It has been bad, good and awesome. I have learn a lot of things with the little experience I have garnered since I came into the industry. The industry has taught me a lot and I am still learning. Greatest challenge I don’t think I have encountered any problem whatsoever, but I think piracy and the difficulty of getting an investor are my greatest challenge. Role models Kate Henshaw and Tope Oshin. I love these great women to the moon and back. On whether I feel threatened as a new actress in the industry I don’t feel threatened at all because the sky is wide enough for all to fly. I only see myself whenever I look into the mirror and the best thing I can do is to be a better person each day irrespective of the challenges I encounter in the industry, because every job has a dirty game or dirty side. So, I’m not bothered.

TV presenter cum actress, Bimbo Oni, has carved a niche for herself in Nollywood since she discovers her passion for acting. The Ekiti State-born mother of one and final year student of Banking and Finance at the Lagos State University, speaks with SEYI SOKOYA, on her career, life and fashion. Excerpts:

I’m a mother, but not ready for

marriage —Bimbo Oni

The best thing I can do is to be a better person each day irrespective of the challenges I encounter in the industry, because every job has a dirty game or dirty side. So, I’m not bothered Script I won’t collect from any producer I will definitely turn down a meaningless script because my priority is to teach and entertain the audience, especially script that has no message. I will never accept any script that will make me go nude. How I have been coping with advances within and outside industry It has been cool. I have my boundaries and I know when to draw the line. On whether my husband supports my career Husband? I am not married.

Films I have featured in I have featured in over 20 films and some soap operas including: “This life”, “Shades of Peace” etc. I am also working on my personal works too.

How life has been treating me as a mother of one God has been so good to me and I have a live supporting system in my family, especially my mum.

Actor I would like to work with RMD. He is a person I love to watch while growing up. I love the way he delivers his act. Even at his age, he is still super hot.

Any plan to get married soon No. I don’t have anything against men. In fact, 80 per cent of my friends are the male folks. Marriage is not in my agenda at the moment. I am just taking my time.

Advice to single mothers Life doesn’t get easier; they just have to get stronger for themselves. Stay happy, be hardworking and God will see you through. Definition of style Style simply means comfort and elegance and I have always been trying to ensure my fashion statement depicts these. Self description I am kind hearted, very playful and loving person. Opinion on cosmetics surgery and toning It is a no for me on cosmetics surgery and toning, I love the way God created me. Greatest physical asset My legs and my bum. Inspiration I draw inspiration from happenings around me. Assessment of the industry I’m not satisfied, though I like what the Copyright Society of Nigeria (COSON) is doing in the music sector. We need a proper structure and the government should create a law on piracy at least to reduce it to a minimum.

With Tayo Gesinde temiligali03@yahoo.com 08054727801

Foray into acting I joined the industry fully in 2011 through Mr Olaide Olobe. He was a Director of Programmes in the industry. I do not belong to any caucus, I am a freelancer. I have featured in many movies. I have also produced five movies of my own, they are Alapa, Godmother, Omo Ekun, Oku Aye and Vengeance. I wrote all my scripts myself. I’m a script writer, I’ve been writing scripts since my secondary school days. Challenges faced as an actress Initially, I had problems with some male colleagues but I thank God for the wisdom given to me to overcome it. Another one was, when I got into the industry, acting was not what I thought it would be. It wasn’t an easy task but I thanked God that it wasn’t long before I got the whole thing. My role models Mercy Johnson, Ronke Ojo, Iyabo Ojo, Funke Akindele, Toyosi Adesanya, Bimbo Oshin and Bukky Wright. Coping with competition in the industry I’m not competing with anybody, if you get there before that doesn’t mean you can make it before me. What I do aside acting I have a boutique and a wine shop I’m managing. Description of self I am a straightforward, simple, cool, calm and collected person. Philosophy of life Life itself is so simple, full of ups and down. Life itself is a risk and everything we do and any action or step that we take is a risk itself. Definition of style Style is all about making a statement. Style to me is very important but I don’t go overboard. I love combining colours basically to give me a classy sophisticated look. Every woman should know how to combine costumes together to bring out the beauty in them. I love to look good but I don’t follow trend. I wear what suits me and what I am comfortable in. I make sure I rock when I wear it, like I said earlier, I don’t overdo it. I keep it simple but I must make a statement. Beauty regimen I don’t really have a special beauty routine that I follow. When I wake up in the morning, I freshen up and go out, at times, I don’t put on makeup, I like my natural look because I believe God gave me a natural beauty. Fashion fetish I’m not obsessed by anything on this earth. Special treat I travel out of the country. Opinion on toning I’m indifferent about it. My take on provocative dressing Your dressing speaks a lot about you, the way you dress is the way people will address you. If you dress decently, people will see you as a decent person and if you dress otherwise, people will also see you that way. What I will like to change about myself Nothing. I like the way I am. I am wonderfully and beautifully made. I thank God

I want a man who is

honest, bold and.... —Tamilore Martins

Ouwatamiloreayo Oluwaseyitan Martins Ojo, who hails from Igbajo, Osun State is an actress, script writer and producer. In this interview with TAYO GESINDE, she speaks on her career and fashion preferences. Excerpts:

for my life. The gains and pains of being a celebrity I don’t have any pain, in fact I’m happy being a celebrity. The gain in being an actress is the recognition people give me in and outside the country. How I handle negative publicity A story was written about me some times ago that I was dating Oyo State governor (Sen. Abiola Ajimobi) I read the story and just laughed. Some journalists called me to know if the story written about me was true or not. I thank God for the maturity and the grace He gave me to answer their questions.

My likes and dislikes I like seeing and appreciating good things, I hate lies and impossibility. Marital status I’m single. Qualities I want in a man I want my man to be bold, honest and caring. Greatest physical assets My boobs, eyeballs, lips and my bum are my physical assets. Parting word to my fans I want to say a very big thank you to all my fans all over the world. Without them there’s no me,

I thank you for all your support. It’s very encouraging, it makes me feel like I’m doing something important, and I’m so grateful to you. I’m also using this medium to thank for your votes anytime I’m being nominated for awards, your votes has gotten me eight awards within a year, thanks for hanging in there with me through my career, I love u all.

12 June , 2016

With Akintayo Abodunrin akinjaa03@yahoo.co.uk 08111813058

CORA@25: A look back on altruism Nigerians give their verdicts on the advocacy group as it marks its silver jubilee

VERYONE would have understood had Nigeria’s foremost culture advocacy group, the Committee for Relevant Art (CORA), rolled out the drums to celebrate its 25th anniversary. But instead of self adulation, what the body, also called the ‘culture landscapists’, did last Sunday, June 5 was a critical appraisal of its past activities and reflect on ways of improving, going forward. Though the actual anniversary was Thursday, June 2, Sunday was when a cross section of Nigerians, who were present at the birth of CORA and others who came on board later, converged to review its activities at a stampede with the theme ‘Voyage of the culture landscapists’ held at Freedom Park, Lagos Island. While writer, critic and editor, Molara Wood, moderated, the panellists were newspaper columnist, Dr Reuben Abati; theatre scholar and teacher, Dr Tunji Azeez; writer Toni Kan, filmmaker Francis Onwochei and Victor Nwokocha of Arterial Network. CORA Secretary General, Toyin Akinosho, would not be heckled out of the routine excerpt he reads from books before his opening statement at such events. This time, he read from Malcolm X’s ‘Muhammad Ali’ as narrated to Alex Haley before reliving CORA’s roots and its interventions. Playwright, director and culture communicator, Ben Tomoloju, who also spoke before the panellists, recalled how the body would send resolutions from its meetings to the authorities for action in the early days. “CORA is a catalyst; the system couldn’t do without statements emanating from CORA; CORA initiated programmes. When the culture policy was formulated and laid comatose, CORA twiddled with it. CORA is always stampeding the establishment. As an agent of enlightenment, we must congratulate CORA. We should also support CORA because we are supporting ourselves. CORA produced a lot of stars, including the late Fatai Rolling Dollars,” he said. Wood also attested to the goodness of CORA before asking the panellists’ assessment of the group. She said, “CORA was pivotal into my coming into the art life of Lagos. They’ve always embraced me and I’ve always embraced them.” ‘Voice for the voiceless’ Nwokocha, also, was fulsome in his praise of the culture landscapists: “I don’t think there’s any culture advocacy group in this country that would rub shoulders with CORA, especially in terms of giving opportunities to artists. CORA has also been a pain in the neck of those afraid of being told the truth, especially in the culture sector. Some people get stampeded when CORA holds its stampedes; CORA is the voice for the voiceless.” Drama teacher, Azeez, chose a different tack by focusing on what CORA’s future engagements should be. He said that given CORA’s ability to bring people of diverse backgrounds together, it now needs a per-

Omolara Wood (left) and Dr Reuben Abati

Dr Kolade Oshinowo (holding microphone) speaking at the event manent secretariat “where the past can be relived.” He recalled how the organization facilitated the emergence of the late Fatai Rolling Dollars from relative obscurity as a security man to the star he became before his passing. Azeez also wondered if CORA has a succession plan, adding that it won’t be a bad idea if it floats a resort for artists. “CORA is a gift that keeps on giving,” began Kan in his assessment of the group. The writer described CORA, winner of the 2006 Prince Claus Award for Culture & Development as a group that doesn’t know when to stop. On future engagements, Kan suggested establishing a trust fund, resort and making a business space for itself. He also suggested CORA having more structure and a return to documentation of their programs. Abati, who drew laughter from the audience with “I’m very glad to be back from sabbatical,” also relived the early days of CORA; how it was a platform for upcoming artistes and the generousity of its pioneers. But its successes notwithstanding, ex-President Goodluck Jonathan’s spokesman says there’s more to be done. He wants CORA to continue reproducing younger people and keep on with its advocacy because of the prevalent anti-intellectualism in the society. He noted that: “There is still a lack of understanding of the role between culture and the society. The struggle needs to continue because issues that led to the emergence of CORA still exist. In fact, we are now in the age of abbreviation and excessive summary and CORA is a platform for people to think. The people managing culture are still not knowledgeable about culture; the challenges are still there. Going forward, there’s a

need for more linkages and partnerships because many of the groups in the culture sector operate in silos; if they operate together, the better for all. Also, there’s no continuity in culture; there’s need for budget advocacy for culture and this shouldn’t be at the federal level alone.” Onwochei continued with the commendations, saying that “10 CORAs are not enough for Nigeria because government sees culture as insignificant.” He disclosed that his decision to move from the stage to TV/ film was inspired by the many discussions at CORA events but that though the group has recorded several milestones, it has also slacked off in some areas, especially in producing communiqués after its events and documenting its activities. “If not for CORA, there wouldn’t have been a dance industry in Nigeria,” noted Muyiwa Oshinaike, who started with the group from its early days. “Almost all discussions at CORA events centred on professionalism and because of this, I was forced to found the Dance Guild of Nigeria,” he added. ‘Ship still on course’ Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academics) of the University of Lagos, Professor Duro Oni also had good things to say about CORA, noting that a lot has been achieved in the culture sector since its debut. He mentioned the group’s marshalling of players in the culture sector to resist the outright sale of the National Theatre as an example. Former ANA Lagos chair, Dr. Tolu Ajayi noted that the present liberal political atmosphere was not always so and that CORA played its part in bringing this about. He

also touched on the poor reading culture and how this can be addressed. Artist and teacher, Dr. Kolade Oshinowo wasn’t left out from the analysts. He said: “You always come away from CORA forums with renewed energy. It’s been a voyage; it’s been rough and tough but the ship is still on course. They [CORA] should not be left alone; there’s a need for more people to come on board. Then, the practice of issuing communiqués should be renewed. Old age and fatigue appear to be setting in but I would suggest that the quarterly stampede should be revived; it should be elevated. There appears to be some slacking but there’s a need to engage the government more; the interventions of those days need to be continued.” For actor and teacher, Tunji Sotimirin, late members of CORA like Akeem Shitta should be recognised. Reacting to Dr. Ajayi’s take on the poor reading culture, Kan disclosed that the editors’ clinic and publishers’ forum were already part of CORA’s program. He also argued that Nigerians read and that it is writers that need to adapt to what people want to read. The publisher of Sabinews however agreed that the internet has changed the face of publishing, with young writers posting poor quality writings on the internet and their unenlightened friends hailing them for “killing it”. “There’s a mutual admiration society,” Kan said while advising young writers to look for experienced mentors and that CORA should do literary supplements in newspapers. For painter Olu Ajayi, everyone has to contribute to building CORA as an institution. “What’s the succession plan? The leadership recruitment appears faulty as I’m seeing the usual suspects here. I worry about the future and government also needs to display culture as a tool for change,” he said. The way forward Responding to the moderator’s question on what CORA should do to ensure a robust future; Nwokocha said the group should look beyond advocacy and begin “decent commercialisation of some of its activities.” For Abati, CORA should focus on documentation, sustainability in terms of recruiting new people, and institutionalisation of the group; greater sectoral collaboration within and outside the culture sector and policy advocacy. Azeez opposed commercialisation and urged CORA to remain an advocacy and interventionist organisation. He also wants it to institutionalise prizes and organise scriptwriting trainings for new media. Lastly, Azeez wants the stampedes to focus on socio-political issues and not only culture. Onwochei called for more support, including financial, for the organization and asked it to continue with advocacy. Essentially a talk session, entertainment by way of a musical performance by Biodun Batik and Seun Olota was included in the program. There was also a skit entitled ‘Fatai’ by Toyin Oshinaike in honour of the late Rolling Dollars. Fittingly, palm wine and snacks, which were never enough in the early days of CORA, were abundant last Sunday.

12 June, 2016

Sunday Tribune

thepolity Ondo: Can a ‘third force’ upset the apple cart for PDP, APC?

The race for the Alagbaka Government House has begun in Ondo State, with politicians from the leading political parties showing interest to run for the number one seat in the state. HAKEEM GBADAMOSI peeps into the camps of the two leading political parties and the possible emergence of a third force in the race.

HE race for the governorship election in Ondo State is gathering momentum day by day and the aspirants jostling for the number one seat from the two main political parties, Peoples Democratic Party ( PDP) and All Progressives Congress (APC) are leaving no stone unturned to emerge as winner at the end of the day.

APC. The number of people interested in the governorship ticket of the APC continues increasing by the day and no fewer than 50 aspirants have indicated their intention to fly the party’s flag in the November 26 governorship election. This the party attributed to the change phenomenon which, it said, had made the party a marketable product in the state and bolstered the people’s clamour for change. The aspirants on the platform of APC strongly believe that the acceptance of the party in the South-West region in the 2015 general election will definitely rub off on Ondo APC and take the wind off the sail of the PDP-led government. The influx of political bigwigs from the ruling PDP to the opposition APC seems to be the only tonic and assurance needed by the leadership of the party in the state to be confident of victory in the election. Perhaps the room-for-all policy of no zoning adopted by the party, accommodating both new entrants and old members of the party to contest for the number one seat, is also responsible for the army of aspirants in the APC. Apparently, this was done to encourage the aspirants so as to gain overwhelming support for the party across the state. Despite the claim by the leadership that APC would not zone governorship to any particular zone, majority of the aspirants jostling for the party’s ticket are from the Northern senatorial district. The reason for this may not be unconnected with the belief in political circle in the state that power should shift to the north after the expiration of the present administration of Dr. Olusegun Mimiko who hails from the Central senatorial district. Mimiko’s predecessor, the late Dr Olusegun Agagu, was from the Ondo South district. However, the party seems to be technically tilting to the north because of its voting strength and popularity in this area, judging from previous election in the state. But other contenders from the two zones believe that the race should be thrown open, as the three zones had tasted power under the present political dispensation. Political analysts have, however, predicted the primary of the APC could brew crisis, unless the leadership of the party would make conscious efforts to avoid a repeat of what happened in the 2012 election after the leadership of defunct Action Congress Nigeria (ACN) picked Chief Rotimi Akeredolu (SAN) as the party’s standard bearer. Some analysts have suggested the pruning of the number of aspirants in the APC before the August primary, as a strategy to avert a major crisis in the party and prevent the PDP and other parties from being the beneficiaries of the likely implosion that might attend the primary. The Publicity Secretary of APC, Abayomi Adesanya, as-

Adebayo Adefarati, Ondo State governor (1999 - 2003)

sured that the party will create a level play field for all the aspirants by organising a free, fair and credible primary. According to him, “there’s no anointed candidate, no imposition of candidate and the primary will be crisisfree. We are going to replicate the Lagos State scenario in Ondo State because the primary will be held in full glare of the public.” PDP The camp of the ruling PDP in the state seems to be unusually quiet and many had described the silence of the party as another strategy to beat the opposition to the game. The governor and leader of the party appears unperturbed by political fireworks from the opposition parties and looks capable of seting another record in the state, as the first governor to successfully install a member of the same party as his successor. Though many of the aspirants of the PDP have been expressing their interest in the exalted position in hush tones, no fewer than six contenders have signified their interest in Mimiko’s job. Some of these aspirants, who include members of the state executive council who had been working with Mimiko in the last seven years, were said to be studying the body language of their boss. Like in APC too, these aspirants spread across the three senatorial districts in the state. Though the incumbent governor is from the Central, he has left the members of the party guessing about which area will produce the party’s candidate for the election. Despite the silence of Mimiko, all the PDP aspirants have set machineries in motion canvassing support across the state especially from the grassroots But whichever zone that produces the party’s candi-

Olusegun Agagu, Ondo State governor (2003 - 2009)

date, the party, in the estimation of pundits, looks set to retain the state. Though the strength of the party lies in the South where it recorded a resounding victory in the last general election in the state, winning all the available seats for the House of Assembly, House of Representatives and the Senate in the area. The southern district has always been regarded as the traditional home of the PDP since the beginning of the Fourth Republic. Political analysts however observe that PDP might wait for the outcome of the APC primary before conducting its own. An analyst, Wande Alafe, said the choice of APC would go a long way to determine the zone where the candidate of the party might come from. He said the leadership of PDP might jettison zoning and look inward in picking its candidate, south, central or north, but said candidate with good integrity must be presented to enhance the party’s chances in the election. Alafe, however, predicted that picking outside the southern and northern senatorial district might cause crisis while some members might choose to join another party. But a coordinator of one the aspirants, Eyitayo Jegede Volunteers, Olumide Ogunkua, observed that there was bound to be crisis in picking party’s candidates but said the ability to get over such crisis depended on the mechanism put in place by the party. Ogunkua, who opined that competence and personality should be factors to be considered in picking the party’s candidate, viewed zoning as a political arrangement that is not constitutional. He said integrity and competence should triumph over politics and zoning. The PDP publicity secretary, Banji Okunomo, also said the party would not deviate from the procedure for Continues pg 31

sundayinterview

12 June, 2016

Sunday Tribune

How Buhari should tackle Niger Delta Avengers —Bode George Former Deputy National Chairman of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Commodore Olabode George (retd), speaks with select journalists, including BOLA BADMUS, on issues of national interest, including the renewed violence in the Niger Delta, the crisis rocking PDP and his relationship with former President Olusegun Obasanjo, among others. Excerpts:

