14th February 2016

NIGERIA’S MOST INFORMATIVE NEWSPAPER NO 2,033

SUNDAY, 14 FEBRUARY, 2016

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Nigerian Tribune

NASS rejects FG’s plan to withdraw 2016 budget

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Corruption: Top

military officers return N66m, SUVs •As Airforce denies locating Chibok girls

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Four of the suspected robbers who struck at Ikirun, Osun State on Friday, with the money, arms and ammunition recovered from them, when they were paraded in Osogbo, on Saturday.

PHOTO: OLUWOLE IGE

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Happy Valentine’s Day Winners emerge in Sunday Tribune’s Valentine’s Day

Senators, Reps resolve to sanitise document How FG bungled budget process

sun Police nab O s, kill 4, bank robbeNr7.4m pg8 recover

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Nigerian Tribune

love letter contest

Merger, acquisition of banks imminent

— Sterling Bank boss 15 feared dead in Rivers pg51

•As cultists strike again •2 suspects arrested

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Protest as FG sacks 13 VCspg5

•Appoints 4 new VCs from Kano

1976 Coup: I was No. 3 of those to

Babangida, be assassinated, Danjuma reveals 2 others •For killing Okada arrested rider •As Buhari extols Murtala Muhammed’s heroics pg5

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14 February, 2016

Sunday Tribune

life&living Battling with Chinco Aso Oke Local weavers agonise over dwindling fortunes

Aso oke is very important and popular among the Yoruba of South West of Nigeria and even beyond as an enduring traditional textile industry. However, in recent times, the Chinese are making an inroad into this exclusive industry. BAYO ALADE, TAYO GESINDE and BIOLA AZEEZ write on this industry and the new ‘Chinco’ challenge.

Aso oke weavers at work

T

HROUGHOUT the length and breadth of Yorubaland, Iseyin is one of the towns whose reputations precede them. It is a town noted for the Aso oke or Aso ofi traditional cloth weaving industry. The town is just over one hour by road from Ibadan, Oyo State. It also hosts the permanent orientation camp of the National Youth Service Corps in the state.

While interacting with the weavers under the umbrella of Iseyin Weavers Association, Sunday Tribune learnt one or two things. One is that hitherto, when one mentions ofi, most people think it is the hand-woven cloth being referred to. But Sunday Tribune learnt that ofi is actually the entire structure that the weaver sits in while

working.

Initially, the weavers were wary and slow in reacting to Sunday Tribune’s enquiries. The reaction, it was soon learnt, was borne out of unpleasant earlier experiences.

Some times back, some Chinese had approached them seeking to just observe how they produce their Aso oke.

They took pictures and noted some other things as if they were in the process of producing a documentary. Soon the Chinese flooded the market with their own brand of Aso oke; not quite the real thing but cheaper and in large quantities. The weavers lost many potential customers and their revenues dipped. It was a period in which it dawned on them that they had actually been ‘invaded’

and their business under a threat they were incapable of stopping.

Unfortunately, the weavers have no financial muscle to fight back. Currently they feel neglected by government, because the only business they had always known was being taken out of their hands and there was nothing they could do.

“It is a tedious job,” Lateef Oriire, one of the weavers, told Sunday Tribune, noting that it normally takes him no fewer than seven hours to weave a whole length of yarn stretched out before him. “It is a job that involves the Continues pg10

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14 February, 2016

Sunday Tribune

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news

14 February, 2016

Sunday Tribune

2016 budget: NASS rejects FG’s plan to withdraw document •Senators, Reps resolve to perfect budget document Taiwo Adisa-Abuja

S

ENATORS and members of the House of Representatives have rejected a plan to withdraw the troubled National Budget from their custody.

The budget had run into troubled waters shortly after it was presented by President Muhammadu Buhari on December 22, 2015, with stories of doctoring, padding and injection of foreign contents doing the round at venues of budget defence at the Senate and the House of Representatives.

Insiders at the National Assembly said last week that President Buhari who has ordered a probe into the budget padding and doctoring had planned to withdraw the budget such that a cleaner copy can be submitted to the National Assembly.

It was gathered that the idea of withdrawing the budget was made to the top echelon of the National Assembly which immediately rejected the idea.

Committee chairmen in the Senate and the House of Representatives told the presiding officers that the budget, once submitted can no longer be withdrawn and that it is the business of the National Assembly to give the nation an acceptable budget.

It was gathered that the Committee chairmen had insisted at different meetings with their presiding officers that the constitution only demands that the President shall cause budget estimates to be laid in the National Assembky and that it is the business of the National Assembly to produce a budget for the federation.

A member of the House

of the Representatives, Hon Linus Okorie said last week that the lawmakers can no longer return the budget to the government..

The Chairman, Senate Committee on Appropriation, Senator Danjuma Goje and his counterpart in the House of Representatives, Hon Jibrin Abdu-

mumin, said at a joint press conference last week that the National Assembly will be unable to keep the deadline for passing the budget fixed for February 25, in view of the several errors and padding discovered.

Senators also told Sunday Tribune that the lawmakers have resolved

to produce a budget for the federation.

“What we have resolved to do is not to return the budget in view of constitutional provisions that empowers the National Assembly as the custodians of the budget. We have resolved to remove all the toxic items and break

Vice-President Yemi Osinbajo (left) with Reverend Emmanuel Oluwasesan Adebajo, discussing during the Ikenne-Remo recovery crusade held at Ereke Ground, Ikenne-Remo, Ogun State, on Saturday. PHOTO: D’TOYIN

THE detention by house arrest effected on four Air Vice Marshals and some Air Commodores at Niger Barracks, Abuja, over alleged corruption has started yielding fruits as it was gathered that one of the officers, of AVM rank has returned the sum of N66 million to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) The anti-corruption war was sequel to what was regarded as the role played by the officers in relation to the arms scandal. Sunday Tribune gathered that the sum of N90 million was traced to the officer.

It was gathered that the

budget process because it was handed over to a team of consultants who were not properly guided by the Budget office of the Federation.

It was gathered that the plan to introduce zero budget procedure was first toyed with and was adopted in the preparation of the budget but the plan, according to sources, snapped as the handlers got confused in the middle of the process.

It was also gathered that the budget handlers were forced to return to the envelop system after the plan to use the zero budget plan failed.

“The government put itself under a lot of pressure by starting the budget process late. When those consultants writing the budget got confused midway into their preparations based on zero budget, they quickly ran to the technocrats and adopted the envelop system. But in that process a lot of toxic items got into the budget and they just have to produce a document to the National Assembly before the year end of 2015, that was how the whole budget got messed up,” a lawmaker told Sunday Tribune.

Exchange rate may cause massive dropout of Nigerian students abroad Chima Nwokoji-Lagos

THERE are strong indications that the planned exclusion of more items including school fees from official foreign exchange market, may cause massive withdrawal by Nigerian students from studying abroad.

This is because aside scarcity of dollars that has hit the banking industry

in recent time, most parents who spoke to Sunday Tribune on Saturday said they cannot afford to continue to pay for dollars at the prevailing exchange rate of N325 to a dollar.

A former director (now retired) of the Federal Civil Aviation Authority, Mr.Emmanuel Orji whose son is a student at the Accra Institute of Technology (AIT), Accra, Ghana,

said he is considering applying for son’s transfer back to Nigeria because the $1,000 school fees for foreign students which he used to pay with N200,000 has risen to N320,000 and may continue to rise.

According to Orji, “as a retired civil servant with other children to look after, my monthly income hardly feeds the family.”

A top banker who pre-

Corruption: Top military officers return N66m, SUVs From Chris Agbambu - Abuja

them down to proper subheads. The Committees are working with Ministries, Departments and Agencies(MDAs) to get the right figures,” a senator told Sunday Tribune.

Sources at the Assembly also told Sunday Tribune that the Presidency got its figures burnt in the

senior officer who is a serving personnel and Principal Staff Officer at the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) headquarters was consequently released from detention after a promise to refund the balance.

A source confided in Sunday Tribune that though the officer was let off the hook, it does not mean that he is free yet.

According to the source, other senior officers being detained at the barracks on trust for the EFCC were yet to regain freedom as they were yet to fully co-operate with the EFCC interrogation team, even though some have returned exotic cars and other valuables.

Sunday Tribune also

gathered that an Air Commodore who is said to have benefited from the arms deal and has properties in Dubai, Kaduna and Abuja has equally been arrested and is under detention.

The source told Sunday Tribune that one of the Air Vice Marshals was the arrow head of those who bought aircrafts that had incomplete parts and also inflated the price from $6million to over $30million.

NAF denies locating Chibok girls Meanwhile, the attention of the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has been drawn to a statement to the effect that the NAF has located the position of the Chibok girls. In

a statement the NAF said: “Please let it be known that this statement is a misrepresentation of the interview that the NAF Director of Public Relations gave the Channels Television that was aired on Friday 12 February 2016.

“The NAF is hereby making it categorically clear that in the said interview the Director made mention of the NAF’s ability to identify POSSIBLE LOCATION that the girls might be in.

“Hence, the NAF wishes to categorically state that it has at no time identified the specific location of the Chibok girls. However, it is working round the clock with surveillance aircraft.”

ferred anonymity disclosed that there are different pressures on different banks in terms of demand, adding that over 15 per cent of the demand of the current foreign exchange that is being given to the banks is for school fees and that this level of demand is high.

According to him, it will be difficult for some parents to keep sending dollars abroad to their children because “the CBN does not have enough dollars to meet demand and we, the banks, do not have enough to sell.”

With over $128million ($128,350,066.34) of foreign exchange (forex) purchased by seven banks from the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) on behalf of their customers, mainly for divestments from the capital market, school fees, business travel allowance (BTA) and personal travel allowance (PTA), the apex bank is considering exclusion of more items from official forex market.

Of the three invisibles – school fees, PTA and BTA – the payment for school fees abroad featured most prominently on all the lists of the seven banks within

the week.

It is because of this that CBN’s Director of Banking Supervision, Mrs. Tokunbo Martins, who briefed journalists on the outcome of last weeks Bankers’ Committee meeting, in Abuja, said that the monetary authorities would not allow that category of demand to crowd out the productive sector of the economy in the forex market.

Also, in his remarks, the Managing Director of Access Bank, Mr Herbert Nwigwe, explained that the banks have decided to channel such forex to the real sector because those demands tend to crowd out demands to import raw materials and to support industries.

“The problem with that is the fact that it tends to crowd out the critical foreign exchange that should be used in the real sector to import raw materials, to support industries, to encourage employment. So, there is a question around how far we are going to allow this to continue.

Shouldn’t we redirect these resources towards the real sector as we should?” he queried.

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news

14 February, 2016

Sunday Tribune

I was number 3 of those to be assassinated —Danjuma Leon Usigbe-Abuja

F

ORMER Minister of Defence, General Theophilus Danjuma (rtd), has said that he was lucky to be alive today despite the fact that he was number two on the hit list of the 1976 coupists led by Colonel Bukar Sukar Dimka, just as President Muhammadu Buhari said the coup was a blow to the country.

Danjuma spoke at the Murtala Mohammed 40th Memorial Lecture at the Congress Hall of the Transcorp Hilton, Abuja, on Saturday.

Danjuma, while recalling the events sorrounding the coup, said he was initially the third man on the hit list but was ‘promoted’ to number two when the list was taken for ratification.

“On his list that he (Dimka) brought to General Iliya Bisalla, who was then Minster for Defence to seek his approval, I was number three on the death list. Bissala (promoted) me to number two. That I am stilll alive today is by the grace of God,” Danjuma stated.

Gen Bisalla was later found culpable in that coup attempt and was executed.

Also speaking at the

same event, President Buhari said the assassination of General Mohammed 40 years ago was a grievous blow to Nigeria as it stopped the country’s newly found momentum.

President Buhari added that Gen. Muhammed, was on a mission to put Nigeria back on the right track.

“On the 13th of February 1976, Nigeria suffered a grievous blow with the assassination of Murtala Muhammed in a failed

coup d’état.

“The country mourned, and rightly so, because Murtala had been on his way to putting Nigeria back to the path of order and discipline, after years of drift, corruption and near despair. It would not be over-stating the case to say that Nigeria lost its newly-found momentum with Murtala’s demise.

“What was Murtala like as a man? Although he was much more senior to me

in the army, I developed a great liking and respect for him on account of his professional excellence, competence, straightforwardness and genuine interest and concern for up-andcoming officers like myself.”

Buhari stated further: “Of course, no one is without flaws. He was a man in a hurry, and sometimes this could make him appear abrupt or even moody. But what he could not tolerate was incompe-

tence and idleness.

“By the time Murtala was given a command during the Civil War, the Federal side was on the defensive.

The rebels had overran the then Mid-West, and reached as far as Ore, just 100 miles from Lagos.

“By dint of sheer bravery, improvisation and resourcefulness, he mustered a rag-tag group of soldiers, integrated them into an entirely new division, knocked them into

From left, Vice-Chairman, Board of Trustees (BoT), Murtala Muhammed Foundation (MMF), Mrs Ajoke Muhammed; President Muhammadu Buhari; Vice-Chairman, MMF’s BoT, Lieutenant-General Theophilus Danjuma; Chief Executive Officer, MMF, Mrs Aisha Muhammed-Oyebode and BoT member, MMF, Mr Risqua Muhammed at the 40th Murtala Muhammed’s memorial lecture in Abuja, on Saturday.

Furore as Buhari sacks 13 VCs Clement Idoko-Abuja

AS President Muhammadu Buhari sacks vice chancellors of 12 new federal universities established by the administration of ePresident Goodluck Jonathan with immediate effect, a crisis is already brewing as a coalition of civil society organisation and members of the intelligensia are already protesting the action.

In addition to the removal of the 12 vice chancellors, the National Open University of Nigeria, Professor Vincent Ado-Tenebe has also been sacked.

The sack was contained in a statement signed by the Minister of Education, Mallam Adamu Adamu and obtained by Sunday Tribune on Saturday in Abuja.

Buhari, who is the Visitor to the universities, also approved the appointment of new vice chancellors to replace the outgoing ones whose appointments took effect from February 12.

No reason was given for the removal of the vice chancellors as the statement simply said President Muhammadu Buhari, has approved the appointment of new vice chancellors for the

universities.

The coalition of Civil Society Organisations has in a letter to President Buhari, asked for a reversal of the decision in which the NOUN vice chancellor was replaced with Prof. Abdalla Uba Adamu of the Department of Mass Communication, Bayero University, Kano and the substantive vice chancellor of the Federal University, Dutse, Jigawa State, Prof. Mohammed Kundiri, transferred to the Federal University, Wukari, Taraba State.

The CSOs, in a protest letter to Buhari signed by its President, Etuk Bassey Williams and Secretary-General, Ibrahim Abubakar, said the action contravened the provisions of the Universities (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act No.11 of 1993 (as amended) by decree No.25, 1996 and further amended in 2003 and 2012 respectively and other agreements as contained in the 2009 FGN staff union agreement.

The petitioners said that four out of the 12 appointed VCs are from Kano State University, an action they said, was a violation of the federal character principle.

“While this does not come

as a surprise owing to the influence of one of the Special Advisers to the Minister of Education in orchestrating the appointments of his friends and cronies without following due process, we are however concerned about the constitutional breach and the resultant litigation battle this action may cause, which in turn may generate unnecessary distractions to your focused administration,” the coalition said.

The petition read in part: “We are compelled to call

your attention owing to the illegality in the removal of vice chancellors of 13 federal universities including the National Open University of Nigeria and the hasty appointment of friends and cronies in place of those illegally removed from office.

“While we are not unmindful of the fact that you would have acted on the recommendation of the Minister of Education in approving their removal, it is pertinent to know that in the pursuit of ambition

driven by unguided passion and greed, impunity becomes inevitable as the end, irrespective of the means is all that matters and in this case, the removal of these vice chancellors is the outcome of an unguarded passion and greed by the minister of education and his special adviser.

“The constitution is quite clear on the procedures to be followed in the appointment and disengagement of vice chancellors and none of these procedures were followed in the above case.”

fighting shape, recovered Mid-West and ventured across the Niger.

“On assuming the role of Head of State in 1975, Murtala set out with a single-minded determination seldom seen in Nigerian leadership. Decisions were on fast-track.

“Two major developments are prominent among his legacies: the move of the capital to Abuja from Lagos; and the creations of seven new states to make 19. The shadow of his death still somewhat hangs over Nigeria.”

The president described Mohammed as a national hero who loved Nigeria, noting that even though he lived a short life, he was propelled by the determination to do better.

Buhari added: “We are here to honour a national hero and patriot, not to mourn him, and to take a few lessons from his achievements: his love for Nigeria and Nigerians, from wherever they came.

In her remarks, daughter of the former Head of State and Chief Executive Officer of Murtala Muhammed Foundation, Aisha Mohammed-Oyebode, recalled her father’s core principles which she said included that Africans should not feel inferior but should conduct themselves with self respect.

“The second core principle of my father was his fierce opposition to corruption which he saw as one of the plagues that hold African nations back from fulfilling their potentials. For him, corruption is more than a moral deficiency. It corrodes our institutions, diminishes us as a people and sabotages our collective aspirations,” she said.

The representative of the United Nations Secretary General in West Africa, Dr. Mohammed Ibn Chambas and former Chief of Defence Staff to the United Kingdom Prime Minister and Cabinet, Lord David Richards, were guest lecturers at Saturday’s occasion.

Cultists kill 15 in Rivers community, two arrested Dapo Falade-Port Harcourt

IT was another day of terror in Rivers State on Friday as suspected cult members struck in Omok Community in Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni Local Government Area, killing about 15 persons in the process.

However, the Rivers State Police Command has arrested two of the suspected cultists.

The state police spokesman, DSP Ahmad Muhammad, said this in a text message he made available to Sunday Tribune, on Saturday evening.

He gave the name of the suspected cultists as Chimezie Ordu and Okwudili Wordy, adding that they were undergoing interrogation at the State CID. “Sequel to the last night (Friday) incident at Omoku, the command has for now arrested the duo of Chimezie Ordu and Ikwudili Wordu. They are now undergoing interrogation at the State CID,” he said.

The gunmen, said to be about 50, and armed with weapons, including cutlasses and different types of rifles, such as AK-47 guns, came into the town at about

7:00 pm on Friday, shooting sporadically.

In the midst of the ensuing confusion, some indigenes of the area fled into bushes and neighbouring villages, while others continued to stay indoors, more than 12 hours after the incident occurred.

Sunday Tribune learnt that some of the 15 persons killed were beheaded by their assailants, even as a couple and two brothers from the same parents were among the victims.

A source disclosed that some of the areas in Omoku that came under attack

by the gunmen included Sabo Road, Odieti Quarters, Usoniri Quarters and Obakata Quarters.

“Gunmen last night took over Omoku, killing no fewer than 15 persons.

Among those killed were a man and his wife as well as two brothers from the same parents. Half of those killed were beheaded by their attackers.

“Those outside ran for their lives and we that were inside have continued to stay indoors in order not to be hit by the bullet. It was a terrible situation,” the source said.

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14 February, 2016

crimereports

Sunday Tribune

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

How Babangida, gang member killed rider to steal his bike Stories by Oluwatoyin Malik

The suspects with the motorcycle recovered from them

T

HE innocent blood of an Idoma man, simply known as Idileru, who was inflicted with machete cuts by a gang of okada snatchers in Kishi town, Oyo State, seems to be out for revenge, as his suspected killers have been arrested by operatives of the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS) of Oyo State Police Command.

The suspects — Usman Babangida, Tunde Bello and Arda John — had attacked the okada rider along the road to Kishi town late in 2015 and robbed him of his motorcycle. Not done, two of them, Babangida and John, reportedly attacked the victim with a cutlass, allegedly on the instruction of Babangida, because he knew Babangida very well. His pleas to Babangida not to kill him were ignored.

Disclosing the incident that led to the arrest of the suspects, the state Commissioner of Police, Leye Oyebade, said that a few weeks after killing their victim, the gang ambushed one Abubakar Buba on December 2, 2015 along Burugoma village, Kishi, and dispossessed him of his Bajaj motorcycle with registration number KSH 948 QC. On receiving the report, Oyebade said his command’s Special AntiRobbery squad in Oyo/ Ogbomoso axis began an immediate investigation which led to the arrest of the suspects. The police commissioner added that the motorcycle was recovered from Babangida who had converted it to personal use.

He said that the suspects had confessed to the crime and would be arraigned in court at the conclusion of investigation.

Babangida, an indigene of Kishi, who spoke with Crime Reports in an interview, confessed to have been involved in

bike snatching. According to him, “we used sticks to threaten our victims but we killed one of our victims by inflicting machete cuts on him.

“We snatched the motorcycle of our dead victim at Budo Sabi along Kishi road. It was around 8 p.m. That evening, on our way from Kishi back

to the settlement where we lived, we saw the motorcycle rider along the road.

He was drunk. On getting home, we picked a cutlass and torchlight; and went back to the spot where we saw the okada man. It was Tunde who used his motorcycle to drop us at the spot.

“On sighting us, he ran

into the bush. John and I went after him and inflicted machete cuts on him until he died. Please I want the government to forgive us because I was propelled by the devil to commit the act. The devil has put me in trouble.”

Another suspect, John, an Idoma from Benue State, also confessed thus:

“Babangida, Tunde and I worked as a gang to snatch motorcycles. But we fell into trouble when we did the third operation. We were on our way home from Kishi market when we saw a man who fell down from his motorcycle.

“Before we got home, Babangida sold the idea that we should return to

the spot to snatch the bike from the rider. We departed and he went to his house to pick a cutlass.

Tunde took us to the spot but said he would not wait to do the operation with us because he was drunk. He dropped us and left.

“On getting there, we forcefully took the motorcycle from the victim and I told Babangida that we should leave. But Babangida said that the man knew him at okada park in Kishi where both of them used to work as okada riders. He also called my attention to the way our victim was appealing to him by saying ‘my friend, don’t do this to me’.

“Babangida expressed his fear that the man would expose his deed, saying that he had to kill him to cover up. Both of us joined hands to inflict machete cuts on the man until he died. Feeling restless after the act, Babangida zoomed off with the bike, leaving me behind. I had to run into the bush and walked through bush paths until I got home.

Continues pg 7

Suspect paraded for allegedly kidnapping woman

By Paul Omorogbe

A 36-year-old man, Dayo Adeniran, an Ekiti indigene resident in Ibadan, Oyo State, has been paraded by men of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Ibadan for allegedly abducting and defrauding one Miss Taiwo Ahmed.

According to the NSCDC Commandant, Mr John Adewoye, the suspect was operating alongside two others still at large as a transporter carrying Oyo-bound passengers from Ibadan. He was said to have been nabbed at Onireke area of Ibadan.

The commandant said

The suspect that “the suspect pretended to be a commercial driver in a white Mazda saloon car with registration number AV 760 NRK. The victim was abducted against her will and, in the process, defrauded. She raised the alarm where she was taken to and men of the NSCDC who happened to be in the

area came to her rescue.”

However, the suspect denied being a kidnapper but admitted that he and the two others defrauded the victim.

According to him, “I and others picked up this woman as a passenger on the way to Oyo town. We got her involved in a dis-

cussion about money when she got in. I first mentioned to a passenger who was my partner to close his bag well because the money in it was showing. My partner said he was carrying some money which he had stolen but had been charmed by his boss. He added that N35,000 was needed to remove it.

“My second partner said he had N25,000. The woman said she had only N5,000 with her which she wanted to use to buy gaari, but if we went to Oremeji area with her, she could get another N5,000 from someone so that she could also share in the money after the charm on

it had been removed.

“We told her not to bother, that her N5,000 would be enough. We all went to Sabo. My partners took her N5,000 and went out of the car with her. I looked for a place to park the car and was still waiting when I heard the woman raise the alarm that her money was gone. Before I knew it, okada riders and a crowd in the area had gathered around me, and I was arrested.”

Speaking further, Mr Adewoye said, “We advise members of the public to be vigilant and to be wary of the kind of vehicles they board when travelling.”

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crimereports

14 February, 2016

Sunday Tribune

Again, Oyo SARS recovers 11 snatched vehicles Stories by Oluwatoyin Malik

F

OLLOWING the arrest of a robbery/ receiver syndicate and the recovery of 16 vehicles by the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS) of the Oyo State Police Command, an additional 11 vehicles have been recovered by the SARS operatives from two suspected members of the syndicate who had been receiving the snatched vehicles from the robbers among the syndicate members.

This was disclosed to Crime Reports by the state Commissioner of Police, Leye Oyebade, during a press briefing recently. The two suspects were Adebayo Aluko and Yekini Alafe.

The six suspects initially arrested in connection with the 16 vehicles earlier recovered were Noah Nasiru a.k.a Niyi (36), Adeyinka Oluwatobi (28), Badejo Oluwafemi (39), Dare Bamigboye (42), Dare Solola (40) and Oluwole Adebowale (39).

The Commissioner of Police had described the robbery syndicate involved in the snatching and resale of the vehicles as so notorious that it had terrorised the citizens of Oyo State by robbing, maiming and dispossessing them of their property.

He said that 16 vehicles initially recovered from the suspects in Kaduna, Abuja, Kogi, Kwara, Ondo and Oyo states included a Honda Pilot, six Toyota Camry cars of different models, two Toyota Sienna buses, a Honda CRV, two Honda Accord, an Infinity SUV, a Nissan Primera, a Toyota Highlander, and a Honda power bike.

Speaking with Crime Reports on the latest arrest, Oyebade said that SARS operatives, led by their officer-in-charge, Olusola Aremu, did a follow-up to the previous case

by extending intensive investigation to Abuja. This resulted in the arrest of two receivers whose names were given as Adebayo Aluko and Yekini Alafe.

The police commissioner disclosed that the suspects had confessed to belonging to the syndicate, while 11 vehicles of different brands that had been snatched

from their owners were recovered from them.

The vehicles recovered lately include four Toyota Highlander SUVs, a Toyota Camry car (big daddy), two

The suspects

“After that, we snatched another okada from a Fulani man, but instead of selling it, Babangida decided to be using it. Tunde and I warned him against this because we knew that since we lived within the same community as our victim, we could be found out if the bike remained with Babangida. But he refused to heed our advice, boasting that nothing

Crime Reports that he received some stolen vehicles from a suspected armed robber, Noah Niyi Nasiru.

“I knew the vehicles were not legitimately purchased because the prices were too low. They were two Toyota Highlander SUVs, two Toyota Sienna space buses and Toyota Camry. I believe that my going into such business is the devil’s manipulation,” Aluko said.

The second suspect, Alafe, also said that Noah (Niyi) sold some cars to him. According to Alafe, “we started business together in 2012/2013. I have bought six cars from him. The prices he sold them to me were indicative of their not being acquired legitimately.”

The Commissioner of Police however said that the suspects would be charged to court after the conclusion of investigations.

Revenue generation, security are crucial to Customs —ACG THE Assistant Controller General in charge of Zone A of the Nigeria Customs Service, Mr Eporwei Edike, has described revenue generation and prevention of smuggling of arms and ammunition, as well as other prohibited items to Nigeria as very critical among the duties of the agency’s officials.

ACG Edike also empha-

sised the importance of synergy between Nigeria Customs Service and other security agencies, saying that there would always be the need to share intelligence and pass information to ensure absolute security of lives and property in Nigeria.

The Customs boss stated this during the week on his visit to the outposts in Oyo/ Osun Area command. The

places visited included Igbeti patrol base, Saki zonal office and Iseyin patrol base.

He was accompanied by the Customs Area Controller, Mr Tolulope Ogunkua and other senior officials.

Addressing the officers at each of the outposts, Edike appreciated the officials for doing their jobs and pushing hard to protect the Federal Govern-

From right, Assistant Controller General of Customs, Zone A, Mr Eporwei Edike; the Area Controller, Oyo/Osun Command, Mr Tolulope Ogunkua and other Customs officials in Igbeti

How Babangida gang member killed rider to steal his bike Continued from pg 6

Toyota Camry cars (muscle), three Toyota Sienna buses and a Honda Accord car.

One of the suspects, Aluko (48), confirmed to

would happen.

“Unfortunately, the owner of the bike saw it and told some people that it looked like his. He gave its spare key to someone who used it to unlock it while Babangida was at an eatery. When it was noticed that the key could open the bike, the police were alerted and we were arrested.”

John said that his gang had snatched about five motorcycles, from which

he got a total of N25,000 after selling four of them, while Babangida kept the fifth one for his use.

He further disclosed that it was Babangida who brought the idea of forming a gang.

The third suspect, Bello, also from Kishi, said: “Babangida is the one who put me in this trouble. I am a farmer. He sent John to me to join him in robbery.

Though I tried to resist the temptation, Babangida

assured me that he had a lawyer who would save us if we fell into trouble.

“I went to two operations with him and John.

I got N5,000 from the first one and N10,000 the second time. I had already confessed my deeds to my father and promised never to be involved again. It was about two months after the last operation that Babangida was arrested and he pointed me out.”

ment interests in terms of revenue generation and national security.

Saying that the Customs must collect every kobo due to the government as revenue, the ACG added that Nigeria needed the Customs officials at this period and they must not fail the nation.

He noted the dwindling oil revenue, saying that government now depends on internally-generated revenue, with Nigeria Customs Service at the forefront of ensuring that money gets into the coffers of the government.

“We must not fail Nigeria, so there must be personal sacrifice. All personal interests must die for national interests. What you collect as revenue here is important as the one collected in Port Harcourt or Lagos, because they all add up to become big. That is why you are very important to national revenue generation,” ACG Edike said.

He added that aside revenue, the issue of national security is also important.

“You should prevent arms and ammunition being brought into Nigeria. A single bullet or pistol should not be allowed into the nation through the borders because the single bullet can cause havoc and send the people of a community mourning. Don’t wait until you see a container load of arms and ammunition,” he admonished his men.

He also spoke on impor-

tation of hard drugs, saying that all the security agencies must work together to maintain security of the nation.

He appreciated the good works of the Area Controller, which he acknowledged in terms of the synergy he witnessed in Igbeti, Saki and Iseyin.

In an interview with Crime Reports, the ACG said that the purpose of his visit was to encourage the officers who are stationed in hinterlands which are routes usually used to bring in goods and products into Nigeria.

“This will make them know that they are important to Nigeria and are not forgotten. The job they do in the bush is very critical to Nigeria’s survival in terms of national security and revenue,” he stated.

He added: “Aside revenue, importers and agents may want to exploit the places they think are porous but I am here to make the men know that they are to ‘shine’ their eyes so that nobody brings in arms, ammunition, illicit or hard drugs, as well as items that are not regulated by Standard Organisation of Nigeria (SON).”

The Assistant Controller General was also in the palace of the Onigbeti of Igbeti, Oba Emmanuel Oyebisi Afasegbejo III, where he expressed appreciation to the monarch for the condusive environment given Customs officials to work in.

8

southwest

14 February, 2016

Sunday Tribune

Police arrest 4 Osun bank robbery suspects, kill 4

Recover N7.4m, 3 AK-47 rifles From Oluwatoyin Malik and Oluwole Ige

A

S the residents of Ikirun community of Ifelodun Local Government Area of Osun State are still battling with the psychological trauma of the terror unleashed by armed robbers who invaded banks

in the town, on Friday, the Commissioner of Police in Osun State, Mr Kola Sodipo, has disclosed that four of the armed robbers have

been arrested while four were shot dead by his men during a gun duel.

He also confirmed that the state command lost

two policemen to the bank robbery while two bank officials died in the incident.

Addressing a press conference on Saturday, dur-

ing which the four suspects were shown to journalists, Sodipo gave their names as Aderibigbe Oluwaseun (23), Ndubuisi David (21),

I am committed to unity of Akure —Monarch

By Tunde Ogunesan THE Deji of Akure, Ondo State, Oba Aladetoyinbo Ogunlade Aladelusi, has reiterated his commitment to see that Akure is re-united as a common entity with common interest and destiny.

Oba Aladelusi disclosed this, on Saturday, while speaking during a reception in his honour by the Akure National Union, Ibadan chapter, held at the banquet hall, Premier Hotel, Ibadan, Oyo State.

The monarch said: “This is the time we need to build a strong, virile and united stronghold against forces of division which have exploited our so-called unified history and geography but diverse aspirations and inspirations to tear us apart over the years.”

Oba Aladelusi further informed that his mission had been to fashion a way of reuniting all the Obas within Akure division in order to achieve common goals of taking Akureland to greater heights.