HE PDP is currently rocked by crises; what is the way out? You know we should thank God that the worst is over. I can assure you that the worst is over because of the revelations of what we had. Let’s just thank God Almighty; God loves this country, because people are prayerful. It would have been a different music by Monday if we had gone with the election at the convention. Somehow, we were at the precipice; PDP would have collapsed completely. Totally greedy people who know very little about the people would have seized power. It wouldn’t have been a military coup; it would have been a civilian coup. Those of us who were the custodians, the deep-rooted members would have been lost in the melee. But somehow, truth prevailed and they felt what we were looking at. So let’s roll back. The rolling back is what you have seen the convention, appointing a caretaker committee. We would have to go back to the drawing board and restrategise. One, we have to restrategise in a manner that will take care of the fact that we are not in government. Our strategy must reflect that we are in opposition and we must be a credible, formidable opposition. Otherwise, the public, the electorate will not believe us; they won’t trust us. So, for me, it was God’s doing; we don’t have crisis anymore. I want to assure you that we have survived it. The eye of the storm, we have passed that. Now with the caretaker committee that was given a deadline of 90 days, they would go and clear all the avenues, all the platforms over which there would be a new national convention where a new team of managers will emerge. Of course, the delay now is because you know when one judge here was firing his salvo another was firing his salvo and I believe that people are networking behind the curtain, appealing to our people to sheathe their swords if they are really committed members of this party. I want to appeal to Ali Modu Sheriff, that if he is really committed to the stability of the party and he believes strongly what he told us at the meeting that he is here to help rebuild the party, he should withdraw all his cases and come back to the table. Everybody supported him to go ahead until the 21st of May, 2016,. But if people are now saying ‘no, we have found some things that are not correct, go back,’ I think a committed party leader will do that. Not only him, the two other officers, all the other NWC members have thrown in the towel. They have accepted the caretaker committee. Sheriff, Professor Wale Oladipo and the other one, the National Auditor, should also roll back. And I want to talk to them that if they love the party with all sincerity, they should look back on how they got the job. The way you said the crisis has been resolved looks too simple, as the people outside the party believe the crisis is more complex? Look, I have been in this party; I have been at the national echelon, having worked at the National Secretariat for 10 years and I got to the position of Deputy National Chairman for the whole country. I have seen the PDP from its very low level to the highest peak. So I know what I am saying. Take my words, we have passed the eye of the storm and we would have been singing a different [song] now, but we have passed that. Now, all the aggrieved people have been told to go back and remove the cases from court. If people had listened, the constitution of the party is very clear, nobody goes to court without exhausting every channel of the structure and if you go to court without that there is punishment. Immediately, they should bring you before the disciplinary committee and you can be expelled for doing that. What happens

Chief Olabode George (retd)

to all that? Again, there is a subsisting judgment of the Supreme Court, which says that no judicial officer should interfere in the wrangling of political parties, you should leave them to go and sort themselves out. We cannot afford to bring our political katakata to the judiciary. Let them (judiciary) look at that past judgment and should, therefore, not allow politicians come with their frivolous cases to the judiciary. It is only when you have serious, either criminal or civil, that you approach the court, not everybody coming and serving papers of injunction. So, let’s keep our dirty linen to ourselves and not to extend it to the judiciary. I want to appeal to the Chief Justice too to ring that bell of warning to the judicial council. Politicians remain politicians. Judiciary officers are judiciary officers; they are not politicians and are supposed to be on that high pedestal. They should work based on fairness, justice and equity. Again, INEC has given a warning. This is what we have been saying and some of us are paying little attention. Can we afford to lose elections in the two states in the South? We have election in Edo and Ondo states, and are we going to be negligent about them? So, I am appealing to those people, if they are genuine members, committed members of the party and they love this party as they have always implied, the best thing they should do is to back off. They should go and withdraw cases pending at the court. INEC has given July 5 as deadline, saying everything concerning the coming elections must be resolved. Otherwise we will not have a candidate. What could be more criminal or disastrous than the PDP not presenting a candidate for the election in Ondo when the

sitting governor is a PDP member and Oshiomhole has shot himself in the heart? They want to get rid of him. Then by our own stupidity, we will go and say we cannot have a candidate. Following the crises, some people are already saying the party might disintegrate by 2019 and there is the likelihood that a new party will emerge, what is your reaction to this view? I know what it takes to set up a party that would have a standing convention to get that platform organised before the election. Nigerians are getting wiser by the hours now no more foolery or telling lies to the electorate. They can see things for themselves. For instance, people who were used to saying ‘Sai Baba,’ everybody can see now. Next time, Nigerians will screen you to the bone and would like to know your antecedents. What has he been doing before? What are his track records? They want to know who you are, can they trust you? So forming a new party means I will go to my house and sit down. You can see how long it took the PDP to get to this level. It is not easy under the sun. What about the founding fathers? Most of them are gone now; some of them are still alive. The concept of the party that came out of their meeting, there was one common denominator that allowed the PDP to emerge. They wanted to oppose General Sani Abacha; otherwise, how can Dr Alex Ekwueme, the late Chief Bola Ige, the late Chief Solomon Lar, Baba Adamu Ciroma be on the same political page? Continues pg 29

sundayinterview

12 June, 2016

Sunday Tribune

‘Lagos not ready to conduct LG election’ Continued from pg 28

military government, and adopted that report unanimously. That was the first time the National Conference was set up by a civilian administration and they came with a conclusion. During Baba Obasanjo’s time, it didn’t work; it was scattered. So you can’t play with the call for restructuring. I am totally in support of it; he should dust the confab report up and look at it. It would be a plus to this administration too. Former President Goodluck Jonathan, at least for whatever anybody can say, had a positive score card for convening the national conference, though he was initially reluctant. He went ahead with it and people were saying we should go back to Western Region, Eastern Region, Northern Region, while some people said ‘hold your fire, no, that was regional cooperation but not government.’ The statuses were not going to be thrown away, but let everybody develop according to their pace.

That is why we must ensure that the PDP does not collapse. That is the only political party in the country that has the natural colours of Nigeria. There is no part of the country that you visit that you will not hear of the PDP. When I was the PDP National Vice Chairman, we traversed the country and I saw it. The people who quickly formed the APC are yet to be reckoned with as a party. I call them strange bed fellows of the CPC, APC, APGA, ANPP and New PDP. Are they really one? What is uniting them? Power? So, what are they doing now? As long as you don’t have a solid political platform, there can never be economic growth. That is the thing we are suffering. It is believed that the PDP presidential candidate will come from the North. What is now the position of the party on the zoning of the national chairman? The BoT itself, which is a non-executive arm, is the conscience of the party. You don’t vote in BoT. We also have the chairman there. We simply agree among ourselves on how the positions should be. So, the moment you start doing competition in the BoT, you have lost the conscience of the party. You have lost the respectability of the arbiter. So, Ike Ekweremadu committee’s report unanimously agreed that the position of the president be zoned to the North. The founding fathers of PDP came up with the six geopolitical zones; they came up with it out of political expedient. They came up because there are minorities in the North and South. So, they carved out as North-West, North-East, North-Central. We also have the SouthEast, South-West and South-South. And then look at the six important positions in the land, the president, vice-president, Senate President, Speaker, Secretary to Government and National Chairman of the party. Each of these positions will go to each of the zones, but this is where the concept of zoning came. If it is six, that is three up North and three down South. If you are now doing zoning, whatever had been in the South will go to the North. Whatever is in the North must come to the South on a rotational basis. If the post of the president, which is number one, goes to North; it means the vice-president must come from the South. While the Senate President comes from the North; the Speaker must come from the South and the Secretary to Government must come from the North. Finally, the chairmanship of the party must come from the South. That is the zoning concept of the party as stated by the founding fathers. The fact that the president will come from the North automatically means the chairman of the party must come from the South. At the last NEC meeting that I attended, they said the chairman should continue that was how they allowed it. In fact, the people who met and did that zoning erred; that was not zoning. Zoning is about North and South; it is not unilateral. So, we must look at how the arrangement has been, which worked for 15 years. I am not saying they cannot change it; if you are going to change it, then bring a superior argument. That was the basis of the crisis. What are the qualities you expect somebody gunning for chairmanship position of the PDP to have? He must be someone who has seen it

Chief George

all; someone who has been there, who has managed it before. He must be someone who has experience and is exposed and can even talk like the opposition leader and people would listen. Otherwise, what are we wasting our time for? One, we don’t have a Villa anymore, which means all other agencies, if they listen to us, they just want to listen to us. If we don’t have the president and we will behave in a manner to be respectable, to be responsible and be constructive in opposition, not because you are in opposition, you shoot everything down you can’t bring down the government. If they bring out policies,, we would bring out counterpolicies that would do better than theirs, so that Nigerians can see. There is a renewed violence in the Niger Delta. What is your take on the approach being applied by government on Niger Delta Avengers? As I have said, the approach they are taking on this Niger Delta whatever is not a solution; it is not a solution. The area is the source of income to Nigeria. If you go full military blast in the place, what happens to the production of crude oil? That is the only product that brings money to the treasury. So, it is not a sign of weakness if you don’t become confrontational; it is a sign of wisdom. There are ministers from the area serving in government now; there are senators, House of Representatives members and state Assembly members. There are also traditional rulers; Obis or Olus and all that from that area. There are also stakeholders and elders. What you do is to call for a conference, find out what their problem is and what the source of the agitations is and why their people are clamouring and blowing up pipelines. It is not even in the interest of the environment there. If there is no income, even the 13 per cent derivation, will they be able to get any money? And this approach will not be a new one; when the late President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua came; that was his approach. Remember that former President Obasanjo, when the Odi people created their wahala, he blasted the whole place. That would have conflagrated the whole of the South-South, but we all know today that the two or three per cent derivation was jacked up to 13 per cent, somehow around

that same period. So that calmed frayed nerves. To me, Oga Buhari should just have another approach; warfare should be the last resort, because you can see that the Boko Haram issue, which they said they have finished, is still rearing its head. The IPOB people in the East are calling and talking about Biafra, you know, kadankada o. You were one of the delegates to the last National Conference where some recommendations were made. Recently, the president said he has not even looked at the report and from the opinion of some people, they said the president might not even look at it at all. What do you think? I would appeal to him. He must open that document. You know it has been passed by the executive arm of government and I believe the National Assembly too has looked at it. We can’t start from zero. It is a sore point; people are waiting and so I want to join the others who have been talking about opening that report; they should open it up and look at it. We have been kind of wobbling; there were in-depth discussions on a lot of issues and remember that the report was unanimously adopted by all delegates, no abstention. If that is the case and you saw the composition of the delegates from Lagos to Maiduguri, from Calabar to Sokoto, from Delta to Jigawa, they were represented. So it can’t be a one-sided thing. Let him take that paper and look at it. Do you also support the call for the restructuring of the country? Yes, sure. It was discussed there. Why I am saying that is because it just didn’t come from the blues. When the British left, they ran away, left us in a bad state but now, we must honestly look at things. We are looking at a scenario where if you are genuine and honest with yourself, are you satisfied with the way we are running this country? Let’s modernise it; let’s look at it. The thing you don’t like there, you can say you don’t like it. But the people met, I don’t know how many months we spent there, we debated and discussed. Religious leaders, political leaders, professionals and leaders from every sector were there and then, somehow, we came for the first time, which was not under

The new chairman of Lagos PDP, Salvador, said he is trying to re-unite you and Senator Musiliu Obanikoro. How would you react to that? For me, it is an infra dig to say I am quarrelling with Koro. Is it in age, in experience, exposure, in education, in background, in whatever format? You see, the problem with my younger brother, Koro, is that when he is longing for something, and he doesn’t have it, it is like little baby crying for sweet and the mummy knows the bad effect of the sweet on the child. Mummy would say one per day is okay o, but if mummy is not looking, he would go there and take one more and mummy would catch him. What would you do? You correct him. Koro is overtly interested in becoming the governor of Lagos State. You don’t pull everybody down because you want to be governor. If the almighty says you will be, so be it. He should start from that concept, because he is like a revolving door now, every four years, he is struggling to be governor. If he doesn’t have it, he starts to throw up tantrums. I see him as a child. Abraham Lincoln tried 11 times before he became the president of United States and since that time they still praise his tenure. So, ambitions should be moderated, but when you tell him that, it would be bouncing off his ears and he will be looking for those who he will spin. If the people don’t want you, can you force yourself on them? So, I don’t understand when he says I am quarrelling with him, quarrel with who? There is no basis for that. Is the PDP ready for local government election in Lagos, because one sees the APC aspirants all over the place, whereas PDP aspirants’ are few in number and what are the chances of the party? We are more than ready, but they (APC government) are not even ready to conduct the election. For example, look at Edo and Ondo states elections; they have issued notices of elections. Where are the notices from our Lagos SIEC? If they are ready in less than an hour from now, you will see PDP. There must be a notice and details of the election like INEC has done for Edo and Ondo states. They are not ready for election, because they know we will beat them black and blue. Let them start, we are ready. Why will you go and waste your money printing posters and making banners when you don’t even know when the election will be held. We are not in government, but we are ready.

interview

12 June, 2016

Sunday Tribune

2019: Why Oyo should have a young gov—Oduyoye A two-term member of the House of Representatives and former Minority Whip, Honourable Babatunde Oduyoye, speaks with MOSES ALAO on President Muhammadu Buhari’s performance in one year, the recent attempt by the Oyo State government to partner private stakeholders on education and the need for generational shift in the politics of the state.

OU have always talked about the issue of generational change in the politics of Oyo State, with particular attention on those who become governors. What is your view ahead of the 2019 general election? I am happy this question is coming up at a period that the House of Representatives is tinkering with reducing the age limit to contest for different elective offices. That move is timely and imperative if we must deepen our democracy. To answer your question, at the return to civilian rule in 1999, the South-Western part of the country didn’t have the opportunity of having young men as governors, with the exception of Ekiti State, which had former Governor Adeniyi Adebayo, a young vibrant man, as governor. Subsequently, other states have been able to correct that but Oyo State has not addressed this issue since 1999 when Alhaji Lam Adesina became governor and Senator Rashidi Ladoja took over and handed over to Adebayo Alao-Akala, who was succeeded by Senator Abiola Ajimobi. Since 1999, the youngest person to become governor of Oyo State was Alao-Akala at the age of 58 or so. Seriously speaking, when you compare Oyo with a state like Cross River, where a young Donald Duke held sway while Adesina was governor in Oyo State, you will discover that Oyo State has lost many things to not having a young, vibrant man as governor. Look at Senator Bukola Saraki; he has been governor for eight years. He has been a Special Assistant to President Olusegun Obasanjo and is now serving his second term in the Senate and he is only 51. Look at former Governor Babatunde Fashola, who is under 55 and has been governor for eight years. Can Oyo State have this kind of opportunities? People might argue that there have been young people who became governor and did not perform well or ask what the relationship between age and performance while some will say there is the law of diminishing return. But I think the norm around the world is that at 40, you are at your best; you are energetic and all. President Muhammadu Buhari while on tour of South Africa mentioned that he felt bad that he became president at this age; that he wished he should have been president when he was younger. So, I believe that in 2019, a younger person should become governor. I think Ajimobi also believes that a younger person should take over from him, because from a few interactions I have had with him in the past, he had talked about the need for younger people to be in charge. I believe strongly that the next governor of Oyo State, in an ideal situation, must not be up to 50-years-old. Doesn’t that rule you out from those who might want to contest? Honestly, we need a younger person. I will be 53 in October; I believe Oyo State deserves someone younger than I am. I

could see how the president completely failed to address this issue in his one year in office speech; he completely left it out. In a country where over 400 people were reportedly massacred in Benue State; where people were killed in Enugu and the South-West suffering heavily from Fulani herdsmen attacks, and the president did not mention a word on these? I believe that it is appropriate for the president to address these issues irrespective of where he comes from and he should tackle it with the same vigour he is tackling Boko Haram.

Honourable Babatunde Oduyoye know we must not sacrifice service delivery on the altar of age, and so, if at the end of the day, we have those slightly above 50 who might want to contest, then they should be considered. But the next governor should not be up to 60. Recently, as the administration of President Muhammadu Buhari celebrated its first year in office, Nigerians expressed divergent views on the president’s performance. As a former member of the House of Representatives, how would you rate this government? Most people believe one year is too short to truly assess a government. However, when you juxtapose performance with campaign promises, you can make certain deductions on what has been achieved so far. As regards the security of life and property, when you single out the insurgency in the North-East, I think the Buhari administration has performed above average in terms of reclaiming communities and reintegrating the people there. The president’s efforts in joining hands with neighbouring countries such as Chad and Niger and the eventual joint effort among the countries have produced results. So, in terms of Boko Haram, Buhari has done well. Apart from fighting insurgency, there is also the issue of fighting corruption; the president has good intentions but normally we should distinguish between fighting corruption and what has been achieved and differentiate that from media trial. In terms of fight-

ing corruption, they have set up various committees and they are trying to build a legal framework. But personally, I believe fighting corruption should not be limited to members of the opposition party. Some people maintain that those being investigated had something to do with governance and should be accountable. If you say what is ongoing is a media trial, how do you think a true anti-corruption effort should be? I didn’t say it is all media trial but a lot can be achieved without some newspapers having expose on what is going to happen the next day. It becomes sensational when you declare people wanted or guilty on the pages of newspapers; when that happens, much cannot be achieved. Nobody is against the fight against corruption; the president means well and he is doing well in that direction. What I am saying is that it should not be limited to a particular class or political party. There is no way that when you have contact with government, you won’t have one explanation or the other to make, but the fight against corruption requires much more than is being done. In essence, there should not be much media hype on the fight against corruption, because there are so many areas begging for the president’s attention. On the issue of security, we have been able to single out what the government has done in the North-East but look at the way the Fulani herdsmen go about terrorising innocent Nigerians. You

You said there were many areas that needed the president’s attention but you just mentioned one. What are the other areas? Economy. Unfortunately, I don’t know whether it is by Providence, but what Buhari is experiencing now was exactly what he experienced the last time he was Head of State. The economy now needs serious attention. Most people have argued that there is no policy direction while others have said that the actions being taken on the currency, diversifying the economy to solid minerals and agriculture have shown that there is a policy thrust. But, it is my opinion that the Minister of Finance, with all respect to gender, needs to do more or be changed, because there are conflicting signals coming from the government in terms of currency regulation, foreign exchange and various policies that are not encouraging investors to come into Nigeria. Most of the foreign airlines are thinking of halting their services in Nigeria, because they cannot repatriate their money out of the country. Today, the government says it is modulating on petroleum, the next time it says we have a floating currency; all this kind of drama do not encourage investors; they do not give good signals. People are talking about devaluation and government is saying it has not devalued, yet the rate of the naira to a dollar has skyrocketed. What am I saying, the president should,as a matter of urgency, rejig his economic team and reinvigorate it. He should have a special adviser on the economy. I know the vicepresident heads the economic team but I think because of other responsibilities he has and of late, he has been representing the president in so many places, so I think the government needs to appoint a national economic adviser who will assist it in driving this economy. I also think that this government, having recovered so much, should now think of what to do with the recovered loot. It is my humble suggestion that this government should work in partnership with private sector and set up one or two refineries immediately. This is a two-pronged approach; in the first instance, if we succeed in utilising the recovered money towards setting up a refinery, we would be achieving a better pump price for premium motor spirit and on the other hand, the presContinues

pg 32

thepolity

12 June, 2016

Sunday Tribune

As parties battle for Alagbaka House Continued from pg 27

Agunloye and SDP has relatively repositioned the party with the people at the grassroots showing preference for SDP and Agunloye.

the emergence of its candidate, saying the primary would be held accordingly. He said with the manageable number of aspirants from the party, there would be no crisis at the end of the day. The third force option SDP Other political parties are not left out in the preparation for the election. While all eyes are on the two leading political parties in the state, the Social Democratic Party (SDP), Accord Party (AP) as well as the Unity Party of Nigeria, (UPN) are also working underground to make an impact in the governorship election. Analysts have predicted that some of the above-mentioned political parties might benefit from the fallout of the party’s primaries in APC and PDP as many politicians have shown their preference for these parties, especially the SDP. Of the three parties mentioned above, SDP seems to be silently making inroad into the state politics after the collapse of the Omoluabi group structures led by a former Minister of Power, Dr Olu Agunloye, into the SDP, where he became the only aspirant for the party. Agunloye, who was also an aspirant under the platform of the defunct ACN in the governorship election, lost the ticket to Akeredolu in the 2012 governorship election. He went back to join the Labour Party after losing the ticket and was with the party until the marriage of LP and PDP in the state. Things went awry again after the LP and PDP came together and the former minister pulled off his Omoluabi structure to join the SDP to achieve his dream of governing the state. The impact of the Agunloye’s Omoluabi platform could be felt in the rising profile of the SDP in the state as most politicians look forward to SDP for soft landing after the likely crisis that may erupt in the choice