“I will continue to engage our people on the need for them to see that there is strength in unity. I have no iota of doubt that the re-awakening by Akure people, both at home and in the diaspora, has begun on a brighter and promising note. The future and the goal is achievable,” he stated.

The Deji of Akure, Oba Aladetoyinbo Ogunlade Adelusi flanked by his wife, Olori Abimbola and Chief Olu Falae, during the reception in his honour, held at the Premier Hotel, Ibaan, on Saturday. PHOTO: TOMMY ADEGBITE.

Cross section of members of Agege Patriots Group (a Non-Governmental Organisation) with the Administrative Officer of Tunji Adebayo Orphanage, Mrs. Titilayo Dahunsi and the care giver, Mrs. Tope Idemudia, during the group’s visit to celebrate Valentine’s Day with the children of the orphanage on Saturday, at Fagba, Lagos.

Ogun govt seeks N100bn compensation from FG over roads THE Ogun State Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure, Mr Olamilekan Adegbite, has disclosed that the Federal Government is owing the state government N100 billion being the cost so far expended on the con-

struction of federal roads across the state.

Adegbite, who stated this while featuring on a radio programme in Abeokuta, according to a statement by the spokesman of the ministry, Mr. Ayokunle Ewuoso,

said the total expenditure submitted to the Federal Government was N200 billion for all federal roads that were planned to be constructed.

“What we have submitted as the total expenditure

How Fayose is repositioning education in Ekiti —Aide Sam Nwaoko - Ado-Ekiti THE effort by Governor Ayodele Fayose to reposition education in Ekiti State is already yielding results, as it came 11th out of the 36 states of the federation in last year’s Senior Secondary School

Ayuba Abubakar Salisu (26) and Nuhu Jimoh (21).

According to the police boss, “today, I present to you some unscrupulous elements, who were arrested by my men during their deadly attack on banks.”

The police commissioner added that three AK-47 rifles with 124 rounds of live ammunition and one assault rifle with 12 rounds of live ammunition were recovered from the hoodlums.

Also recovered were a total sum of N7,486,300 and a Nissan Sunny car which was reportedly put on standby for the escape of the last batch of the hoodlums after the operation.

Sodipo said that the victims were those who were targeted and killed by the armed robbers as soon as they arrived at the banks they wanted to operate in.

Giving an insight into how the incident occurred, Sodipo said that his command received a distress call at about 3:45 p.m that armed robbers invaded the banks, prompting a swift deployment of policemen to repel the attack.

Sodipo stated further that expended shells of ammunition and dynamites which littered the robbery scene were also recovered, while he had gone there for an on-the-spot assessment, with the bomb disposal unit sweeping the affected area to detect and recover undetonated improvised explosive devices (IEDs).

While assuring that a diligent investigation was ongoing to ensure the arrest of other syndicate members, the police commissioner appealed to residents of the state and members of the public to report suspicious movements to the police for prompt action.

examination conducted by the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) where 37 per cent of the candidates had no fewer than five credit passes, including English Language and Mathematics.

The state government said it presented a total of

13, 690 candidates for the public examinations taken by final year secondary school students in Englishspeaking countries in West Africa.

The Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Mr Idowu Adelusi, while speaking on the develop-

ment, said it was gratifying that the effort of the Fayose administration in the sector was “yielding positive results,” saying “the jump from 35th position to the 11th a little over a year of the assumption of office by the governor was remarkable.”

on federal roads that Ogun State government intends to construct is in excess of N200 billion, but what we have spent now and are asking for is just N100 billion.

“But I don’t think the Federal Government has the money to pay every state.

I think Lagos state has the highest pay from the Federal Government in terms of the federal road construction. What the government is doing is a good start; at least, it should pay something reasonable.”

“Before I came in as commissioner, there was a

verification exercise in 2011 which of course dealt with the roads that were done in the past in some parts of the state. As of that time, what was ascertained then was about N4.5 billion that was yet to be paid.”

He assured that as soon as the money started coming in from the government at the centre, the state government would plough it back on further road construction, adding that the governor was committed to making sure that all ongoing projects were completed before the expiration of his tenure.

9

14 February, 2016

Sunday Tribune

10

life&living

14 February, 2016

Sunday Tribune

‘Though the Chinese spied on us, they can’t beat us to aso oke’

Another set of aso oke weavers

Continued from pg 2 whole of your body, it is not a job for lazy people but we dare not sell at exhorbitant price so that we can maintain our costumers,” he added. The weavers, however, have one consolation. “In spite of the threat by the Chinese, they cannot do the Aso Oke they way we do it. Once you see their own, you will know that it is not the real thing,” Oriire said with an air of confidence.

“We are more than this,” he said further, pointing to the empty ofi in the large space where the other weavers work, “the rest have gone to school.” Does that mean the industry is dying and the only remaining hope for it are the younger ones who have all gone to school?

“No,” he said, adding that “we were also at one point or the other at school until we finished. After school hours, we used to resume at the work centre to weave with our parents. At least we needed to go to school to be educated.”

The Treasurer of the weavers association, Alhaji Abdul Raufu Adesina, told the story of how weaving started and how Iseyin came to be known for weaving of Aso oke.

According to him, the cloth-weaving industry started in primordial times, somewhere in the Middle East. Silk worm produced the raw materials for the weaving industry; then there was a war and people dispersed into different parts of the world. From the Middle East, two notable weavers came to Iseyin. The younger of the two went to Agbaji in Ilorin and from there, a community of weavers grew and continued to weave Aso oke till date. According to Alhaji Adesina, “the silk worm which produced the raw material used to be so plenty in Ijebu area, so our fathers used to go there to bring the materials which was in use then.”

In times past, the yarn was dyed by the weavers themselves to produce the desired colours but these days, the yarn producers bring them in various desired colours.

Alhaji Adesina also echoed the story of the Chinese invasion. “They came to spy on us. They came recording our

activities and took samples with them. We thought they were just interested in our activities until we saw their products in the market. We were so confident that they will not be able to do the ‘jawu’ type that was so peculiar to us but they have made something very close to it,” he added.

However, the weavers are not sitting idly by watching their business die. They also made some efforts.

“Recently when we had a weavers association meeting, we told our brothers from Ilorin to see Senator Bukola Saraki and our House of Representative member here, Hon Olasupo also went to see Saraki but he met so many people there who came with similar problems. Others in different parts of the country are also facing similar problems, but we are hopeful that something will be done about it,” Alhaji Adesina said.

Speaking on some of the other problems that weavers face, Alhaji Adesina added further: “The yarn we use used to sell for N6,500 but later it was sold for N8,000 but when we protested, the price was brought down to N7,500. Some are selling it for us at the rate of N7,200.

If government can help us with loan facilities, we can go directly to the yarn producers and make a down payment for almost one year supply, but that is not possible now even though we are a registered association with recognition in Abuja.

In spite of the threat by the Chinese, they cannot do the Aso oke they way we do it. Once you see their own, you will know that it is not the real thing

“Those who have the money to do business are ripping us off. For me, since things have started being on a downward trend, I have decided to face my sawmill business so that I can have an alternative means of income.”

Sister industry in Ilorin In the whole of Ilorin emirate, there is hardly any community where the youth are not versatile in the skill of weaving the traditional Aso oke. These communities include Oke Imole comprising Okelele, Pakata, Aloore, Isale Fomo, Ile Olobu at Fomo, Abayawo and others.

Those between the ages of 45 and 60 traditionally must have passed through the tutelage of the craft.

It was gathered that many professionals, academics, civil servants and politicians also learnt the craft from their parents. The skill is still with them till date they may not be using it at present.

Market is dull Ibrahim Abiodun Olowo of Olowo compound, Abayawo, Ilorin, told Sunday Tribune that there is a lull in patronage of Aso oke now.

“The cost of materials is increasing. We used to buy a cone of thread at N150, now it is N250. And we learnt it will soon be N280. It’s quite expensive. The sellers keep saying that the high cost is due to the current exchange rate of the dollar. This reduces our gain. People still use Aso oke, it’s not that people no longer use it. But it has its off and on seasons of high and low demands. For instance, we have low patronage now because we had high sales and patronage during the December period when many people normally fix their ceremonies like weddings, chieftaincies and birthdays, among others.

“Traders in Aso Ofi do engage us to weave cloth for them and they export it to neighbouring towns like Ede, Ekiti, Ibadan and to countries like Ghana, Canada, UK, or USA. Continues pg11

11

life&living

14 February, 2016

Sunday Tribune

‘We need fund, government support’ Continued from pg 10 “We have the old narrow type and the latest one of double width. It’s a trade or craft inherited from our fathers. We grew up with it and learnt from our parents. We do go to school and still come back to it,” Abiodun said.

Lucrative business Asked if the business is lucrative despite the downturn in financial fortunes of the country, the weavers replied in the affirmative. “Yes, it’s lucrative. Because whatever business you do and you are able to feed your family, pay your children’s school fees and do all other things, then it is lucrative. There is no job anywhere to apply for. So, it’s better than being jobless.

My father used proceeds from the business to send us to school. Even people who are into other vocations have also learn the skill,” Abiodun added, noting that “women also weave Aso oke, but they don’t do it in our own family.”

Also speaking, Ibrahim Busari, who has three young men as apprentices, said that he learnt the skill from his father, adding that he does nothing aside the Aso ofi weaving.

“The type I am doing now Alhaji Adesina, Treasurer, is the commonly used one. It’s Iseyin Weavers Association called Olopomeji. It’s wider than the old narrow type called ‘Idaasa.’ We learnt the art of cloth weaving from our fathers. We started with etu, sanyan. But with civilisation and modernity, we now have this olopomeji brand,” he said.

“Despite the challenges, one can achieve many good things by doing this job. We thank God we are able to achieve so many good things of life. We build houses, buy cars, go on pilgrimage, send children to school and also invest into other business with proceeds from Aso ofi.

“We inherited the skill. For me, I inherited the craft from my father. I have some youths undergoing apprenticeship with me.

Talking about apprenticeship, for one to learn the art of cloth weaving and be good at it, one should learn it for one year. This involves preparing the thread, laying the thread and weaving,” Busari said further.

Busari’s customers are spread across the country. Traders from Ibadan, Lagos, Ede, Akure, Ondo, the Eastern part of the country including Rivers State, do patronise him.

However, just like his colleagues said, there are challenges.

“Some of the problems being encountered include incessant price increase of materi- of money one has would determine the exals we need whenever there’s fuel scarcity. tent of one’s gains and the innovation one Also, suppliers of the materials we use claim can introduce or bring into it. We need that the current exchange rate of dollar has financial assistance from government in form of soft or revolving loan. At least, made prices of materials to increase.

Also speaking with Sunday Tribune, N500,000 to start with for an individual an executive officer of the Oluwakunmi will be okay,” he said.

Aso Ofi Traditional Cloth Weaving AsFashion statement sociation, Ilorin, Alhaji Ibrahim SulaiThe weavers are of the view that politiman, said government had not in any way helped the weavers to promote the craft or cians and leaders in the country should promote local fabrics, noting that when encouraged the vocation.

“We need government assistance. This they adorn the fabrics, fellow Nigerians job needs financial capability. The amount will want to copy them, thereby popularis-

An instrument for weaving

A weaver displaying aso oke

ing the local textile materials and increasing their production which will help to provide jobs for the unemployed.

Bashir Oyedele, one of the weavers, also told Sunday Tribune that “there was a time Stella Obasanjo, the late wife of President Olusegun Obasanjo, put on Tapanpa textile material for official engagement.

When she was using it, being a prominent public figure, many people copied her style of dressing, using Tapanpa.

“This business (aso oke) was at a low ebb throughout the period. That made many people in the craft to go into taxi cab or

okada business. But since the end of that era, many people who left had come back to the vocation. Those who had sustained various injuries riding Okada came back, while those that travelled outside the town to search for greener pastures have also returned to the craft.

“When people see their leaders, important dignitaries, putting on traditional wears on television and at different ceremonies, they would want to copy them and use same material for their own ceremonies. This in turn will boost the production of our local fabrics,” he added.

12

feature

14 February, 2016

Sunday Tribune

Family laid foundation for their house, returned 8 days after to bury breadwinner…

Mr Falola (circled) at his wife’s graveside during the burial service

By Oluwatoyin Malik

O

N Tuesday, February 2, 2016, a member of staff of The Polytechnic, Ibadan, Mrs Deborah Falola and her husband, Mr Moses Falola laid the foundation for their house at Adaba area of Apete. Bought through the institution’s cooperative society some years back, the couple had hoped that they would gradually complete the structure.

On Sunday, February 7, the husband was back at the site and had marked out a space for the construction of a shop for his wife to do her business when they eventually move to the house. But that dream was broken less than 24 hours after as Mrs Falola and five others, lost their lives in the ghastly accident which occurred on Oyo-Ibadan Expressway on February 8.

The Falolas, Sunday Tribune gathered were preparing for the wedding ceremony of their first child, Omowumi, which would be coming up in April this year. Omowumi and her fiancé, Dayo, held an introduction ceremony at the end of 2015 in preparation towards the April wedding, before the sudden death of the bride-to-be’s mother.

Forty-five-year old Mrs Falola, secretary, Department of Quantity Surveying, Ibadan, The Polytechnic, had gone with some staff and students of the department to the naming ceremony of the child of one of the lecturers of the department. The group was on their way back to Ibadan when the incident occurred.

In Yoruba culture, wailing of dogs is perceived as ominous. And this was the feeling of Falola Oladeji, first son of the deceased, on February 8 at about 1a.m, when the wailing of dogs woke him from sleep.

Recalling the incident when speaking with Sunday Tribune after his mother’s

burial on Wednesday, Oladeji said: “Before her death, what I observed was that at about 1a.m. on Monday, dogs around our apartment started wailing. I woke up and asked what was going on. She replied that it might be that they noticed something. I said it was unusual and we went to sleep.

“Usually, I was the one that used to take her to the office, but on that Monday, I was late for work so she said I should not bother taking her, as she would find her way to the office. I told her I needed some money and she gave me two N500 notes.”

According to Oladeji, he was unaware of his mother’s intended journey but learnt that she told his father that she might likely go for the naming ceremony of the baby of one of the lecturers in the Quantity Surveying Department.

“I believe she eventually made up her mind to go because of the free transport that was made available,” the young man stated.

By the time the news of Mrs Falola was broken within the polytechnic campus, Oladeji was one of those consoling students, unknown to him that his mother was also a victim. “As I was consoling the students, I overheard someone say that the affected persons were from the Department of Quantity Surveying. I immediately put a call through to my mother to know if she was aware of the incident. But her phone rang continuously without her picking it.

“I called my sister, Omowumi, to know if my mother was at home, but she said no. I saw my boss’s vehicle at the health centre of the institution and he asked me to ask another boss to call my father. Instead, I called my father to know if someone called him but he said no. I returned to the health centre, only for people that I know to start moving away from me.

“I became suspicious that something must have happened. I called my boss, but

Oladeji Falola

he did not pick the call. When he called me later, he said that my mother was involved in the accident, but assured me that she only had fractures and would be well. I left for our church and called my boss again.

That was when he broke the news that my mother was dead,” the young man narrated.

Sunday Tribune gathered that the deceased left behind six children, the eldest of who is about 24 years old, while the youngest would be seven in April.

The names of the children were given as Omowumi, Oladeji, Hannah, Emmanuel, Darasimi and Eniola, according to their seniority. The seventh child reportedly died in 2011 at the age of seven.

Fearful farewell…

Tears flowed freely at the graveside.

Pastor Matthew Effomah, admonished mourners to live their lives for God because no one knows when death would come knocking, making reference to the plans of the Falola towards the wedding ceremony of their first child.

As the husband was being led to the vehicle that brought him to the graveside, he looked back and suddenly shouted: “Ah! I was on our piece of land on Sunday, February 7, and it was this very spot that was dug as my wife’s grave that I pointed out that I would use to construct a shop for her. My plan has been overturned, and a shop- tobe has now become a grave.” Many wept uncontrollably as the widower muttered these words, just as the men consoled him.

Many of the sympathisers wept uncontrollably as they spoke glowingly of the deceased, who was described as kind-hearted.

Buttressing this, Oladeji told Sunday Tribune: “My mother was good and caring. She was always after the well-being of not only her children but everyone in need of help.

Late Mrs Deborah Falola “The youngest of her children will be seven years old on April 6. I am a student of The Polytechnic, Ibadan, running a part-time programme in Electrical Engineering. My sister, Omowumi, who is getting married in April, is also running her part-time HND programme in Accountancy.”

He confirmed that his mother was the breadwinner of the family who had been helping her husband in taking care of their children. He also said that his parents were soulmates. “They usually went out together. If she went to the market to buy just onions, she would call my father to come and pick her, just for them to be together,” he said.

Sunday Tribune learnt that Mrs Falola started working with The Polytechnic, Ibadan, in 1998 before she converted her appointment to being a secretary in 2007. She was said to be hardworking and industrious.

The Public Relations Officer of the institution, Alhaji Soladoye Adewole, who spoke on the tragic incident, enjoined members of the public to join the institution in prayer during this trying period, said that a prayer session was being planned for the entire polytechnic community.

Information gathered by Sunday Tribune indicated that the six accident victims included two female staff, three male and a female students. The driver, who is also said to be a student, survived.

The names of the deceased female staffers were given as Mrs Deborah Falola and Mrs Akintayo while the students were Ajao Segun, Yaya Raji, Hameed Abideen and Zainab Oladiti.

Four of them had been buried as of the time of writing this report.

13 Continued from

T

14 February, 2016 last week

HIS points which I have made here are not new.

I have made them in private to my friends and acquaintances many times, and in public on a number of occasions.

In other words, the absence of vindictiveness or the positive act of forgiveness, apart from gratifying the person forgiven, also helps to bring the forgiver into attunement with the divine source of power for good. I know these things; and I strive daily to practise them most religiously.

I can give many instances of my numerous acts of forgiveness towards those who regard themselves as my enemies.

But, just now, I want to limit myself to five only. Firstly, I recall the case of one very prominent character in the tragic and prolonged drama which began in the Western Regional House of Assembly in 1962. He worked much harder than the rest, and left no stone unturned, to bring about my political destruction. I will relate three episode involving me and this man. Even in the midst of the Coker Inquiry, where he appeared as Counsel, I initiated discussion with him with a view to reconciliation. Among other things, I said to him: “Apart from the office of premiership which cannot be taken from Alhaji Adegbenro, name any office you want, and distribute the portfolios the way you like between your colleagues and A.G. members. I assure you I will get my colleagues to accept your proposals.” He promised to report back; but never did.

It was generally believed in this gentleman’s camp that I initiated the discussion out of fear.

Then after my release from prison, the relationship between me and this man became so cordial that he wrote me letters in which he addressed me - “Dear Leader.” In his last letter to me which he wrote in his own hand three days before he left this country on voluntary exile, he said inter alia as follows: I thank you very much for our discussions yesterday and I am very happy that we could see that the allegations made against me regarding conspiracies to kill you and Col. Adebayo must have been the creation of evil minded persons... I shall be extremely grateful to you and our father; Oba Odemo if you can explain my position to Col. Adebayo. I am no murderer, nor have I the makings for a conspirator to murder and shall be extremely grateful if you can disabuse his mind completely on these false rumours.

The last episode began when I visited Britain in January 1969 to represent the Head of State at the Commonwealth Prime Ministers’ Conference. I rang up this gentleman in order to greet him, and to invite him for a

Awo’s thoughts PATH TO NIGERIAN GREATNESS

Perspective of free education policy at all levels

friendly chat. To my astonishment he gave me a very cold and offish rebuff.

All the same, when I read in the papers in 1970 or 1971 that he was in Nigeria, I spent two weeks trying to contact him. On each of the many occasions I telephoned his house, I left a message. But there was no response. Then one afternoon he rang me up to apologise for his delay in responding to my calls. Later the same day, a very highranking public officer of Northern origin called on me. He told me that earlier in the day, the gentleman in question rang him up and said things to the following effect: Since the past two weeks, Chief Awolowo has been telephoning my place. When he visited London in 1969, he spoke to me on the phone, but I gave him a rebuff. When I got his first message, I decided to get in touch with our friends to find out from them whether it was proper to respond to Chief Awolowo’s overtures. Those in Ibadan as well as Dr ABC advised that I should ignore him. Our mutual friend Chief XYZ who answered Chief Awolowo’s invitation in London has been severely castigated. Do you think I should respond to his persistent attempt to contact me?

This high-ranking public officer felt shocked. He told him, among other things, that, after all that had happened, if he were Chief Awolowo, he would never have any further dealings with the gentleman in question. He added. “Here is a man you accuse of vindictiveness. Yet, for all his efforts to re-establish friendship you gave him

Sunday Tribune

rebuff and cold shoulder.” This public officer then advised him to contact me, and so he did.

Apart from the solitary telephone call, this gentleman made no further effort to contact me. Instead he went to one of our Anglican Bishops and told him that he had wanted to get in touch with me, but in view of our strained relations, he could not do so directly. He believed the Bishop could mediate a meeting between us. Accordingly the Bishop invited me to a meeting with him. I was accompanied to this meeting by a friend. The gentleman in question alone came to the meeting which was presided over by the Bishop, assisted by a top Clergy of the Catholic Church.

He spoke at length, and made a variety of complaints and accusations against me. Most of his complaints and accusations antedated the A.G. Crisis of 1962. Some were connected with the Agbekoya troubles, and some others related to a number of individuals who broke away from the Action Group in 1962. He then expressed his grave and deep concern for the welfare of the Yoruba people, which, he believed was being jeopardised by any approach to politics. The five of us at the meeting were Yoruba.

I also spoke at length, certainly at greater length than he did. Before he concluded his indictment, I decided to be brutally frank with him. I thought he was a crook and charlatan; I said so and gave my reasons. This man has declared to his friends in private that when the ban on political activities is lifted, he will come back into politics in order to give me a very tough time.

Secondly, there was the old case of a gentleman who spared nothing in his efforts to get me defeated in the elections of 1951. Yet in 1954 he was, through my good offices, raised from political abjectness, and admitted into the Action Group as special organiser on salaries and allowances of a Minister. In 1956, I persuaded my colleagues to get him raised to a pedestal higher than that of a Minister in the Western Region.

Thirdly, I was informed in 1967 that one of my former Ministers, who defected, and also testified against me at the treasonable felony trial, was unable to get a job in secondary schools because of his acts of perfidy towards me. It was said that unless I gave him a pardon, he would not be employed by the authorities concerned. He carne to me at Surulere, I immediately gave him the required letter, and he was employed within a fortnight. When he visited me, he was down and out, and was visibly suffering from dejection. Two years after his rehabilitation, he again joined the rank of my detractors.

To be continued

AFRICAN NEWSPAPERS OF NIGERIA PLC Founders: CHIEF OBAFEMI AWOLOWO GCFR, SAN (1909 - 1987)

Chief (Dr) H.I.D Awolowo CON (1915 - 2015)

Chairman Rev. (Mrs) Omotola Oyediran Co-Chairman Dr. Olatokunbo Awolowo Dosumu Managing Director/Editor-in-Chief Edward Dickson Controller (Business Development) Fola Oke

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14

sundayinterview

14 February, 2016

Sunday Tribune

The secrets about Nigeria I won’t reveal —Akinjide

Chief Richard Akinjide was Minister of Education in the government of Alhaji Tafawa Balewa and was Minister of Justice and Attorney-General in the Shehu Shagari government between 1979 and 1983. He speaks with DARE ADEKANMBI, on the January 15, 1966 coup, the greatest problem confronting the country, the request by President Muhammadu Buhari to have a special court for corruption cases, among other issues. Excerpts:

C

OULD you tell us the kind of man the late Olubadan, Oba Samuel Odulana was when you were both in the government of Alhaji Tafawa Balewa in the First Repub-

lic?

The late Olubadan was a minister under the Prime Minister and he achieved a lot, just like I did too. We have a pedigree whereby the late Olubadan who was a minister in the cabinet and myself and are both from the same family. We got there on merit and we are very grateful to the people of Ibadan and to Yoruba people.

In today’s Nigeria, would it have been possible to have two people from the same family to have such federal positions, given the extent to which things have been ethnicised?

In fact, what we achieved was even more than that, because the late Chief Adisa Akinloye who also came from Ibadan North-East Local Government was also a cabinet minister. So, it was not just the two of us. We are talking about three or four people because there were also advisers in the government too. At that time, we had just got our independence. We were extremely lucky. I studied law in England and at that time, not very many Nigerians were educated. And those of us who were educated were extremely lucky.

I can see that happening again, if we look at merit and not just look at opportunism. Yes, today, we have got very many Nigerian graduates who studied abroad: in Europe, America and other places, including here in Nigeria. I can’t count the number of universities in Nigeria now. So, as of now, everybody has a chance. I can’t imagine any local government in Nigeria today where a graduate has not been produced or somebody with the right education to occupy the right position.

Will the federal character principle, which has already been built into the constitution, allow appointments to be done in favour of a particular state or zone?

Well, to have the right spread is written in the constitution and it should be part of our culture. That is quite necessary and possible now. In the olden days, you would be lucky to be a teacher or to be a qualified nurse. Of course, before independence, a lot of people from the North were not educated. But that is not the situation now. I don’t see any local government area in the North which has not produced a graduate now. We are extremely lucky in producing highly educated people everywhere. The critical element is to produce people with the right character, culture and the right attitude. If you misbehave in England or France or Germany, out you go of the government. There is no partiality at all. Charcater is very critical for those in government.

You were in the federal parliament in 1959 before Nigeria’s independence and you must be bubbling with enthusiasm then that the country would be free from British control. Looking back after 55 years of independence, are you disappointed or satisfied about where the country is

Chief Richard Akinjide

today?

I am disappointed, because, before independence and at the time of independence, the sky was not the limit.

Nigeria has not reached the level it should reach. Nigeria should be leading the whole of Africa. We ought to be the best. Why we are not where we ought to be, your guess is as good as mine. But if you look at the enormous work done by Dr Nnamdi Azikiwe, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, Chief S.L Akintola, Tafawa Balewa, Ahmadu Bello, Micheal Okpara and others, we should have gone further than where we are today. But I think one of the problems we have is being sectional and tribal. I am not happy about the quarrel going on in the North-East zone.

That is extremely sad. There is insurgency there, because a majority of the people there are not educated. They might tell you other stories, don’t believe them. I have toured that area before and after the trouble there and I have gone there to argue cases. The people are extremely backward. The British did not educate them. That is a fact. And when the northerners came in, a majority of the people of the North remained uneducated.

So, I think we are having this problem as a result of lack of education and understanding. They can’t have such a problem in Europe or Americ, because everybody there Continues

pg 15

15

sundayinterview

14 February, 2016

Sunday Tribune

‘No need for special court on corruption’ Continued from

I would like to be very careful in passing judgment on him. He was a gentleman, very honourable and very great. After his death, some years later, we went to his town in the North to do some ceremonies. We went to his house and we saw how wretched the house was. The president at that time, Alhaji Shehu Shagari, in whose government I was attorney-general and minister of justice, decided that we should do something at that time to help him. Those who succeeded him and succeeded other presidents should learn from past leaders, especially the lesson that we should be very careful.

We were a colonial country and the British ruled us. But what I discovered was that governance at that time was essentially in the interest of the Europeans. The critical interest was economic. And even today, if you look at our resources, especially our oil and gas, we are not in control of these resources. Don’t let anybody deceive you; they are still being controlled by the Europeans. We don’t even know how to look for our oil and gas. We have not got the ship for them and we are only now trying to have refineries. So, after 50 years of independence, we should have gone further than where we are today. We must admit that in certain respects, if not in many respects, we have failed. But we should correct the errors we have made.

I am not happy at the progress we have made so far.

pg 14

is educated and they understand one another. But let us hope that, very soon, we will leave all these problems behind us.

We had problems in the Delta areas, but we are leaving those problems behind us now. Hardly anywhere you go in the Delta that you will not see people who are educated or who understand what they want or what they should get. If any area of Nigeria in uneducated, it is not the fault of the people. I say categorically that it is the fault of the leaders.

Do you agree with those who argue that the nationalists of pre-independence era were only pre-occupied with sending away the British with little attention focused on what to do with independence?

They did have a plan. Anybody who is saying they did not must be totally out of his mind. They were highly educated and patriotic people. There is no way anyone can tell me that Azikiwe, Awolowo, Akintola, Ahmadu Bello, Balewa and others had no plan. They had a plan because they were deeply committed to Nigeria’s progress. And that is why you see things like important airports, streets, office buildings and so on named after them. They were very great Nigerians. In fact, I will regard them as the greatest in the whole of the continent of Africa. When I came back from England as a young lawyer, I was looking up to them and trying to emulate what they did. I learned a lot from their character and their ethos. I doff my hat for them.

When some young Nigerians are regaled with tales of how life was abundant during the colonial era and how those who went to school during that period got quality education, they tend to think that we should not have sent the British away because they have not fared better since government became Nigerianised.

There were enormous resources in the West and in the South generally. Cocoa was in abundance in the West and in the North, they had a lot of resources, from cotton to groundnut. In the South-East, there were resources from rubber and palm oil and so on. We were right to have driven away the British because, after the first and second World Wars, the idea of colonialism became archaic and unacceptable. There is no way I could study law in England and then come back to Nigeria and be a British lawyer. This is why we have our own law schools and call people to the Bar. I don’t see any part of the world we can call a colony today. Colonialism is absurd. If you look at the economy of the world, you will see that the economy of France essentially is now being run by wealth from the French-speaking West African states. Even here in Nigeria, much of our economy is run by foreign countries. Why can’t we make our bridges, roads ourselves? A lot of things we should be able to do, we are not doing them. Look at the telecommunications industry, a lot of our money goes to South Africa. It is absurd that we are paying so much on paytelevision in Nigeria to companies owned and run by foreigners. Why can’t we do

Chief Akinjide

these things ourselves?

You said a while ago that it was honourable to be teachers in those days. Why then did you turn down a scholarship given to you at Oduduwa College where you would return after your first degree and start to teach?

When I was at the Oduduwa College, we had a centre for senior Cambridge and I took my senior Cambridge examination there. I, like others, had Grade 1 and were exempted from London matriculation examination. We only needed to pay 10 Pounds or something like that to get our London certificate. When I got my own, the principal wrote me a letter and offered me a scholarship to go to England and to sign a bond that I would come and serve for five years. I got the letter but did not accept the offer because I had made up my mind to be a lawyer. My parents could afford to send me to England and that was exactly what they did.

I went to England for three and a half years. I read the law degree of the University of London (LLB). I read the Bar at the Inner Temple and I did attachment for three months. I also did a course in journalism. So, within a period of three and a half years, I did four courses. We had not got independence at that time. Nigeria was still under the British. I got everything I wanted and I started to practise law, even though there were opportunities for me to join the local or regional or Federal Government or even join a private company. I enjoyed not joining government as a civil

servant and I am happy. My children are doing the same thing and in some cases, they are doing even better than I did.

What inspired your choice of law?

One, if you read law, the sky is not the limit for you in life. There is nothing you want to achieve that you can’t achieve.

Again, law penetrates all aspects of life, whether it is medical, land problem or even shipping. Law is limitless. It has always been my ambition in life to be a lawyer and that is why many of my children and grandchildren are also lawyers.

Is it true that those of you in the Balewa government got wind of the January 15 1966 coup?

Definitely, we did. We saw the signs and we made it clear to Prime Minister Balewa at that time that a coup was in the offing.

But the Prime Minister did not believe it.

But I believed it, as did Chief Akintola, Ahmadu Bello and others. It was a sectional coup and I don’t think we should go into the details of that coup for now. Those who did the coup regret it till today, because there was nothing they wanted that they didn’t get, whether it was at the regional level or federal level. In fact, they were even controlling the foreign affairs at that time. There is nothing more damaging than greed and I am sure they must have regretted what they did. I don’t think anybody rational will ever do it again.

Why did Balewa not believe that the coup was real?

Well, he is no more with us now. And

You have refused to write a memoir of your experience in government. Is this because you have information you think may be too volatile to release to the public?

I have got a lot of things to say and I am already working on my memoir. I will soon write my memoir. But there are a number of things that I should not reveal now. I should let time go before they are revealed.

How much time do you need before such things are made public?