Olusegun Mimiko, Ondo State governor

of candidates in the two leading parties. Agunloye, though silently, has started mobilising support from the grassroots which is yielding results with a series of defections into the party by members of the PDP and APC in the state. Though Agunloye is not the only aspirant on the radar of the SDP, it is being said in Ondo’s political circle that Agunloye is SDP, SDP is Agunloye. The door-to-door campaign strategy employed by

Accord Accord is another party to reckon with in the run up to the election, though it may have completely gone underground. It was rumored that business mogul, Jimoh Ibrahim, is aiming to use the platform of the party to contest the next governorship election. Though Ibrahim is said to have deep pocket to finance the party and his aspiration, AP and Ibrahim seem not to be visible in the state politics. One factor that might play out in the governorship election in the state is the popular belief that those who are deeply rooted in the politics of the Sunshine State stand better chances than “visiting politicians” jostling for the governorship seat. Looking at the arrays of aspirants from APC jostling for the party’s ticket, over 80 per cent of them live outside the state and have no political structures to show for their aspiration, while 90 per cent of the PDP aspirants reside in the state and understand the politics of the state. The SDP also stands a better chance in this aspect. Agunloye is rooted in the state and his political structure spread across the 18 local government areas. Speaking about springing surprises during the election, the Publicity Secretary of SDP in the state, Remi Olayiwola said: “There will be surprise in the next governorship election. Agunloye is a grass root politician and understands the terrain very well; and his strength lies with the grassroots.” However, one thing that is certain in the forthcoming election is that the race will definitely not be a two- horse race as expected, surprises that might change political calculation should be expected.

opinion

A senator’s scorecard By Kayode Odunaro WHEN he was elected a senator in the 2015 National Assembly elections, many that know Senator Solomon Olamilekan Adeola alias Yayi’s antecedents as a legislator both at the Lagos State House of Assembly for two terms and a member of the House of Representative for a term were sure that Lagos West senatorial district, which comprises 10 local governments areas, are in for a good run of effective representation. The doubts were, however, expressed that with a population of over 12 million, representing over half of Lagos State mega city, a population that is twice bigger than that of most states of the federation that are run by governors, Yayi may find it challenging to effectively represent the district in the Red Chamber. The doubts were further reinforced by the crisis that bedevilled the leadership election at the Senate, which saw Senator Adeola rooting for the party’s position with intrigues and fallouts that denied him his rightful position even in the traditional ranking of position in the Senate. On the sideline was also the distraction of an election petition by the PDP and its candidate that went right up to the final appeal before his popular mandate was further judicially validated. These countervailing circumstances notwithstanding, Senator Adeola soon proved himself a senator to be reckoned with in the 109-member chamber with a publication rating him among the top 10 senators in terms of contributions at plenary in the first few months. One year on, it is certain that majority of the constituents and indeed other Nigerians can testify to the public service orientation of the one that is popular by his sobriquet Yayi, an abbreviation of a Yoruba name meaning “Distinguished Child.” At the level of lawmaking and in furtherance of his belief that we have enough laws that are not opera-

tional or need to be amended to bring them up to date or correct anomalies in them, instead of making new laws, he has presented a bill: “Federal Capital Territory Act Cap F6, LFN (Amendment) Bill, 2015” to correct the anomaly of double taxation affecting Nigerians in the Federal Capital Territory. The bill, which is among over 299 bills already presented to the eighth Senate has passed it first reading stage in plenary. He also co-sponsored the Bill Against Sexual Harassment of female students in tertiary Institutions that has now passed second reading stage. He also has a motion awaiting listing and debate on the “Legality and Management of Public Funds to Promote the Export of Cassava from Nigeria”. This motion seeks to address the illegal use of fund and the criminalisation of the export of cassava in our law book. Yayi also co-sponsored of the motion on the Fuel Tanker Accident at Alimosho in June, 2015. The senator opposed the now dead Social Media Bill that wanted to criminalise use of social media under the guise of curbing frivolous petitions. When attempts were made to amend the CCB and CCT Acts as well as Administration of Justice Act in a manner suggestive of selfishness, Senator Adeola was among its opponents that led to withdrawal of the proposed amendments. Senator Adeola has successfully presented two petitions to the Senate. One of the petitions has been fully resolved in a case of injustice against one Sergeant Amos Olaniyan. He was verbally suspended from the Nigerian Police 21 years ago for an offence that a Police Orderly Room trial has since exonerated him. He has since been reinstated and is processing his papers for payment of salaries from 1994 to 2015. At the general level of participation in debates, Senator Adeola contributed to the debate on the Legislative Agenda of the eighth Senate when the report of the Ad Hoc Committee on the Legislative Agenda of the eighth Senate was debated. In his contributions, he had

raised the issues of effective operation of the National Assembly Budget and Research Office, which will assist in passage of Appropriation Act (Budgets) as well as assist in the oversight function of the legislature. However, it is in the area of empowerment that Senator Adeola excelled in the last one year. He mobilised and paid for the Joint Admissions Matriculation Board (JAMB) examination forms for 500 indigent but brilliant students for this year’s university admission programme. The format adopted in terms of pre-qualification tests was to ensure that a high success rate is achieved in this educational empowerment for our constituent youths. He granted 56 tertiary institution scholarships of N50, 000 at the rate of two in each of the 28 LCDAs of Lagos West. The scholarship is to run for four years. He also facilitated Entrepreneur Development Training Programme for 200 youths of Lagos West. In the area of infrastructure development of his district in assistance and complementing the efforts of Lagos state and Federal Government, Senator Adeola donated 10 500KVA transformers for to a community in each of the 10 LGAs that made up Lagos West. The senator is sinking 28 boreholes at the rate of 1 in each of the 28 LCDAs. The senator also donated five 18-seater buses to Lagos West Senatorial District Obas, the Council of Baales Lagos West Senatorial District, the CDC, the Christian Association of Nigeria and the League of Imams. Certainly, these are all achievements by a senator representing the largest senatorial district in Nigeria without any special privileges or allocations different from other senators with far less number of constituents. The secret of this quantum of achievements in representation can only be accounted for by experience in legislative business, public service in giving generously and living true to the meaning of his sobriquet, Yayi. Odunaro writes from Lagos

interview

12 June, 2016

Sunday Tribune

Buhari should be wary of influences that can derail his govt —Kwara ex-commissioner Former Kwara State Commissioner for Works, Alhaji Kayode Sulyman Maja, who also served as Special Adviser on Political Affairs to Senator Bukola Saraki when he was governor of Kwara State, speaks with MOSES ALAO on the ongoing trial of his former boss at the Code of Conduct Tribunal and other issues affecting the state. Excerpts:

HE trial of the Senate President, Dr Bukola Saraki, by the Code of Conduct Tribunal (CCT) was recently adjourned indefinitely. What is your view on the case? The trial is ongoing and it is already being handled the way it should; all necessary legal steps are being taken. May God spare our lives, I am sure he will be vindicated. Contrary to the impression presented to the public, this is simply a clear case of power brokers displaying use of power; the intention does not in any way correlate with the action. It is crystal clear that he would not have been facing trial if he is not the Senate President. But those power brokers failed to realise that he got it because God ordained him to be there. Having said that, President Muhammadu Buhari ought to act as a father to all and have a balanced relationship with all the stakeholders. He means well for the country and we know he is capable of taking us to the Promised Land; but he should be wary of possible influences that can make people feel otherwise. The president and other stakeholders should come together as a family and work in unison to provide good governance. What do you think is the solution to the crisis? It is simple, the principle of give and take should be applied and it is important that those who believe in using power and state institutions to persecute perceived political enemies should realise and recognise the transient nature of power. One could see some people leaving your house after prayers; did they come here to pray for Saraki too? Yes. That has been a regular thing here and we would continue to supplicate to God on his behalf, because he is our symbol; he is our star and we must ensure nothing happens to him. All well-meaning Ilorin indigenes should pray for him, because it is important we do so. It is funny when some people, owing to influence of local politics and interests, would say they wish he is removed. The question is; will he be replaced with a Kwaran not

Alhaji Kayode Maja to talk of an Ilorin man? The truth is that Ilorin is like a room, we are all connected one way or the other; that is why there can hardly be a serious political crisis here like you have in other states. You could have a man in APC and the brother to his wife will be in PDP; would the APC man deny his in-law a request? Therefore, even if you hate Saraki’s face and you need a reference letter from the office of the senate president, you could still get it facilitated through an in-law, a friend or a family member. We love Ilorin and Saraki is a pride to the people of Ilorin and we must give him our unalloyed support. He is our son. But the First Republic Minister, AGF Abdul Razaq once stated that the late Olusola Saraki was not from Ilorin. How true is this position? We respect our father, AGF Abdul Razaq, being the defunct Northern Region’s first lawyer and Senior Advocate but with due respect, I would say the statement was merely political. If you take time to read the interview,

you will realise that it had a lot of loopholes. Firstly, Ilorin indigenes are known to have travelled out of the city either to spread the knowledge of Islam or pursue one business interest or the other. Alhaji Muktar Saraki, the late Olusola Saraki’s father, was a very rich and successful businessman and he was based in Abidjan, Cote d’Ivoire. Alhaji Razaq stated in the interview that he was the Nigerian ambassador to Cote d’Ivoire and that he later developed good relationship with Alhaji Muktar Saraki, who was the leader of Nigerians in the country and that during a particular conversation, he told him he was an indigene of Abeokuta, Ogun State, who only came to attend a Quranic school in Ilorin. According to the interview, Alhaji Saraki also told him his son Olusola was then a medical student in London. He further stated that upon graduation, the son met him in Lagos and told him he was returning home to go into politics to contest in the 1964 elections. If truly he was not from Ilorin, Alhaji Razaq would have asked which home? Abeokuta or Ilorin? He also said he advised Saraki not to contest in the election since the NPC already had a candidate and that he ignored his advice and went ahead to contest. We know how typical Nigerian politicians would do with such a potent weapon to discredit someone in the opposition camp, especially someone who ignored his advice; he would readily have made it an issue that Saraki wasn’t from Ilorin. But he didn’t say anything and he wasn’t in the same political boat with Saraki in the Second Republic when Saraki not only emerged the Senate Leader but also the Kwara State’s political leader; yet Alhaji Razaq didn’t deem it expedient to grant such interview then or were there no journalists? He didn’t say anything until more than 40 years later when his son, Rahman, was contesting the governorship seat. Therefore, I will say our respected senior citizen was just playing politics with the issue, because Dr. Olusola Saraki was an illustrious son of Ilorin, from the Agbaji Quarters. The late Wazirin never for once took us to attend events in Abeokuta and we were only in his base in Lagos and Iseyin where his mother hailed from for family events.

‘FG must address farmers/herdsmen’s crisis...’ Continued from

pg 30

sure on our foreign exchange will reduce, because the bulk of this country’s resources goes into importing petroleum products. It is unfortunate that in the last 16 years, efforts have been geared towards repairing and selling the two major refineries we have and never thought about setting up new ones. We are being mocked all over the world that the country that is blessed with such deposits of crude oil still imports petroleum products and by so doing, we have put ourselves at a disadvantage in terms of foreign exchange. Recently, there were comments from eminent Nigerians on the call by former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar for the restructuring of Nigeria. As a former National Publicity Secretary of the pan-Yoruba group, Afenifere, which has also been on the frontline of the clamour for restructuring, what is your take? I agree with Atiku completely. He is not the first person to call for the restructuring of the country. Former Secretary-General of the Commonwealth, Emeka Anyaoku, was in Ibadan recently for a summit organised by the Ibadan School of Government and Public Policy (ISGPP) and he advocated restructuring. If you look at the 2014 National Conference, they tinkered with the issue of

restructuring as well. I think this is the best for Nigerians to come together and think on how we can coexist in a country where everyone gets his fair share. Restructuring does not mean dismemberment of Nigeria. There is too much power located at the centre and we are not actually practising true federalism. If we are practising true federalism, the component units should be feeding the centre and not the other way round. The kind of federalism we are practising was inherited from the military; we were doing well when we had the regional system. But after the 1966 coup, the military divided the country into 12 states and unfortunately, the various regions have not been able to develop at the pace they ought to. So, I agree with Atiku that the time has come for us to think seriously about restructuring so that we can have a weak centre and the regions can be more independent and contribute more to the development of this country. The Oyo State governor recently apologised for the communication gap on the educational policy that called religious organisations and private investors to take over schools. But what is your take on the policy in the first place? I went to a Catholic school and I know the state of the school and recently when I visited the school, I saw that it was in a bad state. So many schools that the missionaries operated and ran very well are in sorry states today.

I think the mistake the Oyo State government made was to put the cart before the horse by making an advertorial in which they talked about N250,000 and talked of Public Private Partnership. That connoted privatisation. As you said, the governor has apologised and that shows statesmanship. I have always said that the buck stops at the table of the leader; I was impressed with the Ogun State governor, Ibikunle Amosun, for taking responsibility for a collapsed building in Abeokuta. Having said that, I think the government should go a step forward on the partnership arrangement in phases. I think the first phase of returning schools should be limited to missionaries both Christians and Muslims for now. All those who are interested from the major religions should signify their intentions and when they do, the government should ask them how much they are willing to invest and how they will charge. Not only that, government should think about the job security and retirement of the teachers. That should be their priority. If they can have a pilot scheme for the programme, maybe involving about 10 schools spread across the three senatorial districts and balanced among the two religions. Then they should proceed to the second phase, which should involve alumni or old students’ associations and other stakeholders. If labour, the PTA and the public are convinced, then the scheme will succeed.

HE First Session of the Eight Senate came to a close on June 9 and like they say, like play, like play, the days are rolling by. A lot many things have happened within the year. Some sweet, some sour and some casting us back to the learning processes of 1999 to 2003. There is nothing to deny the fact that the last one year has been a sad commentary on Executive/ Legislature relationship and in the last one week, two things have come to further reinforce this. Senate President Bukola Saraki in an interview ahead of the anniversary of the Senate said that though the relationship appeared to be improving at the moment, there is the need to enhance the interrelationship of the two arms. If the Senate President chose to speak tongue in cheek, statistics rolled out by the Chairman, Senate Committee on Rules and Business, Senator Babajide Omoworare lent credence to the fact that little or no engagement is ongoing between the executive and the legislature in this era. Omoworare, while addressing newsmen in the National Assembly, on Thursday, said that the Senate received 300 bills in the First Session and that only four of the bills are executive bills. According to him, 186 bills are at the first reading stage, while 45 have being read the second time and referred to the various committees for further legislative action. The Senate, he said has passed 11 bills so far. The scenario in the House of Representatives is the same and if there is anything more to add, you will say the statistics speaks for itself. It is quite apparent that some actors in the incumbent government have either failed to realise that there is hardly anything like stark naked separation of powers but interrelationships of powers and that for any of the three recognisable arms of government to succeed; it must rely on the other. The executive desires to succeed and signpost its successes to the citizens but in doing that, it must carry out reforms and the only agency that can ensure enduring reforms are achieved is the legislature, which will either repeal, amend or make laws to establish the reforms. It means that where the executive ignores the legislature, it can only achieve the superficial reforms, which the next government could wipe out of existence upon change of administration. So, if the fate of the two arms is so intertwined, why do we have the compartmentalisation we have seen in the last one year? You will think that we have overgrown the

“ESE gave birth without much trouble. Others haven’t been that lucky.” Having said this, we should join Ese’s parents in thanking and praising God for the release of the girl. We should thank Him particularly for keeping the girl alive. God knows the best and without any atom of doubt, He has something good for the lucky girl. However, the bottom line is that government at all levels should please find a lasting solution to all these criminal activities in the society. —Lekan Oladeji, Ilora. 08053049443 We are busy celebrating Ese’s survival; that is good. However, we should not overlook the fact that if Ese’s parents, especially her mother, had paid close attention to their daughter, she might not have fallen prey to the Fulani boy that got her into the terrible situation. How could you have adolescent girls and you keep them around in your restaurant where different characters come, sometimes not only to eat but with ulterior motives? Ese’s mother was more concerned with the food she was selling than with the welfare of her children – see where it has landed her. Parents should learn from this woman’s experience and pay more attention to the proper upbringing of their children. —MojolaOluwa, Ibadan It is unfortunate that things like these are still happening to our children and the culprits are hardly apprehended. Having said this, I think the most important thing is for us (parents) to prepare these children for future challenges rather than indulging in futile rat race for excessive material wealth that will fade away with time. These children are our future and we should adequately prepare them so that we do not squander these God-given human resources. —Femi Dada, Ibadan. 07084569682 Madam, not until the issue of poverty is eradicated, not until corruption in the country is addressed, not until the issue of Almajiri is addressed, not until insurgency is completely addressed, not until government realises that the cure of any problem lies with the cause before the ef-

12 June, 2016

the lynxeye with Taiwo adisa

08072000046

One year of eighth NASS

past and that as we grow into democracy, 17 years on, we should have overcome the teething issues. The real essence of government is to make life better for citizens than it met them. And to paraphrase the Senate President in his anniversary speech, the essence of the 2015 democratic transition that ushered in a new administration has re-ignited the hope of the citizens that democratic government can truly empower the people and can ultimately deliver “real benefits to them and give them better quality of life.” Rather than concentrate on personalised wars, ego trips and altercations that veer off the course of public good, governments and the executive in particular must be concerned about the aspirations of its; make their lives better off than previously in a stable economic

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

Re: Babies having babies

fects, not until the government realises that the security vis-a-vis the welfare of the children are primarily its responsibility, not until these fundamental issues are addressed, exploitation, violence and child abuse in all its ramifications will continue to stare us in the face. —Ibrahim A. Taye, Ibadan. 08166190119 The issue of child abuse and rape of minors have become so rampant and so worrisome that it calls for serious pondering on the part of government (the three tiers) as well as the UNICEF. Nigeria in recent times has been faced with this issue on a daily basis that one wonders what is really wrong with our psyche. A girl is kidnapped,

Sunday Tribune

and secure environment. How have we fared in the last one year? The ruling party got upset that its preferred candidates failed to win the seat of Senate President, Speaker of the House of Representatives, Deputy Senate President and the Deputy Speaker. The parliament thus became an anathema, an institution to be touched with a long pole, as if dealing with the devil. One of the major actors of the administration was even quoted as saying that he maintains only official relationship with the National Assembly. Communications became scanty and there were no visible interactions. Indeed, it is on record that the Senate President, the nation’s number three citizen only made his first visit to the Presidential Villa after four months of his emergence. In such a situation, how does the executive communicate the legislative agenda? How does the party pull through its legislative programmes? How will the ruling party make the desired changes in the lives of the people in an enduring manner? So many questions. But it was clear that many of the actors tend to zero in on the personality clashes rather than the good of the people. But I have even realised that the grouse of the ruling party over the emergence of Senator Saraki and Speaker Yakubu Dogara was misplaced. Why should the executive fret over who leads the legislature, another arm of government clearly recognised by the constitution? As members of the ruling party, issues should have been sorted out within the caucus. Any attempt to bring the matter to the open would amount to a needless affront on the independence of the Legislature as guaranteed by the constitution. If the party did not do its homework before the D Day, why fret over who emerges the presiding officers in an open election. I guess the error in there is that many of the actors fail to recognise the Legislature as an institution of government and tend to see it as a department. In truth, the difference between a dictatorship and democracy is a functional parliament. All said, lets agree that some aberrations have been condoned in the past year and that henceforth, actors in the executive and the legislature will close ranks; hold nocturnal and daytime meetings for the good of the people. It is only through a positive connivance of the institutions that we can see democracy excel. That we had only four executive bills in the parliament in one year of a government that promises change is not a good one.