That will be as soon as possible. I can’t give a specific time now. You must do the right thing at the right time. All our leaders should write their memoirs and put things on record. This is what is done in Europe, America and London as well as in parts of Africa. Nelson Mandela has written a lot about himself and others have also written about him. I was in the University of Cape Town to deliver a major lecture and I toured South Africa. I was greatly impressed. Nigeria has some of the best leaders in the world and they should put their thoughts in writing.

Some will not agree with your lavish praise on Nigerian and African leaders. Mandela is considered in many quarters the last hero in Africa. Today, too many sit-tight leaders are all over African countries, people like Robert Mugabe and Paul Biya who have been in power for decades.

The biggest problem we have is corruption and the next to it is excessive greed for money. If you look at all the leaders and if you take seven of them, they have enormous wealth. But if you look at their Continues

pg 32

16

14 February, 2016

U

NOFFICIALLY, from official sources, my information reservoir is bursting at the hems. Were it to be my swashbuckling reportorial years, I would have gone public with correct predictions of the outcomes of the pending governorship appeals at the Supreme Court, days before the first and the most contentious; Rivers governorship appeal brought

by Governor Nyesome Wike, was resolved, albeit surprisingly, in favour of the PDP governor. I had information but the intolerance in the land, would demand caution.

Then Akwa-Ibom, Abia and Taraba, went the same was as Rivers’, with PDP recording an unbroken winning streak.

Since then, the nation has known no peace, with the Supreme Court coming under the APC sledge-hammer. The space is being filled with innuendoes, assumptions, projections, veiled allegations and outright accusations. I know a couple of very senior judicial operators. I had interacted with many of such acquaintances and long-standing close friends regarding how goings went the way they did. I have chosen to stay quiet in my corner for now until all the official reasons are given. Then the unofficial can come into the mix. But one thing is certain in the unfolding electoral-judicial saga, a certain monstrous administrative power is going to be broken. Many senior judicial stakeholders concurred that no single judicial office should warehouse such enormous electoral fortunechanging power in the country again, regardless of whether the occupant is conscionable or not. The unbundling, as far as I know, is beyond “if”. It is the “when and how” at this point. Is the poorlydisguised tension between President Muhammadu Buhari and the judiciary which had seen the latter’s barely-enough budget being further crashed by the executive, likely to be exacerbated by those four life-line judgments going the opposition way? Only time will tell. But I have a word of advice for Mr President. Those perceivably mute oldies at the apex court can bite, really hard. The malice of “they denied me my mandate thrice” should now be rested with yesterday. Rigidly-constructed mindset is dangerous indulgence. Law is also wide off partisan emotions. Media glow doesn’t also make chances brighter in law court. Before Mr President will commence another round of scapegoating, he should check well with the initial rounds of judicial victories his men and woman got before the bubble at the apex court. If mouths are compelled to open, media heroes and saints may become villainous characters. Not in talking mood today.

Re-Baby Mamas Lanre, thank you and well said, yours of 10th January 2016 refers. I was in tears for the future image of Imade.

Deji is my friend. I am surprised he allowed this, but you said my mind and God will protect your children’s image.

—Ore Salako 08957472552.

MR Babatunde Fashola is passionate about changing the narrative of the country’s electricity supply. This is not a fly-by-night passion. As Lagos State governor, he was able to put in place a measure which ensured that street lights as well as some specific areas of the state enjoyed uninterrupted power supply through the state’s independent power project. He has brought the same zeal to his assignment as the minister in charge of power and he is bent on making a difference in that sector during his time in the ministry.

As an administrator, Fashola’s philosophy is hinged on responsible citizenship; those who enjoy state services should be willing to pay for such services to make them sustainable. This is quite reasonable because what has brought the nation to its parlous economic state is the over-reliance of the people on the state. Many Nigerians want to take from the till without putting anything back there. They want to enjoy quality education, first class health services, good roads and even pension at the expense of the state; they believe that their citizenship qualifies them for the best the country has to offer without their having to make any sacrifice in return.

Given his philosophy, it was easy for the minister to buy into the tariff hike plan championed by the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission and the distribution companies. Fashola is persuaded that it is only when investment increases in the power sector that electricity generation and distribution can witness an improvement. According to him, without the proper pricing of the product (electricity), investors are not likely going to be attracted to the sector. He had said in defence of the decision to hike tariffs that, “You may ask why can’t we have more power before the price goes up. I am also a consumer, but we see that investments in power are not where they should be. If the recovery price and the income and profit do not make economic sense to the investor, would you do that business if you are the one?”

This argument would make much sense if electricity generation and distribution were a completely new sector

Sunday Tribune

—08036748391.

0811 695 4647

olanreade@yahoo.com

Judicial revolution or rebellion?

I wish the Oonirisa and Arole Oodua could continue building bridges until the entire nation is united. More grease to his elbows. He is an unusual monarch. Thanks.

—08062849876.

Mr. Adewole, I have just come across your piece “crushing on Ooni” in Sunday Tribune of Jan. 24. The new Ooni is just as you described him. A young, humble and God-fearing Oba with the wisdom of Solomon. May his reign be long so the unity he has ignited in Yoruba nation could be permanently solidified. And lately, the Ooni has gone to pay a royal visit to Asiwaju Bola Tinubu in pursuit of the much needed unity in Yorubaland. And to you, Mr. Lanre, more toner to your printer.

—Williams Adeyemi, Ayedun Ekiti, Kwara State. 0808266621.

Brilliant but too compact for the average. Had to read it twice and I believe I am above average.

—08068409459.

Re-Dasuki, Sutana Your incisive article has not only made my Sunday again but a sane person, because at some point since the advent of this regime I was thinking I’m not sane enough because of the response on discourse about the regime from people. I thought should know better, when juxtaposed with my thoughts. Nigeria is on a wild goose cause.

Please, relent not on your expositions, because you are one of the few left that will save Nigerians like me.

—Tony Lagos. 09022676246.

Dasuki, Suzuki, Sutana; poetic, humorous verses, yet insightful prose. Well done.

—08037092638.

Re-Crushing on Ooni Your Sunday tonic today is well chosen. I love the article, well selected words are used. We pray that the unity will be sustained. Thanks. Soba Olawoyin.

With Sulaimon Olanrewaju 08055001708

lanresulaimon@yahoo.com

Electricity tariff hike: The missing links

that the populace had no prior experience about at all. But that is not the case. There has been a regular increase in tariff in this sector over the years with the Multi-Year Tariff Order (MYTO) without any appreciable improvement in electricity supply. Hence, the refrain of electricity improving as a consequence of tariff hike does not resonate with many Nigerians. As far as they are concerned, it is the same old story that NERC and the discos are trying to regale them with. The truth is that the consumers do not

Re-Rev Ibaka I have just read your Gibbers on Mbaka. I’m of the opinion that you personally hate the man. The fangs of your bitterness are not veiled. I recommend you take your own prescriptions as quoted from Prov. 17:27-28.

—08034958516.

I thank God because I am a Catholic too and I still believe that no Catholic priest can be transferred without the consent of the Bishop of that particular Diocese. I can say it buoyantly that if Father Mbaka is a white man and he predicted and succeeded like that, the black people will turn him into an idol. Even many people will not bother to use huge amount of money to see him. We are doing so because we don’t believe in knowledge, vision and mentality. My question this time around is that, is it a sin for the priest, prophet and evangelist to deliver the message of God to his people, if not why was Father Mbaka transferred this time around? The Holy Bible said that “we will know the truth and the truth will set us free”. No controversy, Father Mbaka knows the truth and the truth has set him free.

—Taiwo Sangotikun, Iseyin.08056309372.

trust the service providers and the regulators to live up to their promise of improved supply after hiking the tariff.

The issue this time, I assume, is not that of consumers not willing to pay economic rates for electricity supply, but rather, that of not being sure that agreeing to the hike will not leave them shortchanged by the service providers.

The second issue is that hiking the tariff before improving electricity supply is akin to putting the cart before the horse. Really, how the promoters raise funds for their businesses or attract investors to team up with them should not be of concern to the consumers. The promoters of the businesses should package their businesses in a way that will attract investors to them, if they are unable to do that, it is their headache. They should not punish consumers for their failure.

Then seeking to increase the tariff before improving supply is just like a landlord attempting to increase the rent on his property because he wants to renovate it.

That will certainly not jell with the tenant. If the landlord wants his rent hiked, he has to complete the renovation of the property first. How he sources funding for the project is not the business of the tenant. No reasonable tenant will allow himself to be bilked by a landlord who seeks to improve the status of his property.

One other thing that has made the hike a pill that the consumers are unwilling to swallow is that majority of them are unmetered by the service providers. The distribution companies merely give consumers estimated bills.

The fear in many quarters is that if the hike is allowed to pass, their estimated billings would witness a 45 per cent increase.

Most Nigerians share Minister Fashola’s passion for improved electricity supply. Nigerians want him to succeed in this endeavour but he seems to be looking at this issue from just one perspective; the providers’ perspective. To have a balanced view, he needs to also give a thought to the consumers’ position. Balancing his views would be quite helpful in getting a permanent solution to the electricity problem.

17

Sunday Tribune

14 February, 2016

Why I’m bringing

Ciara to Nigeria —Dare Art Alade

We didn’t stop anybody from donating money to Olumide Bakare — ANTP

I have a crush on Toyin Aimakhu’s ex-husband —Nkechi Sunday

18

14 February, 2016

Sunday Tribune

We didn’t stop anybody from donating money to Olumide Bakare — ANTP Bakare discharged from UCH on Friday

By Segun Adebayo

A

SSOCIATION of Nigerian Theatre Arts Practitioners (ANTP) has denied a report that claimed that it stopped a member of the National Assembly from donating money to ailing actor, Olumide Bakare, who is battling with heart related issues.

Speaking on behalf of the association, its president, Comrade Victor Ashaolu, told R on Friday that he read the report on Facebook and was shocked that some people could be using ANTP to peddle such a false and wicked report.

A report had surfaced during the week, claiming that the association stopped a senator from donating N3 million naira to help put Olumide Bakare’s life back on track, because the actor is not a member of ANTP. “I don’t know about any member of ANTP that would do something that is that bad to a fellow artiste.

I have known Olumide Bakare for more than 20 years. He has been my very good friend and I can’t deny the fact that he’s not a member of ANTP. Even at that, it does not stop me or anybody from the doing what is right for him. When I read the post on Facebook, I was very sad.

Why would I do that to a fellow man when I don’t even know what will become of me tomorrow?.

“ANTP will hold its NEC meeting in a couple of days and we will come up with a decision on how to help him in our little way. He’s an artiste and that makes him one of us even if he’s not a member of ANTP. We will do the needful.

Whatever money we raise and give to him will not be made public,” he said.

In another development, President of Theatre Arts and Motion Pictures’ Association of Nigeria (TAMPAN), Dele Odule, has said

it was unfortunate that Bakare does not belong to TAMPAN as it would have been easier for it to have moved swiftly on his behalf and help him raise funds. “As things stand now, we will still ral-

ly round and put heads together.

We have been discussing his issue for the past one week. Even if he’s not a member of TAMPAN, we will pull resources and raise funds. We will raise funds for him

in our little way and we urge well meaning Nigerians to rise and help save his life.”

Meanwhile, R reliably gathered that Bakare was discharged from UCH late Friday

evening. A source who visited the actor shortly before he was discharged disclosed that the veteran actor was discharged and placed on further medication.

AMVCA 2016: Ik Osakioduwa, Minnie are host

By Segun Adebayo AFRICA Magic and MultiChoice in association with Amstel Malta, have announced the two hosts for the 2016 Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards (AMVCAs).

The multi-talented, fanfavourite IK Osakioduwa returns to host the awards for a fourth time and he will be joined by a new co-host, Minenhle ‘Minnie’ Dlamini.

Regarded as the hottest woman on South African television, Minnie is an actress, TV presenter, radio DJ, brand ambassador, MC and Fashionista.

Minnie broke into prominence in 2010 when she beat thousands of hopefuls in the nationwide search for a young and sassy presenter for one of South Africa’s biggest music shows. Within months, Min-

nie also landed a role as the sassy Miranda on the popular soap Generations, a role which opened her up to a bigger, PanAfrican audience.

The Director, M-Net West Africa, Wangi Mba-Uzoukwu, said: “We are excited to present Minnie as the co-host of the 2016 edition of the AMVCAs. She joins an elite group of people who have hosted the most prestigious celebration of film and television talent in Africa.

“Minnie brings to the stage excitement, fun, intensity and wit; her pairing with IK guarantees a great show and there’s no doubt that our viewers are in for a great time.”

The 2016 AMVCAs is set to hold on the 5th of Marchand Minnie will take the stage alongside IK to present the fourth edition of the AMVCAs to viewers across Africa and the rest of the world.

Monalisa set to re-marry?

By Segun Adebayo NOLLYWOOD actress Monalisa Chinda, has always maintained that she would never shut her heart to love. She said she believed so much in the institution of marriage and would give it a try again should the right man come knocking.

After breaking up with her husband, Dejo Richards, marriage tales have been trailing the light-skinned actress and mother of one. News doing round now is that Chinda is set to put her best foot forward again

as she is reportedly set to re-marry.

There has not been an official statement from the actress, but those who are close to her revealed that Chinda and her lover, (names witheld) have chosen to have their traditional wedding this February while the white wedding will hold in May. It was also gathered that the white wedding may hold in far away Greece. Efforts to reach Chinda to speak on the marriage rumour proved abortive as she could not be reached on her mobile as of press time.

19

razzmatazz

14 February, 2016

Lagos brace up! Ciara is coming to you... o headline US superstaerLtike a River 3’ Dare’s ‘Lov

By Segun Adebayo

T

HE long wait is over! American singer, songwriter , record producer and model, Ciara Princess Harris, is coming to Nigeria.

This is on the bill of Nigerian’s award-winning and idol series judge, Dare Art Alade, whose show Love Like a River will set Lagos agog on the 28th of February.

In 2013, Dare brought in Kim Kadashian from the United States to host the red carpet of Love Like a River season 2 and it was one show that got people talking months after it was held.

Though, Dare was reported to have paid Kadashian one million dollars in 2013, but he would soon reveal that the figure was wrong, saying that if he had such amount of money at his disposal, he would invest on something else.

Fast forward to 2016, the buzz is on again for Dare’s Love Like a Movie concert and those who have been part of the experience in the past few years are already getting in the mood.

This year’s edition will hold at Eko Hotel Convention Centre, Lagos and notable local and international acts have been confirmed for the event.

Ali Baba is ‘Coming to America’ As you are reading this, Nigeria’s number one stand-up comedian, Ali Baba, appears to have concluded plans to take his trade to the United States.

Ali Baba, who is known to have pioneered stand-up comedy since the yore days has created platforms for many established and up-and-coming comedians to thrive and showcase their talent.

Though, the details of his US tour are still being kept under wraps, with the comedian keeping his fans guessing, informa-

tion reaching R revealed that he would be touching three cities in America. He revealed on his Instagram page during the week that the tour begins on May 20th in Atlanta, Minneapolis on 21st of May and would be wrapped up in Los Angeles on the 22nd of May, 2016.

According to him “I am coming to America for my primaries in three cities. Hope to see you there. It’s going to be an experience for me.”

WAPTV organises talent hunt AS part of efforts to ensure talent development in Nigeria WAPTV, Nigeria’s first 24-hour Pidgin TV Channel, is organising a talent hunt for persons between ages 18 and 30.

This is coming on the heels of the successful talent hunt it organised for children last Friday as part of the company’s many social responsibility duties.

According to the Managing Director of WAPTV, Wole Adenuga, “This is an invitation to stardom, especially for those who want to be TV superstars and have special talents in any

of the following categories: Singing, Dancing and Stand Up Comedy.”

Interested persons can attend the open free-for-all audition on February 20, at PEFTI Hall, Joy Avenue, Ajao Estate, Osolo Way, Lagos, starting from 10 a.m.

WAPTV is available on STARTIMES across Nigeria and several other African countries, including South Africa, Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda, Uganda, Mozambique, Central Africa Republic, Democratic Republic of Congo, Burundi and Guinea.

Sunday Tribune

Tonto Dikeh to spend Valentine at orphanages

NOLLYWOOD actress, Tonto Dikeh, is reaching to celebrate the Valentine’s Day. Since she floated her foundation, Tonto Dikeh Foundation, a few years back, the entertainer has been showing her soft side that has wormed her into the minds of many people.

Her new passion, which is the foundation, aims to cater for abused women and girls with unwanted pregnancies, among other victims of molestations. As part of activities lined up by her

to show and preach love this season, especially among the needy, Dikeh will on Sunday hold a Valentine show, which she called “Share Love not Rape”.

According to a statement released by the actress and made available to R, Dikeh said “It is a platform for raising awareness, educating the general public and creating avenues for improving the perception of the girl child in Nigeria.

Meanwhile, the River Stateborn actress has disowned a fake Instagram account that was said to have been opened by an impostor who has been extorting funds and gifts from her fans. “I am not responsible for this fake account (@Tonto Dikeh). I have had so much complaints about his extortions of funds and gifts from my fans. Please diassociate from this scammer. He’s a young boy who lives in London and feeds off from impersonating celebrities,”she said.

Tilla set to release ‘Oni Reason E.P.’ AQUILA Records pop star and veteran hit-maker TILLA aka D Real Omoba, is set to release his first body of work under the label. It’s an E.P. titled “ONI REASON E.P.” Tilla has been in the music industry for more than a decade and has released hit songs for more than five years.

The seven tracker E.P consists of several exclusive versions of some of his old hits, as well as the new single “ONI REASON” featuring rave of the moment DAVIDO. It drops officially on Wednesday, 10th February.

ONI REASON E.P. has production contributions from Tekno, Otyno, Phantom, Popito, Bizzouch, Kiddominant and Tilla himself.

Mixing and mastering contributions are from Slymkeys, Sheyman, Indomix, Suka and Tilla.

2BABA is ‘Officially Blind’ AFTER releasing his first single of the year a few weeks back, Coded Tinz, 2Baba has another new song for his listening fans this Valentine.

2Baba released a love song entitled ‘Officially Blind’. The song was produced by Spellz and is his second single of the year.

The track follows the release, last week, of the video for ‘Coded Tinz’. With Officially Blind, 2Baba delivers yet another memorable song with his trademark style. The track is a fitting tune in the month of love.

Also, 2Baba has continued

the weekly giveaways of ‘coded gifts’ to winners of the ongoing Coded Tinz Dedication Competition.

The presentation of this week’s gifts took place, days back, at the Airtel shop, Ilupeju, Lagos, where the winner, Mr. Odesanmi Seun went home with an iPhone 6s while the runners-up, Mr. Elusade Olukunle and Mr. Fabunmi Oladipo got Airtel modems.

The competition, which began after the release of “Coded Tinz”, involves the dedication of the single to friends and family using www.musikgenie.com.

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14 February, 2016

Sunday Tribune With Segun Adebayo &Seyi Sokoya tegbollistic@yahoo.com seyi_sky@yahoo.com 08116954644 08053789034

I have a crush on Toyin Aimakhu’s ex-husband —Nkechi Sunday

Abia State-born actress, Nkechi Blessing Sunday, popularly known as Omoge Lekki, has a name and shape that attract attention to her in the movie industry. Though still not very famous, she believes she is already on her way to stardom. In this interview with SEYI SOKOYA, the light-skinned actress revealed her mission in the industry and why she would not marry an actor. Excerpts:

H

ow would you describe your journey into acting?

It’s a long story. I started acting in 2007 in the English speaking movies, but the pressure from producers pushed me away and I almost gave up my passion for acting as a result of that. I came back in 2013 and switched to Yoruba movies where I was graciously accepted and the journey has been very fruitful since then. I remember my first movie was “Khafila Omo Ibadan,” which was shot in South Africa.

How were you frustrated by the producers?

There was so much harassment. I would rather not talk about it because I have moved on. I am really enjoying myself. The experience has really been awesome and I thank God for where I am today. The interesting thing now is that some of these producers of English movies have been inviting me for jobs after seeing me mostly in Yoruba movies.

So, you never featured in any English movies?

I featured in two English movies entitled: “Unrequited” and “The Document” last year, but I think I love the Yoruba movies because I feel more comfortable taking the roles.

How do you feel among your colleagues in the Yoruba speaking movies?

I feel very homely and happy with my colleagues and the roles I have been playing have been awesome because I speak and understand Yoruba language very well. I have a solid background here and I was born

and brought up in Lagos. I also had my primary and secondary school education in Lagos.

At what point did you become a movie producer?

That came when I thought I should show the world how good I am. And, with the help of God and my boss, Mercy Aigbe Gentry, I was able to produce my first movie entitled: “Omoge Lekki”.

How have you been able to combine acting and movie production?

It’s very easy. I never had any stress at all, because I love what I do. It has been interesting and tasking, but I really enjoy where I am and what I do for a living. It is simple and easy to act and produce films at the same time, this is because I enjoy it.

What is your greatest challenge as an actress?

I don’t think I see anything on this job as a challenge.

I don’t see whatever comes my way as a problem. I have a great passion for my job. Above all, the grace of God has been helping me to carve a niche for myself in the industry.

What is your assessment of the movie industry?

I think we need to change a lot of things in the industry, especially the way they treat up-and-coming actors and actresses. We need to give them the platform to showcase their talents. They should be given more time to explore. These young ones will become bigger tomorrow if they are encouraged.

Are you impressed with the acceptance of your latest work entitled “Omoge Lekki’’?

The response has been massive, despite the fact that it is not out fully. The acceptance of the promotion is a sign that it will be accepted. I thank God for the success.

The film will be finally released on February 19. I believe that this movie would bring in more jobs and also open doors of endorsements for me.

Are you longing for one?

Definitely. I don’t want to be specific, because I believe that God has His ways of doing things. I am not in a haste. I trust God that it will come at His appointed time.

Some people believe you went too far in the movie when you tried to seduce Yinka Quadri Continued on pg21

21 glitz

14 February, 2016

‘My backside is my greatest asset’ Continued from pg20

with a lap dance. How will you react to that?

Don’t let us forget that our job is called make-believe.Mr Quadri is one of the people I respect so much in the industry and he has always been very supportive.You know I was asking him to give me his car, so I had to give him a lap dance in order to get the car without any delay. Meanwhile, lap dance is far different from seduction. In the movie, we dated, so, it is beyond seduction.

What brought about the movie?

The main message of Omoge Lekki is to caution ladies who live wasteful lifestyles on the Island, especially in Lekki. I wrote the story to remind them of the consequences. Many of them lead fake lives. They go for expensive things whereas their families and relatives are suffering back home.

But many celebs are relocating to the Island...

I am not referring to the celebs. Many things are happening on the Island that will shock you if you come across them. This is the life many people live in Lekki and that is why I titled the film “Omoge Lekki”.

What is your relationship like with Mercy Aigbe?

She is my boss, mentor, role model and sister. I don’t compete with her, instead I pray to get to her level in the industry. We are not mates, but she is a senior colleague. I love and respect her so much because she believes in me and supports me.

How have you been coping with the rivalry among the actresses?

I am not sure I have any rival in the industry. I am just here to enjoy what I know how to do best and if anyone sees me as his or her rival, then it is the person’s business.

Is it true that film producers cheat?

It depends on who the producer is. I cannot speak for others, but I am not a cheat. I have always done my job and comport myself in a professional way.

How have you been able to combine your career and the home front?

I am not married neither do I have kids. But my family is my number one supporter. Away from that, I have my man’s full support.

How do you keep your male admirers at arm’s length?

I tell them that I am engaged in order not to be disturbed.

Do you have a crush on anyone actor?

Yes. I am crushing on Adeniyi Johnson.

Why? That is a story for another day. Having a crush on Johnson does not mean I want to date him. I just like the way he interprets his roles. I see him as a fantastic actor.

You like him despite his marital issues with Toyin Aimaku?

That is none of my business. Don’t forget that we are colleagues.

Do you encourage celebrities marrying each other in the industry?

I think it is their choice; I cannot decide for anyone. As for me, I cannot marry an actor and I have no reason for my decision.

Do you also subscribe to the fact that not all actors are professionals?

Yes, you are right. Some see the acting profession as a job, while some see it as a passion. Meanwhile, some of them don’t really know what acting entails, because they are after fame, money and other life’s desires. I don’t think that there is anything I can do to correct this. I only have to be good in what I do and let others carry their cross.

What is your take on provocative dressing that is rampant among actresses in the industry?

I think everyone has his or her life to live and also be comfortable in whatever he or she wears. I don’t put my mouth in people’s business because I wouldn’t want anyone to do same to me. I wear whatever pleases me.

What does your tattoo symbolise and where do you have it on your body?

My tattoo is tribal. A tribal tattoo has no meaning. It is just fashionable and fine.

What are your plans to raise your game in 2016?

I desire to become one of the best Nollywood stars known all over the world, produce mindblowing movies and live my dream of being a mega super star.

What is your greatest physical asset?

That should be my backside. I mean my bum bum.

What does it cost you to look good?

I don’t spend much to look good; I am not the expensive type. I prefer to be simple and elegant.

Fashion item you won’t be caught dead wearing?

Shoes. I am a shoe freak. I love good shoes and I don’t think there is anything I can’t wear with my line of duty.

Growing up and educational background.

Growing up for me was fun, because my dad was financially buoyant and could take proper care of us. I am from a family of four; three girls and a boy. I am the second born. I was born in Surulere, Lagos State.

I attended Blessing Nursery and Primary School before I moved to Oku Abiodun Nursery and Primary School, because my late father, an ex-police officer, was transferred. I had my secondary school education at Barachel Model College, Taju Bello Area of Agbado, in Lagos. I spent one year studying Business Administration in Lagos State University before proceeding to the North American University, Benin Republic, where I studied International Relation.

Sunday Tribune

22

14 February, 2016

entartainment

Sunday Tribune with Segun Adebayo tegbollistic@yahoo.com 08116954644

Iyabo Ojo premieres new flick, ‘Black Val’ today

By Segun Adebayo

A

CTRESS cum producer, Oyabo Ojo is gradually stepping up her game as one of the female movie producers to be reckoned with.

For more than four weeks, there have been talks about her starstuded new flick, Black Val, directed by Desmond Elliot. The intriguing love story movie has kept the actress and her team busy for weeks in order to ensure that it hits the cinema today. Ojo is one of the popular names in the

Advertising agency signs gospel artiste LEADING media Public Relation and Advertising Agency, Cletcom Services, has signed Damola Dipo, a gospel artiste with high drive and passion for evangelising and winning souls for Christ.

Singer and songwriter, Dipo is known for her witty lyrics about modern life, she tops it all with a spirit filled highlife song, all skilfully blended into a seamless flow.

One fan said its music from the heart that hits you right between the eyes.

She has performed in concerts with gospel music stars and has featured inmany church programmes to minister to people with this unique gift. Dipo had been in the music industry for over a decade and has released so many albums. Her latest album, Omemma is loaded with power-packed songs with seven mind blowing tracks.

In her words, Damola said: “I have not been able to get attention in the music industry until I started working with CLETCOM. If a tree falls in the forest and no one hears it, has it made a sound? Likewise, if a good song is composed and produced in a studio and no one hears it, will it be a hit? Thanks to CLETCOM Services Nigeria Limited, they heard me.”

Reflecting on the works, Benjamin Akpeji, General Manager of Cletcom Services said the organisation is happy to have Damola Dipo on board because her style of gospel music is what Nigerians really need at moment like this when everything has gone abysmal.

yoruba speaking movies, but she does not seem to be restricting herself to producing only yoruba movies as she is constantly proving her worth with mind-blowing and thrilling english movies that have earned her huge respect among her colleagues in both the english and yoruba actors.

The mother of two from the stable of Fepris Production, her own company, produced Silence last year and got the attention of many movie lovers, who applauded her fo r a job well done.

Suru L’ere is for young Nigerians who are

hustling, says Rita Dominic Company. We tell those simple stories in a bigger way; this is what Suru L’ere represents. Nigerians have that hustling spirts; that is Seun’s character and he is a hustler. We also have other hilarious characters

MORE fun and excitement await Nigerians this Valentine period with Domino’s Pizza Two Some Deal sales activation which was introduced during the week. The sales activation which entered its second week is part of the special treat lined up by Domino’s to appreciate their customers and guests as the they enjoy the season of love together.

Speaking with newsmen

in Ibadan on Friday at the unveiling of the special sales activation, Domino’s Marketing Coordinator, Ufuoma Ogeleka said Nigerians deserve to have the best of feast this season as they celebrate with their loved ones. She added that it has become the tradition of Domino’s Pizza to give Nigerians special and unforgettable romantic valentine celebration.

According to Ogeleka, those who participated in

that make the movie very interesting.”

The writer of the movie, Richard Odilu, admitted that a major part of the story happened to him and he decided to make a story out of it.

DISCOVERY +234 to bring more entertainment, inspiration on TV

By Joan Omionawele

NOLLYWOOD star, Rita Dominic, as well as her business partner, Mildred Okwo have said that their new romantic comedy titled Suru L’ere (patience pays) is for young Nigerians who are struggling to make ends meet.

She said this during the recent press screening of

the movie at Genesis Deluxe Cinema, Lekki, Lagos.

According to the beauty actor, many young people can connect with the story of the movie, which was released to cinemas on Friday.

She stated, “What makes Nollywood exciting is the simple story we tell and that is what we try to do at the Audrey Sliver

Val’s Day: Dominos’s Pizza introduces ‘Two Some Deal’

By Segun Adebayo

Still basking in the euphoria of the success that trailed Silence, she went all log to drag the big names in the movie industry to star in Black Val with popular faces such as Chacha Eke-Faani, Seun Akindele, Belinda Effah, Bolanle Nonolowo, Eniola Badmus, Antar Laniyan, Tina Mba, Bukky Wright among others leading the cast.

According to her, the new flick will be premiered today at Silverbird Cinema, City Mall, Ikeja as it would be asking the guest if Valentine is really worth celebrating.

the sales week activation at Ring Road last week had a fun-filled time just as she urged those who have not benefitted from the special activation to avail themselves the opportunity. “To all those who missed out of the buy one get one for free offer in the past sales activations should not to worry as it would be the turn of Ajose Adeogun, FESTAC (both in Lagos) and Bodija (Ibadan) restaurants between 15th – the 17th ,” she said.

By Rotimi Ige

“Discovery +234” will continue to entertain and inspire with the launch of its second season in early 2016, featuring more of Nigeria’s top personalities and inspiring stories.

Show guests have included Mai Atafo, Maureen Obaweya, Kelechi AmadiObi and Niyola.

“Discovery +234”, a magazine-style television program, airing on NTA, which seeks to entertain, inspire, inform and connect with audiences across Nigeria, brings in Nigeria’s top personalities and celebrity guests to share their experiences, challenges and successes.

Through celebrity guests, youth reporters and inspiring stories from across Nigeria, young people, parents and communities see what can be accomplished with a good education and hard work - challenging youth to reach their full potential. Season Two will also feature youth

roundtables, in which young people from Kenya, Ghana and Nigeria talk with each other about the challenges and opportunities they face in today’s world.

“Audiences are drawn to inspiring stories, those that show that with education and hard work, anything is possible, said Delmwa Deshi-Kura, “Discovery +234”producer and creative director at Del Media Plus. “That’s the message we want to spread across Nigeria,” said Deshi-Kura.

“For 30 years, Discovery has been dedicated to satisfying curiosity and entertaining viewers, and we are proud of the successes of this project which further embodies the mission of our company,” said James Gibbons, executive vice president & country manager of emerging markets for Discovery Networks International’s Central & Eastern Europe, Middle East and Africa region.

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14 February, 2016

sundayzest

Sunday Tribune

With Victory Oyeleke victoryoyeleke@yahoo.com

Valentine’s Day celebrations from around the world

A

few days ago, while having brunch with friends, the “who is Valentine for? question was asked and without a second thought whilst reaching out for the potato and bacon frittata in front of me, I said “women of course “ with the added attitude that said “duh! Should you even ask!” we laughed it off as we shared stories of our best Valentine celebrations.

On my way home, it struck me as odd that none of the stories shared involved the women gifting anything to the men. It was all about the women. Are my friends and I so demanding and superficial that we have

taken highmaintenance to the same level as narcissism?

Shockingly, after getting home and a few hours spent sampling Internet data, it seems, we are not.

Actually, we are presently the norm where we are as different countries celebrate it differently.

Though the truth, behind Valentine legends is murky, the celebration it seems is a creation of the sentimental Victorian era and based on the feeblest of traditions, rooted in obscure references to a saint, pagan festival, and

an obscure early martyr who had no known interest in love or romance but the commercialisation of love though many claim love cannot be bought has unified women’s expectation of male gallantry as they are mostly the recipients of extravagant gestures, candy hearts, roses and chocolates.

While women in Nigeria, UK and the United States are celebrated and treated like goddesses for the day, in other places, women are actually the ones bombarding their

lovers with gifts and affection.

In Japan for instance, Valentine is all about pampering the men. Women give Honmeichoco (chocolates) to their boyfriends, lovers, or husbands.

Japanese women often prepare the Honmei-choco themselves

as many of them think it is not true love if they are ready made chocolates bought at stores.

The website GiftBasketOverseas has created an infographic detailing all the various ways different nationalities spend the day.

24

14 February, 2016

relationships

… Issues, family, sex

Sunday Tribune Rita Okonoboh 07039394917 rosarumese@gmail.com

Valentine’s Day Notes

It is another Valentine’s Day and love is definitely in the air. Our esteemed readers have sent their beautifully-written messages of love and affection.

Our panel of judges have selected the best 10 messages and prizes will be given to winners.

Because of you, I love a little more; You are my love, which is why I have a smile Because of you, I care a little more; Because you are mine, I would go that extra Because of you, I don’t give up quite as fast; mile Because of you, today, I am me.

For you are my Valentine, I will always love you And I love you not only for what you are, but with all my heart for what I am when I am with you.

You are my dream, my desires, my joy and my I only know I love you! life Ogunkunle Olawunmi You are my Valentine 08137935790 Ogunleke Aanuoluwapo Olamide kaymojseg@yahoo.com 08064490356/08149602471 Little did I know that you are my right After all I’ve been through, you brought me light Just like your name “Ayo”, the joy you give lifts me higher than kite If your love is the end of the world, I’ll gladly let you cuddle me in paradise...

Akomolafe Yetunde talk2lafey@yahoo.com 08158107799 Bae, Valentine’s Day is a good day for me to stop and realise how wonderful you make me feel. I promise to love you today, tomorrow and forever. Happy Valentine’s Day to the sweetest Valentine I could ever want.

Ojo John Tolani 08169497988

You are my sun and stars, my night, my day, my seasons, summer, winter, my sweet spring, my world, my thoughts, my breath, my future, my all, my love, my Valentine.

I love you more today, than I did yesterday, but not as much as I will tomorrow. Happy Val. ajeniyifelix@gmail.com 08109761183 My Dear Omalicha, I realised that my life without you is like white rice without stew. You are indeed the bone of my bone. I bow before you, a loyal queen.

Anaele Ogadinma Bright 08105397232

My partner, my love, I cannot live without you.

You make me happy. You are ever so faithful, kind and thoughtful. You give me security. I bless the day I found you. May we grow from strength to strength as one. May we be united forever, keeping us in love with each other all over again. Happy Valentine’s Day. Funke Adeosun Ojofeitimi 08109722861 ojofeitimi.funke@gmail.com I love you, not only for what you are, but for what I am when I am with you. I love you, not only for what you have made of yourself, but for what you are making of me.

I love you for the part of me that you bring out.

Iyoha Joshua 09082895600

When I think about the way you look at me, I am filled with inexplicable feeling of love. My heart feels like it’s going to run out of my chest, and I can feel the warmth of a blush spreading through my face. The fact that you make me feel this way makes you special to me and makes me want to live the rest of my days in your arms. I love you, my dearest Surakat Oluwatosin, My Queen.

Noren Oluwatosin Paul 07031090903 I needed you and I found you embracing me. I laughed with you and a rainbow appeared. I shared with you and I felt no fear. I believed in you and saw my trust rewarded. I dreamt with you and my dreams came true. I love you.

Bolatito Michael Oluwaye 07036844362

T h e l m a , America is a world If I was an artist, you would be my picture. power; Milan is the f a s h i o n city If I was a poet, you would be my inspiration. of the world, but none of these can b e If I was a river, you would be my ocean. If I compared to you because you are an epitome of was a doctor, you would be my permanent beauty. If love is life, I would always live to love you. I want this. I want all of it. I want the pointless fights, and the way we talk over patient. If I was an author, you would be my Your name is engraved in my heart and can never something stupid. I want to hold your hand all the time. I want to call you baby story! Happy Val’s Day, ifemi. forever. That’s what I want – all of it with you. be erased.

Oziyerei Ojirogbe Chioma Karen Nwannukwu Michael Segun Abolarinwa 08098230771 08024478824 08038097763 Not everyone is as lucky as me to be blessed with a fiancé like you. You have shown 48+2 members can sit in a bus; 5+1 can sit in a car; 3+1 You’ve always been my sunshine on a cloudy day; my shoulder to can sit in an auto; 1+1 can sit on a bike; only 1can sit in my me what love and commitment means when it comes to having a happy and healthy relationship. Thanks so much for standing by me through thick and thin. I love you!!! cry on and a helpful hand when heart. That’s you, My Dear Valentine.

Adeniyi Oluwaseyi Damilare Sodiq I needed you. You deserve this 08063588550 09092977195 special day as a reminder of the impact you’ve made in my life.

By night on my bed, I sought her, whom my soul longs Happy Valentine’s Day to my one Clement darling, sometimes at night, never knew before; knowing you love me as I lay there, listening to the rhythm of your much as I love you brings me peace and joy. for but found her not. I arose in search of her. Lo and and only. breathing because it fills me with happiness Saka Olajumoke behold! She was in deep thought of extraordinary nature.

Morayo Ayomide Temitope jummiky2@gmail.com to know you’re there; snuggling up to you Igwemoh Kean 09034174862 07036367780 brings me a sense of contentment that I 08037920279

25 relationships

14 February, 2016

Sunday Tribune

Valentine’s Day Love Notes Nothing compares to your hands.

Nothing compares to the brow of your eyes. My body is filled with you for days and days. You are the mirror of the night; the violent flash of lightning; the

hollow of your armpit is my shelter. I love you always for your loving heart.

Eko Florence florence_abosede@yahoo.com 07033921649

Sweeter than the candles; lovelier than the roses; more huggable than soft toys; that’s how special you are. Wish a Happy Valentine’s Day to Tayo Adewumi.

Afowowe Olukayode 08160962916

Falling in love with you was the best thing I have ever done. Every time I think of you, I feel the intensity of loving you like you could ever imagine. You make me happy. You are not perfect but I love you all the same.

Emmanuel Iriobosa 08136240880

My regards to my boo of life, Kessy Keston. Missing him greatly. Just wish I can spend my matrix and Valentine’s Day with him. But I just want to let him know that even if we are not together, I still love you so much and I’m going to risk it to see you.

Akaje Nelly 08161523659 I have gone far and wide, in search of true love. The love I got wasn’t meant to be. I kept on wondering ‘is love meant for me,’ until I met you, my perception about love changed for the best. You filled my heart with love, my meeting you is a favour from God. I love you.

Oluwatosin Daniel Oduntan 08162467310

Just like a dove, she’s gentle in nature and gives peace. Just like a phoenix, her kind is scarce and rare. She is an epitome of love, care, beauty and passion. Just like her name, “Ifedolapo”, our love joins us together in wealth and wellness.

Ayo Ale gbolaayo47@gmail.com 09031104873

I won’t follow you into the dark. I’ll walk ahead and go into the light and wait for you.

Aremu Victor 09091312396

Omotolani Ogedengbe Khadijat, I thought that true love never existed. Meeting you changed that. You effortlessly stole my heart; my rose among flowers; the rhythm of your smile and laughter. You are my best friend, a favourite song that will never end. You are the world to me. Fill me with your wonderful light. Soothe my aching heart. Hold me through the night. I love you so much.

Adetifa Moyosore 08168405038

Adeshewa, my gentle woman, like a fly among thorns, so you are among women.

The epitome of beauty; my rare gem of mild and kind character. You’re the best thing that could ever happen to a man. I cherish and love you. May God keep you for me, Ayanfe.

Oluwakorede Isaac 08061672906 My amiable wife and angel, even when I close for my eyes, your face remains fresh in my memory. I guess it is love doing it for me.

Don’t ever stop loving me. I promise to never stop loving you. While my eyes are closed to others, your face still and will remain ever fresh. Happy Valentine!

Olayinka Olanrewaju Omotola 08023896711 You’re all I want; in you, I find joy and delight. You give me everything I need. I’m happiest when you’re in sight. I think of you both night and day. I’m drawn to you in pure attraction. When you’re not here, I ache for you; for your fulfilling satisfaction.

Oludayo O.O. 08023169980 My angel, my heart, my soul, my world and my priceless jewel, it is my pleasure once again to tell you how much you mean to me. You’re my life, you’re my world.

Happy Val to my sweetest heart.

Akpala Godwin 08028587310 Love is the greatest feeling; love is like a play; love is what I feel for you, each and every day. Love is like a smile; love is like a song; love is a great emotion that keeps us strong. I love you with my heart, my body and my soul. I love the way I love you; like a love I can’t control. So remember when your eyes meet mine, I love you with all my heart. And I have poured my entire soul into you, right from the very start.

Adeniji Atinuke 08053690854 My love, my everything, my body is for you this Valentine.

Hope Moses 07055931207

Loving you is the most beautiful feeling I have ever known. I never thought I could love another human as deeply as I love you. I was called to love you. You’re my best friend, my confidant, my king and I’ll forever be your queen, always and forever.

Adebowale Tolulope 08167554667 Dear sweetheart Blessing, my sweet angel, my queen, my royal princess, my jelly chocolate, my sugar and my sweet wine, my joy started when I met you. I was joyous, happy and cheerful. I watch my mirror and I saw me and you because I carry you and your smile inside me. Your number in my phone is just a marrow in my bone. You beautify my lamp. My Val is complete with you. I have succeeded to have you happy, to mingle with you, the kind of surprise that will make you have a healthy dream and excitement. I will give you trip, joy, happiness, love. Happy Val. Adeshola Adesina 08069659454

I couldn’t have thought of a better person than you.

Honestly, having you in my life is my greatest accomplishment.

The way you fill

a part of me can’t be described with words and I just can’t help than to love you more.

O t u b a n j o Olabusayo 08057054564

Your love surrounds me like the air that I breathe. Your kiss touches me as gentle as the breeze. Your touch is as tender as that of a child. Your hug is warm, meek and mild.

Each day we grow older, it’s plain to see; the love you give me is all that I need. I love you, baby. Happy Val. Akinwale Roland 07037671313 .

I look through the candle light and what do I see? I see a rumbling rolling tempest.

Gnashing and reeling into and out of time, to and fro in a futile attempt to silence lost T r u e h e a r t , souls of love. Heroes of love, those who fortunes I have not to entice never cease to exist, but hindered by a you; Sugar-coated tongue I have passion, love it is. Oh! Green pasture with not to sweep you off your feet. Just accept lambs white as milk, I see, I capture and I my true heart. love you, Ayodeji.

Hameed Olutoba Lawal Adepoju Adesola 08055166635 08178088409 ......................................

For it was not into my ears you whispered, but into my heart. It was not my lips you kissed but my soul. All I wanted was someone to care for me, someone who would be true. All I ever wanted was someone like you. Come live in my heart and pay no rent. I prayed for love and you came into my life.

Daniel Ele Attah 07081991446 My life, you are a very special part of me; Today isn’t enough to celebrate Valentine with you; 30 days won’t be enough; 365 days you make me complete. I cannot bear the won’t be enough. I want to spend Valentine idea of living in a world without you. How everyday all the rest of my life with you. on earth do I live without my life? I’m Babe, will you marry me? Happy Valentine. nothing without you. I promise to love you forever for I’ll always be with you.

My love.

Dairo Oluwasegun Abia Ubong Utioh 08076726991 07057921441 Bello, my love, my royal star, angel, the real marrow in my bone, my constant partner, lover, my palm of my shield, my queen, my princess, I am so glad I have you with this season of love. I will be responsible for taking care of you to give you a wonderful love surprise, hold you with a caring heart with romantic piece of love, tranquillity, exotic harmony and care. I will because you mean a galaxy of royal, a tree of romance, understanding, unforgetful. You are just fantastic, majestic, friendly, humble. I will always stand by you to hold you close, meet your feelings wherever you go and always available for you to care for you, defend you, give you joy, make you happy and go wherever you go. This season, I promise to make it special for our outing no doubt about it. It is going to be fun, enjoyment, shopping, visiting a resort centre, enjoy exotic wine. Happy Valentine.

Abraham Adesina 08066329507

My heart breaks down like a car that has left petrol in its park. Then I seek to summon tears to bring my comfort near. I knew of love’s existence yet it was nothing to me but past tense. And I started to wonder; if I was without sense. I met you and we became lovers. First as friends that I treasured, this made me pure and sure. You became my fuel. I love you so much.

Moyosore Adetifa 08168405038

Check page 55 for the list of winners and their prizes

Ifemi, I give you 99.9 per cent of my heart.

I would have given you every bit of it but I need the remaining 0.1 per cent to stay alive for you. I remain yours in the ocean of love.

Oyetunmbi Idowu 08108246721 Happy Valentine’s Day to the sweetest valentine I could want. You are my sweetheart and I’m glad you’re mine.

Omotosho Omotayo Farouq 09031381207 Darling, love is not about possession but about appreciation. You have proved to me that love is neither wicked nor blind.

I therefore found myself in your ‘fever of love’. At this juncture, we are bound by an uncommon love that translated into a relationship. With all my love.

Bello Olawale 08035836872/08088087058 Love doesn’t say ‘who are you?’ Love only says ‘You are mine.’ A special smile; a special face; a special someone I can’t replace. I love you. You have filled a space no one can fill. Love was just a word till I heard it from you. Love you dear. Happy Valentine.

Fasina Gbotemi 07066794653 Hello, my love, Happy Valentine.

Remember always that I’m your dream when you sleep, your daydream when you’re awake, and your good half while you’re my better half. If I’m the star, you are the sky; if I’m a melodious song, you are the thoughtful lyrics.

Rotimi Fabiyi 08157957646

26

14 February, 2016

With Akintayo Abodunrin akinjaa03@yahoo.co.uk 08111813058

Born in Zambia to a Zimbabwean mother and a South African father, Zukiswa Wanner is the author of the novels, The Madams, Behind Every Successful Man and ‘Men of the South’. Her fourth novel, ‘London Cape Town Joburg, won the K. Sello Duiker Prize in South Africa last year. The writer, who is among the three judges of the 2015 Etisalat Prize for Literature alongside Molara Wood and Ato Quayson, was in Nigeria in November for the Ake Arts and Book Festival, where she spoke about herself and impressions about Nigeria, amongst others. Excerpts:

F

ROM the shortlist of this year’s Etisalat Prize for Literature, one can say that the South Africans are coming.

What do you think they have over the rest of Africa?

I think perhaps the subject title might be a little different; they explore a little bit more on subjects but in addition to that, I think what is happening is that South African publishers are more willing to take risks.

This is not to say that there are no publishers doing that in Nigeria; I know Paressia, Farafina and Book Craft are doing it here but perhaps they didn’t enter anything for this particular year and sometimes that makes a difference. I suspect South African publishers have been very enthusiastic about the Etisalat Prize so every time they make sure they submit the works of their writers.

Congratulations on your K. Sello Duiker Prize, since we are still talking South Africa. How does that make you feel?

It is nice, I guess. But as I always say and I will venture to say this to everybody who’s shortlisted for the Etisalat and who doesn’t win, sometimes it’s not the best book that wins. So, I certainly have no illusion that mine was the best book. Maybe I am just the writer that the judges voted more but it’s nice obviously to finish first.

Compared to 10, even five years ago, there are more literary prizes on the continent. What’s your take on this?

I think it’s wonderful that there are a lot more prizes but I think we need to have so much more. Etisalat is going in the right direction because it’s the first pan-African prize but obviously, we are lacking one thing: it will be really nice if we had a prize that writers from Lusophone and Francophone Africa could enter. Also, it would be nice if we had others beyond Best First Novel. It would be nice if we had a prize for Best Non-Fiction book, Best Young Adult, Best Poetry and Best Short Stories Collection that type of thing.

You’ve been coming to Nigeria quite a lot recently, is there a reason why you are coming more now and you weren’t coming before?

No, I was invited. Before, I wasn’t invited.

The best books don’t always win prizes —Zukiswa Wanner

Zukiswa It’s a simple as that.

the world.

It has nothing to do with the bad press about Lagos?

I’m a pan-Africanist, I would never abandon a country because of anything. And I didn’t get any bad press about Nigeria, it’s really because I’ve never been invited.

And all that moving around influenced your writing?

I think it has a lot, because I think one of the things it does for me; there are disadvantages obviously because I’m never a child of any one particular state but the great advantage is I’m always being very welcomed in other African countries that I’m in. It also allows me have the perspective of an outsider looking in and one of the things I really love about that is I get into a space; if I’m in Nigeria, I can make fun of Nigerians, because they open up enough to me like I’m one of them. But I’m not quite one of them and so I can be critical and say that this is us, we are all like that. Similarly, I can do that in SA, Kenya and Zimbabwe and I’m lucky enough that I have the licence to do that. I appreciate it.

This is your second Ake Festival?

Yes, it’s my second Ake but Lola invited me for the first. I was also part of ‘Africa 39’ in Port Harcourt. When I was in Port Harcourt, I encountered a lot of writers in Nigeria and readers as well who besides my writing record, were not familiar with my work so they invited me.

How was your first experience in Nigeria like; was it different from going to any other African country, particularly your first point of contact, the airport?

I have been to a fair share of airports and Murtala Muhammed Airport, like a few African airports, is busy; taxi drivers trying to get some business. Nigeria is the most populous country on the continent, so it’s a bit more crowded than, say, you would find at Harare International Airport or Luanda.

You were born in Zambia to a South African father and a Zimbabwean mother. You schooled in Zimbabwe and now live in Kenya. Is this why you have a pan-African outlook or it has to do with something else?

My parents were political activists. I think that has a lot to do with it because I met a lot of their friends who were from different African countries: Yemen, the Caribbean, the United States. They were always around

What are the memories you will be taking with you from Nigeria this time round?

This is a lovely festival where you get to sit down and network with other writers because as you know, writing is a solo art.

You do it by yourself and you never get to sit down with other people in the industry to discuss things that you feel should be done; things that you should improve on, what we can do better. It’s a very exciting time to be a writer on this continent and also because we always feel like we know each other. We are so familiar and you finally sit down with somebody you have been interacting with for years.

What’s your assessment of Ake Festival in the two years you have attended?

You know what; I think it’s just getting better. Last year, their opening ceremony was small and this year, it was amazing.

There was so much exciting stuff. And I feel terrible somewhat because there were activities I wanted to attend but I couldn’t because I have a column to write and some other things to do in between. If I could have attended everything, I would because they were exciting. The moderators are well read; they researched on their panellists. It was very exciting. And writers that I’ve always wanted to meet, I met them.

Do you think all the woes documented in the festival play, Hear Word, are representative of the plight of women in other African countries you have travelled to?

It’s very much a representation of the continent. As a matter of fact, I was saying to the Etisalat staff, “you know what would be absolutely amazing is if the cast of that play could actually perform in each and every African country because the stories resonate.”

When I was in high school, I had a friend who got slapped by her mum because some boy that she was interested in came to see her in the house.

Now she is in her late 30s and her mum says to her; pushing her to get married. And she says to her “if you don’t want to get married, fine. Just have a child; I will look after the child.” Sometimes those dynamics are very interesting with mothers and daughters...So, I would love for it [Hear Word] to go to schools because young girls and boys could learn from it. [It should also go to] universities and theatres all over the continent. If I would just wake up and become a billionaire or whatever, I will surely just use that money to get that troupe to travel.

27

arts&culture

14 February, 2016

... And Dike speaks truth to power in ‘State of the Nation’

By Smooth Ugochukwu Nzewi

N

DIDI Dike is clearly one of the most visible artists on the Nigerian art scene. She is also one of the most consistent since her break out exhibition at the Imo Concorde Hotel in 1986. Over the last 30 odd years, she has evolved as an artist, moving across diverse art forms, employing multiple media, and seeking new directions for her work. It is that endless search for a mode of address that can hold public imagination while retaining the transcendental quality that all great art must command.

A self-described cultural activist, Dike has sought to use her work to engage with matters of culture though bearing in mind that culture is a construct shaped by the imperatives of the immediate social environment in previous solo exhibitions such as ‘Totems and Signposts’ at Goethe Institut in 2002 and ‘Unknown Pleasures and Competing Tendencies’ at the National Museum, Onikan, in 2012.

In the last few years, she has focused greater attention on hot button social, economic, and political issues around globalization, migration, and consumerism. She has also shined critical light on historical events that continue to impact contemporary con-

‘National Grid’ sciousness such as the legacy of the transAtlantic Slave trade which was the subject of the acclaimed exhibition ‘Waka-IntoBondage: The Last 3/4 Mile’ at the Centre for Contemporary Art, Lagos in 2008. That Dike’s advocacy is genuine is no longer in doubt. This present exhibition titled ‘State

of the Nation’ further cements it.

It is the first in a series of staggered exhibitions planned by Dike in 2016 to examine aspects of our national life. The others will hold at different junctures this year. ‘State of the Nation’ explores the theme of power writ large but with a dedicated focus on

A book for dreamers A review of Taiwo Ajai-Lycett’s Just Sharing by Samantha-Israel Iwowo “DEDICATED to everyone reaching for the stars, following a chance meeting with tall dreams”; this is the theme from which Taiwo Ajai-Lycett’s ‘Just Sharing’ speaks.

Surely, the 57 essays of this book feed this theme profoundly, lyrically, succinctly.

The foremost, ‘Who Will Play your Music?’ invites the reader to not just live but live deliberately by taking needful risks, making each breathing moment count, loving more, playing more, laughing more – life is music yearning to be played, Ajai-Lycett insists, why delay its play? From here, the book goes on to unpack the lines of life as music.

In ‘Failure Breeds Success’, the author puts a finger on the pulse when she calls on the need to live boldly, pointing out that fear of failure - and indeed of success – are the elusive enemies of the person aspiring to succeed. Do you deliberately or indeliberately, tell yourself subtly you cannot achieve this, or that or the other? “It is negative self talk”, Ajai-Lycett insists and surely, she echoes the voice of other icons: Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti, Dora Akunyili, Barrack Obama, Maya Angelou, Usain Bolt, Jay-Jay Okocha, Oprah Winfrey – the list stretches round the houses – each selfstarted with positive affirmation of “I can”.

The author opines that “I can” means, starving the urge to put yourself down, to procrastinate, to merely try. “I can” harps on breaking the addiction of seeking other peoples’ validation, but equipping yourself and assuring yourself that you – surely, you- definitely CAN. “I can” gets on with it. “I can” knows the importance of moving on from the crowd content with burying timid heads in the sands. “I can” is not fearful to hear the reproachful phrase like “you have changed” from those too afraid to dare to aspire for “I can” understands that achievement emerges from a bold change in perspective.

A representation of success herself, the author speaks from a position of the experiential and this surely, is another significance of the book, for the better person to speak on

Ajai-Lycett conquest is one who walks its paths.

“You cannot find joy without being open to your sorrow”, Ajai-Lycett goes on to highlight in the subsequent essay, “How to Feel Better About Yourself”. Be reminded that

the overarching theme of the book is daring to play your music while recognizing the risks that herein exist; to this end therefore, this essay unearths that comfort is often found in the moments when we take time to make sense of the bludgeons of brutality. For instance taking time to be sensitive to the positive lessons thrown up by a disappointment or betrayal or set-back; this equips us to then help those we find in similar situations on the journey to achievement. In other words, the sorrow born from the aspirations to success is best channelled towards enhancing positivity rather than fuelling negativities of bitterness and vindictiveness and regret. It is from this stream of consciousness the author maintains: “we must not corrupt our hearts.

Deny evil and affirm the good”.

Undeniably, the entirety of Taiwo Ajai-Lycett’s ‘Just Sharing’ is soul food, streaming with witty lines stirring insight and smiles and tears and laughter.

•Samantha-Israel Iwowo is a screenwriter and director. She’s currently a Ph.D. student of Film at the University of Bristol, England.

the abject political leadership and energy (that is to say, electricity and other forms of petroleum-derived energy that is suppose to drive the economy) situation in Nigeria.

More than anything else, the two ideas or dimensions of power shape the existential consciousness of Nigerians.

Sadly, both have been largely defined by malfeasance, sleaze, and hopelessness as the four works that comprise the exhibition suggest. Using a rickety wheel chair, painted gold and surrounded by a blanket of expended bullets stitched together in ‘Untitled 1’, Dike presents the tacky and imperious brand of political power in Nigeria in which the winner takes all. In addition to interrogating the absence of any real understanding of statesmanship on the part of Nigeria’s political class, she draws attention to unbridled vanity, venality, irresponsibility, and intellectual poverty that have trailed the political landscape especially since the fourth republic. As such, it is hardly surprising that 219 Chibok secondary school girls remain missing nearly two years since they were kidnapped. What nation, except Nigeria, would display such callous lack of compassion and wanton irresponsibility to its young folk? Dike addresses this sorry state of affairs in the deeply emotive installation ‘How Much Am I Worth. ‘ Like ‘Untitled 1’, ‘Untitled 2’ examines the perplexing dynamics of political power in the country. Here Dike uses the cooking stove as a visual trope but also as a metaphor in addressing how the political class (both men and women) is a tightly-knit group with a common agenda to appropriate the nation’s commonwealth for itself, party-affiliations notwithstanding. The back story for this particular piece is the 9.2 billion naira earmarked by the last administration for the purpose of buying kerosene stoves for indigent women.

Dike treats the stove as a symbol of corruption, misappropriation, and misplacement of priorities. Finally she addresses the unsteady power supply in spite of the insane amount of money that has been sunk in that sector by successive administrations since 1999 in the installation titled ‘National Grid.’ This installation draws our attention to a dream deferred, what Nigeria can become given its industrious and highly-driven population; an economic giant in the true sense of the word. With these works, Dike addresses the main issues that majority of Nigerians contend with, and amplifies the role of the artist as conscience of society in trying times.

•Dr. Nzewi is the consulting curator to the exhibition

Season 2 of ‘Discovery +234’ begins showing on NTA SEASON two of magazine-style TV program, ‘Discovery +234’ has been launched.

Showing on NTA, it features high flyers who share their inspiring stories with the audience.

Fashion designer Mai Atafo, photographer Kelechi Amadi-Obi, singer Niyola and Maureen Obaweya are among guests that have featured on the show which entertains, inspires and informs audiences across Nigeria.

Through celebrity guests, youth reporters and inspiring stories from across Nigeria, young people, parents and communities see what can be accomplished with a good education and hard work - challenging youth to reach their full potential.

Season two of the show, it’s producers noted in a statement, “will also feature youth roundtables in which young people from Kenya, Ghana and Nigeria talk with each other about the challenges and opportuni-

ties they face in today’s world.”

‘Discovery +234’ is part of the Discovery Project, a unique public-private partnership between Discovery Communications (parent company of Discovery Channel, Animal Planet, TLC, etc.) and the UK Department for International Development (DFID) to improve education opportunities in Ghana, Kenya and Nigeria. The project is being implemented by Discovery Learning Alliance (DLA), which uses the power of media to transform education and improve lives. Working in schools, communities and through mass media initiatives, DLA is impacting tens of millions of people around the world.

Tony Gardner, DFID Kenya’s Deputy Head of Office, said: “The “Discovery +234” format is an innovative way to improve attitudes toward education, particularly for girls, who often access education at lower rates than boys. In partnership with Dis-

covery, we are excited about providing better futures for children and communities through the “Discovery +” model.”

“Audiences are drawn to inspiring stories, those that show that with education and hard work, anything is possible. That is the message we want to spread across Nigeria,” said Delmwa Deshi-Kura, ‘Discovery +234’ producer and creative director at Del Media Plus.

He added: ‘Discovery +234’ illustrates the inspirational power of real stories. Hearing about the real path that role models took – their motivations and their challenges – can show anyone what they themselves are capable of, how high they can aspire. Discovery is pleased to be working with NTA to reach new audiences in Nigeria and grateful to the UK Department for International Development for this unique partnership in Nigeria and through our sister programmes: “Discovery +233” in Ghana and “Discovery +254” in Kenya.”

28

Sunday Tribune

Sunday Tribune

14 February, 2016

glamour

With Tayo Gesinde temiligali03@yahoo.com 08054727801

Why ladies should moisturise, cleanse, tone their skins —Fasanu

Adetoro Fasanu, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Bodyshop and Attractions, holds a Bachelors degree in English and a Masters in Business Administration (MBA). In this interview with TAYO GESINDE, she speaks on why she quit her job to go into the beauty business, her fashion preferences and the best gift to give your spouse this Valentine. Excerpts:

what worked for A may not work for B. So if a cream does not work for you, there will be another cream that will work for you. So, you have to patiently search for the cream that works for you or talk to an expert she will advise you accordingly. We have dry skin, oily skin and a combination of dry and oily. If you don’t know your skin type, you can educate yourself by reading about it or you can come to us. If you take your bath in the morning and a few minutes later, you find that your skin is white or you feel tightness on your face, then you have a dry skin. If you have oily skin, you will know because your face will be oily. For combination skin, you have oil along the T-zone (your forehead down your nose). The other parts like your cheek will be oily. If you sweat a lot, that does not mean your skin is oily, it just means you will have to clean your face a lot of times and will in the process wipe off the natural oil on your face that can turn your naturally oily face to a dry one.

Definition of style Style to me is a personal expression of who you are. I don’t think it is right to follow societal trends. Don’t say because people are wearing mini, you must wear mini, rather wear what you like, what makes you feel comfortable and looks nice on you, what fits your body type and your mood. Style is an expression of your inner self. Don’t just go crazy

F

oray into fashion I have always had interest in fashion. I opened a boutique in 2000.

Then I was working with a company but I later quit the job to concentrate on it.

There were few obstacles along the way but they were not insurmountable. The first one was to create awareness in order to enjoy. I had to wait till the time was ripe as well as patronage to get a good location but there were really no major challenges.

The journey so far It has not been bad. At first, I was a jack of all trade. I started with a supermarket and boutique but it later metamorphosed into beauty and gift stores. I realised that these are actually where my strengths are. I am someone who likes to set up the home. I have a flair for interior décor so I have that in my gift stores, I have gift items, household materials and I also offer advice on how to set up a home. At the

beauty shop too, I offer advice to customers on the best beauty products for their skin type.

So, I dropped the supermarket and boutique to face this squarely. I have attended a lot of seminars abroad on skin care, I have done a lot of researches on beauty treatment, skin in particular. In fact, I am billed to attend a course on skin care this year because I hope to open a skin clinic soon.

Tips on how to maintain your skin It is no rocket science, the way I see it. The first thing we should consider is what we put into our mouths. What we eat reflects on our skin. For instance, if you drink a lot of water, you will have a glow on your skin. The other things you need to do are to wash your face every night before going to bed. If you can, please, moisturise your skin as well in the night before you sleep. When you do, you will see a difference in the morning. If you like to go natural, who doesn’t use lightening cream,

you tend to have less stress maintaining your skin. If you are using lightening cream, you need to go a step further. You have to be very consistent with your sun protection creams and also be careful with the kind of creams you use. If you notice that a cream is not good for your skin, quickly stop using it. At the same time, there are some creams you need to use for a certain length of time before you can get results. Basically, wash, cleanse, moisturise and tone your skin. When I say tone, I don’t mean it in a layman’s language; I mean use a toner on your body to balance your skin.

On different skin types We have different skin types, what works for one person may not work for another. Some women when they buy a cream their friends use and it didn’t work for them, they would blame the store for selling fake cream to them.

I’ve heard customers say that and I always tell them that people have different skin type, so

Beauty regimen It is very simple. One thing I cannot do without is to sleep without washing my face or put moisturiser on my face. It has got to a stage that if I am so tired and fall asleep, I will wake up and do it. I have combination skin but even at that, I don’t joke with moisturisers. I am someone who will rather buy a very good moisturiser, whether it is expensive or not, so far it works for my skin before I buy any other thing.

If you are not blessed with a very good skin, you have to work a little bit extra to get to a point where you will be comfortable with it.

Assessment of the Nigerian fashion industry The fashion industry is really going places.