raped in her home or even gang-raped in her street by boys known to her –people whom she trusts as friends. What is really happening? Are we that depraved that we don’t even have the moral scruples to do what is right anymore? Something has to be done to check the activities of these wolves that go about in human form. These hoodlums should be closely monitored by security agencies so that they can be arrested and brought to book. We cannot continue to hide under religious and ethnic sentiments. We should bring those behind the evil acts to book as deterrent to others who may engage in similar conduct in future. Parents and guardians should closely monitor the activities of their children and wards so as to know the type of people with whom they associate. This is important so as to avoid the kind of pitfall Ese got into as well as to prevent negative peer influence. —Gordon Chika Nnorom, Umukabia, Abia State. 09093834252 It is unholy, it is detestable and a solution has to be found now. All stakeholders i.e. all youth-based non-profit organisations, educationists, psychologists, and all parents should come to a roundtable to discuss how this dangerous trend should be tackled. The issue is not whether it will get out of hand or not. It is already out of hand and we are all wringing our hands in despair, wondering whose daughter would be next. Ese’s parents never thought their daughter would fall victim of kidnapping, talk less of being made a child bride or being forcefully converted to a religion alien to her and her parents. Yet, what happened to Ese, is just a tip of the iceberg. Worse things are happening in families and these should also be looked into. How would you explain a situation where fathers sleep with and impregnate their own daughters, or where religious leaders and even grandfathers indulge in such unholy and hideous habits? This is a serious matter and it should be treated as such. If we do not act now and tell ourselves the hard truth, we may end up ruining the future of our girls. Experiences like this either makes a girl withdraw into her shell, never trusting anyone; or it might harden her and turn her into a monster which neither her parents nor anyone who knew her might not recognise again. —Idowu Olusola, Lagos

12 June, 2016

ON THE

Sunday Tribune

With Bolanle Bolawole turnpot@gmail.com 07052631058

lord’sday APC/Muhammadu Buhari: One year after “Hope for the best; prepare for the worst” —Chris Bradford

T is not possible to speak of President Muhammadu Buhari without also speaking of the political party that steam-rolled him into office. Before he hit the jackpot with the All Progressives Congress, Buhari had drawn blank on three previous attempts on the platforms of the All Nigerian Peoples Party (ANPP) and the Congress for Progressive Change (CPC). Against all odds, APC successfully sold Buhari to Nigerians, warts and all. Buhari himself has acknowledged that without APC, there would have been no President Muhammadu Buhari; even though many are those who say his admittance has more rhetoric than substance. According to those, Buhari has relegated the party, treating it as an irritation or a necessary evil that he grudgingly accommodates. He belligerently allows the party to scramble for crumbs that fall from the Master’s table, while those who did not lift a finger when the battle raged are the power brokers in the inner sanctum of power. It would appear Bukola Saraki, who grabbed what he wanted, was wiser. “Right from the time of Buhari, the political kingdom of Nigeria suffereth violence and the violent taketh it by force.” I hope the ND Avengers and IPOB are not listening! Poor APC! It has got to carry its Buhari cross willy-nilly. My people have a saying, to wit: When you mention a tortoise, you also identify the forest from which you picked it. Buhari emanated from the forest of APC. The failure or success of one necessarily impacts on the other. Therefore, any report card issued to Buhari also suffices for APC; writing the testimonial of one is as good as writing that of the other. How has Buhari/APC performed in one year in office? Time flies! When analysts reviewed this government’s first 100 days in office, regime apologists said that was too early; they asked everyone to wait for one year before attempting the task. Now that it is one year, many are again saying one year is not long enough a time to do an “objective” analysis of Buhari’s journey so far! But pray: If someone spends 30 years to prepare to go mad; how many more years will he have left to practice the madness?” Men are finite and do not have the exceptional gift of Nostradamus. More than this, man lacks the ability to know what would have been. If ex-President Goodluck Jonathan had won the 2015 presidential election, would he have realised his mistakes; learnt his lessons; corrected himself and made a better president? One problem APC/Buhari said they have, and which they have complained about ad nauseam, is that they did not know the extent of the rot in the system while they were outside the corridors of power; hence, they made calculations and projections that went wide off the mark and made promises that have proved Herculean, if not totally impossible, to fulfil. Jonathan would not have had such excus-

es. One year in office, APC/Buhari have not been able to hit the ground running; according to them, PDP/Jonathan ruined the country beyond their wildest imagination. That alibi, too, would not have been available to Jonathan. Nigerians ditched PDP/Jonathan because they had seen the tell-tale signs of a mismanaged State and were afraid that four more years of PDP/ Jonathan would completely wreck the State; hence they voted Buhari. I repeat: Man lacks the ability to know what would have been! Otherwise, the state of affairs today, were it foreseeable a year ago, is enough to have made many decide to remain with the devil they knew. The saint we yearned for is yet to prove his mettle in the very important area of the nation’s economy, such that, today, life and living have both become hellish for the people! But I am minded to resolve some of the argument in favour of APC/Buhari: They stopped the rot. They are clearing the Augean stable. They are fighting corruption. The mind-boggling tales of corruption under PDP/Jonathan; and the widespread and audacious efforts to compromise the electoral process should make any conscionable person cringe in horror. But we should be careful to ensure that this anticorruption government is not creating its own Augean stable even as it is clearing Jonathan’s. I said it here before that rumours had it that some folk around the president were peddling influence for cash and that a certain highly-placed government official was accused of demanding gratification to put people’s names on the list for appointments. Last week, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation came out openly to disown and or deny anyone and anything pertaining to that. We must be careful; as a journalist of 31 years standing, I know there is no smoke without a fire. The budget padding, which shocked the whole world, is another pointer to the fact that corruption did not simply end with PDP/Jonathan. Care must also be taken about the way the anti-corruption fight is being pros-

ecuted. Complaints that it is one-sided; it is media lynching; and that its template is not uniformly applied are widespread. While asking the government to listen to these complaints and make the necessary adjustments, I am minded to award it a qualified pass mark here. “Qualified” in the sense that it has been so much sound and fury, to quote William Shakespeare, but signifying very little if the quantum of money/assets recovered so far is taken into consideration. When you minus the administrative cost of the recovery efforts, what shall we be left with? I also commend Buhari/APC efforts in the war against insurgency in that it has downed Boko Haram flags in the territories the insurgents used to control. I also am happy that one or two Chibok girls have been found alive – whether they were actually rescued by troops or were stragglers does not matter to me. They were found; they were found! But we should not forget what the French PM told us when he visited: The insurgency is yet to be defeated. The economy is, however, one area where Buhari is gasping for breath; possibly going to confirm what former President Olusegun Obasanjo said of his onetime Army colleague: that the economy is not one of Buhari’s strongest points. Most of the problems in the economy were inherited by Buhari. The country had been stolen blind before he came. Impunity on all fronts had ruined the Civil Service as public servants were as benign as the politicians. Like Buhari himself bemoaned, he came at a (wrong?) time when crude oil price was at an all-time low; crashing from a dizzying height of over $100 dollars per barrel to less than $40 dollars per barrel. In addition, a sluggish market has been compounded by acts of sabotage by Niger Delta neo-militants. A nation selling over two million bpd of crude oil at premium price now sells less than 1.5 million bpd at less than half of the former price. Only God knows why it was in these austere times that it pleased Him to answer Buhari’s prayers and not 13 or 8 years ago

when he was much younger; had more strength and stamina; and the economy was more robust. One year, however, was enough for APC/Buhari to have pulled their acts together and presented a coherent economic programme. By now, they should have been able to point the people in one clear direction. But they appear to still be groping in the dark; mired in the blame game with Jonathan/PDP. In the interim, an economy that was one of the fastest growing in the world last year has regressed so badly that growth rate is now negative. The CBN governor warns of recession ahead. Vice-President Yemi Osinbajo has said the country is broke. Buhari himself said not less than 27 states cannot pay salaries. The situation report had since deteriorated. Sabotage; the bungled and corruption-infested unbundling of PHCN, as Power minister, Raji Fashola, bemoaned; and other factors keep the entire country in darkness like never before. The most alarming quantum leap in the price of petrol took place under this government few weeks ago, prompting fickle punches from Labour. The people suffer like never before as transport cost and foodstuff prices hit the roof. Other services, too, have taken a cue: rents, school fees, hospital bills, just name it. The Naira lays prostrate, exchanging at a scandalous rate that makes many fear that we may be on the road to Zimbabwe. In the face of all of these challenges, the people cannot hear a firm and sure-footed response from their government. Top government officials not only speak from both sides of the mouth, they also contradict one another. Rather than concerted effort in a known direction, we see confusion and consternation. As if this was not enough, Fulani herdsmen - or the new Boko Haram - have added a dangerous dimension to the whole confusion in the land. Buhari has been accused of insensitivity to the victims of Fulani herdsmen’s dastardly acts and of indifference to the wanton troopers’ lawlessness. Buhari himself is Fulani, Muslim, and owner of hundreds of herds of cattle. He is even said to be a patron of the cattle owners. The president’s appointments are seen to have continued to be skewed in favour of the North where he comes from to the chagrin of the other parts of the country. According to a notable cleric, 41 out of 59 Buhari appointments have gone to the North. To make matters worse for him, key party members who brought him to power appear no longer united behind him. The international community’s support for Buhari, hitherto taken as given, became suspect recently with British Prime Minister David Cameron’s deliberate snub of Buhari with his “fantastically corrupt” countries’ statement. As Buhari begins his second year in office, let him build on his strong points and make amends in the areas of his perceived weaknesses. And let the citizenry continue to keep hope alive – but make contingency plans for the worst!

12 June, 2016

Sunday Tribune

With Rita Okonoboh rosarumese@gmail.com 08053789087

tribunechurch

This is not the kind of ‘change’ Nigerians expected —Bishop Ogundipe

Right Reverend Nathaniel Oladejo Ogundipe, Bishop of Ifo Anglican Diocese, Ogun State, speaks with RITA OKONOBOH on why he abandoned Law to become a priest, why people-friendly policies are necessary to effect national development and the forthcoming synod of the diocese. Excerpts:

have to church and national development? If we look at the world today, one would discover that darkness is pervading the world. There are many happenings today that signify that the end is at hand. Take for instance the issue of Boko Haram, it is not ordinary. Also take into consideration the issue of ISIS, the level of unemployment worldwide, among other issues, you will see that these are not ordinary times and many of these occurrences have spiritual undertones. Unless you have the light. The Bible says if we accept the light of Christ, we will not be in darkness. At this time, we need the light of Christ to shine on our nation and in the world. I believe sincerely that the issue of corruption in Nigeria is darkness. If people understand the Bible in which it is stated that ‘what shall it profit a man if he gains the whole world and loses his soul,’ then they would be in the light. We need to ask God to reveal Himself to us again and for Christ to shine in our lives.

ARLIER, you were determined to study Law before God ‘arrested’ you. 25 years now you have been in the ministry; would you say that decision has been worth it? God knows the best for every individual. Initially, I had the plan to study Law. In our days, there wasn’t Past UTME. The first time, I didn’t meet up to the cut-off point. In fact, I sat for the examination four times because I really wanted to study Law. The fourth time, I was considering seeking admission through direct entry, when during that period, it was announced that they were looking for somebody who would be a church agent. I was a member of the choir, a Bible Study leader, under the then Ibadan diocese, which comprised Ife, Oke-Osun, Modakeke, among others. It just occurred to me to embrace he opportunity and for the past 25 years, it has been a wonderful experience. I thank God for the opportunity of using me to change lives. I have no cause for regret and I always give thanks to God for the position I occupy today. That’s why I said God knows the best for every individual. The Bible says, ‘my ways are not your ways, neither are my thoughts yours.’ That is the wish of God for my life and I am thankful to Him. In many of your sermons, you have reiterated the importance of repentance and have been a champion of the call for people to return to God to make the country better and for us to experience peace. Nigeria has, arguably, the highest number of churches in the world, yet is burdened by so many challenges. What would you say we’re not doing right? Christ has predicted what is happening today, not just in Nigeria but also around the world, that when the end shall come, there will be many churches springing up everywhere. What we’re witnessing today is a sign of the end. Matthew 7:21 states that ‘not everyone that calls me Lord will enter the kingdom of God.’ Another reason is that some churches are established as businesses for making money. That is why the Lord directed me to choose that theme for the synod. We need to have the light of Christ in our lives. Jesus Christ says if we love Him, we will keep His commandments; how many of us today keep those commandments or follow Him truly? It’s a call for repentance.

What are the details of the forthcoming synod? The synod will take place between June 16 and 19. However, a pre-synod revival will begin from Monday, June 13 and will hold till Wednesday, June 15. On Thursday at 3 p.m., we will have the opening service at St. Paul’s Anglican Church, Matogun, Ogun State and the preacher at the open-

What would be your assessment of the President Muhammadu Buhariled administration one year after? We just need to continue praying to God. This is not the kind of change Nigerians expected. The economy is getting worse. The cost of living is getting higher, yet salaries have not increased. The poverty rate has increased. This is not the change Nigerians yearned for. I would advise government to evolve humane policies to make people’s lives better. They should also understand what the masses are going through and be realistic in their personal spending. They should please consider the masses that voted for them and work to improve living conditions of the citizenry. I will also advise religious leaders to continue to always remember the country and the government in prayers.

ing service is the Bishop (Dr) Ezekiel Femi Ikupolati of Ijumu Anglican diocese, Kogi State. On Friday, we will have the official opening, under the chairmanship of the Obasewa of Ife and the Chairman/Managing Director of JK Nigerian Limited, Chief (Dr) J.A. Odeyemi. The Bishop’s charge will be taken that Friday as well, and the

official opening will be held at the Cathedral of the Holy Trinity, Oke-Nla, Ifo at 10:00 a.m. The theme of the synod is Jesus Christ: The Light of the World, taken from John 8:12. What prompted the choice of that theme and what relevance does it

Blind cleric Proliferation gives car, Pg36 of churches a cash gifts to positive sign blind students —Prophet Odunayo

Pg37

How has the present economy affected the church? The economy has affected the church in many ways including attendance, contribution. In my church, for example, for a person to come to church, he/she must have at least N1,000 for transport and other expenses. I really commend those who have been active in church. We understand that it has not been easy. However, we trust that God’s grace will be sufficient for His church and His people.

PFN, CWEENS condemn Pg36 Kano killing, call for justice

12 June, 2016

Sunday Tribune

With Olaide Sokoya ollydesanmi@yahoo.com 08074497425

churchnews

PFN, CWEENS condemn Kano killing, call for justice By Isaac Shobayo and Rita Okonoboh

HE Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN) and the Christian Women for Excellence and Empowerment in Nigeria (CWEENS) have condemned the killing of Mrs Bridget Agbahime in Kano State after she was reportedly accused of blasphemy. According to a statement made available to TribuneChurch and signed by Mr Simbo Olorunfemi, Special Adviser (Media) to the National President, Reverend Felix Omobude, the PFN described the act as “barbaric,” and demanded “immediate apprehension of everyone directly or remotely connected with it and a speedy application of the law to serve as deterrent to others so callous and criminalminded.” Noting efforts by the Kano State governor, Abdullahi Ganduje, to douse tension in the state, the PFN condoled with the husband of the deceased, Pastor Mike Agbahime, and other members of the family. While appealing for calm, especially in the Northern part of Nigeria, the PFN assured Christians that all organs of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria are closely monitoring developments in this case. “The PFN urges the Federal Government to decisively step up efforts to guarantee that all Nigerians are protected, irrespective of faith, ethnicity or where they might be residing. Justice must not only be done in this case, but manifestly done, so that an end can be put to these crimes,” the statement read. In a related development, the Christian Women for Excellence and Empowerment in Nigeria (CWEENS) has called for commission of inquiry to investigate the killing and reopen investigation into previous similar killings. According to the statement issued by the group and signed by its Public Relations Officer, Pastor Sandra Chikan, and Pastor Gloria Emmanuel of Voice of Truth Initiative respec-

tively, CWEENS urged the government to pass and gazette laws with stiff penalties against hate speech and incitement on the basis of any form of differences or diversity among individual or group. According to the group,

the law should include exacting punishments for people who participate in mob action leading to the destruction of lives and property. It also posited that appropriate compensation should be provided for

the family of Mrs Agbahime and appealed to the government to carry out a through curriculum review for Koranic schools and Islamic instruction materials with a view to inculcating basic principles of civic education, with emphasis on

cultural diversity, citizenship and human right. The group further advocated for standardisation and harmonisation of Islamic teachings to promote tolerance and peaceful coexistence, adding that this should be part of a sector-

wide reform of education delivery in Nigeria to promote wholesome social learning and interaction in culturally diverse society.

Blind cleric gives car, cash gifts to blind students Sam Nwaoko - Ado Ekiti

From left, Bishop Timothy Yahaya of Kaduna Diocese; Bishop Samuel Ogundeji of Egba West Diocese; Bishop Michael Oluwarohunbi of Yewa Diocese and his wife, Grace; Bishop Steven Akobe of Kabba Diocese and his wife, Deborah, during the 2016 synod of Yewa diocese, held at St. Paul’s Anglican Church, Owode-Yewa, Ogun State, on Friday.

Pastor (Professor) Amos Kadejo Fabiyi, Pastor-in-Charge, Christ Apostolic Church (Jesus is the Answer), Obantoko, Abeokuta, Ogun State, (middle), during his 80th birthday held in abeokuta, recently. With him are his wife, Christiana (third right); Mrs bola Obasanjo (third left); Mrs Tokunbo Enudi (nee Fabiyi) (left); Mr Kola Fabiyi (second left); Dr (Mrs) Fabiyi Sanyaolu (second right) and Mrs Tolu Oso (nee Fabiyi) (right).

Government needs church’s support to fight corruption —Bishop Oluwarohunbi By Rita Okonoboh BISHOP of Yewa Diocese, Anglican Communion, Ogun State, the Right Reverend Michael Oluwarohunbi, has called on Christians to support government in the fight against corruption. He stated this on Friday while delivering his Bishop’s charge at the third session of the ninth synod, held at St. Paul’s Church, Owode-Yewa, Ogun State, with the theme, “We Are

Well Able.” Noting that corruption had become a “cancer eating us up and snuffing the life out of us as a nation,” he commended President Muhamadu Buhari for his efforts and called on the church to support government. According to him, “the people being led also have their role to play to complement government’s efforts by having self-control, contentment, being godly, imbibing positive values, following due process and

shunning acts of indiscipline, greed and laziness. We enjoin the synod to come up with practical steps on how the church and Christians in general can assist to eradicate this social menace.” Bishop Steven Akobe of Kabba Diocese, had, in his sermon at the opening service, held on Thursday, dwelt on the theme of the synod and called on Christians to trust in God to enable them do exploit. The closing service, which will hold today, will have as the preacher, Bishop Timo-

thy Yahaya of Kaduna diocese. Also present at the event were Bishop Olusola Odedeji of Lagos West diocese; Bishop Nathaniel Ogundipe of Ifo diocese; the Olu of Owode-Yewa, Oba (Dr) Matthew Akindele; Oloke-Odan of Oke-Odan Yewa, Oba (Dr) Oluremilekun Fagbenro; Speaker, Ogun State House of Assembly, Honourable Suraj Adekunbi; member of the Ogun State House of Assembly, Honourable (Mrs) Julianah Akintayo, among others.

A blind cleric and the General Overseer of the Hour of Mercy Prayer Ministries worldwide, Ibadan, Oyo State, Prophet Muyideen Kasali, has showered car and cash gifts on students of Bethseida Home/School for the Blind, Mosalasi, Lagos State. Kasali said the gesture was to appreciate the blind students for making efforts to be relevant in life by engaging in handiworks instead of begging for alms. The cleric, while presenting a Toyota Camry car and cash gifts to appreciate the visit and love of the visiting blind students to him, explained that the car was equally a gift to him from one of his spiritual sons on the day the students visited. The blind students had earlier, during the visit, presented an award and the gift of a flower vase designed by some of them to Prophet Kasali. Kasali said: “On behalf of the Hour of Mercy Prayer Ministries, I express my gratitude to you my people. We are in the same condition having the same feeling. I want to believe that by the grace of He that dwells in His infinite mercy, our lives will affect the lives of the non-blind positively. I appreciate you and your gift to me.” He told the blind students: “I am particularly happy for you because you are not begging on the streets, but you are making use of your talents to create things that would bring you means of livelihood. Please continue to do this and the good Lord will continue to bless the works of your hands.” Speaking on the motive for the visit, the founder of Bethseida Home/School for the Blind, Mrs Chioma Ohakwe, said: “Prophet Kasali is a great inspiration to the blind in my school and elsewhere in the world. From following his activities as a man of God, I am convinced that he is a true prophet of God.