The international community has been made to recognise us. Our African prints and designs are now worn by White and Black alike. The fashion industry is evolving, we still have a long way to go but it is a work in progress. We are growing steadily and we will certainly get there.

Favourite fashion designers I like the designs of Vera Wang for my foreign labels and for our traditional attires, I patronise our indigenous designers, they are very good.

My take on cosmetic surgery I think it is a personal thing. If you think you

But seriously, the economic situation is not encouraging buying and giving of expensive gift so, if your partner, friend or husband does not give you an expensive gift this year, don’t feel bad...

29

need it to make yourself comfortable, go ahead.

I don’t have anything against anybody who does it if they think it will make them a better person. My advice is that they should go to a safe place to do it, don’t spare cost, go to a good doctor. I have never had it done but never say never.

Special treat.

As a lady, you must have time for yourself. I don’t cut corners with that. As you grow older you will realise that if you don’t take care of yourself, it will tell on your body. So, I relax with my family. Aside from that, I go to the spa, I watch movies and I read a lot Combining my business with the home front.

I will be lying if I say that they don’t clash some times, it is now like a well oiled routine for me.

Luckily my kids are grown up now and don’t require much attention from me. They are away in school most of the time and my husband is also a very busy person. They all understand my business and are all very understanding. It has been okay.

My opinion on provocative dressing.

I do know that we have a lot of indecent dressing around in our society these days. I think less is more. By that I don’t mean less clothing.

As a lady, you have to realise that there should be

a bit of a mystery to a woman. You shouldn’t just shown everything. When you’ve seen everything, you don’t long for it as much again. So when you have shown everything, there is no longing again. But you can be decently dressed and be beautiful. That is where a lot of people miss it. They think they have to expose their bodies to be fashionable.

I don’t think it is so. When there is a bit of a mystery to a woman, that makes the men want you the more but when you show them everything at a glance, there is nothing to long for again.

On the appropriate gift for Valentine’s Day. The dollar rate is “wonderful” now so things are a bit expensive but we should not forget that everything is not about money. We should still remember one another and express love in whatever way we can. It does not have to be something expensive, it doesn’t have to be an expensive perfume or jewellery, it is what you feel in the heart that matters and not the gift, though so many people will disagree with me on that. But seriously, the economic situation is not encouraging buying and giving of expensive gift so, if your partner, friend or husband does not give you an expensive gift this year, don’t feel bad, just thank God that both of you are alive, healthy and happy, even if it is a bottle of coke that he can afford, just appreciate it. Showing love in these hard times will go a long way. There are people out there who want people to just reach out to them, so call them, and say hello, it shows that you care for them. If you can afford to buy them a gift however, that would not be bad.

Fashion obsession.

I just wear anything I feel comfortable in. I feel more comfortable had in a pair of trousers, maybe because I was a bit of a tomboy when growing up, I don’t know. Out of seven days in a week, you will probably find me in trousers four or five times. I also love bags a lot.

Favourite perfumes.

I love perfumes. I love Hermes perfume line, Jo Malone, Estee Lauder and Chanel.

Advice to women on how to stay young and beautiful Beauty comes from within. I am a work in progress myself. When somebody offends me, I talk to myself to let it go so that by mid day, I would have released the person from my mind. Because keeping grudges releases bad hormones and this will make you age early.

What you eat matters too. Eat good food and eat less of junks. Drink a lot of water and try to be a happy person.

When you are happy your face will radiate and you won’t even need to use much make-up.

30

aspire

14 Febuary, 2016

BY OLAIDE SOKOYA 0807 449 7425 (sms only)

ollydesanmi@yahoo.com

Government should help us to Ayodele Arubuola is the Chief Executive Officer of Gospel Hotspot Radio, a blog that promotes gospel music, video, sermon, devotionals and more. In this interview with SEGUN ADEBAYO, the young entrepreneur shares his journey into hotspot radio.

Excerpts:

H

ow did your journey into gospel hotspot radio begin?

Gospel Hotspot as a brand began over two years ago when I started a gospel promotion blog, a blog where you can get latest gospel music, video, sermon, devotionals and more. In January 2015, I began the project of gospel hotspot online radio and by August 2015, we started the test transmission online. By November 1st 2015 we had our open house, the official opening of gospel hotspot radio.

What exactly motivated you and how easy has it been?

I have been doing gospel promotion for three years now. It’s not been as easy doing strictly gospel promotion as that of the secular promotion. God is my sole motivator; my parents and my pastor motivate me too.

What are the challenges you face as an entrepreneur?

Many people want to limit you because you are doing gospel, but I have never limited myself. We run gospel hotspot radio for 24/7, and hardly do we enjoy electricity for three hours in a day. The internet service provider is another problem; they give us less quality service.

The challenges keep us stronger every day.

What keeps you going?

I see offers that are enticing in the secular promotion.

As a matter of fact I receive calls for secular music promotion than gospel music are willing to pay me well, but I turn them down by saying that I do strictly gospel PR. I don’t want to be a disappointment to God and the people who love and appreciate what God is using me to achieve.

Why gospel and not other genre of music?

Gospel music means different things to different peo-

We run gospel hotspot radio for 24/7, and hardly do we enjoy electricity for three hours in a day. The internet service provider is another problem

ple, but to me, it is the just like passing out a “Godly message in song format” given by the inspiration of God and is profitable for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness. My life is about gospel not only in music, but people know me for my gospel music promotion.

How much support do you get from people?

I get a lot of supports from gospel artistes and my team. My team is doing a wonderful job at gospel hotspot radio. I receive massive supports from gospel artistes home and abroad.

How do you think government can encourage the growth of young start-ups like yours?

The Federal Government has a huge role to play.

The government can, through banks, provide loans for young entrepreneurs with good business ideas.

They should also provide at least 12 hours of constant power supply. Also, the exchange rate is just too high.

I pay over $300 for three online broadcast servers per month. It is lesser to pay yearly but I can’t afford that because of the high exchange rate. Let government help us build our future by implementing a good scheme to promote science and technology.

Your Life Counts

Sunday Tribune

by Tunde Jaiyebo 0803 406 2013

Barriers and possibilities (I) IN life we will always be faced with two options to any project we want to embark on. There will either be barriers or possibilities. Barriers are roadblocks on our way to destiny. Barriers are impediments to our ability to make progress as we ought to. Possibility is the ability to see beyond barriers. It is seeing that what we desire or plan to do can be a reality.

When we focus on barriers, possibilities become elusive. When we see possibilities, barriers become conquerable. A major prerequisite to success in life is having a right perspective. “Understand that most of your limitations are self-imposed because of your history and that your field of vision is too often limited by your experience instead of being guided by your imagination” Les Brown Life is fraught with barriers and in many cases to walk and live in the realm of possibilities is not a piece of cake.

Life doesn’t just happen. Possibility is usually shrouded and surrounded by difficulty. If we are to make headway in life and leave indelible imprints on the sands of time we must learn to overcome whatever barriers rears its ugly head against our dreams. “The strength of your obstacle determines the weight of your potentials. The greater your potentials, the heavier your dunamis power must be.” Israelmore Ayivor The issue of possibility only arises when we are faced with situations that look difficult or impossible. Possibility is simply an alternative to impossibility. Possibility is looking at barriers in the face and seeing that success is inevitable. If we choose to get stopped by barriers, we are voting for mediocrity and sentencing initiative, creativity and excellence to death. However, if we go for possibility, we are setting ourselves up for promotion, prominence and a life of powerful impact.

To walk in the realm of possibilities, we need to overcome the barriers and obstacles that will want to stop us.

Many people crumble and give up their dream when they encounter barriers so the land of impossibility is seriously over populated while the land of possibility is sparsely populated.

Our minds must be made up to stand out and walk in the realm of possibilities. The choice is ours to make.

Whenever we hit the impossibility barrier, the thought of impossibility instantly pops up in our mind and what we see and focus on at such times will determine where the pendulum will swing to – either to the side of possibility or to impossibility. “The brick walls are there for a reason.

The brick walls are not there to keep us out. The brick walls are there to give us a chance to show how badly we want something. Because the brick walls are there to stop the people who don’t want it badly enough. They’re there to stop the other people.” Randy Pausch We cannot really stop barriers from showing up in our lives but our approach and attitude to them is critical.

“You do not need to know precisely what is happening, or exactly where it is all going. What you need is to recognise the possibilities and challenges offered by the present moment, and to embrace them with courage, faith and hope.” Thomas Merton Barriers are meant to be overcame. “Our limits are not permanent barriers or walls; they are reference points, markers that are meant to be moved or exceeded according to our goals. They are not an enemy to be destroyed, but a temporary gauge to be referenced and adjusted.”

Steve Maraboli To be continued For enquiries or comments please send email to urlifecounts@yahoo.com

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14 February, 2016

Sunday Tribune

thepolity Wike, Amaechi and the unending allegations over Rivers looted funds Deputy Editor DAPO FALADE X-rays the recent allegation of financial sleaze levelled by Governor Nyesom Wike of Rivers State against his immediate predecessor and Minister of Transportation, Honourable Rotimi Amaechi, vis-a-vis past similar allegations and efforts at recovering the alleged stolen state funds.

G

OVERNOR Nyesom Wike of Rivers State, again, caused a stir during a church thanksgiving service, in Port Harcourt, last Sunday, when he declared that former Governor Rotimi Amaechi allegedly took a whopping sum of $150 million belonging to the state to finance the campaign activities of his political parties, the All Progressives Congress (APC), in the buildup to the 2015 national elections.

The governor, by his latest utterance, added his voice to the speculation that Amaechi allegedly single-handedly financed, up to 80 per cent, the cost incurred

by APC to prosecute the 2015 presidential election. Wike said the former governor spent the huge sum between December 1 and 18, 2014. He vowed to recover all the stolen money belonging to the state and called for a comprehensive fight against corruption and canvassed support for the prosecution of all those allegedly behind the looting of the state fund.

“The national chairman of APC, Chief John Odigie-Oyegun, said his party did not wish to lose Rivers, Abia, Akwa Ibom, Delta and Bayelsa states because they are the resource base of the nation, even if the price of oil is going down.

“Well, I don’t blame him, because from 1st to 8th December, 2014, they took from Rivers State coffers $150 million and change it at the bureau de change to finance APC campaigns. That was the period we were having primaries. So, Rivers was also like the finance base of APC”, he had said at the thanksgiving service.

However, the former governor responded swiftly, describing the claim by Wike as a “fairy tale” and part of a calculated attempt to denigrate, disparage and smear his name before the people of the state.

Amaechi, in a statement issued from his media office, last Monday, described the latest allegation as a “new imaginary tale, another bogus and fallacious concoction...”, challenging Wike to approach the courts and prove his allegations with facts and documents.

“All sorts of spurious stories about alleged corruption and stealing of state funds against the Amaechi administration have been bandied in the media with no attempt to substantiate or prove these distorted false claims that completely makes nonsense of common sense.”

In the same vein, the state leadership of APC, in its reaction to the allegation, said it was “a big lie taken from the very depth of hell.” Rivers APC publicity secretary, Mr Chris Finebone, in response had said, he was also sure that Wike only made the allegation to please his audience and

Governor Nyesom Wike, Rivers State would not take a step further, adding that “Wike talks big and tough, but behind his tough-talking is a coward.

“He won’t advance that accusation beyond the comfort of his audience. His deeds are awaiting him and at the appropriate time he’ll be held to account. If he is serious, let him go to court and summon Rt. Honourable Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi. But you can be sure that he won’t do because he knows that Amaechi is without blemish.”

The latest allegation by Wike, though a fresh one, did not really come as a surprise, as the people of the state have been inundated with several of such allegations of financial sleaze and corrupt acts allegedly perpetrated by the immediate past administration in the state. Could it then be said that the governor made the allegation only to score a cheap political point? Put differently, could there be any element of truth in the daring assertions by both Amaechi and Rivers APC? Does the governor have any element of fact with which to back the allegation of corruption against his former boss? Or has he developed cold feet in his avowed quest to rid the state of sleaze?

Shortly before his assumption of office on May 29, 2015, Wike had made it clear to all, his administration’s desire to recover the funds of the state allegedly looted by the immediate past Governor Amaechi’s administration. He emphatically declared

Rotimi Amaechi, former governor of Rivers State on May 25 that he would start the anticorruption crusade in the state by probing Amaechi’s handling of the state’s resources and the funds accruable to it.

To achieve this, Wike said his administration would carry out a forensic audit of all government accounts to ensure the recovery of all resources allegedly stolen by top officials of the outgoing administration in the state. Wike said the days of impunity and massive corruption were over in the state. He expressed optimism that the czar of the anti-corruption crusade, President Muhammadu Buhari, would support his bid to make Rivers a test-case in the fight against corruption, noting that a comprehensive and holistic approach would be adopted in fighting corrupt elements in order to entrench fiscal discipline in the state.

“I am not going to be intimidated. The only way we can work together is to check the ills of the past. The right thing must be done. Those who have stolen the resources of the state must be made to account. I have the political will to drive the process to its logical conclusion. The massive stealing of government resources was a deliberate attempt to create problems for the incoming administration”, he had said then.

In his maiden (and only one since then) meeting with journalists, last June, the governor claimed that about N45 billion,

being the proceeds from the sale of 70 per cent of the four state-owned power plants, was taken from the state coffers between December 2014 and April 2015.

“Okay, they said we sold our power plants by 70 per cent at $302 million.

They started paying on October 29, 2013 and the first money paid was $35 million.

After two days, they withdrew the $35 million through Bureau de Change. In December 2014, they paid $220 million to the Rivers State account with Access Bank. By April, not one dollar remained in the account.

“December period was the heat of politics; primary and the rest, is it not? Then, the election was going to be February 28 before it was moved to March 28 and April 11. By March, the whole money was gone.

What is the value of $220 million now?

We are talking about nothing less than 45 billion Naira”, he had told newsmen then.

The governor, last year, set up the Justice George Omereji-led Judicial Commission of Inquiry to look into the alleged illegal sales of assets of the state and the various projects executed by the former governor. The terms of reference of the commission included a look into the sale of the Omoku 150 MW gas turbine, Afam 360 MW gas turbine, Trans-Amadi 136 continues

pg 34

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14 February, 2016

Sunday Tribune

‘Why I’ll not judge Buhari now’ Continued from

was the chairman of the committee. I will be very careful in passing a judgment. We should look at what we have, if it is working we should accept it. If it is not, we should look at it again and do the right thing.

pg 15

background, they were employed as salary earners. So, how did they acquire all their wealth? Look at the value of Naira today, it is virtually worthless. And this is because of our own stupidity. Why should we now have worthless Naira? Our leaders should look at this very critically. It makes our shame more glaring. This excessive acquisition of extreme wealth is the bane of the country and the continent. If we can control this greed and wealth, the sky will not be the limit for Africa. In Nigeria, we should use our oil for the interest of the people. I went to Mandela’s house when I toured South Africa. He lived in a native area throughout his life. But here, we see leaders with limitless properties—a lot of farms, chickens. Our greed for wealth is excessive. Some of our leaders have written their memoirs, but I think more leaders should write. They should not get agents to write books for them and call those books their products. It should be something they produced by themselves.

PDP, of which you and others are foundation leaders, has been moving from one crisis to another since it was kicked out of power in 2015.

What are you doing about this?

Don’t talk about kick out. PDP was not kicked out of power. It was defeated and that is normal in all elections. In Britain, you see the Conservatives defeating Labour Party and vice versa. It happens in France, Germany and other places like that too. It is a game of ‘come and go.’

You should expect to win and you should expect to lose. And when you lose, you should go and work hard so that you can come back to power. I don’t regard losing an election as any misfortune. I regard it as part of the academics of our political process. In fact, when a party is defeated, its leaders should go and think properly and do things better than before. You can’t expect PDP to be in power forever.

But the PDP leaders once said they were going to rule the country for 60 years.

That was nonsense. I don’t accept that.

Those who said that were ignorant. There is no way a party can rule indefinitely. The party can import bad leaders and make a mistake in the choice of candidates and be defeated.

There is a wing in the party now that thinks the PDP brand has been badly discredited and canvassed for a change of brand name and stressed the need for reforms in the party. What do you make of this?

I don’t think PDP is badly discredited. I don’t accept that. What we need to do is in the area of choice of candidate. We need to choose the right candidate, have the right policies, and avoid being tribal and sectional.

Can the PDP brand come back to rule the country?

It will come back 100 per cent.

Will it be in 2019?

I am not going to give you a definite time. But it will definitely come back.

You have served in the Federal Government twice in 1959 and in 1979-1983. Do you have any regrets in politics?

You were once a member of a constitution drafting committee and your recommendations formed part of the 1979 Constitution. Now that the current National Assembly is planning to amend the constitution, what would you recommend they look at?

I won’t like to give any suggestion now.

But don’t forget, when we submitted our report, presided over by Chief Rotimi Williams, the military put in a lot of amendments into what we submitted. When people talk of that draft that we produced, they never talk of the amendments the military made to the document. And there were major amendments which the military inserted. For instance, the Land Use law does not make any sense. How can we say all the land belongs to the state and the governor can control it as they like? I don’t believe in amending the constitution all the time. It is a major step. I will not join those people who are talking of amendment as though it is something that is very slight. We should be very careful because the constitution is the greatest law of the country. We should treat it as sacred.

Chief Akinjide

There is nothing I want to achieve in life that I have not achieved. But there are a lot of things I want Nigeria to achieve that it has not achieved. But personally, I am quite happy and I am grateful to Nigeria and I will forever be grateful to the people of Ibadan and Yoruba in general and all Nigerians.

What is your take on the request

by President Muhammadu Buhari to have a special court to speedily try corruption cases?

I don’t agree with the request at all. If we have special courts, it means we are passing a vote of no confidence in regular courts. That is not good for our image and reputation. We have produced heads of judiciary for The Gambia, Tangayika (Tanzania), Uganda and other parts of southern Africa. We have even produced lawyers that have argued cases at the International Criminal Court at the Hague.

I have argued at the Hague when we have international cases. It is not right for anybody to diminish Nigeria. There is no need to have any special court at all, because our courts are very good. What we need to do is to have modern equipment like computers, verbatim reporters and other things in our courts. We should have records of proceedings the very day cases are done. They should not wait for days for records to be typed so that they are not doctored.

The argument from proponents of special courts is that they will speedily try corruption cases and won’t have to combine other matters as done in the regular courts, and so that there won’t be interminable adjournments which many judges appear disposed to giving and all that.

I don’t accept that overall we have bad judges. We have excellent judges. But I accept that there may be a few judges who are bad. Not long ago, a judge of a Federal High Court was retired. I knew about it.

Others have been retired similarly before.

The Nigerian judiciary is doing its best.

No, we should not devalue the Nigerian judicial system. We are one of the best in the world.

That means you don’t see any defect in the provisions of the constitution?

I do, but we should not do it carelessly or recklessly.

Some will consider you not being objective since you are about the most senior lawyer in the country at the moment…

I am the head of the Bar in Nigeria. I am the most senior lawyer at the Bar. I preside over the meeting of Senior Advocates of Nigeria (SANs). I am not defending anybody; I am speaking the truth. Anybody who wants to dispute what I am saying should come out and say it. I am prepared to engage in debate over this with anybody.

What are some of the areas you think deserve attention?

I don’t see any reason why government should control the land, for instance. Government is misapplying the Land Use law, rubbishing and misusing it. Why should the government take my land without paying for it? On what basis should government take my land? That is arrant nonsense. It was the military that smuggled it into our constitution. It was not recommended by us.

Do you support President Buhari’s anti-corruption crusade?

Yes, I support it 100 per cent.

And the method he is going about it?

Well, I don’t know all his methods. But to go against corruption is excellent and should be supported by all Nigerians.

Do you see Buhari as the President the country needs at this critical period?

I will need time to pass a judgment on that. He has been there for less than one year. Before I can pass my judgment on him, I will let him spend a year or more.

A former Secretary General of the Commonwealth, Chief Emeka Anyaoku, recently reiterated the need to re-structure the country. That many of the states are not viable. Do you share his view that we should revert to the regional system of government?

Some of the states we have were created on the recommendation of a committee in which I served. Chief Rotimi Williams

Some people have also kicked against the retention of immunity clause for governors and president in the constitution.

My view is that if a governor does something wrong, he should be charged to court immediately. Why not? I think that will put some fears into them. Many governors are very corrupt and they should not be corrupt.

At your leisure hour, away from doing research on law and reading autobiographies, how do you relax?

I play golf and I have been playing golf for many years. I also play snooker and I like it very much. I like to combine exercise, especially taking a brisk walk. And I have been inspired through these sports.

For instance, one of the people with whom I play golf is in the oil and gas, which is also one of the biggest areas of my law practice. So, it is extremely helpful.

You are also a lover of art works.

What inspires you in them?

I love works of art a lot. I collect them and I have them all over, in England, United States, Ibadan and Lagos.

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interview

14 February, 2016

Sunday Tribune

Edo 2016: Never again will PDP rule Edo —Afegbua

There have been altercations between the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in Edo State and the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) over the achievements of Governor Adams Oshiomhole and the choice of who succeeds him. In this interview with WALE OJO-LANRE, the newly sworn in commissioner for Information in the state, Prince Kassim Afegbua, bares his mind on a number of issues.

Y

OU recently became a commissioner after serving for many years as a special adviser, what new things are you bringing on board?

Any position of responsibility is a call to service. It is true that I was a Special Adviser on Media and Public Affairs since 2012, so the position of commissioner offers me a greater and higher platform to coordinate all government activities in the area of media networking and churning out the right information for Edo people about what government is doing.

We have an adversarial opposition in the state that remains permanently blind to the achievements of the Comrade governor. That’s okay for us, because the larger majority of Edo people celebrate the governor on a regular basis, especially when he goes out to inspect projects. Such uncultivated spontaneous jubilation, appreciation and celebration underscore the genuineness of the people’s intention. My job is simple, because the comrade governor is a great achiever who believes in my capacity to represent government position at all times. We also have very competent hands in the media unit who are playing very supportive roles in ensuring that we translate government policy thrust into actionable and communicative indices for all to appreciate.

There is this talk around town that the comrade governor has endorsed one of his trusted friends, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, to succeed him and that some party faithful see that as a clear imposition and sign of godfatherism. How do you react to this?

Don’t forget that this is political times and the tempers are going to flourish in different directions and dimensions. Every individual is a political animal; every individual also has an inalienable democratic right that cannot be taken away from him or her. The governor has a democratic right as well as other people both in his government and outside his government. Talking seriously, are you saying the governor does not have the right to support an aspirant of his choice if he was to exercise that right of choice? Don’t forget that he has a greater stake in what becomes of his legacy, because regimes are known by the leader that presides at every point in time. And for a man who has made APC an elegant and attractive bride, he should respectfully have a say in who takes over from him, conscious of the fact that there is a virile opposition.

No individual aspirant has the nerves and capacity to navigate the entire political landscape without cashing in on the APC as a popular party that has delivered on its promises to the Edo electorate. The projects that the governor has completed, the ones that he is presently undertaking despite the dwindling revenue from federation account, suggest to me that using APC by any aspirant becomes a plus.

Back to your question, the governor has repeatedly said that the party will conduct free and fair primary that will produce

ly captures the mood in Edo State as we speak, because some of us see him as a miracle worker that is deploying all his ingenuities and character, coupled with prudence and probity, to deliver the essential ingredients of democracy. He has literally touched the life of every Edo person one way or the other, including those of PDP noisemakers that call themselves party chieftains. You may not like Oshiomhole’s guts, but for God’s sake, you cannot take away the fact that he has represented Edo well in judiciously applying the resources to carry out projects that impact on the generality of the people. That is why each time the PDP sees him going out to inspect projects, they will be crying and shouting blue murder, ‘oh, ha, this man is going again oh. Where is he seeing the money to work?’

Prince Kassim Afegbua

the candidate. As a stakeholder for God’s sake, shouldn’t he have his preference? If as an aspirant you find yourself too popular and cannot cope with the pressure in the APC, there are other political parties where you can test your popularity. If you now say the man who has made the APC a better platform for people to pursue their ambition should not have his say and way, then you are being unfair to him. There is no godfatherism; there is no imposition.

But there seems to be cold a war between the governor and his deputy?

There is neither a cold war nor a hot war; I think political Lilliputians’ would readily find this kind of scenarios appealing for their infertile minds. I mean scenario that tends to suggest that there is quarrel somewhere when there is none.

The governor enjoys a very robust relationship with his deputy; hence I do not see any friction anywhere. The interesting thing is that if the deputy governor wants to contest election, he will need the blessings and support of the governor; so those who are fanning the embers of disagreement and confrontation are actually doing damage to his perceived ambition.

Are you not worried over the chances of the PDP, which appears to be doing its best to recapture power in Edo state?

God forbids that PDP returns to power in Edo State. Their modus operandi is share the money; they will destroy all the beautiful legacies of the Oshiomhole administration and will be too much in a hur-

ry, like famished baboons, to unleash their greed on the system once again. We have tested them before, they failed woefully.

They destroyed all the institutions in the state and killed the civil service. They retired people compulsorily without qualms.

Memories of their misrule still linger in the minds of the people. Added to this is the fact that their last looting adventure at the federal level adds salt to injury. Edo people in their millions are saying never again to PDP; not in this generation. The state is now wearing an elegant toga; do you want us to go back to the era of rags and okrika? We have more than enough to campaign with. We will remind the people how PDP vandalised the Ramat-Aduwawa road and rendered it almost impassable. We will tell the people of Abraka-Benin road that was abandoned. We will remind the people how PDP-led federal government refused us ecological funds to address erosion and flooding. My brother, there is so much to remind the people.

The governor is still starting new projects while saying he will not leave uncompleted projects for his successor. How realistic is this promise?

It is realistic in the sense that what we have set out to do now has delivery date once we are able to meet up with financial commitment. Are you not surprised that despite the fact that a lot of states in Nigeria are not able to pay salaries, Edo State is not only paying, but also doing projects?

That exactly is the comrade governor’s cutting edge. When the going gets tough, the tough gets going. That statement apt-

But the PDP is complaining about debts that are piling up under the Oshiomhole administration. What is your reaction to this?

I don’t want to believe that a sound and very articulate journalist with your experience will join the unschooled minds to complain about borrowing in this contemporary world, where nations cannot stand on their two legs let alone states. Is there anything wrong in borrowing as a function of economics, if you are doing your due diligence to ensure that you apply the borrowed funds to the specifics, which necessitated the loan in the first place? I don’t want to be dragged into this PDP school of thought that exposes crass ignorance and limited knowledge of governance issues in these modern times. PDP should wise up; they should begin to learn the simple mechanics of governance and the attributes of a performing government instead of running from pillar to post, exposing their rotten underbelly, and reminding us all how they looted the national and state treasuries. We have been paying debts accumulated under PDP regime and even during Samuel Ogbemudia era. As much as we want to complain, they are liabilities that we have to live with. Even the blind can feel the real impact of our intervention. If we have to attract any loan to save and sustain our infrastructural projects, I will gladly embrace such offer. Just go and take a look at our brand new hospital, you will see the architectural masterpiece as a reflection of the superb taste of the governor coupled with our roads. Give the comrade governor a pat on the back.

Any message for the people of the state?

Just to remind them that we are in difficult times, but that they should remain focused and not be distracted by the shenanigans of the PDP and their co-travellers. We shall ensure that we deliver on our promise without equivocation. They trust us and we trust their capacity to read between the lines of those who are telling them the truth and those propagating lies around town. We shall meet the PDP at the elections where we will beat them silly.

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thepolity

14 February, 2016

Sunday Tribune

Wike, Amaechi and the unending fight over Rivers looted funds continued from

pg 31

MW gas turbine and the Eleme 75 MW gas turbine, the execution of the equally controversial mono-rail project, non-execution of the Justice Adolphus Karibi-Whyte Specialist Hospital, after the alleged payment of $39.2 million to the contractor that handled the project.

The commission was also mandated to look into the execution of the Olympiad Hotel, which was described as another conduit pipe to siphon the state funds; investigate the disbursement and use of the state N2 billion agriculture credit guarantee scheme fund and an alleged withdrawal of N96 billion from the State Reserve Funds.

Amaechi and his former commissioners refused to appear before the commission throughout its sittings, claiming that the commission was subjudiced, pre-determined and set up with one sole aim, that is, nailing him and his aides to the cross. After about four months of sitting, the Omereji commission of inquiry submitted its report to the Rivers State government on October 7, 2015.

The report indicted former Governor Amaechi, alleging that a total sum of N53 billion Rivers State’s funds got missing under his watch between 2014 and May, 2015.

Speaking with newsmen after submitting the report and its recommendation to the governor, chairman of the commission, Justice Omereji, specifically said there was N55 billion in the Rivers State Reserve Fund up till last year, adding that “but between 2014 and May, 2015, they were able to remove N53 billion. We found out that the money was not used for the projects in the state; it went to some individuals. This finding was from their own paper submitted to us. We also discovered that the money was given to people they like.

“We went to some of the projects’ sites. Like at the Justice Adolphous Karibe-Whyte Specialist Hospital, we did not see anything at all when we went there. When I even told the project contractor that we should go to the basement, he was afraid, saying that snakes would bite us. But I insisted and told him that even if we see a snake, we would march on it and it would die. Behold, when we went inside, nothing. The billions of Naira given to the man were all in vain. There was nothing to show for the money. On the Olympia Hotel, I was disappointed because of the nature of the agreement they said they reached. But we have recommended something to the state government on what should be done.”

Accepting the report and the recommendations, the state government subsequently issued a White Paper, even as Governor Wike said the recommendations would be implemented to the letter, vowing that the said looted state funds would be fully recovered. Addressing newsmen, some days later, the state Commissioner for Housing, Mr Emma Okah, implored Amaechi and his indicted aides to return the looted funds back to the state or face prosecution.

But months after the submission of the Omereji Report and the subsequent issuance of a Government White Paper, there has been no significant development as relating to efforts at recovering the alleged stolen Rivers funds, even as the principal target, Amaechi who is a key member of the Buhari-led Federal Government, continues to claim that he is not corrupt. The prevailing uncertainty over the Omereji Report undoubtedly buoyed the confidence of the Amaechi camp in the quest to recover the funds, especially as it concerns the latest revelation, the $150 million allegedly spent to finance APC elections, with the former governor saying: “It continues to baffle us, like most right-thinking Nigerians that Governor Wike will stand in a church­-a solemn place of worshipand carelessly, brusquely tell such a profound lie. He condescendingly descended to falsely and indecorously shout corruption against Amaechi, without providing a single shred of evidence to back his claims. How pathetic!

“Who collected the $150million on behalf of APC? From which of the state government account(s) was the $150million taken from? How was the $150million taken and given to APC? Was it by wired transfer from Rivers State government account(s) to APC account(s)?,” Amaechi asked, adding that the allegation was an “old wornout trick of Governor Wike to hoodwink and distract Rivers people from the real issues.”

However, two pressure groups operating within the

Ibrahim Magu, acting EFCC boss

state are not impressed by the stand of former Governor Amaechi in respect of the efforts at recovering the state stolen funds. The two groups, the ‘Integrity Group’ and ‘Rivers Awake’, convinced that some monies were truly missing, are challenging Wike to take a bold step towards the recovery of the funds and are equally calling on Amaechi to come out clearly and defend himself.

Consequent upon his indictment by the Omereji judicial commission of inquiry, the Integrity Group had, last August, petitioned President Muhammadu Buhari, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) to investigate the former governor over the alleged missing money. The group had also published in some national newspapers, last year, some incriminating documents against Amaechi.

With no positive response coming from the Presidency, EFCC or ICPC, the Executive Director of the group, Livingstone Wechie, penultimate Sunday, issued a statement, challenging the former governor to account for about N70 billion belonging to the state. Reminding the two anti-graft bodies of the need to prosecute Amaechi, Wechie, in the statement, claimed that his group had documents to prove its call for the probe of the Minister of Transportation, as contained in the first petition to President Buhari, EFCC and ICPC. “It is reported, though curiously, that he, Rotimi Amaechi, as Transport Minister, has ordered the probe on corruption in the various agencies under his Ministry. We hold that Rotimi Amaechi has no right whatsoever to talk of corruption probe, as corruption cannot probe corruption.

“This is because Amaechi has not denied these allegations and has neither instituted any legal action in any court against his indictment by the Justice Omereji-led panel Report as contained in the Government White Paper, nor the Integrity Group documentary’s evidencebacked-up petition as confirmed by the Nigerian Senate”, Wechie said in the statement.