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Sunday Tribune

Proliferation of churches a positive sign —Prophet Odunayo The General Overseer of Love of Christ Global Church, Love and Grace Ministry, Old Ife Road, Ibadan, Oyo State, Prophet Olabode Odunayo (Baba Love), in this interview with SEYI SOKOYA, speaks on his journey into priesthood, the challenges, his upcoming church dedication ceremony, among others. Excerpts:

OW did the ministry start? The whole thing started when I was with Prophet S.K. Abiara; this is one of the reasons I can never forget him in the story of my life. He is a father to the core and I respect him so much. I started as a choir member under his ministry before I received the call. God later took me out and established the mission he gave me. The dedication of the church is part of what God has laid in our hands to win souls. I know that this is just the beginning of greater things to come. I don’t want to dwell much on that; let’s keep that for another day, because there is a lot to tell. What are the challenges you have faced in the course of serving God? They are numerous, but the greatest joy is that God has made me overcome them all. The greatest challenge I cannot easily forget was the horrible experience I encountered four years ago when I was on my way to deliver the word of God at the Osun State Broadcasting Corporation, Osogbo in Osun State. We were four in the car and we were all involved in a ghastly auto accident. The accident claimed the lives of my mother, personal assistant and the head of my ushers. It was the saddest day of my life. It was a bitter experience that I can never forget and it still beats my imagination that I survived the crash, because I thought that we were all dead. I later heard that I was already declared dead and the news was all over town. I was rushed to LAUTECH Teaching Hospital in Osogbo, but was later taken to UCH, Ibadan when they could not solve my case after a period of time. I spent about three months in UCH at the intensive care unit and was later moved to the ward when my condition became stable. I still wonder how I survived the incident and why God protected me. It was painful to lose my loved ones in the accident, but God knows the best. Above all, I thank God for bringing me back to life. How did you feel when you discovered that you were the only one that survived the accident? I never knew I could survive it. In fact, I thought that we were all dead, but I was terrified when I discovered that I was still alive and that I had lost my loved ones to the accident. I cannot even explain it. It is a sad thing I don’t like to remember. But we cannot run away from the fact

that the way of the Lord is different from that of man. I think God spared my life because He still wants to use me for more mighty works, because the church we are dedicating will not have become a reality today. How would you like to thank God as you mark your birthday and dedicate your church in a few days? I thank God for everything, especially for the journey of my life and the ministry. All I know is that I have every reason to thank Him, because He is behind everything. The birthday is to appreciate God for the gift of life and His good works. On the dedication of the church, it is a welcome development and a good thing in our sight. What is the history of the church set for dedication? The church started 20 years ago with about 15 people in a small space around Sawmill at Ile Alafia in Ibadan, Oyo State. Later, we had to move to a bigger place because the church was increasing gradually and gaining grounds through God’s signs and wonders. We moved to another rented apartment at Beulah College, opposite Urban Day Grammar School. We later got a half plot of land which has turned to an international school now. We had no choice than to expand. This is how we got to the old Army Barracks and we thank God for that grace to gather the people of God to worship in this kind of edifice. What are the activities lined-up for your birthday celebration as well as the church dedication? It is a two-in-one event and we have designed the programme to thank God and also affect people’s lives. We will visit the motherless babies’ homes and put smiles on the faces of the underprivileged on the morning of June 15, while we will hold a mega praise night later in the day. Notable gospel artistes including Evangelist Bukola Akinade, a.k.a. Senwele Jesu, Taiwo and Kehinde Adegbodu and others will lift the souls of the congregation. A special prayer session for families will hold on Thursday, because all families need prayers, especially at this pressing period in Nigeria. Another programme tagged “Breakthrough Night” will hold on Friday where we will pray for Nigeria and deliver people. The major event will come up on Saturday, when I will mark my birthday and dedicate the church officially and later hold a thanksgiving service

on Sunday. The event will also draw the attendance the government officials, royal fathers including the Alaafin of Oyo, Olubadan of Ibadan, Owa of Imesi Ile, among other dignitaries. What is your take on the increase in proliferation of churches? The scripture says signs will follow those that believe in me and by my name they will cast out devil, heal the sick. Proliferation of churches is nothing; it is the establishment of the word of God. We will still have more churches because Jesus Christ even prophesied it. The most important thing is that we should always worship God, be holy and propagate the gospel. This is the only way Christ will not regret the liberty for the creation of many churches.

When Glory Tabernacle Ministry held its 2016 Deborah Convention By Toluwani Olamitoke THE annual convention of the women’s team of the Glory Tabernacle Ministry took place recently at the church premises in Bodija, Ojurin, Ibadan, Oyo State. Also known as Deborah Convention, the four-day programme, which had as its theme “Indestructible Treasure,” began on Thursday, May 26 while its grand finale came up on Sunday, May 29. Ministering on the first two days of the programme was

Dr (Mrs) Adeola Mensah, the Provincial Pastor of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Surulere, Lagos. Mensah, in her message, which focused on the theme of the convention, described indestructible treasure as honourable, precious, incapable of being destroyed, ruined or rendered ineffective. Mensah further stated that what makes a believer in Jesus Christ an indestructible treasure is his or her dependence and reliance on God, absolute surrender and commitment to Him, fear of God, consistency and total

Pioneer Associate Pastor, Glory Tabernacle Ministry, Dr (Mrs) Chinyere Obed (middle), flanked by wife of the General Pastor, Dr (Mrs) Bukola Akinbola (right); wife of the Assistant Pastor, Mrs Justina Joseph (left); Women’s Leader, Dr (Mrs) Gene Obi-Egbedi (extreme right), with executives and members of the Women’s Team of Glory Tabernacle Ministry, Bodija, Ibadan, Oyo State, during the Deborah 2016 Convention.

obedience. Ministering at the grand finale of the convention, the Pioneer Associate Pastor, Glory Tabernacle Ministry, Dr (Mrs) Chinyere Obed, spoke on the topic: “You Are a Treasure in God’s Hands.” In her exhortation which was taken from the 2 Corinthians 4: 7 and Mark 14: 3-9, she dwelt on the woman in the Book of Mark, who came with a costly and precious alabaster box of ointment of spikenard which she broke, and poured its content on the head of Jesus Christ. “An impact was made by her presence at the feast having broken the box of expensive oil and poured the oil on Jesus,’’ she said. According to her, “the fragrance of oil filled the whole place where Jesus and His disciples were present.” Relating this to the life of a believer, she observed that a born again Christian is a container of God’s treasure which is expected to be shared among people so as to sweeten the world around him or her. Other activities during the four-day convention included health talks by Dr Soji Adeyanju, a consultant obstetrics and gynaecologist at Adeoyo Hospital, Ibadan and Dr (Mrs) Olufisayo Elugbadebo, a mental and emotional health specialist at the University College Hospital, (UCH), Ibadan. While Adeyanju spoke on “Fibroids, Menopausal Challenges and Christian Women,” Elugbadebo dealt on “Stress Management, Emotional Health and Today’s Christian.” There were also drama presentations and song ministration by members of the team. Rounding off the programme, the Pioneer Pastor, Glory Tabernacle Ministry, Dr Uzodimma Obed, thanked God for the impartation of His words and the move of the Holy Spirit, while congratulating the women and every member of the ministry on a successful convention.

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Sunday Tribune

Church organises technology seminar for nuns, as CEPACS charges media on evangelism By Seyi Sokoya and Rita Okonoboh

HE Centre for Media Development, Catholic Arch diocese of Lagos, organised a seminar to keep nuns abreast with recent developments in media. The event took place at the Catholic Church of Ascension, Lagos, with the theme, ‘The Catholic Nun in a Digital Age.’ In his keynote address, Most Reverend (Dr) Emmanuel Badejo, Bishop of Oyo Diocese, urged nuns to engage the social media because of the freedom of expression that existing therein; charging nuns to take advantage of this liberty to bring about a positive change in the media. A guest speaker at the event, Mr Cletus Ilobanafor, founder, CEOFRICA, spoke on engaging the tools of social media for effective apostolate, noting the misconception by nuns and priests that the social media is for sinners. He said: “If you must be effective in evangelisation, you must engage the social media. The social media has come to stay and it’s an integral part of our system. “The new media is the future of communication. The church needs social media to evangelise in today’s world. If you must be very effective in your apostolate, you must understand what social media means and how you should use it for better apostolate.” Another guest speaker, the Very Reverend Father Mark Obayi who, spoke on fundamentals of human communication, highlighted means through which communication can be used for proper evangelism. “We can use communication to enhance people’s lives by talking about mercy, forgiveness and preaching the gospel. Communication cannot be said to be good or bad but in the way communication is engaged,” Obayi stated. The priest highlighted various models of communication and the advantages and disadvantages that are inherent in each model. The convener of the programme, Reverend Father Michael Umoh, grouped the nuns for a practical workshop and presentations were made by each group. In another development, the Pan-African Episcopal Committee of Social Com-

munications (CEPACS) has charged African churches to embrace its role in evangelism through media by providing support in all ramifications for stakeholders involved in speading the message of the gospel to the ends of the earth.

This was contained in a communiqué issued at the end of the meeting of CEPACS, held last week, comprising regional chairmen of social communications with the attendance of Secretaries of Communications, Catholic Media Council (CAM-

ECO), SIGNIS-Africa, the Union of Africa Catholic Press (UCAP), the Catholic News Agency for Africa and resource persons, who deliberated on issues concerning social communications of the church in Africa. The communiqué fur-

ther called for support to keep CEPACS dynamic as the umbrella body for the animation, coordination, formation and training of media practitioners at all levels and prayed that the spirit of commitment and dedication is extended to all the regional Bishops’

Participants at the CEPACS meeting. Bishops in the photo are: (in the front row: from left to right) Bishop Charles Kasonde of Zambia- AMECEA, in black cassock; Archbishop Joseph Ake of Cote d’ Ivoire-RECOWA-CERA; Bishop Louis Portella Mbuyu, First Vice-President of SECAM; Archbishop Jean Marie Speich, Apostolic Nuncio to Ghana an Bishop Emmanuel Badejo, President of CEPACS.

The Most Reverend (Dr) Joseph Olatunji Akinfenwa, Bishop of Ibadan Anglican Diocese (second left), with his wife and President, Women and Girls’ Organisation, Ibadan Diocese, Mrs Comfort Akinfenwa (third left); Mr Allen G. Babafemi (left); chairman of the ocassion, Dr (Mrs) Felicia Oduntan (second right) and Mrs Adenike Olagbaju (right), at the 45th Ibadan Diocese Mothers’ Union Conference, held at St. Anne’s Church, Molete, Ibadan, Oyo State, on Friday. Photo: D’TOYIN.

Mrs Akinfenwa calls on Nigerians to depend on Christ for victory By Tolu Olamiriki WIFE of the Bishop of Ibadan Diocese, Anglican Communion, Mrs Comfort Akinfenwa, on Friday, in Ibadan, called on Nigerians to remain focused and depend on Christ for their daily endeavours. Mrs Akinfenwa said this during the 45th annual Mothers’ Union conference tagged, “Jesus the way to the father,” held at St. Anne’s Church, Molete, Ibadan, Oyo State, adding that it is Jesus Christ who

can deliver the nation from its current socio-economic problem . The president of the Mothers’ Union, who noted the union had been training its members in various skills acquisition programme to make them relevant and self-reliant, said the union would continue to pursue evangelism vigorously through winning of souls to Christ and reach the unreached through its medical mission in rural areas. Akinfenwa stated that

the organisation of spiritual programmes would be given maximum priority while caring, supporting and prayers for those affected by crises will not be left out. She said that women empowerment and job creation for the youth would be given utmost priority while taking into consideration the welfare of the elderly, widows as well as orphans. While saying that impacting lives and homes for Christ would not be left out, she noted that investing as

well as projecting into the future, would be given pragmatic view. She, however, solicited for volunteers for adult education teaching classes as well as skills acquisition training and learning in Yoruba language for members Mrs Akinfenwa commended all relevant stakeholders that contributed significantly to the success of the 2016 conference, adding that the union would continue to pray for the corporate existence of the country.

Conferences on the continent. There was an appeal for “closer collaboration and cooperation between the continental social communications office and the various regional and national communication offices. To this effect, we urge all Bishops’ Conferences to revitalize their social communications offices so as to meet the needs of the communication apostolate for evangelisation.” The communiqué also commended Catholic media professionals and practitioners throughout Africa for their efforts at ensuring the betterment of society, and called on them to witness to their faith with courage through their activities for the evangelisation mission of the Church in Africa.

Prison Fellowship Nigeria concludes reformation course THE fourth in the series of The Prisoner’s Journey (TPJ) discipleship course, designed to reform prison inmates, has been concluded with a certificateawarding ceremony held at the Prison Chapel, Agodi, Ibadan, Oyo State, recently. The course was organised by the Prison Fellowship Nigeria (PFN), Oyo State chapter, a nonprofit and non-governmental organisation, and the ceremony attracted dignitaries such as the immediate past Chief Judge of Oyo State, Justice Bolajoko Adeniji, who chaired the occasion; Mrs. Otubu representing Mr. T. Ogunmola, the Comptroller of Prisons and Mrs Ajeleti, Chief Superintendent of prisons. Justice Adeniji, in her address, commended the organisers of the event for the initiative. Mrs Otubu, in her speech, expressed the appreciation of the prison authorities for the vision of PFN and the course, and charged the beneficiaries on contributing positively to development. Certificates of completion and copies of the Holy Bible were presented to the graduating inmates.

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Sunday Tribune

livingword

dawnofanewera with Most Revd J.O. Akinfenwa

By Bishop David Oyedepo Call 7747546-8; or e-mail: feedback@lfcww.org

When the righteous rule: Overcoming evil advisers

Unveiling the miracle power of thanksgiving! (2)

Bishop of Ibadan Anglican Diocese

Continued from last week ESTHER 3:8-11 And Haman said unto king Ahasuerus, There is a certain people scattered abroad and dispersed among the people in all the provinces of thy kingdom; and their laws are diverse from all people; neither keep they the king’s laws: therefore it is not for the king’s profit to suffer them. If it please the king, let it be written that they may be destroyed: and I will pay ten thousand talents of silver to the hands of those that have the charge of the business, to bring it into the king’s treasuries. And the king took his ring from his hand, and gave it unto Haman the son of Hammedatha the Agagite, the Jews’ enemy. And the king said unto Haman, The silver is given to thee, the people also, to do with them as it seemeth good to thee. An evil adviser was going to manipulate the king into committing genocide, if not for God’s divine intervention. God had graciously made a way of escape for the Jews in the person of Esther who had become queen around the same time. It was Esther that eventually blew open Haman’s evil plan, whereby at the end, the destruction that he planned for the Jews came upon him and his family. There was also Ahithophel, the evil counselor (2Samuel 15). Ahithophel was David’s counselor who detected and joined Absalom’s rebellion. Truly, he had the pedigree of a great royal adviser: 2 Samuel 16:23 And the counsel of

Ahithophel, which he counselled in those days, was as if a man had enquired at the oracle of God: so was all the counsel of Ahithophel both with David and with Absalom. However, he had a moral lapse. His quest for personal gain and advancement, or his desperation to remain in the corridors of power, made him to subvert his king and join forces with insurrectionists. His end was similar to the end of Ahithophel. God disgraced and destroyed him. 2 Samuel 17:23 And when Ahithophel saw that his counsel was not followed, he saddled his ass, and arose, and gat him home to his house, to his city, and put his household in order, and hanged himself, and died, and was buried in the sepulchre of his father. Today, our prayer for our leaders, with respect to evil counselors that may surround them, should be similar to the prayer that David prayed to God concerning Ahithophel: 2 Samuel 15:31 And one told David, saying, Ahithophel is among the conspirators with Absalom. And David said, 0 LORD, I pray thee, turn the counsel of Abithophel into foo’ishness. As we approach the first year anniversary of the current political leadership, may the Lord expel from the corridors of power all those who manipulate readership to obstruct common good and advance sinister, selfish or clannish interests; in Jesus’ mighty name. Amen.

WELCOME to another exciting week. Last week, we began this teaching with the understanding that thanksgiving is one of the great mysteries in the Kingdom because in it lies unimaginable values. We also examined two miracle powers embedded in thanksgiving. This week, we shall continue this teaching series by exploring two other qualities inherent in thanksgiving. From scriptures, we discover that Thanksgiving multiplies our blessings: The mystery of thanksgiving guarantees the multiplication of God’s blessings in our lives. For instance, when Jesus gave thanks, five loaves of bread and two fishes multiplied supernaturally and fed five thousand men excluding women and children (John 6:6-11; Psalms 67:5-7). It entitles us to fresh oil: Speaking on thanksgiving, David said: It is a good thing to give thanks unto the Lord, and to sing praises unto thy name, O most High. To shew forth thy loving kindness in the morning, and thy faithfulness every night. Thereafter, he said: But my horn shalt thou exalt like the horn of a unicorn: I shall be anointed with fresh oil (Psalms 92:1-2, 10). That means thanksgiving and praise are covenant platforms through which we encounter fresh oil from God. Again, we saw in scripture how David praised God seven times a day and God speaking of him, said: I have found Da-

vid my servant; with my holy oil have I anointed him: With whom my hand shall be established: mine arm also shall strengthen him. The enemy shall not exact upon him; nor the son of wickedness afflict him. And I will beat down his foes before his face, and plague them that hate him (Psalms 89:20-23; see also Psalms 119:164). Furthermore, Apostle Paul, whom God anointed to write two-third of the New Testament, said: In everything give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you (1 Thessalonians 5:18). That means the exploits of Paul recorded in scriptures are traceable to a life of thanksgiving. Therefore, the more addicted we are to thanksgiving, the fresher the oil on our lives. However, it is important to understand that just as thanksgiving guarantees the flow of fresh oil, murmuring and complaining dries up the flow. I pray that the flow of fresh oil in your life will never run dry in the name of Jesus Christ! Remain ever blessed! (Joel 1:10-12). Are you born again? If you are not, you can say this prayer and you will be born again: “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!”

theapostolicmessage By Pastor (Dr) G.O. Olutola JP.

Hidden riches of secret places From left, Reverend (Mrs) Yinka Badejo; Archbishop of El-Shaddai Church, Lanre Obembe; Guest Speaker and ViceChancellor, Bells University of Technology, Ota, Professor Isaac Adebayo Adeyemi and former General Overseer, Foursquare Gospel Church and Founder, Wilson Badejo Foundation (WBF), Reverend Wilson Badejo, at the 9th annual lecture of WBF held at NIIA, Victoria Island, Lagos State, recently. PHOTO: SYLVESTER OKORUWA.

Reverend Badejo tasks govt on technical training for underprivileged Sylvester Okoruwa-Lagos FORMER General Overseer of Foursquare Gospel Church and founder of Wilson Badejo Foundation, Reverend Wilson Badejo, has called on the Federal Government to set up more technical institutions to provide training for the underprivileged in the society to empower them by rechanneling their energies from crime into productive activities. He stated this at the 9th annual lecture of the Wilson Badejo Foundation, held at the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs, Victoria Island, Lagos State, last week. Speaking on the activities of the foundation which were enumerated to include caring for the underprivi-

leged, non-Christians and Christians alike, Badejo stated that the foundation not only provided for their needs, but also “teaches them how to fish, thereby making them self-reliant, financially and spiritually.” The guest speaker and

Vice-Chancellor, Bells University of Technology, Professor Isaac Adebayo Adeyemi, in his lecture entitled “Nigeria and the Rising tide of Poverty,” called for intensified efforts on the part of government to address the issues of unemployment.