Wechie further said the stance of Mr President on the war against corruption, through EFCC and ICPC, hangs in the balance for as long as Amaechi refused to give his own side of the story. Insisting that the Rivers State government must recover all the stolen funds, he said, “consequently, we insist that the Rivers State government immediately commence the arrest and prosecution of all those indicted by the Justice Omereji panel Report as contained in the Government White Paper...

Some few days before Governor Wike went to town with the fresh allegation of $150 million allegedly spent

by Amaechi to sponsor the APC elections, ‘Rivers Awake’

had also issued a statement asking that the alleged looted funds should be returned to the state coffers. The group, which claimed to be “non-partisan, non-religious, independently-minded volunteers drawn from all the three senatorial districts of Riveri State”, is also based in Port Harcourt, the state capital.

Writing under the headline, ‘It’s time to return our money’, Rivers Awake, in a statement signed by three of its members, Dagogo Ferdinand, Ezenwa Wodi and Ezekiel Amachree, last week, appealed to President Buhari to truly act out the anti-corruption crusade by helping to recover and return to the state the funds that allegedly went into the APC primaries and presidential campaigns.

“We recall that in the past months there have been cries and pleas, bordering on glaring rape on the finances of our dear state, Rivers. From 2007 to 2015, direct accrual from the published figures of the Federation Accounts Allocation Committee (FAAC) stood above N3 trillion. This is aside the Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) that runs into billions every month. But what is there to show for these revenues? Political party and elections’ sponsorship.

The group recalled the assertion by Governor Wike that 70 per cent of the state power assets were sold for over $302 million and the money paid in December, 2014, but added that there nothing in the state account reflecting such a transaction by April, 2015.

The group also quoted the Labour Party governorship candidate in the 2015 elections, Prince Tonye Princewill to have had, on December 21, 2014, said of the Rivers State assets that “money changed hands but the accounts they entered were not necessarily Rivers State government’s officially operated accounts. There is no evidence of competitive tendering, independent valuation or a transparency in the entire process. Rivers people cannot be sure they got a good deal. Why the secrecy?”

Also speaking after the $150 million revelation by Wike, Wechie of the Integrity Group, last Tuesday, urged the governor to take a bold step and recover the state funds, allegedly looted by the immediate past administration, pledging to support the decision by the Rivers State government to recover all public funds, allegedly embezzled through clandestine means.

Given the vehement denials by Amaechi of the allegation of corruption leveled against him and his open challenge to the governor to approach the court with his facts and evidence, the Executive Director of the Integrity Group, charged Wike to match his words with action and called for what he described as “Operation recover all stolen monies belonging to Rivers people.

Wechie, who assured that the government had the total support of the watchdog and whistle-blowing community, went further to ask Wike to take a cue from the unrelenting anti-corruption efforts by the Buhari Presidency.

But the state’s Commissioner for Information, Dr Austin Tam-George, had, at various forums, expressed the determination of the Wike-led administration to recover all the funds allegedly stolen from the state. Addressing a press conference, last Tuesday, he said: “It must be observed that Governor Wike’s commitment to the fight against corruption is total, complete and unequivocal. It is on record that upon assumption of office he instituted a Commission of Inquiry with judicial approval. That Commission’s Report has been given approval in a Government White Paper. One of those indicted is Mr Rotimi Amaechi, former governor of Rivers State.”

The governor may have been hampered in the pursuit of the war against sleaze due to what has been described as distractions (a veiled reference to then pending determination of the Rivers governorship election case at the Supreme Court). But now that the case had been dispensed with, and in awareness of the expectations of the people of the state, as well as that of the various interest groups, many people are of the view that the time for Governor Nyesom Wike to give his anti-corruption war a bite is now. But the questions being asked in the face of the former governor’s continued expression of innocence is: Will the anti-corruption fight not be tagged a witchhunt? And if, indeed, the state’s resources had been frittered away at some point under Amaechi, can they ever be recovered and put to good use in the interest of the people of Rivers State.

35

interview

14 February, 2016

Sunday Tribune

How Gimba wrote book in his dying bed —Brother

Dr Suleiman Gimba is the current chairman, Nigerian Veterinary Medical Association, Niger State chapter and younger brother of the late celebrated Nigerian writer and former national president of the Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA), Alhaji Abubakar Gimba. He speaks with ADELOWO OLADIPO on the life and times of the late accomplished author, astute economist and the book he wrote on his sick bed.

W

HAT type of person was the late Alhaji Abubakar Gimba?

He planned very well for himself and for his relations and even for his friends. I was so close to him and if there was anything he left unfulfilled, it was that there was a book that he wanted to write apart from the one we are going to launch. He kept on saying he wanted to write about where Nigerians got it wrong and I did not know what he really meant by that. He said he was going to write a book just in the form of what the late Professor Chinua Achebe wrote in “There was a country.” He said his version of the book would be on where Nigeria got it wrong.

Even this one we are trying to launch, he was just on his sick bed and he wrote this book up till the time his hands were too weak on the keyboard of his laptop. As he lay on his sick bed, he kept on writing and we were able to produce about 90 pages.

It is up to four chapters bearing different titles.

elled to Abuja and he was coming back, you would be sure that Gimba would still get you the bread that you would eat the following morning. That was one of his qualities. Whatever he got, he never ate alone.

Did any of his children take after him as writer and how old is his first child and the last child?

Well, they have ambitions; but so far, none of them has published a book yet.

His first daughter should be about 45 to 46 years old now and the last one should be around 13 to 14 years old. He had three wives and all of them are living in the family house currently. And they are all doing fine.

What exactly do you miss about him since he passed on?

I have missed a lot. He took me away from Nassara village in Lapai Local Government of Niger State as his younger brother in 1975, the year I got admission to the Government College, Bida, and since that time, up to his last breath, my life had been with him, completely.

Sometimes, I would describe him as a father, because even if he was my father, he would not have done better than he did for me. He never allowed me to suffer right from my secondary school days and if you saw me in the university then, you would have thought that my father was a multimillionaire. He was there for me until I finished. You can imagine someone who liked you so much that immediately you finished your secondary school, he bought a car for you. The year I finished my university education, he bought a car for me.

So, we had been quite close and that was the reason that in the last six years of his life, throughout his ailment, travelling from India to Dubai in search of one thing or the other and even within Niger State, I was always with him. I am more like a son to him and a trusted brother for that matter. So, my life had been completely with him. And for somebody to ask what I missed in him, I mean everything positive.

I never suffered under him and I never lacked anything. The day Alhaji Abubakar Gimba died, I lost my best friend; I lost a

Dr Suleiman Gimba

father and a brother. I lost the best adviser you can think of. So, his death was the greatest loss in my life and up till now, we are yet to recover from it.

Since his death last year, how have you and other family members been coping?

The first thing is how to organise ourselves , because he was such a person that would allow you to take a decision even for him and when you go wrong a little, he would correct you. So, we were also his best advisers; that is one of the things we are even missing about him and his quality of dealing with individuals. Up till now, we are yet to come to terms with the loss.

But one very good thing I think I really miss about him is his ability to absorb issues. He was such a man that even if you offended him, sorry would erase every offence. He was such a person that if I appeared before him, he knew what I needed; be it a piece of advice, a financial need or others. So, I did not need to say this was my problem; the moment I just appeared before him, he would know as if he was always looking out for something. He would

say, ‘Suleiman, this is it.’

Colonel John Madaki once described him at a public gathering as an ant and people asked what he meant. He said: ‘Yes, Alhaji Abubakar Gimba was such an individual that whatever happened, even if he travelled to Chanchaga, on the outskirts of Minna, once he was coming back home; he would bring something for the members of the family.’ That was the kind of person he was. So, even in those days when he trav-

He was just on his sick bed and he wrote this book up till the time his hands were too weak on the keyboard of his laptop

How do you feel stepping into his shoes as his younger brother?

It will be very difficult for anyone of us to say we are stepping into the shoes of Alhaji Abubakar Gimba, because I think he had a different quality. Maybe that was specifically given to him by Almighty Allah, I don’t know. But stepping into that shoe, I think the shoe would be too large for anyone of us. We are just trying to manage ourselves on some few legacies and some few pieces of advice that he left behind as an individual, such as how to deal with another human being and his sincerity. Once you are entrusted with anything, make sure you don’t betray either the person that entrusted it to you or you should be satisfied with whatever that is just in front of you. And the one thing that he kept on saying was that, we should avoid being corrupt. He kept on telling me particularly, ‘don’t steal’. And those are the things that keep ringing in my head up till this moment. In fact, he kept on saying that a big thief and a small thief are all thieves; that the person that takes an orange from another person in the name of stealing and a person that has taken billions of naira from Nigerian coffers, as far as he was concerned, are all thieves. So, those are the things that kept on ringing in my ears. He also left us a legacy that such anywhere we go the moment they say ‘there goes Abubakar Gimba’s brother’, or ‘there goes Abubakar Gimba’s son,’ people give us the respect we deserve. So, that is also a challenge. So, those are the challenges. We are only trying to maintain the legacy he left behind.

What activities have you lined up for his one year remembrance and the book presentation?

Well, number one is that we will be gathering people together because that was his wishes, even if it means gathering a few of his friends in a sitting room and presenting them with the book. And that will be okay by us, because we would have fulfilled his wishes. He left the book as a manuscript; we were just in the process of sending it to the publishers when he died. So, the family took it up, because part of his wishes is to publish the book and for the family to gather to take a decision that that book must be published.

He also instructed us that no word or sentence, even if there was a mistake on his part, should be removed and that nothing should be added. As somebody who had been participating in all his books, I asked him what about the dedication he used to write and he told us to dedicate the book on that day to those people who witnessed the day we are presenting the book. So, he did not write that his book was dedicated to anyone.

36

thepolity

14 February, 2016

Sunday Tribune

For Paseda, Ogun UPN gov candidate, success lies in synergy building

By Dare Adekanmbi

T

HE race for the 2019 governorship has begun with talks about re-alignment and coalition dominating discourse. The governorship candidate of the Unity Party of Nigeria (UPN), Chief Rotimi Paseda, appears to be lighting up the Ogun East Senatorial district, which has nine out of the 20 local government areas in the state home and it home to the Ijebu and Remo people of the state.

Paseda is undaunted by the performance of his party in the last election and has thrown his hat into the ring for the 2019 battle. Last month, the Omo Ilu Foundation, a state-wide political organisation founded and funded by a chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and senator representing the district, Buruji Kashamu, gave its endorsement to Paseda’s aspiration when he guested at the well-attended end of the year celebration held in Ijebu Igbo home of Kashamu.

Two weeks after, Paseda got another invitation from the leaders and members of Imole Group, another political body, to grace their New Year party as a special guest.

The Imole Group, which is founded by a former deputy governor of the state, Alhaji Rafiu Ogunleye, also threw its weight behind Paseda’s ambition to govern the Gateway State, at the ceremony held in the expansive compound of Ogunleye in Ijebu Itele.

One after the other, the members spoke in glowing terms about the governorship hopeful and commended his empowerment programme, while calling on him to extend similar gesture towards them. They admonished him to ensure his political taproot springs from the grass roots, while promising to work for him across the 236 wards in the state.

Speaking on the invitation extended to Paseda, Ogunleye, who doubles as the state chairman of the Alliance for Democracy, said he saw in Paseda a man who means well for the state and its youthful population and believer progressive ideals of Chief Obafemi Awolowo. He said al-

From left, Chief Rotimi Paseda and Senator Buruji Kashamu, during the New Year party of Omo Ilu Foundation, at Ijebu Igbo, Ogun State. though he and his members are still in the APC, the decision to support Paseda was unanimous.

“It was a decision taken by all members of the group, although we are in APC right now. Paseda is a young man that means well for the state, particularly for young people. He is talking about education, about health and these are some of the cardinal programmes of Chief Obafemi Awolowo. So, for me, anybody that propagates such programme, there is no way I will not like and support him. He joined politics six months to the last elections. So, there was not so much he could do. But now, he has started well, meeting the leaders and elders and propagating his programme” Ogunleye said.

Responding to the questions from members of the group, Paseda assured them his government would be a government of the youths, by the youths and for the youths, with elders constituting an advisory council. He pledged to run a government that is faith-less, creed-less

and a government that does not discriminate between indigenes and settlers.

In an interview with the Sunday Tribune, Paseda said the attraction in his governorship quest, despite the financial crunch that has hit most states was the suffering the people of the state have been subjected to in the last eight years. “A lot of people who in office today do not have anything profession or things they were doing before crashing their way to power. The attraction for me is the people of Ogun State. They are suffering and I can’t singlehandedly solve all their problems. Let us x-ray our past leaders. Chief Obafemi Awolowo was not the only political leader in the country during his time. There were others. Why is it only Awolowo that people are remembering? It is because he did the right thing; he gave our people what they deserve. He made a name for himself through qualitative service to the people,” he said.

opinion Pressure on naira: The vultures are hovering

By Ogah Simeon

F

AR from being alarmed at the threat that the global economic situation poses to the Nigerian economy, some group of unpatriotic is impatiently waiting in the wing to cash in on the nation’s economic challenges. These are vultures that have smelled the potential for carrion and would not even wait for the animal to be fully dead before feasting. Like vultures waiting out the final moments of a dying animal on boughs, they are waiting to see Nigeria’s situation worsen before diving in.

But unlike vultures, which are not in the habit of quickening the demise of the animal they want to devour, these saboteurs are doing all they can to quicken the death of Nigeria’s economy so that they can feast to their full.

Specifically, they have placed the managers of the Nigeria’s economy under unprecedented pressure to devalue the naira. Their chorus for devaluation has been without thoughts for the impact on the larger population that stand to be negatively affected by any such hasty move.

As they grow more impatient to reap windfall from their envisaged destruction of the national currency, desperation has set in. Newspaper publications are inundated with pseudo analysts competing to outdo each other as to who can be the most screeching strident in the call to reduce our currency to tissue paper. Television programmes have a full cast of talking heads that market devaluation of the naira to appear like the best thing.

Those clamouring for devaluation of the naira have not for one heartbeat been sincere about their true intentions or at least the agenda of those they are fronting for.

What they have never mentioned in their many treaties and television appearances is that they desperately want devaluation so that they can ship back the stolen funds stashed abroad to buy up Nigeria at half price.

Fortunately, it appears the Central Bank Governor

(CBN), Mr Godwin Emefiele, is awake to this ploy which could in part explain the staunch refusal to bow in to the fraudulent demands for the currency to be rubbished just to please a clique of cutthroats. Instead of bowing in to the blackmail of these currency speculators, he has taken bold steps to shore up the naira on other fronts.

The other fact the pro-devaluation crowd are happy to hide from Nigerians is the role played in the past by institutional corruption, of which they are beneficiaries. The arms scandal might have exposed how public fund was shared like a local trader giving out alms to beggars, but the other lesson that is not impressed on our collective subconscious is that the much of the stolen funds – arms purchase and in other sector – are in dollars.

Furthermore, much of the dollar that should been in our foreign reserve is sitting pretty in the offshore accounts of the same people who are now campaigning for the crippling or even death of the naira.

They are also dubious to admit that devaluation mostly works wonder if the economy is heavy on manufacturing and export. We are low on both. So, where is the advantage of devaluation to us? It will take a while for our export and manufacturing, after prolonged neglect, to pick up. If we devalue before we have something to sell then we may not be able to afford the capital to kick-start manufacturing considering that heavy machines must be necessarily imported.

Mr Emefiele might have been appointed under the previous administration. As an appointee of government, he was obliged to obey the then Commander in Chief, but today he has to clean up the mess left in the wake of that administration. This is a task he has largely succeeded in achieving and has thus proving that the stance of the president a CBN governor serves matters. His pursuit of zero tolerance for corruption in so many areas is yielding result and they are in tandem with President Muhammadu Buhari’s change agenda.

Of course, Mr Emefiele’s stance, in joining the fight against corruption; in refusing to destroy the naira; and in reactivating statutory remittances, has consequences. He is now the subject of smear campaigns that aim to more than rubbish him. The goal, from what is available in the media space, is to either force him to resign or have the president sack him.

His detractors have even gone the extra length of asking the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission to arrest him on account that the Dasukigate scandal happened under his watch. There is no point wasting precious print space taking apart this line of reasoning – it is akin to asking a person’s account officer to be arrested because money was released to the account holder upon demand.

The reality of the situation is that, while it may appear that those calling for Mr Emefiele’s sack with threats of “mother of all occupy protests” genuinely want to see him go, their intention is more sinister. International markets usually monitor more than the economic situation in their country of interest, they also monitor political dynamics.

The call for the CBN governor’s sack is surreptitiously meant to achieve a different objective in the short term.

It is meant to spook the markets and further put pressure on the naira. This will in turn provide additional fodder for the pseudo analysts and the talking heads to screech more about why the currency should be devalued.

For the sake of Nigeria, Mr Emefiele must therefore remain unbowed and unaffected by these ill-conceived calls for him to resign or be sacked. President Buhari has repeatedly demonstrated that he is with the CBN governor as far as not devaluing the naira is concerned. So, this should embolden him. As the vultures continue to hover, the CBN governor should make the subject of their interest, the naira, recover and walk away. For once, let the vultures go hungry.

• Ogah is a public policy analyst based in Makurdi, Benue State.

37

opinion

14 February, 2016

Sunday Tribune

Ekitigate: Drama more than meets the eye

By Ariyo-Dare Atoye

S

OUTHWEST is gradually caving in to political conquistadors. Many of our politicians are now acting like vassals to a resurgent powerful political Mafia. This group had once faded into oblivion; but it is now back, controlling the agenda of the seat of power. It is plotting to dominate power for a long time such that anything standing in the way must be crushed. That is why within eight months of the present administration, rule of law has slipped into coma while democracy is gradually on its way to recession.

Indeed, the infamous Ekitigate is just an item in a wider script of power play.

It is an elaborate template and the hawks working on this template are not taking prisoners. Some of these plans are targeted at total annihilation of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the suppression of the opposition within the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). Individuals who are perceived to be nursing future ambition to occupy Aso Rock in contradistinction to their agenda now risk possible onslaught. The signs are not only just there, the manifestations are also very real. This is jungle politics.

According to a popular Yoruba saying, “The water beetle that is dancing on the water surface is not just doing so without a purpose; there is a drummer beneath the water beating the drum to create the melody.” As funny as this scenario looks, it somewhat suits the latest resurgence of the over-flogged issues surrounding the June 21, 2014 Ekiti State governorship election. There is certainly no smoke without fire and apparently, Mr. Tope Aluko, popularly known as TKO in the Ekiti political circles, is just a pawn in a political crude game. He allowed himself to be led into it for selfish interest. But Aluko is not acting alone in this latest but not strange voyage into Ekitigate.

Unfortunately for Aluko, he seems incapable of seeing through the overall script.

The power game is certainly far beyond his comprehension. Ekiti people are known for their dignity, honour and the protection of family values. An Ekiti man will do everything to defend his family name. But for Aluko to openly admit to perjury is certainly strange. He did not care about the future of his children.

Although a major reprieve for TKO is that the Mafia through its fronts may have guaranteed him a no-perjury conviction as long as he continues to play ball, yet that in itself is a burden to his political future.

Poor Aluko has no clue about the identity of this mafia. He is certainly not relating with the group directly; it is an extended complex game that even the major actors may not know where it will end. One can only pity Aluko because whatever he gets from this venture will still not be sufficient to secure his political future.

It is understandable that Governor Ayodele Fayose is a major target as he continues to unsettle the hawks with his outspokenness. He is now a leading voice in the land, challenging the excesses of Aso Rock. It is not unexpected if he has been marked for whatever agenda the mafia may have, while Ekitigate is being reworked in a bid to achieve the unthinkable. Recall the smuggling of the Doctrine of Necessity into the Supreme Court in the case of Wike vs INEC. They are also

thinking in that direction and working on something sinister. But the present Chief Justice of Nigeria is not seen as someone ready to sacrifice his hard-earned years of meritorious service to his fatherland. He has just a few times left and must have resisted some wicked overtures to compromise justice. So, using the judiciary to hunt Fayose may not work.

We are in a season of political uncertainties where the rule of the president is higher than the rule of law! We currently risk fascism, but for people like Fayose who are talking truth to power. With the exception of Ebunolu Adegboruwa and a tiny few, the human rights community has simply gone completely numb in Nigeria. One may now be compelled to accept the notion that the capacity to defend democracy and the rights of the oppressed is an inspiration that could be derided or compromised. It is like a spirit which can come in and go out. So, some individuals who once possessed this spirit, acting as the “conscience of the nation” might have failed to sustain it. Hitherto unknown Nigerians are now standing up to defend the rule of law.

Again for the record, the Ekiti June 21, 2014 governorship election was conducted devoid of rigging and manipulations.

There is one truth about that election which cannot be taken away: it is the most covered and monitored single election by local and foreign observers because of the civil society pedigree and connection of former Governor Kayode Fayemi. An interesting addition is that, many of the observers came to Ekiti with smart electronic devices, prepared to record any form of

electoral malpractice. They were present in all the 16 local government areas and moved round freely without intimidation and harassment. Ekiti was a major test case for them. And in the end, there was no single report of indictment in that election; it was adjudged free, fair and credible.

I may not be privy to the quantum of money raised for that election by Governor Fayose, but the allegation of $37 million may not be different from the phantom $2.1billion arms money alleged to have been shared out to PDP leaders. Whereas, all the charges in the courts against all the alleged offenders so far when added together is nowhere near N50 billion, as against over N500 billion cooked up for media frenzy. This is certainly not justifying graft or exonerating anyone. But we must point out the recklessness with which figures are bandied around to crucify people. $37 million allegedly spent on Ekiti election is a good sensational script that will alarm the unsuspecting public anytime. There will be many more figures to come. It is a season of drama and aberration.

On the alleged militarisation of the election, it was an open secret that security report had suspected the infiltration of Ekiti by ‘State Boys’ from Osun to wreck havoc. Again, Fayose never hid the fact that, if tight security was guaranteed, he would win the election. There could have been some measure of affinity in terms of conversation between some members of the then ruling party and the security officials but certainly not to compromise the poll. It was only strategic for the security personnel to adopt extra measures like

using special tags to beat the likelihood of thugs using army uniforms to perpetuate evil. The concern was rife then of an attempt by area boys to compromise the security system. However, the ``Tale by Aluko” is giving everything a new colouration to justify a hatchet job, even though not new.

Fortunately, the reports by various election observers did commend all the security agencies for ensuring peace during the election, which significantly aided high voter turnout. The truth about the story of June 21, 2014 will still be told in full by those who, for political and personal reasons, still disagree with the outcome of the poll. We can still remember the contrived political innovation called “photochromic,” blamed for the defeat of the APC in that election. Added to this false invention was the Theory of Stomach Infrastructure. Yet, nothing can ever override the truth.

Unfortunately, the same people who criticised the use of soldiers for Ekiti election have suddenly seen no reason to object to the same for Kogi and Bayelsa governorship elections. I believe they will also come with different reasons why it is now justified to deploy soldiers. They are full of inconsistencies and contradictions. The plan to unsettle Ekiti, of which Aluko is now a major player, is all about 2019 projections. From a close observation and in the manner this issue has been syndicated so far in the media, it is not far-fetched to know that this script has been re-jigged to serve an intended purpose. Sadly, a segment of the South West youths on social media recruited to sustain this contrived narrative cannot reason beyond a futile obsession for a political change that has since lost its taste. They trended Ekitigate on Twitter with all vigour as if it was capable of redeeming the battered image of the 2016 budget. They even ignored the invasion of Dalori by Boko Haram and would not comment on President Muhammadu Buhari not visiting Maiduguri to empathise with the people. What a sad commentary for our nation!

Although it is not yet clear where this matter is headed in the end, but one thing is sure: the truth will eventually prevail.

However, I urge that we do not joke with the people who are desperate with powers and who think they can do and undo, regardless of the constitution. We must take solace in the fact that power is transient and this phase too will pass away. Until then, the new addition to our political lexicon: Ekitigate, is more than unsettling the “Fountain of Knowledge.”

Many political observers are yet to grapple with the reality of what is gradually unfolding, especially in the South-West.

The hawks are currently doing everything possible to equally whittle down the influence of the Lion of Bourdillon by saturating the APC with defectors from other parties. The upcoming board appointments will further reveal several misgivings.

Take it or leave it, the game for 2019 has commenced in earnest and the battle line is gradually being drawn. In essence, the bigger picture is more than just Ekitigate.

• Ariyo-Dare, a member of the Shadow Cabinet of Nigeria (SCN) contributes this piece from Ward 8, Igbara Odo-Ekiti, Ekiti State - aristotle001us@yahoo.com

38

S

O much drama has come into play since the 2016 budget was laid on the table of the House of Representatives on December 22, 2016. Somewhat ludicrous stories have rented the air as Nigerians continue to dissect the “Budget of change.”

First was the claim that the carton laid on the table by President Muhammadu Buhari in December was empty.

Though many would found this quite unbelievable, those who observed how the president held the carton insisted that the carton contained no single document. Remember that the carton was supposed to contain two copies each of a three volume document, which would be six big documents.

Those who pushed this line of thought said that it won’t be that easy for a man in his 70s to carry a three-volume document the way Buhari carried the carton that day.

Again, they said that the fact that Buhari laid an empty carton on the House table left the fate of the document in the hands of his Senior Special Assistant on National Assembly Matters (Senate), Senator Ita Enang, who was mandated to take the hard and soft copies to the Senate and House Committees on Appropriation. They went further to claim that the same procedure made it easy for Enang to retrieve the copies for the celebrated “corrections” that were done under the table, leading to the “missing” and “doctored” budget saga.

Then came the story of “Budget Mafia” pushed by a Presidency hand and which claimed that some unseen civil servants constituted themselves to a government within government to rewrite the budget and like rats, infest the budget with the dreaded ‘Lassa fever’.

That claim was further corroborated when the Minister of Health, Professor Isaac Adewole told the Senate Committee supervising his ministry that some “rats” had injected foreign items into the budget. He clearly disowned the budget for his ministry. Similar denials were to be witnessed from Ministers of Niger Delta, Education and Information and Culture, making it look as if the budget was a document from the moon and every government actor is bewildered at its strangeness.

But that should not be so. An elected government should know that other than what its propagandists pushed out during the campaigns, the budget it presents to the nation would be a key item in analysing its vision and direction. A flawed budget would depict a directionless administration and that accounts for why govern-

THERE may be some elements of truth in Aluko’s ‘’revelation.’’ Nonetheless, pre- election permutations did not favour Fayemi. PDP did not need such money to unseat Fayemi because APC went to that contest as a divided house. Fayemi was said to have alienated the people from his government and concentrated on developmental projects. This is a state where poverty level is alarming.

Fayemi’s fall was total as he lost his local government!

Can that be attributed to military machination, manipulation, or influence? Any one conversant with Ondo election violence in 1983 will know that Ekiti cannot be ridden roughshod over by anybody, including the military without dire consequences. I am not disputing the fact that Presidency of Goodluck Jonathan might have sent huge money to Ekiti to prosecute the election as the Fayemi’s government and all local government chairmen would do, yet the money did not influence the outcome of the election. I agree that there should be a probe of the source of the money, who got what and the role of the military, but not the conduct of the election which had been given a clean bill of health by the Supreme Court.

Aluko is positioning himself for an appointment by the APC Federal Government by ‘revealling’ the ‘fraud’ that Fayose’s victory was. Some politicians like betrayals like Aluko would be integrated into the leadership of the APC soon, at the expense of loyal and dedicated members he met on ground. This is a bane of our politics and a reason why morality has no place in our politics. Unfortunately, people like Aluko will show their true colour always. Femi Fani- Kayode’s sojourn in APC is still fresh in memory. Did he not dump APC and become a nettle on its side later? Let the probe commence in earnest but it should not disturb the peace of Ekiti.

Adewuyi Adegbite 07013065440 The grandstanding of Aluko concerning his revelation on the last governorship election in Ekiti State is like a futile attempt of a drowning man. Few people will be impressed by this shameful act. As it is typical of any political renegade, his mission is to destroy his former party

14 February, 2016

the lynxeye with Taiwo adisa

08072000046 taiadisbabatj@gmail.com

Understanding the Budget brouhaha

ments since 1999 did whatever they could to protect the sanctity of the budget document. Whatever controversy you noticed in those years revolved around the rivalry between the executive and the legislature.

It appears, however, that the government of President Muhammadu Buhari did not understand the essence of budgets. It appears that the government got carried away or perhaps overwhelmed by its overtly exaggerated war on corruption, which target mostly the sights and sounds of the times. The anti-corruption war is easily made to seize the air in view of its focus on political actors of the immediate past, who are themselves newsmakers. By doing that, the president received accolades from his admirers for daring the “looters” of the past, whereas, the main

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

Re: This Fayose/ Aluko face-off in order to get a soft landing in his acquired brand new party. Unfortunately, he has, by his actions, confirmed himself as a liable accomplice. This is one of the politicians that have contributed to our political misadventure in this country. As a result of his crude reasoning, he has made himself available as a ‘reliable’ prosecution witness for his conviction for perjury. It is now left to see if the government has the needed political will to prosecute their self-advertised new friend.

Yekini Oluokun (JP) Oyo 08058511378 When you are not sure of a man’s character, a look at his friends will indicate the kind of person he is. Aluko and Fayose are two cow boys! NIGERIANS (Ekitis, especially) must not rely on them, or whatever past achievements they might lay claim to. They are not, and cannot be the messiahs of the people. However, the prayers of the saints will bring peace to Ekiti land.

Sesan Oyende, Somolu - Lagos. O8O73887783 Aluko has not said anything new. All in Ekiti knew that there was intimidation against Fayemi’s ruling govern-

Sunday Tribune

determinant of the focus of his government was left in quandary.

It should surprise critical watchers of the Nigerian polity that the president does not have an Economic Team and that a government inaugurated in an era of economic emergency would refuse to put its ministers in place six months into its inauguration.

It also beats the imagination how the government missed the fact that it can only fight a great and successful corruption war by tidying up the budget process. The budget is the document that contains all spending of government, contracts to be awarded and expected incomes. Once a figure is loosely smuggled into a section of the budget, it distorts the corruption war. Remember, the Treasury Single Account (TSA) policy is only a money collection platform and not an anti-graft tool. Funds pooled together in there can easily be dissipated through a faulty budget procedure.

But the president missed all that and told us that ministers are unnecessary noisemakers and that civil servants do the jobs. What we now have is a direct consequence of what he failed to do by turning civil servants to policy implementers rather than the engine rooms for policy incubation.

By the time the ministers got on board in November, it was practically too late for any of them to understand the budget process. It was equally impossible for them to suddenly grow the institutional memory that would afford them the opportunity to properly blend the past with the present.

Above all, the haste with which the new government discarded all elements of the immediate past has now become its undoing. The Budget Office of the Federation, under the Minister of Finance was in charge of the budget since 2003. The office has developed templates for budgeting that only needs slight touches here and there. It does not deserve to be discarded. But by dismantling the structure, sharing the powers between the Finance and the Budget Ministries, confusion sets in and what you have is buck-passing.

I insist that the Presidency should not look for scapegoats to hang here. What happened was a deliberate trouble it brought upon itself through undue fixation on its style of anti-corruption war. Last week, one commentator said that Buhari’s problem is fixation on the Old Testament style of anti-graft war rather than the New Testament style. Where the Old Testament threatens death as consequence of every offence, the New Testament tends to recalibrate the mind to sin no more. ment a week to the election. Either party, (depending on how fast) could have done the same. I want to submit that those intimidations could not have led to Fayemi’s defeat- he was billed to lose. However, gagging and intimidation are barbaric and condemnable in their entirety. Having said this, all who partook in the illegality and are established to have done wrong should be severely sanctioned most especially, Dr. Tope Aluko.

Lanre Oseni 08022066663 There is no doubt about that both Governor Ayodele Fayose of Ekiti State and Dr Tope Aluko are birds of the same feather. Before the revelation of Aluko, informed Nigerians knew that election that brought Fayose into power was massively rigged by greedy politicians who have nothing to offer the masses except to siphon or pillage billions of naira from the government coffers. We are being regaled daily with news of how our politicians have turned our dear nation into barren land. Even if Nigerians forgave these people, would posterity forgive them?