Women set to break barriers at 2016 Unique Woman Conference

THIS year’s Unique Woman Conference, an interdenominational women conference comes up next Saturday, at WOCOM Centre, Onireke, Ibadan, Oyo State. The conference which has been on for 24 years is expected to draw huge attendance from around the country and abroad. The theme this year’s conference is Women On The

Move: Breaking Barriers. It will hold from 8.00 a.m to 5.00 p.m. Expected guest speakers at the event are Apostle Nkechi Anayo, Rev. (Mrs) Funke Felix Adejumo, among others, while Pastor (Mrs) Omowumi Popoola, an inspirational speaker and lawyer by profession who has a prophetic calling for women ministry is the chief host.

AND I will give thee the treasures of darkness, and hidden riches of secret places, that thou mayest know that I, the Lord, which call thee by thy name, am the God of Israel. (Isa. 45:3) The Master Key which the Lord has handed over to us to open the door of our hidden treasure is not man-made. It was God Himself who made it and handed over it to us. For instance King Jehoshaphat and the Israelites were surrounded by the enemies who were threatening them seriously and God directed Jehoshaphat to appoint singers who would be singing songs of praise to the Lord. (I Chr. 20:17). Consequently the Lord destroyed their enemies for them. It is significant to note that the word of the Lord in Isaiah 45:3 was actually given to a Gentile ruler, Cyrus who had been anointed for special assignments. So, it is a divine empowerment to enable him successfully execute what God wanted to achieve by raising him. God is the power over all powers, and He anoints who He chooses for His special tasks. Cyrus had a task to do for Israel: He was to allow the rebuild of Jerusalem, and set the exiles free without expecting anything in return. We that are formerly gentiles to the Kingdom of God have been called into the commonwealth of the anointed in our acceptance and believe in the only begotten son of God. Therefore we can claim the prophecy because, by our calling, we are to do exploit for the Lord. He who called us is able to empower us; He has the au-

thority and power and dominion to endow us with the resources no matter where such may be hidden. These are the treasures, with which we are able to do exploit for the Lord, treading upon Satan, overcoming the fiery darts of the devil and breaking down high places. With those treasures we live peaceably in the Lord. Treasure, according to Wycliffe Bible Dictionary, “refers to available accumulation of money or other forms of wealth such as gems, rich clothing or precious metals. It could be the treasure of Kings (Isa.39:2) or temple (I Kings 14:25-26) or of a rich man (Luk. 12:21). Hidden riches are treasures which cannot be seen physically by human beings, but are visible to God, because nothing is hidden from Him. These treasures are hidden from man at times, due to prevailing circumstances, tribulation or our not being patient enough. They can also be covered up by the evil blankets of the wicked ones. To get these hidden treasures requires hard-work, patience, carefulness and thorough searching. They are not easily got most times. As the Israelites got victory over their enemies by praising God during the time of King Jehoshaphat so we would get over all the hindrances, contrary powers and schemes of the enemies that are preventing us from getting the key to our hidden treasures. When talking about treasure we talk about certain gems which were hitherto unknown to us but revealed by the Lord to give us life in abundance.

12 June, 2016

language&style

by Samson Dare 0805 500 1770 samsonadare@yahoo.co.uk

Another harvest of errors (V)

EXT, we note the structure, “the annual durbar have been kept on hold…” The word have (as different from has) is a plural form of the verb. The noun form with which it is supposed to be in grammatical agreement is durbar. But is durbar a plural noun? No. It is a singular noun. As a singular noun, it can only be in agreement with has. What is the difference between have and has? This raises a fundamental question about grammatical agreement or concord, an issue we have addressed in this place several times before. But this matter is so important that no amount of time spent on it is wasted. In fact, it is a matter that needs to be revisited from time to time. Consider the following sentences: 1) I go to school every day. 2) We go to school every day. 3) They go to school every day. 4) You go to school every day. 5) He/She goes to school every day. In each of those five sentences, the verb to go is in its present simple form. There is a correlation between the form of the subject and the form of the verb. In the first sentence, the subject is in its first person singular form. The assumption here is that there is a speaker who uses the pronoun I. The speaker is regarded as the first person. Since the speaker is only one person, the pronoun I is said to be a singular one. A first person singular pronoun I takes the form go when the tense is present simple. The subject in sentence (2) is a first person plural pronoun, we. Since it is assumed that two or more persons are speaking, we say that the pronoun is in the plural form. As it is with the pronoun I, the verb-form that goes with this pronoun is go when the verb is in its everyday form. In sentence (3), the pronoun they, which is the subject, is in the plural form. Besides, it is the third person form. What do we mean by the third person? A first person---say I---speaks to a person directly about another person. That other person is a third person. In our case, the third person is plural---they. The verb-form that goes with the third person plural subject isgo. The subject of sentence (4) is you, a word that can either be singular or plural. In English, it is only the context that shows whether the pronoun you is intended as singular or plural as the following sentences illustrate: (6)(a) You are a fool. (6)(b) You are fools. In those two sentences, it is the complement that indicates the number. In (a), youis singular; in (b), it is plural. Now we come back to sentence (4). Whenever the pronoun you occurs, whether as singular or plural, the verb-form it takes is go. Youis a second person. A first person--I—speaks to a second person—you—about a third person. Sentence (5) hashe (or she) as its subject. This form is a singular one and it is a third person. A first person—I—speaks to a second person—you—about a third person—he. The third person singular number-- represented as he—invariably takes the verb-form goes. Of all the persons and numbers we have considered so far, it is only the third person singular number—he— that takes the verb-form that ends in s or es as the case may be. All other persons and numbers take the verb go—without the s or es. This distinction is very crucial and a failure to understand it has resulted in many users writing ungrammatical sentences. The distinction is a very clear one and you should make effort to grasp this elementary detail before you go on. The other point we need to make is that the verb go has been used only as an illustration to avoid confusion. Any other verb in English behaves in exactly the same way as go, relative to the persons and numbers discussed so far. The following sentences illustrate the point: 7) Hespeaks good English. 8) He writes a lot. 9) Sheloves the man. 10) He deceives most people. 11) It wags its tail. 12) He drives dangerously. 13) She possesses a balanced mind. 14) She sings beautifully. 15) She works round the clock. 16) It surprises me—this sudden change of mind. 17) Hecomes from a wealthy family. Unlike the third person singular number (he, she, it), all other persons and numbers take the form of the verb without the s or es: 18) They speak good English. 19) We love each other. 20) Youwrite a lot. 21) I work round the clock. 22) They possess balanced minds. 23) You drive dangerously. 24) We

sing beautifully. 25) Theysurprise us. 26) You come from a wealthy family. 27) They deceive their friends. 28) They wag their tails. Before we make the next point about the subjects of these constructions and their relationship to their verbs, we want to introduce another verb-form, have. For the purpose of our discussion, we recognize three forms of the verb have. These are: have, has, and had. For the moment, we are interested in the distinction between have and has: 29) I have some books. 30) We have some books. 31) They have some books. 32) You have some books. 33) He has some books. From sentences (29)-(33), we can see that all the persons and numbers except the third person singular number (he) take have. The third person singular takes has. It is now obvious that the form goes and similar forms such as: speaks, reads, writes, etcare related in concord to the third person singular subjects. Notice that in sentences (29)-(33), the verb-forms have and has have been used as main verbs and not as auxiliaries. When they are used as auxiliaries in perfect tenses, they behave in exactly the same way in relation to the persons and numbers of the subjects. Consider the following sentences: 34) I have bought some books. 35) We have bought some books. 36) They have bought some books. 37) Youhave bought some books. 38) He has bought some books. Again, notice that has is used only in sentence (38) in which the subject is a third person singular pronoun. It is also important to note that the distinction we have made between have and has disappears in the past form. The past form of both have and has is had. Similarly, the distinction between speak and speaks, write and writes, sing and sings, etc disappears in the past form. For example, the past form of both go and goes is went; of both write and writes is wrote; of both sing and sings is sang. Compare the following sentences: 39 (a) They had bought some books. (b) He had bought some books. 40 (a) We sang beautifully. (b) She sang beautifully. 41 (a) I worked round the clock. (b) He worked round the clock. 42 (a) You had some books. (b) She had some books. The pairs of sentences in (39)-(42) demonstrate that the distinctions we have pointed out between the verb forms that go with the third person singular subjects and all others do not apply in the past form. The major point we have noted is the distinction between such forms as have and has; go and goes; write and writes; speak and speaks; work and works. Can you relate those verb-forms to their corresponding subjectforms? Next, we draw attention to the fact that the pronouns we have used as illustrations can be replaced by nouns or noun phrases: 43) Olu goes to school every day. 44) Olu and Ayo go to school every day. 5) My friend and I go to school every day. Sentence (43) has a singular subject (Olu) and therefore attracts the form of the verb with es. The word Olu can be replaced with the pronoun he---which we have described as the third person singular number. Each of the other two sentences has a plural subject and therefore takes the form of the verb without es. We can use the verb have with each of the subjects in those three sentences: 46) Olu has a book. 47) Olu and Ayo have two books. 48) Myfriend and I have two books. Finally, we note the expression kept on hold. The word requiring our attention is kept. You do not keep something on hold. You put it on hold. When you put an activity or event on hold, you suspend or postpone it. Now read the following sentences: 1) The debate on sexual harassment has been put on hold by the national assembly. 2) During the national mourning, all ceremonies were put on hold. 3) The activities scheduled to take place today will have to be put on hold. 4) The Management has put the planned increase in salaries onhold until all grey areas in the MOU are clarified. 5) The NLC has decided to put its proposed strike on hold.

Sunday Tribune

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life with

Niyi Osundare

Random Blues (They say the Poet insulted their crimes II)

They said the Poet abused their King And they sent the rain to blight his parade Yes, they said the Poet abused their King And they sent the rain to blight his parade Their scorpion which lay many moons beneath the rock Sprang, tail-up, with a sizzling sting Mercenary politicians, dealers in dirt and death Perfidious their promise, cannibal their carnage, See, mercenary politicians, dealers in dirt and death Perfidious their promise, cannibal their carnage How can the Poet sing about these seasons Without rousing stanzas about their lethal damage? But hear this, oh King with the stolen crown Listen hard and hear the streets Say, hear this, oh King with the stolen crown Listen hard and hear the streets There is a cloud gathering above the hills Behind them the cheated whom your deed mistreats You may have enough money to buy time Your bribers know the chambers of dirty judges Yes, you may have enough money to buy time Your foot soldiers know the chambers of dirty judges But Noble Justice is beyond your price No pardon exists for your serial crime They said the Poet abused their King And they sent foul threats to still his voice Yes, they said the Poet abused their King And they sent foul threats to still his voice Strange country, strange times Conscience leaves me no room for a safer choice

news

12 June, 2016

Afenifere Renewal Group wants June 12 presidential election results published

•June 12, foundation of Nigeria’s democracy —Lagos Assembly Speaker Bola Badmus and Chukwuma Okparaocha-Lagos

FENIFERE Renewal Group has called on the Federal Government to release the official results of the June 12, 1993 presidential election, which was presumed to have been won by late Chief M.K.O. Abiola. In a press statement signed by its chairman, Mr Olawale Oshun, to commemorate the 23rd anniversary of June 12, ARG said President Muhammadu Buhari, as the beneficiary of a ballot revolution that mostly mirrored that of 1993, owes Nigerians the duty of declassifying the results, particularly now that 23 years have elapsed and the Official Secret Act can no longer be binding on the document. ARG, according to the statement, believes this will “reverse the stigma oc-

casioned by the foolish act of cancelling that election, adjudged to be the most peaceful in the history of Nigeria. It will also open up the hypocrisy of military rule and help project democracy as a better form of government. “June 12 is no longer a struggle but now an obligation. The people have played their own part. It is now the obligation of the beneficiaries of that struggle to set the country on a truly democratic path by deliberately replacing every stamp of military rule on Nigeria’s nationhood, including the imposed governance structure and constitution, through democratic rights and tenets. There is no alternative way to deepen democracy in Nigeria,” the statement said. “Let nobody be deceived. Until the Federal Government takes conscious steps

to restructure Nigeria, the country will continue to wobble from one crisis of nationhood to another. To continue to ignore this necessity is a tacit support by elected officials for everything that transpired during the military era and this is why military rule has transited to ‘do or die’ politics and citizens now believed they have a right to take up arms against their country.” ARG therefore called on President Buhari, “as a former military ruler and now a self-confessed democrat, to see himself as best poised to help Nigeria make this transition. This can be his best legacy and the starting point, we dare say, is to release the June 12 presidential election result and its winner appropriately recognised and honoured.” Meanwhile, Speaker of

the Lagos State House of Assembly, Honourable Mudashiru Obasa, has described the June 12, 1993 presidential election as the fountain from which the present democratic dispensation derived its source. Obasa gave this assessment in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Musbau Rasak, on the 23rd celebration of the election. “It was a historic election which was adjudged the freest, fairest and most peaceful election, not only in Nigeria but also on the continent of Africa. It was indeed a watershed in Nigeria’s political history; a moment of joy for the people; the ultimate triumph of the people’s will over brute force,” the Speaker said. According to Obasa, perhaps without June 12 election and the struggle to actualise it, the country might still be under military dictatorship.

Sunday Tribune

We lose N233m to electricity theft monthly —P/Harcourt DISCO Anthony Ubong-Calabar THE Port Harcourt Electricity Distribution Company (PHEDC) has said it loses N233 million to electricity theft monthly. Head of Revenue Protection of the PHEDC, Nsikak Udi, disclosed this on Saturday during an interactive session with newsmen in Calabar, Cross River State. Udi said PHEDC suffered greatly from electricity theft, adding that available statistics showed that about 7.19 per cent of consumers indulged in electricity theft. He said that investigation carried out by PHEDC also showed that over 9,000 customers were using electricity without payment. “We carried out field operation and discovered that about 9,000 customers were using light without paying for it, and that should not be allowed. What they use monthly is equivalent to about 7.5 megawatt. This is a cankerworm that is affecting everybody,” Udi stated.

Civil Defence arrests 2 vandals, recovers 3,000 jerry cans Olayinka Olukoya-Abeokuta IN its bid to stem economic sabotage, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Ogun State command, has arrested two people identified as Afees Olohunwa (33) and Ayoola James (21) over pipeline vandalism. Sunday Tribune gathered that the suspects, who were apprehended at Oluwo-Ifote village in Obafemi Owode Local Government Area of the state, specialised in destroying pipelines along the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway. Items recovered from the suspects included 16 vehicles and motorcycles and 3,000 jerry cans, some of which were filled with petrol, ready for transportation, before the hands of the law caught up on them. The state commandant of the NSCDC, Mr Akinwande Aboluwoye, who conducted newsmen round the scene of the crime, explained that his men swooped on the saboteurs in the early hours of Friday, adding that some of the suspected vandals escaped.

Group wants Senator Adeola to contest election in Ogun By Dare Adekanmbi

A container landing on a truck at the popular Kara cattle market, on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, on Friday. PHOTO: NAN.

Festac Town killing: Civil Defence yet to hand over suspect to us —Police THE Lagos State Police Command has said that the investigation into the killing of a petrol hawker on April 6 in Festac Town had not been abandoned. The command’s spokes-

person, DSP Dolapo Badmos, told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Lagos, on Saturday, that the suspected killer of the hawker was yet to be handed over by the Nigeria Se-

curity Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) for interrogation. NAN reported that a man allegedly died when operatives believed to be from the NSCDC were trying to arrest and seize jerry cans

6-yr-old girl burnt to death inside Lagos church during vigil THE Lagos State Fire Service has said that a sixyear-old girl was burnt to death in a church in the early hours of Saturday in Egbeda area of the state. The director of the service, Mr Rasak Fadipe, told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) that the

incident occurred at about 2:00 a.m. at Faith Revival Church. Fadipe said that the inferno affected the boys’ quarters of the church, while a vigil was going on at the main auditorium. “We met the fire raging

when we arrived. It was after the fire was put out that we discovered the girl’s burnt body in one of the rooms. “The church authorities were yet to ascertain the cause of the fire. We finally put out the fire at about 5:00 a.m.,” he said.

of petrol from the hawkers. The situation was brought under control by the police and other security agents. “Investigation into the killing is still on, but the suspect has not been handed over to the police. “We have requested the Lagos State command of the NSCDC to hand over the suspect for interrogation and there is nothing we can do for now,’’ Badmos said. Efforts to get the NSCDC spokesman in the state, Mr Chibuzor Mefor, to comment on the development were unsuccessful as he did not responds to calls or SMS sent to him.

A coalition of youths under the aegis of the Ijebu Youth for Good Governance (IYGG), led by its president, Mr Ismail Ajayi, has congratulated the senator representing Lagos West Senatorial District, Senator Olamilekan Adeola, on his attainment of one year in office. The group, in a statement on Saturday, after its quarterly meeting in Ijebu Ode, Ogun State, said Senator Adeola, an Ogun State indigene, deserved commendation for prioritising the welfare of his constituents. The group also called on Senator Adeola to return to Ogun State and replicate his achievements in the Lagos West District in the Gateway State. According to the president, the entreaty had become necessary following the agitation and clamour for good governance by the people of the state.

Our president, spokesman not sacked, says Ijaw youth parliament THE parliamentary arm of the Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) has dispelled rumours that the body suspended its president and spokesman, Udengs Eradiri and Eric Omare, respectively. Speaker of the parliament, Mr Mkpon Ijonama, told newsmen in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, on Saturday that the body passed a vote of confidence on the two executive members. He described the purported suspension of the two executives as “laughable, unthinkable and of no effect.’’ Ijonama said, “The purported suspension of Udengs Eradiri and Eric Omare by the National Secretary, Legal Adviser and others is out of order. “Before the purported suspension, none of the officials was found guilty of any offence. “We have not received letters from the National Executive Council. We have since found out that the purported suspension was not in order and therefore, it is null and void and of no effect.’’ Ijonama explained that moves by some members of the executives to unseat the president and spokesman did not follow the procedures spelt out in the body’s constitution.

news

12 June, 2016

Many escape death as container falls on truck on Lagos-Ibadan express road •Julius Berger, RCC return to express road

OME road users on Lagos-Ibadan Expressway escaped death when an articulated vehicle carrying a 40-foot container skidded off the highway and fell on a parked truck. The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reported that the accident occurred on Friday on the road where the popular Kara Cattle Market is located. The articulated vehicle with registration number FST 477 XS carrying the container had lost two rear tyres which made it to skid off the road.

NAN reported that in the process its load destroyed the front of the other trailer marked XF 711 KTN, leaving the windscreen, steering and engine mangled. Some eyewitnesses told NAN that it was a miracle that no life was lost in the incident as people were standing at the spot when the accident occurred. A trader at Kara Market, Malam Mohammed Rabiu, told NAN that some passengers waiting for commercial vehicles at the spot scampered for safety as the driver lost control of the vehicle. Another trader, Malam

Garba Rabo, said that he was one of those who ran for his dear life. He pointed at the two burst rear tyres of the vehicle which, according to him, caused the vehicle’s driver to lose control and skid off road. Meanwhle, the two construction giants — Julius Berger Nigeria Plc and Reynolds Construction Company (RCC) — have returned to site to resume work on the LagosIbadan Expressway. Reconstruction and rehabilitation works on the highway were suspended due to some issues with the Federal Government

which included funding. A NAN correspondent, who took a trip on the highway on Saturday, reported that officials of both Julius Berger and RCC were seen moving heavy equipment to the site with their men already mobilised to work on the various sections. NAN investigations revealed that Julius Berger began work on Friday, while RCC moved to site on Tuesday. NAN observed piles of crash barriers at Wawa, which is part of Section One from Lagos to Sagamu interchange, being handled by Julius Berger.

Sunday Tribune

32,000 children risk death in Jigawa over malnutrition —UNICEF Adamu Amadu-Dutse

A survey by the United Nation Children Emergency Fund (UNICEF) has indicated that no fewer than 32, 000 children were at risk of losing their lives as a result of inadequate nutrition in Jigawa State. This was disclosed by a UNICEF nutrition specialist, Philomena Irene, in a paper presented at a workshop held at Manpower Development Institute in Dutse. According to the research, 600,000 children of the 1,100,000 under five-year-old in Jigawa were stunted which was more than the national average. She further revealed that at least 165,000 children of six to 59 months old were malnourished and were nine times likely to die without treatment. Irene explained that as part of the WINNN project sustainability strategy, ORIE was engaged by DFID to conduct operational research that they would contribute to greater and wider awareness for nutrition.

Avengers: Violence won’t end Niger Delta problems —Ex-militant Clement Idoko-Abuja

AN ex-militant in the Niger Delta, Tamunotonye Kuna alias Obase, has said that the ongoing destruction and bombing of oil installations by a new group of militants, Niger Delta Avengers, will further compound the problems of the region. Tamunotonye, who spoke with newsmen in Abuja on the recent development in the Niger Delta region, urged the militants to embrace dialogue and the olive branch offered by the Federal Government. He commended the amnesty granted former militants by the late President Umaru Yar’Adua that led to relative peace in the region, saying violence would aggravate the situation in Niger Delta because of its negative impact on the nation’s economy which the region is not insulated from. Tamunotonye appealed to the Federal Government todo proper investigation with a view to including some of them who were left out of the amnesty programme.

From right, Chair, 1st ICC Africa Regional Arbitration Conference Planning Committee, Mrs Dorothy Udeme Ufot; Secretary General, International Chamber of Commerce (ICC), Mrs. Olubunmi Osuntuyi; members of the planning committee, Africa Regional Arbitration Conference, Mrs Sotonye Amachree, Mr. Nelson Ogbuanga and Mr Festus Onyia; at a press briefing to formally announce the 1st ICC Africa Regional Arbitration Conference sponsored by Globacom at Eko Hotel and Suites, Lagos, recently.

10 Boko Haram terrorists killed, 12 arrested •Woman, her baby rescued Chris Agbambu-Abuja

TROOPS of 3 Battalion, 22 Task Force Brigade, on Friday, killed 10 suspected Boko Haram terrorists, captured two and rescued a woman with her baby who were held hostage by the terrorists. The feat followed an information received that Boko Haram terrorists earlier dislodged at Chukun-

gudu and Hausari villages during a recent clearance operations and were heading towards Muska village in Gamboru Ngala Local Government Area. During the encounter, the troops also recovered several equipment, arms and ammunition that included six AK-47 rifle magazines, 56 rounds of 7.62m (Special) rounds of ammunition, one bundle of

detonating cord, a manual on how to prepare Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) two rifle magazine pouches, a Tecno Pad, a Nokia mobile telephone handset and one Gionee mobile telephone handset. Others included one Digital camera, six SIM cards, three memory cards and one Airtel modem. The troops also recovered a wristwatch, two Islamic

Bright future for arbitration Africa with support from Glo, others —ICC THERE is a bright future for arbitration in Africa judging by the massive support received from continental business giants led by Nigeria’s next generation network, Globacom. This assertion was made in Lagos at the weekend by the chairperson of the planning committee of the first International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) Africa Regional Arbitration Conference, Mrs Dorothy

Udeme-Ufot, at a press conference to formally announce the conference that is to take place in Lagos State from June 19 to 21. Mrs Ufot said the support shown by leading corporate bodies in Nigeria was overwhelming. “Nigeria’s data grandmasters, Globacom, led the way by offering us a massive financial support to ensure the successful hosting of this event in Nigeria. Once Globacom supported

us, it had been success all the way. Every other corporate body we turned to accepted to offer us their support in various capacities,” she said. The chairperson particularly thanked Globacom Chairman, Dr. Mike Adenuga, for believing in arbitration and accepting to be part of the continent’s first ICC arbitration. She equally expressed gratitude to all the other sponsors who agreed to support the conference.

books, an empty bag and two motorcycles. The captured terrorists are said to be undergoing preliminary interrogation, while the rescued woman and her child are receiving attention pending onward movement to Internally Displaced Persons (IDP). camp. Similarly, another element of the battalion also conducted another fighting patrol to Wumbi village based on received information on the presence of remnants of Boko Haram terrorists in the area. The patrol team recovered 157 rounds of 7.62mm (NATO) ammunition and 37 rounds of 7.62mm (Special) ammunition. In a related development, troops of 22 Brigade Garrison intercepted 15 IDPs, all male adults, approaching Dikwa from Mudu Kasa village. They revealed that some Boko Haram terrorists occasionally visit and terrorise their village and forcefully collect food and valuables.

Ogun doctors to commence ‘staggered’ strike tomorrow Olayinka Olukoya-Abeokuta

DOCTORS under the umbrella of the National Association of Government General Medical and Dental Practitioners (NAGGMDP), Ogun State chapter, will commence what it described as ‘staggered’ strike from tomorrow. Addressing newsmen at the weekend at the Nigeria Medical Association House, Abeokuta, the association’s chairman and secretary, Drs Oladunni Adetola and Adetonwa Festus respectively, said that the strike became necessary in view of some issues affecting the health sector in the state. The association alleged that there had been shortage of manpower in all the general hospitals across the state, stressing that the development had affected good healthcare delivery system in the state.

FRSC arrests suspected retreaded tyre specialist THE Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) unit in Zaria, Kaduna State, said it had arrested a 50-year-old man, Mohammed Tudunwada, who allegedly specialised in retreading old tyres. Commander of the unit, Mr Boyi Ali-Maigari, told newsmen on Saturday in Zaria that the suspect’s factory was located at Tudun Wada area of the town, where he had been perpetrating his illegal business. He said that the suspect had not showed any sign of remorse over his activity. Ali-Maigari attributed most road crashes to tyre problems, saying that there were cases of tyre violations by motorists. “Investigation has shown that most drivers patronise the retreaded tyres which are being used to ply our roads not minding the consequences on human lives,” he said.

CHANGE OF NAME

I, formerly Gasaliyu Khadijat Abidemi now DOCTOR (MRS) ADEDOSU KHADIJAT ABIDEMI. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

news

12 June, 2016

Sunday Tribune

June 12 Mimiko rolls out free buses for schools

Ondo State governor, Dr Olusegun Mimiko and his wife, Olukemi, taking a ride with pupils, at the launching of the free school shuttle buses for Ondo State pupils.

FG demotes director on GL17 to GL10 in aviation sector cleansing 40 GMs, deputy GMs affected Shola Adekola -Lagos

HE long-awaited cleansing in the country’s aviation sector may have finally started as information filtered into the sector, on Saturday that the Federal Government, through the Ministry of Transport, has downgraded over 40 General Managers and deputy general managers at the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN). The Minister of State for Aviation, Senator Hadi Sirika, has recently complained about the huge number of general managers in FAAN, declaring that he could not work with such a huge size. Following the decision to downgrade some top personnel at FAAN, a particular staff member formerly placed on level 17 was demoted to level 10 and redeployed to another department in the same organization. Another staff member still in the organisation, who rose through the ranks to become a director, was

said to have been moved to the Ministry of Culture and Tourism. The demotion exercise followed a petition written to the then Ministry of Aviation by the industry unions, who complained that personnel were unfairly placed in the agency. Prior to the demotion exercise, a letter was issued from the Ministry of Transport a week ago for the demotion of some of the personnel to levels 10, 12 and 14. According to information

gathered, some of the affected General Managers who were demoted graduated in 2008 and 2010 and were placed on Levels 16 and 17 when they were brought into the system by a former minister of aviation about five years ago. The government is said to be worried that FAAN’s overhead cost is about N800 million monthly. The development came just as the minister was alleged to have equally engaged almost 50 personnel in the Nigerian Civil Avia-

Ambode swears in 57 LG, LCDA sole administrators tomorrow Bola Badmus -Lagos LAGOS State governor, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode, will tomorrow, swear-in 57 newly appointed sole administrators expected to oversee the 20 local governments and 37 local council development areas in the state. In a statement issued on Saturday by the Secretary to the State Government, Mr. Tunji Bello, Governor Ambode will swear-in the new appointees at the Banquet

Hall, Lagos House, Ikeja. Those to be sworn-in include: Ayeni A. Babatunde; Adebayo Taoheed; Adekunle Julius; Samuel Ojo; Jacob Kent; Mrs. Bashorun Bolanle A.; Gbenga Abiola; Olumide Olayomi; Mrs. Yeyintola D. Agaba; Isa Abiola Jubril; Yusuf Temitope; Alhaji Musa Nasir A.; Ogunleye Gbolahon; Babatunde Adetunji; Olu Ogunniyi; Sola Akande; Alhaji Wasiu Sanni; Abiola Kolawole Esrom; Muyiwa Okesanya and

Tambuwal donates office apartment to UNICEF, signs MoU SOKOTO State governor, Aminu Waziri Tambuwal, on Saturday, donated an office apartment that will serve as field office for the United Nations International Children’s Fund (UNICEF) in Sokoto, Zamfara and Kebbi states. The building, officially opened by the governor on Saturday, in Sokoto, will house various departments of the agency. Before the opening of the new office apartment, the

tion Authority (NCAA) in the last one month. Most of the new personnel engaged by Sirika were support staff, posted to the Abuja office of NCAA and were given management positions, which has sparked controversy across the sector. Sunday Tribune gathered that plans to reduce the 11 directorates in FAAN to six by the ministry were nearing conclusion, with a similar plan in the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) and NCAA.

Sokoto State government and the UNICEF signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on child education, health and malnutrition in the state. The agreement was signed by Tambuwal and UNICEF’s Country Representative in Nigeria, Ms Jean Gough. Speaking at the ceremony, Tambuwal said: “We have, so far, met our target for school enrollment for 2016. Signing this agreement is one event we have been

waiting for, as it will ensure the improvement of the lives of children in various sectors of development. “We look forward to collaborating with any organisation across the globe in making the state achieve all necessary needs across all sectors,” he added. The governor assured that the government remained committed to the course of children’s welfare despite the challenges confronting it.

Shukura Okeowo. Others are: William Lawanson; Label Raji; Ibrahim Adigun; Mrs. Samiat O. Raji; Segun Anifowoshe; Sherif Balogun; Ilelaboye Rasaq; Mrs. Stella Kokumo; Yinka Kazeem; Quadri Ganiu; Princess Abiodun Elegushi; Mrs. Doyin Y. Salami; Ms Soikoya Abimbola; Bolaji Adele Solomon; Mrs. Animawun Adejumoke; Shefiu O. Osinnuga; Adefuye Bayo; Biodun Agbaje; Genesis N. Williams; Biodun Taiwo; Okinurudeen Bamidele; Goke Ona Olawale; Abdul Adewale; Femi John; Sanya Oshijo; Ipaye N. Adeleke; Tunde Alao; Are B. Abiola; Samson Akerele Oloyede; James Agboola; Princess Aderemi Adebowale; Rotimi Ogunwuyi; Olufemi Okedeyi; Rojaiye A. Olayemi; Surakat O. Idogun; Emmanuel Aguda and Habib Aileru. The statement added that the 57 sole administrators, after being sworn in, would take charge of their various councils pending the conduct of elections at the councils later this year.

TO commemorate the anniversary of the annulment of the June 12, 1993 election that was presumably won by the late Chief MKO Abiola as president, Ondo State governor, Dr Olusegun Mimiko, has rolled out additional free shuttle buses for public primary and secondary school pupils in the state. The Commissioner for Information, Mr Kayode Akinmade, who stated this in a statement, said the fleet of buses in the free shuttle scheme meant to ease the transportation hassle of the pupils had increased to 90 from 39 they were in 2012 when the programme started. Akinmade explained that the Mimiko-led administration had always remembered the MKO Abiola annually through the organisation of lectures and symposia and inauguration of projects. “It is a tribute to efficient management that, till date, that all the buses that are on the road are in good condition. The Mimiko administration had taken bold steps to institutionalise the programme through a bill to the Ondo State House of Assembly, which will ensure that the programme outlives it. “That is a hallmark of progressivism. It has also honoured its pledge to extend the services of the buses, and shuttle boats, to the remaining local government areas in the state which were previously not enjoying it,” the statement said.

June 12 remains the authentic Democracy Day —Aregbesola Oluwole Ige -Osogbo GOVERNOR Rauf Aregbesola of Osun State, on Saturday, described June 12, 1993, as the most suitable and proper day to mark Democracy Day in Nigeria. Aregbesola, in his address marking the 23rd anniversary of June 12, said it was the date Nigerians freely expressed their choice on who should be their leader and a day of unequivocal affirmation of the unity of the country by Nigerians across all divides. He said Nigerians and lovers of democracy would remain committed to June 12 as a political watershed in the annals of the nation, saying May 29 only symbolises the day the military handed over the affairs of the country to a democratically elected government. Aregbesola, who maintained that June 12, 1993 was a day Nigerians united to vote the acclaimed winner of the presidential election, late MKO Abiola, without recourse to religion, ethnicity or ideology, observed that the unity with which the multi-ethnic groups spoke and acted is what is being celebrated till today. He, however, noted that since the annulment of that election 23 years ago, Nigerians waited another 16 years for a leader that would take them to the promised land until the emergence of President Muhammad Buhari in 2015.

June 12: Rename Abuja Stadium after Abiola, Rep member urges Buhari by Dare Adekanmbi

THE lawmaker representing Ojo Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Honourable Tajudeen Obasa, has urged President Muhammadu Buhari to rename the Abuja national stadium after the late pillar of sport in Africa, Chief Moshood Abiola. Honourable Obasa, who spoke through his media aide, Mr Opeyemi Ahmed, in a statement in Lagos, on Saturday, said the change promised Nigerians by the Buhari government would not meet reality as long as Abiola, who fought for the current democracy, did not get his due honour and recognition. The lawmaker highlighted the efforts of Chief Abiola, who was the acclaimed winner of June 12, 1993 presidential election, an episode which made great impact in strengthening democracy in the country. Obasa also praised the late hero for the support he showed towards the development of sport in Africa in his lifetime. The statement read: “His contribution to the sporting world can’t be overemphasised. His philanthropic gesture endeared him to the athletes. He was always ready to offer his moral and financial support when the need arose.”

opinion

12 June, 2016

Sunday Tribune

Umar, Saraki and the ‘Final Consequence’ slip By Abu Quassim

HE ongoing case of alleged false asset declaration against Senate President, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki has continued to throw up new issues, some bordering on unprecedented drama. Most of the times the actual dramatis personae is not the defendant, who by virtue of his position as number three man in the country, would not be finding it funny that he is on trial not for diverting any public funds into private pockets or short-changing the government in any way, at least no evidence has been led by the prosecution to that effect. Saraki is being charged with the offence of not declaring some properties which he had acquired a decade before coming into public office. The man who has continued to amuse the audience in the Tribunal is the chairman, Mr. Danladi Umar. Mr Umar, who the former Chief Justice of Nigeria, Maria Aloma Mukhtar wrote about that he is not a judge and should therefore not present, parade himself or be addressed as one has been behaving funnily and in a strange manner as a presiding officer sitting over a case. When he is not descending into the arena, engaging in fierce exchange with the counsel to the defendant, he is making comments that are not only irrelevant to the case but that are damning and damaging to his person and the adjudicatory institution that he is heading. Some other times, he is either lavishing the court about personal details on his past relationship with the lead counsel to the defendant, Chief Kanu Agabi, SAN. And when he is doing that he is laughing heartily and obviously happy. Another moment, he is visibly enraged, looking as if he was ready to throw punches and issuing threats at will. He sometimes becomes loquacious, revealing details which have the possibility of eroding the credibility of his adjudicatory institution. It is in one of such moment that he revealed how he was put under pressure in the case involving former Governor of Lagos State, Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Who or which side in the case put him under pressure he did not say. Another time, he started reassuring the

defence that he will do justice and as if he was in the dock himself, he started struggling to prove he meant what he said about giving justice. He read from a book of Hadith, the saying and actions of Prophet Muhammed (SAW). Last Tuesday, in a fit of fury, he canvassed the return of obnoxious Decree 2 which the military used to detain people without trial for a minimum of six months, in the first instance. He said the Decree was necessary despite the ‘unfortunate democratic period’ to deal with journalists who wrote what he termed false report. All these outbursts of the judge usually come at an unexpected time. Either as the proceeding was beginning or at the end. He acts the drama when it was needless and when he was unprovoked. Last Tuesday (June 7) was the height of these strange utterances and actions by the Tribunal chair. The proceeding was just beginning when Umar started complaining that the Defence was taking too much time cross-examining the Prosecution Witness, Michael Wetkas. He went on and on about how he would not allow the delay and before he knew it, he made a major Freudian slip in which he gave indication of how the Saraki case may end. In what should be a preliminary remark before commencing the proceeding, Umar said the Defence Counsel was taking too much time to cross-examine the lead prosecution witness as a delay tactic to avoid the ‘final consequence’ for his client. The statement startled the entire tribunal and made Saraki’s lead counsel, Agabi who is ordinarily a conservative pacifist, always ready to accommodate the indis-

cretion of the tribunal boss to jump up and ask Umar : “My Lord, what is the final consequence?” Agabi then added that the statement by the Tribunal Chairman betrays the prejudice that his client has always been afraid of. “My lord, it is this kind of statement that makes us afraid of prejudice. We are saying we are afraid. We are not afraid of you. We are not afraid of the facts and the law. We believe these are on our side. We are afraid of prejudice. This statement of ‘final consequence’ is rather strengthening that fear”, he said. Though Umar tried to retract his statement immediately, he seemed to have inadvertently let the cat out of the bag and he cannot really deny the worlds never came out. There are those who believe that that statement signified what the bible meant when it stated that “From the abundance of the heart, the mouth speaketh”. This is also what an African proverb expressed by saying ‘whatever a man has in mind in his sober and sane state is what he says when he becomes drunk”. The CCT chairman’s statement last Tuesday appeared to be the confirmation for Saraki and his supporters who have consistently maintained that the Senate President cannot get justice in the present case before the CCT for as long as Umar is the presiding officer. One would have thought that until the Tribunal hears the final addresses by both parties and then take its time to consider their submissions in terms of the documentary evidence tendered before it, the evidence adduced through examination-in-chief, cross examination and re-examination, nobody can be talking of a final consequence, not to be talking of whether these final consequence can be mitigated by a supposed delay tactics. It is at this point that one must reconsider the statement by Saraki when he was challenging the trial at the CCT in difference courts and some people started accusing him of forum shopping. Saraki’s position is that with the corruption case pending against Umar for which government is now ready to exercise a waiver in exchange for only God knows, the Tribunal chairman is already an instrument in the hands of his opponents in the All Progressives Congress (APC). • Quassim writes from Abuja.