Taiwo Sangotikun Iseyin, Oyo State 08056309372 Nemesi is already at work in Ekiti. Aluko is a shame to us. Having been used and dumped, he now wants our sympathy which he will not get .One wonders after the elections that PDP managed to rig every electoral ward was rigged – including Governor Fayemis’ ward, his deputy’s, the commissioners’ as well as those of the Honourables. We did not know that it was $37 million that washed away our genuine votes. Poor Ekiti ketes - our own yam has soiled our hands. Now that he has been frustrated, Doctor Canary or Aluko should be babbling about how much he gave each of his big accomplices so that EFCC can recoup our money. Unfortunately, his lamentations will never be taken seriously until Oga Jona talks.

Rotimi Ketu 08033796044

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14 February, 2016

ON THE

lord’sday

Sunday Tribune

With Bolanle Bolawole turnpot@gmail.com 07052631058

Alake and the five Yoruba principal Obas HOW I wished Yoruba history were as simplistic as the Alake and paramount ruler of Egbaland, Oba Adedotun Gbadebo, made it appear to be penultimate Saturday, when he played host to the new Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi! The Ooni, in continuation of his “unity” visit to key Yoruba Obas, had visited the Alake in his palace in Abeokuta. Oba Gbadebo was then quoted as saying “Ooni is one of the five principal Obas in Yorubaland. The others, in order of the way they are classified on a supremacy basis, after the Ooni is the Alaafin of Oyo; after the Alaafin is the Oba of Benin; after the Oba of Benin, it comes to the Alake of Egbaland; and the fifth and by no means the last or least is the Awujale of Ijebuland”. If Oba Gbadebo did not evoke another controversy or stir the hornets’ nest with this statement, it will not be because everyone concurs with his views. People could have got tired of needless controversies on the over-flogged issue of seniority or supremacy amongst Yoruba Obas, which is not as straightforward as the Alake made it to look. The good work which the youthful Ooni is doing, which is resonating well across the length and breadth of Yorubaland, is another reason why many people will agree that rather than join issues with the Alake over his very controversial classification. Sleeping dogs should be allowed to lie, lest the good moves of the Ooni be truncated on the altar of ego-tripping which, ironically, the Alake himself had fingered as the cause of disunity amongst Yoruba Obas.

Let us, however, briefly do a content analysis of the Alake’s statement before we address the more important issue of the Ooni’s peace and unity initiative. “Ooni is one of the five principal Obas in Yorubaland”: True or false? There is no denying the fact that the Ooni is a principal Oba in Yorubaland, but whether the principal Yoruba Obas are only five in number is debatable. How did we arrive at the figure of five: By counting the direct sons\grandsons of Oduduwa; by the importance of the empires they founded after dispersing from Ile-Ife; are those outside of present-day Nigeria included, such as the then Dahomey (now Benin Republic)? If the number “five” is controversial, the order of supremacy mentioned by the Alake will be no less.

It would seem as if the Ooni himself is not guided by this so-called order in picking who to visit; otherwise, after his visit to the Alaafin, next should have been the Oba of Benin. But he visited the Owa Obokun of Ijesaland instead, before going to the Awujale at Ijebu-Ode who, on the Alake’s order of supremacy, is number five.

Alake, the number four on his own list, now came after the Awujale. This is the same Awujale who had said his fore-fathers came from Sudan whereas historians agreed that Lamurudu\Oduduwa, the progenitors of the Yoruba, came from Egypt. How come the Awujale is “intruding” into the order of supremacy of Yoruba Obas?

If there is any issue that has pitted one Yoruba monarch against another, it is the effort to establish supremacy or superiority of one over another. The many chieftaincy laws that swarm our statute books have failed to resolve the controversy. History, too, has not been able to resolve the disputes and contending issues beyond all reasonable doubt and to the satisfaction of all.

I read History in the university and I can, with some modesty, claim to have an idea of the landmines that Obaship issues are, not only in Yorubaland but in most other autochthonous communities. After reading the Alake’s statement, I hastened to re-check some of the settled authorities on Yoruba history; the fact of the case is that needless controversies on supremacy amongst Yoruba Obas should, as much as possible, be avoided.

Dwelling on it, we shall never forge unity among Yoruba Obas. At any rate, the law as it is limits every Oba to his local government and, at the best, to his own state. Even then, few Obas are accepted as supreme by other Obas

in any Yoruba state. For any Oba to command respect and authority outside his jurisdiction cannot be of law or of any supremacy list but by consent, the force of moral authority, and the integrity of the Obas concerned. This is where the initiative of the new Ooni must be clearly situated in the correct perspectives. If he, or indeed any other Yoruba Oba for that matter, is to succeed to forge the much desired unity amongst Yoruba Obas, the basis for success will not be any nebulous supremacy list.

Before state creation, which split the Western Region and later Western state into many states, the fact of the matter is that no single Yoruba Oba commanded the unalloyed obeisance of the other Obas, the force of law notwithstanding. The closest that we had was the then Ooni of Ife, Oba Adesoji Aderemi, which was a function more of his political clout and association than the force of history.

The concurrence of other Yoruba Obas is vital for the Ooni or any other Yoruba Oba to be acceptable unto other Obas as primus inter pares. No law will achieve that.

Whereas Yoruba history upholds Ile-Ife as the cradle of the Yoruba and all Yoruba sons and daughters, including the Obas, accept this, it is a different ball game when it comes to the issue of the foremost Yoruba Oba. There are many contestants, so to say, for the coveted post and the history of the Yoruba can be told from a couple of angles to support one viewpoint or another. We need not

go into such distractions here.

Commendable as the unity initiative of the Ooni is, I wish to advise that the fruit of it should not be expected to mature immediately. It appears to me as a project for the future for many reasons. One, the deep mistrust and animosities created by past jostling for supremacy amongst Yoruba Obas will take some time to recede into the past.

The wounds of struggles inflicted this way will not heal overnight. Traditional institutions are, like the larger government, a continuum. Therefore, even though Obas do pass away, that does not automatically wash away the acrimonies created between stools. It is for the simple reason that traditional institutions operate in continuity that a new Ooni, and one as young as Oba Ogunwusi, can be touted as first among equals among Yoruba Obas.

Two, the Ooni must be very careful to differentiate between personal interests and the overall interest of the Yoruba. His initiative will fly for as long as it is seen as devoted to the overall interest of the Yoruba and not a clever ploy to foist his own suzerainty over the other Yoruba Obas or Yorubaland. If he is found out as only scheming to impose himself, be sure that his unity project will fall flat on its face. Therefore, superiority claim is one controversy he can least endure. He must run away from it. If he is selfless, even stepping back now from any supremacy fight, like he cleverly tried to do with the Owa Obokun of Ijesaland, he stands to reap bounteous dividends in future.

Three, leadership in Yorubaland is earned and not commanded or legislated. Dint of hard work; commitment to the overall interest of the race; personal integrity; consistency and doggedness in the pursuit of the common goal are what entrust leadership in Yorubaland. If the Ooni can measure up on these scores, then, the sky is the limit.

Four, age is both a limiting factor as well as an asset for the new Ooni. It is a disability for now because he is young enough to be the son of many of the Yoruba Obas whose concurrence he needs before he can be accepted as primus inter pares. We cannot pretend not to know how such older Obas will feel cringing before someone the age of their own children, Ooni or no Ooni. We must not forget that the same Yoruba custom reverences age. Former President Olusegun Obasanjo’s prostrating before the Ooni is good for the new image of the Yoruba that every true Yoruba son and daughter swishes can be built; especially when we see how other ethnic groups, especially the Hausa\Fulani, revere their own traditional institution and, through it, have cornered advantages for themselves.

Better late than never for Obasanjo because he was not known to have held Yoruba Obas in awe on the two occasions that he ruled this country. To return to the Ooni, his youthful age recommends that he treads gingerly with the older Obas and not allow any order of supremacy list get into his head. His time will come. May he rule long! In, say 20, 30 years when he, too, would have matured in age and garnered experience on the throne and become one of the “papa” Obas, his good works now, if he is able to sustain them while at same time steering himself away from needless controversies, will speak and leadership of the Yoruba Obas will come to him naturally.

LAST WORD: In 2006, I visited the palace of the Alake in company with the political entourage of General Muhamed Buba Marwa, then a presidential aspirant on PDP platform in the 2007 presidential election. I was Director, Media and Publicity of Marwa’s Presidential Campaign Organisation. One of the palace criers left a lasting impression on everyone. At intervals, he would simply chant “Oba n ki o!” meaning “The king greets you!” His voice was sonorous and magisterial; he had the role firmly under his grips. I later learnt he was educated. If he is still there, I greet him!

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14 February, 2016

language&style

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

So…that

S

AMPLE 1: “Some were overcome by emotion that they broke down in tears.”(Mbaka Moves to New Parish, The Nation on Sunday, January 31, 2016) Let’s note the word that following the word emotiondirectly in this one-sentence excerpt: “Some were overcome by emotion that they broke down in tears.” The inclusion of that word (that) fails to fulfill a condition: It ought to have been preceded somewhere in the structure by the word so.

The following sentences illustrate the so-that structural pattern: 1) The power supply from the national grid is so unstable that all owners of small businesses have alternative ways of obtaining power. 2) The man is so poor that he cannot afford to send his only child to a public primary school. 3) It was so hot inside the house that we had to sleep outside. 4) The cost of living is so high in Abuja that only successful businessmen or corrupt civil servants can live there and have savings. 5) His voice was so loud that we felt he did not need a public address system. 6) He was so contemptuous of the leaders that he refused to honour them with his presence at the meeting. 7) He was so obsessed with fame that nothing else, not even the welfare of his family, mattered to him. 8) Technology was so strange at thattime that people would recoil on sighting the camera. 9) She is so careless with her tongue that she drops pejorative information about her husband even among her husband’s enemies. 10) He is so promiscuous that he does not discriminate between infants and mature women. 11) His case was so bad that even his lawyers did not give him any assurance of victory. 12) The disagreement was so severe that the business partners had to part ways.

The point requiring emphasis is that we cannot use the word that as it is used in the context of the sample sentence without it being preceded somewhere in the structure by the intensifier so.

The sentence should read: “Some wereso overcome by emotion that they broke down in tears.”

Sample 2: “But Mbaka who spoke to Sunday Sun through his Personal Assistant and Media Chief of the Adoration Ministry, Mr Maximus Igwuoke, a lawyer, said the attacks on the spiritual director was uncalled for as prophets of old like Mbaka had at one time or the other visited their leaders.” (My Visit to Buhari Scriptural…The Sunday Sun, December 27, 2015) We note the singular verb-form, was, which occurs in the following context: “the attacks on the spiritual director was uncalled for.” “Was uncalled for”? What was uncalled for? Since the verb (was) is in its singular form, it must be assumed that what was uncalled for has to be singular as well. In other words, there must be a noun somewhere in the structure which must be in its singular form in consistency with the singular form of the verb.

We notice a noun which is in its singular form: director. But an intelligent reading of that sentence should show that that singular noun has no relationship of concord/agreement with the verb (was). The only noun that is logically related to the verb slot is attacks, a word that is obviously in its plural form. This leads us to conclude that the writer has selected the singular form of the verb in error. In view of the plural form of the relevant noun (attacks), we change verb to its plural form: were.

Sample 3: “Ogedengbe, aged 25, on the faithful day, had, along with another person at large, attacked the family of one MrChukwujekwu, who just returned from church at Ejigbo area of the state, with guns.”(Man to Die by Hanging for Armed Robbery, The Nation on Sunday, January 10, 2016) Let’s pay attention to the adjective faithful qualifying the wordday which occurs in the following context: “Ogedengbe…on the faithful day…had attacked the family of one MrChukwujekwu.” The words faith and fate (and faithful and fateful) are often confused at the lexical and semantic levels because many Nigerians cannot differentiate them at the level of pronunciation. The sound represented orthographically as th is often erroneously pronounced as t. A pronunciation crisis thus becomes a lexical, grammatical and sematic crisis.

Fate may be described as fortune or misfortune, the mystery over which one has no control, the supernatural influence on one’s life, activities, deciding the outcomes of competitions and similar events. The adjective form is fateful.

Now read the following sentences: 1) Thefate of the entire nation depends on the strengths and weaknesses of the political elite. 2) The pregnant woman’s nutritional and emotional habits will affect in a critical way the fate of the unborn baby. 3) It is

Sunday Tribune

line

life

with Niyi Osundare

Random Blues unfortunately true that the fate of intelligent men is often decided by much less intelligent citizens. 4) The wrong impression is often created that students’ fate is decided by the examiners when in reality students decide their own fate by either preparing or not preparing hard for their exams. 5) The Niger Delta militants claim that the fate of the Nigerian nation depends on their oil wells. 6) People in the North Eastern Nigeria have been condemned to a brutal fate in the last six years or so, no thanks to the mindless insurgents. 7) The judge adjourned briefly before making a pronouncement on the fate of the suspects. 8) The fate of the weaker animals is decided by the mood and appetite of the lion. 9) The fate of the company depends on the outcome of the experiment being carried out by its consultants. 10) Should wives leave their fate entirely in the hands of their husbands?

Like the nouns fate and faith, the adjectives fateful and faithfulare frequently confused by many Nigerian users. An event or activity or decision is said to be fateful if it is important in a bad or terrible way. Again, read the following sentences: 1) Thefateful election took place on June 12, 1993. 2) It is paradoxical that the terrorist organization was inaugurated on the fateful day of our independence.

3) Saul of Tarsus had scarcely started the fateful journey when God struck him down and gave him instructions as to his destiny and future career. 4) Rehoboam’sfateful decision to pay attention to the counsel of the young men and reject that of the ‘old men’ spelt doom for the unity of Israel as a nation. 5) Disgruntled, the army officer took the fateful decision to overthrow the democratically elected government. 6) It was that fateful shot that led to the end of our outing in the competition. 7) It was at that fateful meeting that the decision to sack him was taken. 8) That fateful journey led to the death of over twenty people. 9) On that fateful day, the wedding ceremony was proceeding normally when, suddenly, a spark occurred which resulted in a huge fire outbreak. 10) The fateful demonstration started as a peaceful protest but later became uncontrollable, resulting in the killing of five students by the police.

Faith is about strong or total belief or confidence in God, a god, a person, system, organization or thing. Please read the following sentences: 1) Abraham is called the father of faith because he trusted God for a long time without having any physical thing to show for it. 2) No one can live a sustained Christian life without strong faith in God. 3) Peter the apostle began to sink when his faith in Christ wavered. 4) A person’s faith in God increases or reduces according to the stuff he feeds his mind and heart with.

5) Spiritual power and strength grow in proportion to a person’s faith. 6) Can people who have faith in God experience adversity?

7) The Christian and Islamic faiths have the same origin. 8) When faith in God combines with sound intellectual resources the result is usually more impactful than physical might. 9) The citizens soon lost faith in the clueless government. 10) When members lose faith in their leaders, it is difficult to persuade them otherwise. 11) The union leaders insist that the representatives of the government have not been acting in good faith. 12) This quarrel could have ended a long time ago if both parties had been acting in good faith. 13) Having lost faith in the marriage, the lady has applied for divorce. 14) The Boko Haram insurgents obviously have no faith in western education. 15) The civil war would not have broken out if the leaders had not acted in bad faith.

The word faithful is the adjective form of faith. Now read the following sentences: 1) Marriage partners are expected to be faithful to each other. 2) Faithful implementation of the provisions of the MOU is critical to the harmonious existence of the two parties. 3) This nation will be great if all of us take a decision to be faithful and loyal to it. 4) The three men were sacked because they were found to be unfaithful to the organization. 4) Would you regard that person as faithful who sells the secrets of his organization to its competitor? 5) Only faithful members of our association will be considered for assistance in their times of financial crisis. 6) The lawyer has not been faithful, and we have, in consequence, decided to dispense with his service. 7) Having noted your faithful and selfless service to this community for the past one decade, we have decided to honour you with a chieftaincy title. 8) The death of Bingo pained me so much because it has been an extremely faithful dog. 9) In spite of her irrational tendencies, her husband has remained faithful to her.

10) I am unwilling to part with this ‘faithful’ old car.

At any rate, the word faithful should be changed to fateful in the context under discussion.

(What did I do to be so Black and blue*)

I long for that time When lack no longer rhymes with Black Yes, I long for that time When lack no longer rhymes with Black And my children never carry the burden Of the hapless ones in the pack

I long for that time When my skin never rhymes with sin Yes, I long for that time When my skin no longer rhymes with sin When my pride never rests on The fallacy of lips thick or thin

I long for that time When the bleach has no place in my Sista’s bag Yes, I long for that time When the bleach has no place in my Sista’s bag And the whitening worry never hangs her self-esteem Like a black and blighted rag

I long for that time When the world finally knows my rightful name Yes, I long for that time When the world finally knows my rightful name When the lore and letter of my father’s calling No longer carries the burden of universal shame

I long for the time When the Law no longer says I am not there Yes, I long for that time When the Law no longer says I am not there When what is roundly deemed foul for others Is not for me considered free and specially fair

A line from a jazz song made popular by Louis Armstrong

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14 February, 2016

Sunday Tribune

With Rita Okonoboh rosarumese@gmail.com 08053789087

tribunechurch

Catholic faithful celebrating Ash Wednesday at Saints Joachim and Anne Catholic Church, Lagos, on Wednesday. PHOTO: NAN

Season of Lent: Christian faithful share resolutions

By Seyi Sokoya with Agency Reports

L

AST Wednesday, Christian faithful all over the world marked Ash Wednesday, the first day of the Lenten season, a 40-day period of fasting and penance, which leads up to the Easter celebration. The period revolves around fasting, prayers and alms giving, which Christians are advised to adopt to make the most of the season.

‘Now is the best time to focus on IDPs’ Mr Kolade Oladapo, a Catholic, who spoke to TribuneChurch, stated that with the attributes of the season, now would be a time to concentrate on the welfare of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs).

In his contribution, he stated that “With the current war against insurgency, and what Lent encourages, which is charity and prayers, now would be a perfect time for the church to focus on the IDPs. Many of us seem not to really understand what they are going through. I can’t imagine what it’s like to be forcefully evicted from my house, and to sleep on what I can say is more or less on the street; to live in constant fear of not knowing what tomorrow brings, and for the children. “It’s a sad and deliberate attempt on taking away what childhood freedom really should be about. I want to encourage Christians

and Nigerians in general to do all we can to make sure that the IDPs are catered for. “Apart from government’s efforts, it weould be amazing if throughout this season, we donate towards the cause of the IDPS. Nothing would bring more spiritual satisfaction, than doing the best you can for others in terms of charity. The time to act is now.”

‘It’s time for a fresh start’ According to Mrs Catherine Onyebuchi, “I used to be a Catholic, but I married outside the church, but I still observe the Lenten season. Although, I now attend a pentecostal church, I still find it necessary to observe Lent. It is a period that I feel I can take a stock of my life and it’s like a time for me to restart and rebuild my relationship with God. It’s like a fresh start.

My husband is aware and interestingly, he actually supports it, and even encourages our daughter to practise it. He also fasts with us on certain days, according to how

Okowa challenges Christians on evangelism

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we choose it. Now that I think about it, it’s usually an opportunity for my family to work together.”

For many Christians, there is the call to start afresh on a new page, as Lent offers the opportunity for repentance. According to the Christian Post (CP), in the effort to ensure that Christians have full participation in the celebration of Ash Wednesday, the Munholland United Methodist Church of Metairie, United States, sponsored a “Drive Thru Ashes” event in which hundreds of drivers received the ashy cross upon the forehead.

“This event is about taking the church into the community and meeting people where they are. Many of the people who came through were on their way to or from work or unable to attend services at their church,” said the Reverend Tim Smith explaining that this was the second year the congregation has hosted the event.

“They wanted to ‘start their day’ with the observance of Lent and the marking

Clerics contribute to Nigeria’s problems

—Prophet Olagunju

Pg44

of ashes. It’s a reflection of the still strong spiritual hunger and desire still very much a part of people’s lives. We were very grateful they chose to return and it speaks of the power of this event in their lives and spiritual journey for Lent. We ask each person, carload if there is anything we can pray for. They responded, sometimes with very personal concerns or burdens in their life, and we pray with them right there before we impose ashes. We believe it made it much more personal from them,” Revd Smith explained When asked by CP what he hoped drivers took away from the “Drive Thru Ashes,” Smith replied many things, “first, that they know through this act they have communicated to God their intent to observe Lent and follow Jesus in His footsteps.

“Second, to feel loved and cared for through the personal prayers we were given the opportunity to share. This was ofContinues on

BSN preaches unity among churches @ 50

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14 February, 2016

Sunday Tribune

With Olaide Sokoya ollydesanmi@yahoo.com 08074497425

churchnews

Okowa challenges Christians on evangelism

D

ELTA State Governor, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa, has charged Christians not to relent in preaching the word of God. Governor Okowa made the call on Friday in Asaba when Bishop Chris Kwakpovwe of the Manna Mountain Prayer Ministry paid him a courtesy call.

According to the governor, the greatest challenge before Christians is, evangelism, stating, “the more we continue to receive His words, the more likely, the hearts of men will be changed for good.”

He commended Bishop Kwakpovwe for his evangelism efforts through the ‘Daily Manna Prayer Book,’ reiterating, “I believe that with the spread of the gospel by the usage of the Daily Manner, a lot of souls have been won, a lot of hearts have been changed.”

The governor also, used the occasion to throw light on the importance of the 30 Minutes church service held on daily basis at the Government House Chapel, Asaba, saying, “we have continued to ensure the existence of the Government House Chapel, we hope that through this means, people will know that God is able to turn things around for our good.”

“God has a reason for bringing us to be at the head of affairs in Delta State, we will run the affairs of government in Delta State in a way that people will see the glory of God in us; we are aware that things may be difficult nationally but, God will work His own miracles in His own ways and manners,” he said, adding, “we thank God for bringing people like you (Bishop Kwakpovwe), to pray for the land so that the land will be healed.”

Earlier Bishop Kwakpovwe had told the Governor that they were in Asaba for the yearly “Asaba Anointing Service” which would hold for two days.

While congratulating Governor Okowa for his electoral victory and subsequent victories at

the Court, Bishop Kwakpovwe, said, “Daily Manna is inter-denomina-

tional; God has a special purpose to transform this state through you; Your

Excellency, you are a simple and humble man, you will be here for eight years

and no weapon fashioned against you shall prosper, no political maneuver-

Delta State Governor, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa (2nd left); wife, Edith (left); Bishop (Dr) Chris Kwakpovwe of Manna Mountain Prayer Ministry and his wife Ejiro during the Bishop’s courtesy call on the Governor in Asaba, on Friday.

The founder of the Christ Apostolic Church, Power of God Saves (CCOPEM), Prophet Moses Olagunju, (arrowed) surrounded by ministers of God at the recently held Ministers Conference held in Ibadan, Oyo State.

Apostle Popoola takes gospel to Liberia PRESIDENT of Word Communication Ministries (WOCOM), Apostle Sunday Popoola, who added another year on Saturday is currently on a monthlong nationwide crusade in Liberia.

The renowned preacher who has been in ministry for over 30 years saw it has need to take gospel to the country as well as spread the tentacles of the church.

Following the ongoing crusade, the man of God has

preached in Gbarnga, and Kakata where many people had been delivered from oppression of the devil and received salvation.

The Liberian crusade is billed to end in Monrovia on February 28.

His leadership training programme tagged “The Sceptre” is meant to raise leaders on the seven mountain of culture which includes religion, education, media, entertainment, sports and Politics, among others.

Christians told to always speak the truth to leaders AS Christians started the 40-day Lenten period on Wedenesday, the authority of the church of the Motailatu Church Cherubim and Seraphim worldwide has

advised Christians in the country to behave like the Biblical prophet Elijah who was bold and always speak the truth to constituted authorities.”

The church said it was by speaking the truth and correcting the excesses of those in government that Nigeria would occupy its rightful place in the comity of nations.

“Prophet Elijah never spared King Ahab. He was always telling the monarch the truth, even when it was not comfortable for him,” the church said.

ing shall prosper in Jesus name, amen.”

Pope, Russian patriarch edge towards better relations POPE Francis’ meeting with Patriarch Kirill of Moscow and All Russia will be the first between a leader of the Roman Catholic Church and a spiritual head of Russian Orthodoxy since their churches split in the 11th Century, mainly over the issue of papal authority.

Its significance for both churches is immense.

Whatever the joint declaration they sign when they meet in Cuba, the simple fact of their meeting is a clear signal the hostility and chill of the past thousand years or so since the Great Schism may finally be edging towards a warmer phase in relations.

That relationship with the Russian Orthodox Church matters because about two-thirds of the world’s more than 200 million Orthodox Christians are Russian.

Earlier popes tried to pave the way for such a thaw with Moscow, most notably Pope Saint John Paul II, who tried to reach out to the Russian Orthodox Church.

However, those efforts were hindered by post-Cold War suspicion - above all in Moscow which was only added to by the Pope’s own Slavic roots.

This “personal conversation” between the two leaders at Jose Marti International Airport in Havana has been made possible by many relatively recent geopolitical shifts.

One of the main drivers of this meeting was the realisation over the past few years that when Christians are persecuted or driven out of their homes in the Middle East and Africa, their killers are not interested in which Christian denomination they come from.

43 tribunechurch

14 February, 2016

Pastor Olu Makinde and his wife, Stella, leading members to the altar during the Golden Jubilee thanksgiving anniversary of the Bible Society of Nigeria (BSN), Oyo Area, recently.

BSN Oyo Area preaches unity among churches @ 50

TAIWO OLANREWAJU was part of the activities lined-up by the Bible Society of Nigeria (BSN), Oyo Area, to celebrate the Golden Jubilee anniversary of the advent of the society in Nigeria.

B

IBLICALLY, every 50 years is the year of jubilee; hence, the Oyo Area of the Bible Society of Nigeria (BSN) rolled out the drums to celebrate the Golden jubilee of the advent of the society in

Nigeria.

The week-long activities which took place from Monday, February 1 to Sunday, February 7, was heralded by a press conference at the Bible House, Ibadan Grammar School Road, Molete, where the Area chairman, Pastor J. Olu Makinwa, narrated how Elder Akanu Ibiam, then governor of the Eastern region and few men of God spearheaded the take off of the society in Nigeria on February 8, 1966.

Reeling through the achievements and challenges of the BSN, Makinwa noted that so far, the complete Bible has been translated into 24 Nigerian languages, the Christian portions into 98 Nigerian languages while 18 translations are ongoing.

He called on churches and men of God to rally round the BSN as its vision and mission is to produce and distribute the Bible which is used in all churches, to the nooks and crannies of the nation. “We are not in competition with any group, the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) stands for all churches and BSN provides the tool (Bible) they use.”

The man of God admonished the government not to tax churches as that would amount to double taxation since church members pay taxes. Rather, he urged government to support BSN. In remembrance of Mary Jones, the lady who trekked about 25 kilometres to buy a Bible, members of the Oyo Area trekked from Idi-Ape to the Broadcasting Corporation of Oyo State (BCOS), Basorun where they were warmly received on Tuesday. The Area also paid a condolence visit to the palace of the late Olubadan of Ibadan land, Oba Odulana Odugade 1.

The BSN lost some translators and valuables in the insurgencies in the nation, especially in the far north, thus, Wednesday was devoted to praying for the society, the executives and members in all churches while a courtesy visit was paid to the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi III, who rained royal blessings on the society and members; as he urged them to press forward.

A symposium, themed, “The uniqueness of Bible to make “CHANGE” in the Church and society” was held at the St James’ Cathedral, Oke-Bola, Ibadan. The discussants were Reverend R.O. Osanaiye, Senior Evangelist Aderemi, Very Rev J.O. Olatiregun and Pastor Oluwaniyi while Reverend Edward Alabi Kehinde was the moderator.

It was noted that the mantra Nigeria is holding on to now is Change but that in spite of the proliferation of churches and distribution of many Bibles, Christianity has not impacted much on the society.

All discussants agreed that the name of Jesus is still as potent as ever but that lack of unity in the Christendom is making Christianity to suffer setback. They urged Chris-

Sunday Tribune

tians and churches to be united and embrace our unifying force, the Bible so that the Church will possess the power to fight the adversary, the devil and its evil powers.

To experience the power of God as of old, Christians were enjoined to own Bibles and more importantly, read and practice the word of God. “We need to be more united. Christianity is about one fold, one Shepherd. There is no denomination in Heaven. There is only one Church of the Lamb of God. Let us all embrace the Bible,” Reverend Kehinde admonished.

A visit was paid to the Oyo State House of Assembly were all the legislators, headed by the Speaker, Honourable Michael Adeyemo , rather than members of the Christian Legislators Forum only, received the BSN members and promised support for the society. Muslim legislators also promised their support.

Friday was the Founder’s Day annual lecture and ministers’ conference. The theme of the lecture was “Transparency in Service, the hallmark of true leadership” while the sub topics were “A Nation at crossroad: The need for Godly Leadership” and “Raising Leader of Integrity.”

Held at Molete Baptist Church, Challenge, Ibadan, Pastor Oladele of Christ Apostolic Church and Apostle Popoola of Word Communication Ministries, spoke on the need for the Church to continually pray for mercy for the nation and the need for everyone to be a changed person from home to be able to impact the society.

The Oyo Area historical book, titled, “The Bible Society of Nigeria Oyo Area: 50 years of making the Word Available” was launched while Pastor R.A. Ogunwole (SAN), Professor Oke, Pa Fatiloro, Most Rev Kehinde Stephen and Rev Edward K. Alabi were awarded for their contributions to the BSN, Oyo Area.

The Area paid a courtesy visit to the Olu of Igboora on Saturday while the football match between Ibarapa and Oyo youths at Ibarapa saw Ibarapa youths winning the match.

The thanksgiving service came up at Oritamefa Baptist Church on Sunday, while Pastor Makinwa urged all to dance and thank the Lord and give to the Lord for His grace on BSN in the last 50 years.

‘Now is the best time to focus on IDPs’ Continued from pg41

ten shown through a hand on the shoulder as we prayed for them. Third, that they would feel blessed through this experience and encounter with our church, ministers, staff and lay people. [And] fourth, that they and the community would know we as a church are seeking to meet them where they are in their spiritual journey and be there for them,” Smith explained.

It’s time to rediscover ourselves as Christians –Pope Francis In his Ash Wednesday homily, at the mass celebrated at the St. Peter’s Basilica, Rome, Italy, as published by the Catholic News Agency (CNA), Pope Francis stated that Lent is the perfect time to let go of selfish and indifferent attitudes, and return to God with the help of prayer, penance and acts of charity.

“Lent is a beneficial time of pruning from falsity, from worldliness, from indifference: to not think that everything is ok if I am ok; to understand that what counts is not approval, the pursuit of success or consensus, but purity of heart and life. [It’s a time to rediscover one’s Christian identity] which is love that serves, not selfish-

Pope Francis

ness that uses,” Pope Francis stated.

Speaking on the message from the readings for the day, Pope Francis reflected on Prophet Joel’s instruction to “Return to me with all your heart” in the first reading, noting that the reason we need to return is “because we have distanced ourselves. It’s the mystery of sin: we have distanced ourselves from God, from others, from ourselves.”

Pope Francis concluded his homily by emphasising that returning to God with one’s entire heart is not something external, but instead comes “from the depth of ourselves.

“Jesus calls us to live prayer, charity and penance with coherence and authenticity, overcoming hypocrisy,” he said, and prayed that the entire Church would walk together on the Lenten path, receiving the ashes and keeping their gazed “fixed on the Crucified.” “He, loving us, invites us to be reconciled with God and to return to him, in order to return to ourselves,” Francis said.

According to www.metro.co.uk, “the 40-day period reflects the suffering endured by Jesus when he fasted in the wilderness of the desert before beginning his ministry.

During his time in the desert he was (according to the Bible) tempted three times by Satan, and each time he overcame the temptation. When he was then crucified, his disciples fasted, giving us the final fasting period of Lent during Holy Week.

“For this reason, Christians tend to fast during Lent and on specific days in the Lenten calendar. What should we give up? Many people, even non-churchgoers, will still seek to give something up that they enjoy during Lent. Frequently this takes the shape of alcohol, chocolate or other ‘treats’.

However, certain sectors of the Christian religion mark Lent in different ways, with varying degrees of strictness.