President Buhari and the PDP founding ethos By Akintayo Akin-Deko CORRUPTION fighting back and the race for 2019 are two key issues that are currently driving Nigerian politics hard; and I can discern a distinct link between the two. If interest groups that are currently under EFCC investigation are indeed sponsoring terrorism as is sometimes reported in the media, then there is a toll being inflicted on the president’s health. The consequence of this is his currently frail demeanor, which is all it takes for 2019 presidential hopefuls to start to strut their credentials in public. As usual, not enough regard is given to real campaign issues such as ethnic unrest, low business confidence, unpaid and unemployed workers, religious intolerance, power cuts and so on, all of which are deepening public discontent and could at any time, explode into riots or worse. Instead, personal ambition and regional rivalry have come to distract us. Or why else would a nation that is underperforming and is close to recession, largely as a result of corruption and ineptitude, suddenly focus attention on regional restructuring, instead of trying to identify the best ways to get its best hands into public office to grow the economy? Professor Ben Nwabueze’s Committee on Constitutional Reform, sometimes ago, resolved that good governance was more urgent than constitutional reform or regional restructuring for the immediate survival of Nigeria and for improving the welfare of ethnic sub-groups. Nothing has changed. As it is, good governance is also much easier to implement than restructuring the nation, if only because it doesn’t need to wait for National or State Assembly members to first set aside differences, sacrifice privileges, or draft complex laws. All it needs as a huge first step is for a president (or governor) to have enough self-confidence to share his executive responsibility. Not just with a kitchen cabinet that he trusts, but with a crop of Nigerians of highest repute; men and women, who ordinary Nigerians can trust to always do the right thing. The president was voted into power by a coalition of

interest groups, whose contribution to his victory arguably far outweighed that of his own APC party, a hastily forged alliance of regional political parties. So, for him to turn round to announce that, ‘he belonged to no one, and belonged to everybody’, was a rhetorical gaffe, as he simply ended up pleasing nobody and annoying everybody. Clearly, with the benefit of hindsight, he would have been better advised dedicating himself to posterity and to unborn Nigerians. He would thus have been free to disregard the cacophony of inordinate demands that assailed and infected his ears. But all said; I would still lay a large part of the blame of the currently sorry state of the nation at the doorstep of PDP’s present coterie of selfappointed leaders. Many of these men at different times rode roughshod over the PDP’s constitution, stoked exPresident Jonathan’s blind ambition for a second term, and used the power of his incumbency to entrench themselves at the pinnacle of PDP leadership. Unlike what is often claimed, and even though it is not yet a fully articulated philosophy, the PDP (more than the APC or its constituent parties) always had a binding nationalist ethos that was derived from the diverse experience of the party’s founders and first joiners. Men and women who came from different backgrounds (including military) and embraced the principles of national unity, rotation of offices (zoning), Board of Trustees as final arbiter, private enterprise, grassroots democracy and so on to create a party dedicated to democratic rule and good

governance. It was thus no mere coincidence that the PDP constitution was drawn up by men of various backgrounds and of no mean achievement. Men like late Chief Bola Ige, a defunct UPN governor from the South-West region; or Chief Onyeabor Obi, a defunct NPP senator from the SouthEast; or Mallam Adamu Ciroma, a defunct NPN minister from the North-East. It is tragic that the foundation of selflessness laid by these great elders has been allowed to partially unravel due to the selfish ambition of some of the men that came after them. If the PDP had stayed true to the path of justice, selfless service and integrity as laid down by its founding fathers, the APC’s 2015 presidential victory would have remained a perpetual mirage. But this selfish attitude still pervades much of the PDP’s current leadership and was reflected in the way the party’s recent conventions were rushed, and in the way related court cases seem to pander only to the personal ambition of litigants. That is all EXCEPT Suit FHC/ABJ/ SC/ 233 /2016, instituted by one Fijabi Adebo, which aims to restore the supremacy of the PDP constitution by handing control of the party to its Board of Trustees, which would then organise a lawful convention. Hopefully the PDP imbroglio will soon end with the party being handed back to the remaining founding fathers for them to restore the party to higher moral ground. Meanwhile, even as Nigerians whisper about mass movements to support President Buhari against perceived opposition to his anti-corruption crusade, we join in prayers for his quick recovery. But, crusades don’t build economies and mass movements can easily become lynch mobs. Thus, while politicians jostle for the 2019 presidential ticket, regional leaders campaign for restructuring, and the PDP works to get its act back together, what would really make a difference to ordinary Nigerians is for Mr President to urgently put more good men in office. • Chief Akin-Deko is a foundation member of the PDP in Ondo State.

12 June, 2016

Sunday Tribune

12 June, 2016

sport

SUNDAY

What he told me before his death —Amodu’s son •Says I should not rely on his fame Banji Aluko -Benin City ABDULAZEEZ, the first son of the late Nigeria coach, Shuaibu Amodu has revealed that his late dad had stopped fasting three years ago before he resumed this year. “He was not sick, he only advanced in age. He had not been fasting in the last three years because of his health condition and I don’t know why he decided to fast this year. He was not particularly sick apart from sickness associated with aging,” Abdulazeez told Tribunesport. The 26-year-old Abdulazeez stated that he woke up to receive the news of his father’s death on a day he planned to depart for the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC). Abdulazeez stated that he last spoke with his dad on Friday adding that, the veteran tactician “was not “particularly sick before” his death on Saturday morning. “I just woke up this morning and saw someone rushed to the house to say that Shuaibu Amodu was dead. The person said I should tell my uncle. I asked if the person was talking about my father and he said yes; that it happened this morning. “My last conversation with him was yesterday (Friday) morning. I was supposed to depart (for NYSC) this morning, so I called him over that. He didn’t pick my calls, but he called back. He said he was busy and that I should calm down. “He said he would be in Okpella today. He briefly said something about death. “He also said he (Keshi) had not been buried because he was not a Muslim and that if he died, he would be buried immediately,” recalled the graduate of the Igbinedion University, Okada. Abdulazeez also revealed his last moments with his dad as he paid tribute to the former Orlando Pirates of South Africa coach. “He was a great man and I thank God for his life. Just two weeks ago, he called me personally and told me that I should work hard. “He said I should forget about his name and fame. That there is nothing in the world and that I should just be hardworking,” Abdulazeez said.

Sunday Tribune

Editor: Ganiyu Salman tribunesporteditor@yahoo.com 08053789060

... As LMC orders clubs to honour him at match venues

Amodu buried in Okpella Banji Aluko -Benin City

MIDST crying and wailing, the remains of the late Super Eagles coach, Shuaibu Amodu, were committed to earth on Saturday evening at his residence in Okpella, Etsako East Local Government Area of Edo State. At 5:07p.m., Amodu’s body, that had earlier been brought to Okpella from Stella Obasanjo Hospital in Benin at 12:30p.m., was brought out from the inner chambers of his house for internment. Between the arrival of the body and the interment, which lasted about five hours, family members, neighbours, journalists and residents of Okpella gathered in the late Amodu’s compound discussing his passage barely three days days after that of another former Super Eagles coach, Stephen Keshi.

Some family members and neighbours could not hold their emotions as they cried and wailed uncontrollably. At 4:00p.m., mother of the late coach, who had earlier been taken to the palace of the Okuokpellagbe of Okpella, Alhaji A.Y.E. Dirisu, was returned to the compound after she had been informed of her son’s death. Before the observation of the funeral rites, a special prayer, led by Ustaz Ahmed Shehu, was offered for the repose of the soul of the late coach of the defunct BCC Lions of Gboko. In his remark, Ustaz Shehu discribed the death of Amodu as a great loss to Okpella community, Etsako ‘nation’, Edo State and the nation at large. At 5:10p.m. a funeral prayer for Amodu was observed, shortly after which he was interred at 5:15p.m Members of the Nigerian foot-

ball family including the Secretary General of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Mohammed Sanusi; chairman of the Edo Football Association, Frank Ilaboya; Robinson Okosun (NFF Phychologist) and other football and sports enthusiasts were at the late Amodu’s residence to pay their last respect. Top officials of the Edo State government such as the late Amodu’s cousin and Edo State Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Prince Kassim Afegbua; Commissioner for Environment, Clem Agba, and other notable personalities from Etsako also attended the burial. Hundreds of residents of Okpella were not left out as they trooped out to honour one of their foremost sons. The late soccer tactician was survived by his wife, Kuburat; seven children, mother, brother and sisters.

First vice president, Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Barrister Seyi Akinwunmi (middle), flanked by the Chairman, Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Oyo State Chapter, Mr Niyi Alebiosu (left) and former Group Sports Editor, Nigerian Tribune, Mr Ade Somefun, during the Oyo SWAN Hot Seat programme held at the Media Centre, Obafemi Awolowo Stadium, Ibadan, on Saturday. PHOTO: AKEEM OLAOSUN.

A minute silence in honour of the late Nigeria coach, Amodu Shuaibu will be observed before all fixtures of Match Day 22 of the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) kick off today. Amodu died in the early hours of Saturday in Benin and the League Management Company (LMC) directed all Match Commissioners and club officials to ensure that players paid their last respect to the one-time coach of BCC Lions and El-Kanemi Warriors before the matches kick-off. The LMC enjoined the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) where the late coach served as Technical Director and Chief Instructor for all CAF graded coaching courses, the people of his home state, Edo State and the entire football stakeholders to bear the loss with fortitude, noting that “in his lifetime, Amodu served Nigeria’s football with commitment and made Edo State proud”.

Amodu’s death, rough week for Nigerian football —Akinwunmi By Tunde Ogunesan THE first vice president of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Barrister Seyi Akinwumi has described the death of former Super Eagles coach, Shuaibu Amodu barely three days after the demise of Stephen Keshi as a ‘rough week’ for Nigerian football. Akinwunmi stated this on Saturday while featuring on a guest personality programme organised by the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Oyo state chapter, held at the Media Centre, Obafemi Awolowo Stadium, Ibadan. “First of all, I think it is wrong for me to say I deserve to be here. This morning, I was not in good mood to get up from bed not to think of come down here. But I think that if any of those two great personalities were alive, they will want anything that will enhance football. That’s how I convince myself to get out and come down here. “Amodu’s death less than a week after the death of Stephen Keshi makes it a very rough week for Nigerian football. It is not what anyone will ever imagine or wish to happen. “I must tell you, the NFF has not come out of the shock of Keshi’s demise, today again, we lost another coach who has contributed his quota to the development of football in this country. It is indeed a dark moment in the history of Nigerian football,” Akinwumi said.

47 sport

12 June, 2016

Sunday Tribune

SHUAIBU AMODU (1958-2016)

Kanu, Ikpeba, Oliseh, others mourn

Sports administrators, football personalities as well as other stakeholders have paid glowing tributes to the late former Super Eagles coach, Shaibu Amodu who died in the early hours of Saturday in Benin, Edo State at the age of 58. Nigerian international, Elderson Echiejile, in his tribute to the late coach described him as a disciplinarian. Amaju Pinnick (President, Nigeria Football Federation) This is another tragedy too many. We are still talking about Keshi’s death, and now Amodu is gone. I’m short of words. Seyi Makinde (Politician) The sudden death of another former Super Eagles Coach, Amodu Shuaibu is a devastating blow to the lovers of sports. May God forgive him all his shortcomings and give his family and friends the fortitude to bear the loss. So sad.

Felix Owolabi (Ex-international) We will miss him a lot. I pray that God Almighty will grant the family the fortitude to bear the loss.

Gbenga Ogubote (Technical Adviser, Shooting Stars Sports Club) How many days now that we lost Keshi? This is a great loss to the football family and the nation. We need serious prayers.

The late Amodu

Victor Ikpeba (Ex-international) Very shocked to hear about the death of Amodu Shuaibu. This is devastating. Keshi, now Amodu. We must pray for each other #RIPShuaibuAmodu. Elderson Echiejile (Nigerian international) Another big loss! This is shocking, I can’t believe it. He was a disciplinarian, father & a mentor. #RIPAmodu. Kanu Nwankwo (Ex-Nigeria captain) R.I.P our brother, our coach, our father, our leader and our friend Amodu Shuaibu. Garba Lawal (Ex-international) We are mourning again. It has been difficult for him health wise for some time and we just have to pray he will now find rest. We have not got over Keshi’s death and we have now been dealt another tragedy. Shuaib Gara Gombe (Football administrator) Nigeria has lost yet another top coach, may God give his family and friends the fortitude to bear this loss. Honestly, Amodu was a good coach who gave everything to Nigeria just like the late Stephen Keshi did. He was a fine gentleman, a friend, a business partner and my very close confidant. Amodu was also very frank to a fault. I’m still sad. I haven’t recovered from Keshi’s death and now this. Dele Momodu (Celebrated columnist and publisher) What is happening to our football, another great coach AMODU SHUAIBU has died! May Allah accept his soul.

Robinson Okosun (NFF psychologist) Coach Amodu why? My big brother Why? One is yet to recover from the shocking demise of Keshi the Big Boss and you followed. I am shattered. What do I tell your darling wife Hajia, how do I break the news to my beautiful Mariam your intelligent daughter studying in Canada, how do I face Hammed and siblings with the news that you have gone to the great beyond unannounced? Please let someone tell me I am in a dream. Adieu my coach, my friend my big brother and a mentor. Steve Olarinoye (Zonal Coordinator, Zone 1, Federal Ministry of Sports) That coach Shuaibu Amodu is no more, another blow to the sports family. As soon as I opened my phone this morning, there came my former boss’call Alhaji Ahmed Sani Toro and shortly whatsApp message from Socrates, Alhaji Raheem Olatunji, informing me about the unexpected demise of gentleman, coach, Shuaibu Ahmadu. I have the singular honour to have worked closely with coach Shuaibu from club to national levels. I was then in NFA now NFF. He was a gentleman but no nonsense, if you understand him. Perhaps we may be wondering why sports especially football again. Death is a debt we all owe. It is inevitable. Perhaps it is another hint to all of us to be closer to God and go His ways because it could be you tomorrow. May the soul of the departed rest in the bosom of the Lord. Amen and Amen. Dosu Joseph (Ex-international and Atlanta ‘96 Olympics gold medallist) God Please help, terrible news just days after the Big Boss’ exit. Another hero, Amodu Shuaibu. What a sad news. Sunday Oliseh (Ex-Nigeria captain and coach) Waking up to another devastating horrible news: Amodu Shuaibu, former coach of Nigeria is proclaimed dead! 1st Keshi & now this. God help us! Adegboye Onigbinde (Ex-Nigeria coach) Right now I’m confused, I don’t know what to say. Ahmed Musa (Super Eagles vice-captain) I am yet to get out of the shock over Stephen Keshi’s death when I heard coach Amodu Shuaibu is dead. This is too much for the football family, it’s shocking. May his soul rest in perfect peace. He was an achiever and icon going by his achievements in the game. Ogenyi Onazi (Nigerian international) Rest in peace sir, frustrating and sad week for us. Lord have mercy.

Gboyega Makinde (Ag. General Manager, Oyo State Sports Council) A great loss to the nation and football family.

Niyi Alebiosu (Chairman, Oyo SWAN) This is a rude shock and great loss to Nigerian football. Brown Ideye (Nigerian international) Shuaibu Amodu dead!! When we are still mourning the death of Keshi, so painful#. Leon Balogun (Nigerian international) It’s just sad - with Amodu we lost another legend to Nigerian football. May your souls rest in heavenly peace. #RIPKeshi #RIPAmodu. Patrick Pascal (Super Eagles coordinator) This is the person who converted me from being a defender to an attacker at 3SC. That thing he did to me in my life, I will never forget it. When I was a defender, people did appreciate my efforts but I did not get anything to show for it, but when he converted me to an attacker, my fortunes changed in the game. I was invited to the national team and even went to the Olympics with the Dream Team. I worked with him at 3SC as a player and also at the NFF as administrator. I have known him for more than 20 years in this football business. Amodu was very close to me.

SIDELINES NIGERIA’S MOST INFORMATIVE NEWSPAPER

12 JUNE, 2016

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The death of sport celebrities in the last few days should convince us of the temporality of our collective existence. First was Muhammad Ali, followed in quick succession by Stephen Keshi and now Shuaibu Amodu. What then is the value of a life without service to humanity? This should strike the subconscious of treasury looters, lying politicians and dubious artisans.

AYC qualifier: F/Eagles dump Burundi, meet Sudan in final round NIGERIA’S Flying Eagles on Saturday defeated the Young Swallows of Burundi 2-1 at the UJ Esuene Stadium, Calabar, to qualify 3-1 on aggregate, for the 2017 AFCON U-20 final qualifying playoff against Sudan next month. The winners between Nigeria and Sudan will book a place at next year’s U20 AFCON final tournament billed for Zambia. The scorer of the first leg goal, Chukwudi Agor’s 31st minute strike which would have been the curtain raiser was overruled by the referee. Victor Osimhen scored from the

penalty spot after 73 minutes to put the Flying Eagles in front after Samuel Chukwueze was fouled inside the box. Skipper Kelechi Nwakali made it 2-0 in the 81st minute, when he drove home a free kick from 23 yards. However, Burundi pulled a goal back a minute from full time when Ndikumana Magloire cashed in on laxity in the Flying Eagles defence to make hay. Nigeria, it will be recalled, won the first leg 1-0 in Bujumbura last month.

Lesbianism is killing women’s football in Nigeria — Akinwunmi By Tunde Ogunesan Victor Osimhen scores Nigeria’s first goal against Burundi in Calabar.

Buhari, Osinbajo, Saraki, others mourn Amodu P Ayodele Adesanmi - Abuja

RESIDENT Muhammadu Buhari has described the death of the former Super Eagles coach, Shuaibu Amodu, barely 72 hours after the demise of another former Nigeria captain and coach, Stephen Keshi as heartbreaking. Buhari, in his twitter handle, President Buhari @NGRPresident, expressed his condolences as he described the incident as a sad week in the history of Nigerian football. “This is indeed a sad week for Nigerian football, and Nigerian sports in general. May the soul of Amodu Shuaibu rest in peace. Amen. “It is heartbreaking to lose two of the finest and most accomplished members of our football family at the same time,” he tweeted. Also, the Senate President, Dr Bukola Saraki described the demise of Amodu as yet another colossal national loss. Saraki in a statement by his Special Adviser, Media and Publicity, Yusuph Olaniyonu, commiserated with his immediate family and the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) over the unfortunate incident. He charged the younger generation to use their life time to make meaningful contribu-

tions to national development adding that, Amodu left indelible footprints on the sands of time. Former Sports Minister, Professor Taoheed Adedoja, in his tribute described Amodu as an achiever. “I cannot believe that the man who called recently to congratulate me on my wedding has gone. He was a friend, a good practising Muslim and an achiever who contributed a lot to the football development of the nation. I always called him CSA during his life time. We will surely miss him. Rest in peace CSA,” Adedoja said. Also, former President of the Senate, Senator David Mark, has described the late coach as a great patriot. “Unarguably, Amodu Shuaibu was one of our best football handlers both at the club level and continental assignments. Over time, he demonstrated unwavering commitment and love for this country. He was a great patriot in the real sense of the world. “He was always handy even at very critical moments. Honestly, Nigeria has lost one of her best and fertile minds in football administration. We shall miss his frank and professional disposition. We have lost a reliable and dependable administrator,” Mark said in a statement

which was signed by his media aide, Mr Paul Mumeh. Vice-President, Yemi Osinbajo, has also paid tribute to the late coach. “In deed his life was dedicated to finding and grooming some of Nigeria’s best soccer talents and providing them the leadership and guidance that enabled them to excel. “Amodu Shaibu’s work as coach of Nigeria’s national team brought gladness to the nation and fulfilment to many. His legacy is secured in the memories of Nigerians who will forever recall the exploits his teams recorded across the African continent and around the world,” he said. Also, Niger State governor, Alhaji Abubakar Sani Bello, said the news of Amodu’s death came a rude shock to the people of the state. “The news of Amodu’s death has thrown the entire state into mourning, the demise of the former Super Eagles sweat merchant has dealt a big blow on all football lovers in the state. “Amodu has always seen Niger State as his home state because most of his football career was in Minna. We have indeed lost one of the pillars of football in our state and indeed in Nigeria and Africa,” Bello said.

THE first vice president of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Barrister Seyi Akinwumi, has revealed that lesbianism is affecting the growth of women’s football in the country, Akinwumi, made this shocking revelation when he featured on a sport personality programme “Hot Seat” organised by the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Oyo State chapter, on Saturday in Ibadan. He said there are a lot of problems militating against the growth of women’s football that are swept under carpet in the country. “Lesbianism kills women’s soccer teams. People are afraid to talk about it. The coaches take advantage of the girls, so there is much more to build in female football. “I took a historical look at countries and teams which have had success in this category, they started the way we also started, and it was difficult for them in the beginning as well. No sponsor, lack of interest and others. “But I discovered here that what will fund female football is male football, and male football itself is gasping for breath. That is really the major problem- funding. And at the same time, equal funding is not possible,”he said. Akinwunmi however, suggested a total overhaul of the league system for proper monitoring and development of the game. “My passion for female football, honestly is as great as it is for grassroots football. But in reality, there are lots of problems affecting the growth of women’s football in this country. It costs more and returns less. There is fewer players, less interests, in female football than male football. But we have no excuse.”

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