Although the Church of England has no strict rules on how to approach fasting during Lent, other sections do, and as such, Anglicans are given the option to choose what to fast from during the season of Lent.

According to www.metro.co.uk, on Ash Wednesday, Catholics are supposed to fast, but rules allow one meal and two snacks during the day, while Orthodox Christians fast before and throughout the Lenten period in a strict fashion.

In a survey carried out by Tribune Church, a crosssection of Christians, Catholics and non-Catholics had various views on how they would celebrate Lent. While some have resolved to stay away from meat and meat products for the entire season, others choose to observe this practice only on Fridays.

44 tribunechurch

14 February, 2016

Sunday Tribune

Clerics contribute to Nigeria’s problems

—Prophet Olagunju Prophet Moses Olagunju is the founder of the Christ Apostolic Church, Power of God Saves (CCOPEM). In this interview with SEYI SOKOYA, the cleric speaks on state of the nation. Excerpts:

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OUR ministry recently held minister’s conference, what was the outcome and your message to the ministers of God? One of the reasons I called on ministers of God is to remind them of the primary assignment God has sent us, because a lot of ministers of God have turned the ministry into politics with truth gradually fading away. We are the salt of any nation. Jesus Christ also confirmed we are the salt of the world; after God, ministers of God are the next, but many have moved away from their rightful place. I have discovered that many people have deviated from wining souls to raising funds. I don’t think any servant of God needs to be in a haste or impatient, because if we do the will of God and follow His commandments we will become whatever we desire.

Ministers of God also contribute to the problems of Nigeria, because we encourage those who are spoiling the nation. We no longer condemn or caution people from their evil acts. We laugh with them and lay hands on them for more open doors. This has denied them to realise that they are following the wrong path. The bible says ‘Let’s tell the evil that it shall not be well with him…’ But some ministers of God don’t even have the full knowledge of the principles of a real man of God; we are sent to condemn, teach, guide and advice, but many tends to focus on how they will become wealthy when we have more than enough as a nation. Nigeria is a wealthy country; it is not a country that we have to be preaching about wealth or prosperity, even outside the church. But the nation is filled with hearts of selfishness, grid and evil. This is why I called on ministers of God in other our check ourselves and re-discover our callings. We need to know and nurture whoever we pray for. We are really affecting the nation negatively by praying and fasting for sinners who beckon on us, because they know that we have authority in our mouth.

Are you saying it is not right for pastors to pray on prayer requests?

I am not condemning it, but we need to be sure of what we are praying for or against. This also cut across to testimonies we make in churches. We hardly have genuine testimonies which are not accepted before God. People now flaunt their wealth and affluence claiming that God did it, meanwhile, they got it in ungodly way. I am confident that not all testimony is accepted before God. Some people now even use testimonies to spite the congregation. Some pastors even on the pulpit flaunt their assets and place terrifying value on them when there are many poor people. All these must corrected and this is the time we all need to love one another as an entity.

You just returned from the mountain since the beginning of the year, what prompted this?

It has been in my routine since I started this ministry.

I always seek the face of God with some interested men and women of God in prayers and fasting. The motive is to hand over the journey of year 2016 into the hands of God and also ask or His directive. God ordained me to

I trust God that CAC will experience a new dawn in no time. I want to urge Church as a body to trace the root of the church and follow it’s rules and guide lines. We must amend our ways and re-discover the foundation of the church which is based on prophecy.

go to the mountain and I listened, because He is the only way, the truth and life. This is why I have never regretted staying in His presence throughout this period and I know He will renew my strength and reward me accordingly.

As an authority in the CAC, what is your take on the crisis that resurfaced in the church’s leadership?

The secret is that CAC cannot die; it will still stand no matter the problem or challenge persist, because it is built on a solid rock. There is no crisis in CAC; what we have is misunderstanding. It is true the went to court, but I am confident that is for the positive change of the

church. I trust God that CAC will experience a new dawn in no time. I want to urge Church as a body to trace the root of the church and follow it’s rules and guide lines.

We must amend our ways and re-discover the foundation of the church which is based on prophecy.

What has God revealed to you about Nigeria?

The major thing God wants from every human is for us to abstain from sins and also stand in His presence regardless of how tough the situation may be. God has warned us not to be dejected with the unfulfilled promises of the present government at all levels, because they cannot fulfill all. This is because the corrupt elements have mixed with them. We have to exercise patience with them to make things happen positively. We will experience more hardship and our economy will encounter a serious checkup. But I saw a light after the tunnel. This is a sign that we are currently at the testing times and above all our country will be a better place to live. Also, cheats in politics will be a thing of the past. Inasmuch as God will stay by the President Buhari in his tenure in office.

Your words for Nigerians?

I want to urge Nigerians to have something doing, especially to engage in lawful business that will make them comfortable in life. We should always believe in God, because the government cannot feed the country at once.

It is only God that can do all things; nobody should wait for the government to make things happen, because they are yet to find solution to their problems. My advice to all Nigerians is that we should all be prepared, truthful and love one another as well as be interested in the growth of this country. We should always proclaim that this country will be better. We should all changed our orientation and cultivate the habit to always speak good things about this country for it move forward.

45 tribunechurch firmfaith:rightreason with Bishop Emmanuel Badejo, fradebadejo@yahoo.com

The world’s worst hunger

Valentine concerns Valentine celebrations have become the nursery for various expressions of love.

This year around the annual Valentine Day, analysts would have expressed diverse opinions on the true meaning of love. In fact it would have been everyone to his own opinion. The commercial and media environment have always ensured that what we knew as the original meaning and reason for Valentine day is gradually obfuscated and even altogether jettisoned. More than Christmas, Valentine Day has been focused more on carnal emotions and expressions of love especially among young people than on the core values around which it originated.

No thanks to the media such a valentine day gets more coverage than the Lenten fast. Would that it were not so because the media and other public resources could surely be better exploited to promote altruistic love, which Saint Valentine is celebrated for. Today, all sorts of solutions are proposed for rescuing Nigeria from the doldrums of decadence and greed. Among these is a recent proposal to introduce of anti- corruption studies in educational institutions.

But formal classroom education cannot cover everything. In fact, some public and social occasions, carefully managed, could modify public attitude and character far more effectively. Saint Valentine’s purpose of selfless love and charitable concern for those in need, much needed in our world, is that kind.

Endless love Many songs, poems, odes and books have been written on the theme of endless love. For true Christians, none can match the version of Jesus Christ’s, which proclaimed the highest level of love. By his very coming into the world to become one like us, by His teachings and by his death and resurrection, Jesus redefined history’s meaning of love. Of him, the Gospel of John taught: “Yes, God so loved the world that he gave his only Son that whoever believes in him may not be lost, but may have eternal life”. This proposition is reinforced by his definitive statement: “Love one another as I have loved you....There is no greater love than this, than to give one’s life for one’s friends;...” (Jn. 15: 12-13). After Jesus’ death and resurrection, John the apostle wrote in his letter: “God is love and whoever remains in love remains in God and God in him. However, perhaps the most enduring ode to love in the New Testament comes from Paul, the apostle

The popular account of the origin of Valentine’s feast is about Saint Valentine, daring the authorities of his time to help prisoners to unite with their families even in hard, war times so that couples could experience each other’s love.

known for his initial animosity to Jesus.

(1 Cor. 13). Love is patient, kind, without envy. It is not boastful or arrogant. it is not ill-mannered nor does it seek its own interest. Love overcomes anger and forgets offenses. it does not take delight in wrong but rejoices in truth....Love endures everything” (1Cor 13:4-7).

The world’s true valentine The popular account of the origin of Valentine’s feast is about Saint Valentine, daring the authorities of his time to help prisoners to unite with their families even in hard, war times so that couples could experience each other’s love. The saint accomplished the feat at considerable risk to his own life and comfort. The kind of love which he promoted was a restorative, redemptive love. How the world of today needs such kind of love with so much death, bloodshed, destruction and misery all around us! Much of the evil we see today in our world is not unavoidable, but is provoked by relentless human selfishness, greed, negligence and violence. We need authentic valentines in our homes, in our streets in our communities marketplaces, churches and schools to cultivate love unity and togetherness and turn around the catastrophe of the moment and lead us in a different direction of true human civilization. Johann Wolfgang Goethe once wrote: “Love does not dominate, it cultivates”. But it is never going to be easy for human beings with all their finite selfishness to completely love on their own. No wonder that Katherine Anne Porter has said that love must be learned and learned again and again; there is no end to it. Hate needs no instruction but waits only needs to be provoked.

Blessings in catastrophe The great tragedies of our world today; the migrant crisis, terrorist acts, wars, the epidemic of abortion, earthquakes and strange diseases constitute a great catastrophe for the human race. Fortunately such moments in God’s plan can also be moments of great grace and restoration.

The promise of Jesus summarized it: “But when these things begin to come to pass, look up and lift your heads because your redemption is at hand” (Lk. 21:28). The Archbishop Fulton Sheen understood this well when he wrote: “Darkness may be creative, for it is there that God plants his seeds to grow and his bulbs to flower. It is at night that the sheep which are scattered are gathered into the unity of the sheepfold, when the children come to their mother and the soul back again to God”. The Year of Mercy declared in the Catholic Church worldwide becomes an imperative for the rebirth of true, redeeming love in every Christian if we truly desire to restore cosmic harmony. Such love in Jonathan saved David. The Father’s forgiving love saved the Prodigal Son. It is long overdue for Christians to show up as modern day Valentines witnessing that Christ’s message of love has enough power to transform our country and world. Time it is for us to join heaven and earth together with our sacrifice and quench the world’s worst hunger, lovelessness, with selfless love.

14 February, 2016

Sunday Tribune

Why I won’t feature secular artistes in my songs —Solagbade

Solagbade Olaonipekun is a gospel musician. With over a decade experience and four albums to her credit, she believes the journey has just begun for her and would not stop at anything to take her music career to the highest level. In this interview with SEGUN ADEBAYO, she bares her mind on her music career and other issues.

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HAT has been happening to your music career?

Three things have been happening to my career in the last one year. The three things are: Progress, promotion and success. My musical career has been a story of from glory to greater glory. We are gradually gaining recognition all over. The journey has been very beautiful and I thank God for His grace over my life and ministry. For me, we are just starting to get to the level God promised to take me when I was starting out some years back. Let’s just give glory to God for how far we have come.

You dropped an album last year, what has been the response?

One word will describe the responseawesome! I have heard people say they have been blessed because they listened to my songs. So, let’s say positive and encouraging responses have followed our last project. It really opened doors for us and launched us to another level of soaring. In fact, we received divine help and God established himself through churches and individuals that supported us financially and morally. I can tell you with all modesty that we already ran out of stock of all the copies printed.

Stations like TVC, AIT, LTV and radio station embraced this last project. Online platforms also supported our video. I must confess, God helped us.

Some of your colleagues are looking at featuring other artistes from another genre in their songs, are you also planning same?

There is no plan to leave gospel. Other artistes can do that but God's grace will help me to stick to my area of calling which is gospel. My songs are gifts for the people. I can't allow the message to be diluted because I want to join the crowd.

We are strictly following God’s directive for the mission. We won’t do anything outside what He has asked us to do. I am very sure of that.

The year appears to have started on a good note for you, what’s your plan now?

To reach out more by working harder and promote our albums and videos both locally and internationally and by

the grace of God, we are already working towards adding more to our collections.

This year will definitely usher in more new collections and good news for us and our fans.

Will you be dropping another album this year?

I have been praying about that for a long time. In fact, this is one of my prayer requests for this year. I know it will come to pass. However there is a plan to ensure that we have another powerful album this year. God will back us up.

How has it been since you became a professional singer?

It has been very fulfilling, amazing and touching. Seeing your childhood dreams come to reality says a lot and God’s faithfulness to His promises. God has been so gracious to me and His grace has carried me this far and I know He will carry me to the end.

Some of your colleagues have complained about the poor fee they are paid by churches when they go for ministration, what's your take?

To me, you don't put your expectation on the fees you are going to be paid. I am more concerned about the mission which must be accomplished- touching lives and making impact. Although, I tried as much as getting my crew satisfied and happy as they are professionals on their various field. Most times, I have to give whatever we are paid to them to share. As long as my message is felt by the people and people are blessed, I am very satisfied.

However, what I know is that if you do this assignment for personal satisfaction, you will be disappointed. Let passion drive you and whatever comes as reward, no matter how small, will be okay for you.

Since you are not doing it for money, you won’t feel bad.

You don't seem to be slowing, what's keeping you going?

Grace, mercy and passion. I love it whenever an opportunity comes for me to be a blessing to God’s people. And after each ministration I get happy, fulfilled and blessed to have ministered to God’s people. God never uses a vessel and dumps it. Rather He cleans you up and makes you ready for another greater assignment.

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14 February, 2016

Sunday Tribune

feature Maritime varsity of controversy Will this investment go to waste?

EBENEZER ADUROKIYA takes a look at the implications of the planned removal of the Nigerian Maritime University (NMU), Okerenkoko, Warri South-West Local Government Area, Delta State from its present location for the host communities, students and the Niger Delta region as a whole.

One of the structures on the campus

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HE joy of the people of Gbaramatu kingdom, Delta State and, indeed, the entire Niger Ifeanyi Okowa, Delta knew no bounds Delta State governor when the Nigerian Mari time University was proposed to be established in the region. The varsity was conceived to complement the efforts of the Maritime Academy of Nigeria at Oron, Akwa-Ibom State, in churning out enough manpower to man the maritime sector. The Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) midwifed and promoted the fulfilment of the mandate.

However, the euphoria which greeted the coming of the varsity when it began to take shape was cut short on January 19, 2016 when the Minister of Transport, Mr Rotimi Amaechi, hinted during his meeting with the Senate Committee on Maritime Transport in Abuja, of the

Federal Government’s intention to scrap the institution.

Amaechi, as widely reported in the media, was said to have cited insecurity in Gbaramatu kingdom as the major reason for government’s decision. He was said to have insisted that no parent would allow his or her children to head for such a “volatile” environment with a history of unpredictable security situation. He was also quoted to have described the university as “a waste of resources.”

“I don’t think we are proceeding with the university being proposed by NIMASA because it is a waste of resources, and unfortunately a lot of money had already been released for the university project, hence there is no structure on ground, but just the feasibility study.

“The Chinese company contracted confirmed that only the feasibility study was in place. We are not going ahead with the university project proposed by NIMASA because we have an institution in Oron; we have Nigeria Institute of Transport Technology, Zaria, and we have the Nigerian College of Aviation in Zaria which we could upgrade to a university status and NIMASA is proposing to build

a new one,” Amaechi had told the Senate committee.

Beyond the bombshell by Mr Amaechi, it Rotimi Amaechi, is widely believed that Minister of Transport with the Federal Gove r n ment maintaining sealed lips on the matter in the face of growing pro- tests by people of the region, the fate of the proposed varsity might have been sealed.

In line with Amaechi’s claims, investigations by Sunday Tribune revealed that nothing is yet ongoing at the varsity’s permanent site at Okerenkoko, but at its temporary site located at Kurutie, buildings have been completed and furnished. The buildings are nothing, but state-ofthe-art structures that could wow any first timer.

Continues pg47

47

feature

14 February, 2016

Sunday Tribune

‘Investors’ millions of naira in the proposed varsity gone’ nin as well as Onitsha had their hands full trying to meet up with demands to supply materials for the construction while they also smiled to the banks. The ordinary pepper and tomato seller, the downtrodden fishermen, the pepper soup woman, the lady who sells Ijaw soups such as frie fiayi, Pulo fiayi (red oil soup), girigena and gbogbo fiayi and a host of others, perhaps for the first time in their lifetime, saw the sunny side of life economically. But today, the story has changed. The area has simply turned to a ghost land.

Construction workers working on one of the buildings

Another edifice

Continued from pg 46 Present state of the university The temporary site of the university is at former Mieka Dive Training Institute, covering an expanse of 6,597 hectares, said to have been built by ex-militant leader known as Tompolo.

Works have been completed, as corroborated by Chief Edwin Clark, at the temporary site of the university at Kurutie in Gbaramatu kingdom. All the sections of the entire temporary design have been completed. Structures with state-of-the-art architectural designs have been painted, furniture fixed and dormitories equipped with modern beddings.

Effects of the cancellation In view of the coming of the university, it was gathered that some businessmen had already erected no fewer than five private hostels for students’ use. A member of the community, David Saturday, who refused to disclose

names of the owners to Sunday Tribune, said millions of naira was sunk into the hostels projects which was, inturn, expected to yield proceeds when academic work commences. The cancellation means a colossal loss to such investors.

Mr. Saturday, however, disclosed that the investors are now angry at the development and are now among those embarking on peaceful protests to make the Federal Government to rescind its decision. Besides, many graduates from Gbaramatu had been warming up to grab one job opportunity or the other when activities commence at the institution. This dream, Saturday said, seemed to have been dashed.

It was also gathered that while the construction work on the structures lasted, the economic base of the communities was boosted as huge sales were recorded, particularly during the popular Friday market transactions in the community. Menial jobs at the construction site kept hitherto idle hands very busy and their pockets filled with proceeds from their efforts.

Traders in building materials in far away Warri and Be-

Reactions, protests, pleas greet cancellation proposal Several protests, reactions and pleas have greeted the proposed revocation. From political party stalwarts and market women, to students, community leaders, pressure groups, the traditional institutions and even the state government, it has been condemnations all the way.

One of such reactions came from the Delta State governor, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa, last week Wednesday, during an interactive session with journalists, when he stated that the move to scrap the university was misplaced and uncalled for.

The governor said the Okerenkoko community, where the university is sited, had protested against the move and that he would personally present their protest letter to President Muhammadu Buhari.

“It will not be right to scrap the Maritime University; we need more of such institutions. The Okerenkoko community has protested against such move and I will make a representation on the issue to the president because scrapping such an institution will be a huge loss to the Federal Government and a major setback in terms of manpower development in the maritime sector,” Okowa stated.

Also, thousands of protesting students, on January 29, took to the streets of Ogulagha community in Burutu Local Government Area of Delta State, demanding the restoration of the scrapped maritime university.

Led by one Bright Guwor, the protesters argued that the lot of the Ijaw should not be limited to fishing alone as often thought by other ethnic groups in the country.

“This injustice must stop. Whatever that is located in the Niger-Delta, some elements have an interest in it.

This same attempt was made some time in 2011 when the Federal Government attempted to relocate the Petroleum Training Institute (PTI) and now they are trying to do same with the Maritime University. So we the youth and indigenes of the community are coming out to clamour against this injustice. We cannot continue to allow these things to happen,” he said.

Besides, elder statesman and Ijaw leader, Chief Edwin Ckark and a chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Delta State, Chief Olorogun Okiemute Okwagbe, also had hard knocks for Mr. Amaechi, over the alleged planned cancellation of the university.

Okwagbe described the alleged move as an error and the climax of insensitivity to the plight of the people of the Niger Delta and Nigerians in general, adding that the minister “was selfish, clannish and has lost touch with the roots of his political career.”

Human rights activist and national coordinator of the Centre for the Vulnerable and Underprivileged (CENTREP), Oghenejabor Ikimi, described the proposed scrapping of the maritime university as not only oppressive, but also punitive against Niger Deltans.

Ikimi said that Amaechi’s proposal and security reasons were laughable, wondering why similar higher institutions had not been shut down in war-torn North of the country.

“If the only reason the Federal Government has decided to scrap the Nigeria Maritime University is due to insecurity, then it should equally stop all exploration activities by multinational oil companies in the area as what is good for the goose is also good for the gander.

“If we may ask? Why has the Federal Government not scrapped other similar higher institutions of learning owned by her in volatile cities of Northern Nigeria such as the University of Maiduguri, University of Jos, Bayero University, Kano and Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, just to mention a few?”

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14 February, 2016

children’sarena means to us

Words from the kids Respondents are from Brightest Star Montessori School, Odutola Street, Oke-Ado, Ibadan.

—Semilore Oyelami, Grade 4, 10 years.

—Abatan Temiloluwa,Grade 5, 9 years,

Valentine is a special day we celebrates with our loved ones, which comes up on February 14 of every year. The name of my val is Miss Olagoke and I will be giving her a beautiful car. I also want an Ipad from her as my val gift. Valentine is an important day to show love to your loved ones, I want my parents to take me to zoo, Shoprite, museum, amusement park and beach.

Valentine is a day we show or share love with our loved ones. Valentine’s day comes up every February 14th of every year. My valentine is Testimony; she is also my best friend. I would like to give her a teddy and I’m also expecting her to give me the same. It is good to love because God is love and he gave his only begotten son to us. If we show our love to them, they will also love us.

—Akure Tomiwa, Basic 3, 6years

Valentine is a time of sharing something with loved ones and it comes up on 14th of February of every year. My valentine pal is Mrs Olagoke. I will like to give her a television and I want her to give me two story books. Valentine is an important day to loved ones. People go to interesting places such as eateries, beach and parks to enjoy themselves.

Olaide Sokoya ollydesanmi@yahoo.com 0807 449 7425

—Adedibu Atutu, Grade 4, 10 years

Valentine is a time of showing love to your loved ones. It comes every February 14th. My valentine is my class teacher, Mr Jide. I will like to give him a cane and I will like to receive a ball from him as my valentine’s gift. Valentine’s day is an important day to show love to others.

Val •Although no one knows for sure the exact origin of Valentine’s day. It is believed that it started in the Roman Empire around 270AD under the rule of Claudius II •It is said that Bishop Valentine would perform secret wedding ceremonies so men could marry their sweethearts.

•Bishop Valentine got in big trouble for performing marriage ceremonies and was sent to jail.

•While in jail, Bishop Valentine wrote a love letter to the jailer’s daughter and signed, from me, Valentine.

•Bishop Valentine was put to death for his crime on February 14th.

•Why is the colour red the symbol of Valentine’s Day? Red is the colour of blood.

It was once believed that the heart (the body’s organ that pumps the blood) is that part of the body that the feeling of love came from.

•Teachers receive the most Valentine’s day cards followed by children, mothers, wives, sweethearts and pets.

•Millions of heart-shaped boxes of chocolate are bought every year for Valentine’s Day. •Over one billion Valentine’s day cards are sent worldwide every year.

•60 per cent of America’s red roses are grown in the state of California •Did you know that Groundhog’s Day was originally held on February 14th?

Val

poem Such a short time

of C th hil ew d ee k

What Val

Sunday Tribune

When I first saw your face I knew you were mine We have both grown to love each other in such a short time.

You know I’ve been looking for you all my life for the day when I become your wife.

You have given me security and love, which I’ve only ever dreamed of.

—Jegede Elijah, Grade 5, 9 years.

—Adebola Aishat,Grade 4, 10 years,

Valentine is the day you express your love to someone by giving gift to the person.

Valentine comes up on February 14th of every year and this year, it falls on Sunday. My valentine pal is Abatan Temiloluwa; I wish to receive a television set from her. I would be giving her a carton of indomie.

Valentine is a time of showing love to your loved ones, it comes up every 14th of February every year. My valentine pal is my daddy; I will like to give him a flower and I will be expecting a bicycle from him as a valentine’s gift. It is an important day to true friends and loved ones.

I know there is a heaven and dreams do come true someone up there loves me because they sent me to you.

Compiled by Temitayo Iliasu

USIROH OLUWASIKEMI

BALOGUN clocked

1

recently.

Long life and prosperity

49

news

14 February, 2016

Sunday Tribune

Police uncover bomb near House of Assembly Jude Ossai -Enugu POLICE detectives in Enugu State, on Saturday, uncovered an object suspected to be an improvised explosive device near the Enugu State House of Assembly Complex and the Nigeria Television Authority (NTA) Hostel in Ogui all in Enugu metropolis.

It was learnt that the device, suspected to be a Civil War relic, was first seen by construction workers working in the area.

Sunday Tribune gathered that the workers, on sighting the object, promptly alerted security operatives who arrived the scene and removed the device.

Confirming the development, the Police Public Relations Officer, Ebere Amarizu, said the area had been cleared, adding that the builders had already gone back for their construction work at the site.

ICAN holds 10th zonal district conference The rocket propeller found near Enugu State House of Assembly.

‘85% of Valentine’s cards bought by women’ Biola Azeez -Ilorin

W

OMEN purchase about 85 per cent of an estimated 1.2 billion Valentine’s cards that are sold worldwide annually, Mrs Felicia Bello, the Matron, Landmark University Medical Centre, Omu-Aran, Kwara State, quoted the World Greeting Cards Association as saying.

Speaking at a health counselling initiative organised for secondary school students in Omu-Aran, Irepodun Local Government Area, at the weekend, Mrs Bello, quoting statistics from the World Greeting Card Association, said the figure had made Valentine’s Day the second most popular card exchange celebration after Christmas.

She said that the official card purchase figure for Christmas celebration was 2.6 billion cards globally.

The counselling activity, tagged: “Health Counselling toward Valentine,” was organised by Landmark University Community Development Impact Initiative

(LMUCDII).

No fewer than 150 students participated in the counselling initiative.

Bello said that in spite of the fact that Valentine’s Day celebration had transformed into a global celebration of love, many persons, particularly the youth, celebrated the day wrongly.

“Many people are introduced to habits that will destroy their destiny. Many girls from age 10 to 15 years are defiled on the night of Valentine’s Day, with some of them ending up with HIV or unwanted pregnancies.

“Many are initiated into cultism and other wicked

THE National President of Oodua Youth Movement (OYM), Olalekan Owolabi, has commended the passion at which the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, has been promoting the unity of Yorubaland.

Owolabi, who stated this in Akure, the Ondo State

She bemoaned the fact that most Valentine’s Day’s celebrations these days had negated the original objectives of its innovators, saying that the development was doing more harm than good to the society.

“Today’s Valentine’s Day celebration, especially in this part of the world, has been hijacked by anti-social vices,” she said.

In his remark, Pastor Abiodun Okunola, the Chairman of LMUCDII, said that the counselling activity was aimed at sensitising the students to the need to eschew ungodly habits in their celebration of Valentine’s Day.

Only NAMA in aviation sector is under probe —EFCC spokesman THE Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), on Saturday, said that only the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) was being investigated in the aviation sector.

The EFCC spokesperson, Mr Wilson Uwujaren, disclosed to the News Agen-

Group commends Ooni over Yoruba unity moves Hakeem Gbadamosi -Akure

associations as such celebrations usually start at odd hours,” she said.

The matron cautioned students to shun all negative and anti-social aspects of Valentine’s Day’s celebration, while advising them to only embrace those positive aspects which had to do with sharing of affection, gifts, food items, and even ideas that could enhance their future.

Mrs Olubunmi JosephFadipe, who presented a paper on, “Valentine, love and God’’, urged the students to always allow God be their guide in their day-to-day activities, particularly on Valentine’s Day.

capital, on Friday, said there was the need to wake all the Yoruba political and traditional leaders up to the reality of the negative effect of disunity.

He described the disunity among the Yoruba people as disturbing, saying the Yoruba nation had been relegated to the background.

cy of Nigeria (NAN) in Lagos State.

NAN reported that the other aviation agencies are the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Accident Investigation Bureau (AIB) and Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet).

Uwujaren confirmed that the Managing Director of NAMA, Mr Ibrahim Abdulsalam, and some other top officials of the agency, were in the custody of the commission over alleged financial impropriety.

“It is not about the aviation industry. If any agency or person has issues, that is when the commission comes in.

“It is a specific matter, but I can’t go into details now because we are still carrying

out investigation,” he said.

A source had earlier told NAN that Abdulsalam and the two other directors were arrested on Friday night after over eight hours of interrogation by EFCC team of investigators.

The source said the heavily armed operatives had stormed NAMA headquarters and its annex office at the Murtala Mohammed Airport in Lagos around 11.55 a.m.

“For several hours, the operatives detained workers of the agency and kept them incommunicado until the search was over,” the source said.

According to the source, the anti-graft operatives zeroed in on the Accounts and Procurement Departments of NAMA and carted away some documents.

ALL is now set for the commencement of the 10th Western Zonal District Conference of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN), tagged: “Ijebu 2016.” Delegates are expected from Lagos, Ekiti, Ondo, Oyo, Osun and Ogun states.

The theme of this year’s conference is “Roadmap to Nigeria’s Economic Recovery: The Roles of Professional Accountants.”

Eminent Nigerians, including South West state governors, royal fathers of Ijebuland, past presidents and council members of ICAN and captains of industry are expected at the event.

The programme, which starts on Sunday with the arrival of the ICAN president, and visit to the Akarigbo of Remoland will be followed on Monday with a courtesy visit on the Awujale of Ijebuland, a village meeting and cocktail party.

Sporting activities/keep fit programme, plenary sessions and a workshop will come up on Tuesday.

The conference will, be rounded off on Wednesday with a workshop, pep talks, district societies meetings, delegates tours and a gala night, while departure is on Thursday.

Adele Olu Ilaro inaugurates committee THE Adele Olu Ilaro, Chief Jas Abiodun Oyekan, on Saturday, February 7, 2016, formally inaugurated a 40-member planning committee for his 70th birthday celebration.

Oyekan, a former President of Association of Outdoor Advertisement Association of Nigeria (AOAAN), in his opening address at the inauguration, said that his 70th birthday is on April 21, 2016, but has decided to mark the milestone between that day and April 23, 2016 in Ilaro, to afford his friends and relatives the opportunity of participating in the celebration.

He said: “I believed the committee could he put together a hitch-free birthday bash that will assemble his friends and relatives under a roof with a view to joining him to thank God for His mercies over his life and his family all the years.”

Members of the committee are Professor Tope Popoola of the University of Agriculture Abeokuta (UNAAB); who is the chairman; El hadj Abu-Satar Idowu Hamed, deputy chairman, while Mr Lamidi Elegbede is the secretary.

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Sunday Tribune

‘What leaders must do to be successful’

By Moses Alao

From left, Executive Vice Chairman, Ibadan School of Government and Public Policy, Dr. Tunji Olaopa; Mr. Adetunji Ajibade; chairman on the occasion, Chief Bayo Sarumi; author, Dr. Olatunde Adepoju; chief launcher, Mr Olufemi Olaore and the book reviewer and Commander, Training and Doctrine Command, Nigerian Army, Major-General Bolaji Koleoso, during the launching of Dr Adepoju’s book, held at the University of Ibadan Conference Centre, recently.

LASU student dies, another unconscious after taking mixed alcoholic drinks Olalekan Olabulo -Lagos

T

HE 2016 Annual Award Night of the students of the Department of History, Lagos State University, turned tragic as a female student died while another one became unconscious after taking a mixture of different alcoholic drinks.

The two students, iden-

Val’s day: Ondo govt cautions about spread of HIV/AIDS Hakeem Gbadamosi -Akure AS Valentine’s Day is being celebrated across the globe today, the chairman of the Ondo State Agency for the Control of AIDS (ODSACA), Dr. Rotimi Adelola, has asked youths in the state not to use the period to perpetrate immoralities but to be geared towards behavioural change and practise safer sex in order to avoid spread of HIV/ AIDS and other related diseases in the state.

Adelola, who stated this while addressing newsmen in Akure during a sensitilisation programme tagged “Play safe initiative” in commemoration of the 2015 Valentine’s Day celebration, said HIV is real, calling on the youth to join hands with the state government to eradicate the virus in the state.

He said the state government would continue to reduce the incidence of HIV infections by scaling up prevention-intervention strategies and increasing access, utilisation of HIV counseling, testing, care and support services.

tified as Lara Gbadeyan and Oladipupo Arofeso, Sunday Tribune gathered, were both rushed to Igando General Hospital, where Gbadeyan was confirmed dead and Arofeso unconscious.

Sunday Tribune gathered that the deceased and the unconscious student had gone with their colleagues in the department to Igando, where the event took place.

Some of their colleagues told the police in the state that the duo took a mixture of Magic Moment (vodka), Elliot, Orijin and Smirnoff Ice at the event.

The two students were said to have started misbe-

having “until some of their colleagues came to their senses that it was the effect of the alcohol on them.”

The misbehaviour from the two female students created confusion among their colleagues, who made frantic efforts to revive them, Sunday Tribune gathered.

But the situation reportedly became more serious as the two female students became unconscious, leading to their colleagues to rush them to the General Hospital in Igando.

A source at the Igando Divisional police station confirmed the incident to Sunday Tribune, noting

that investigations had commenced on the incident.

The police source also told Sunday Tribune that the remains of the deceased student had been deposited at the Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH) for autopsy.

He also added that the other student had remained at the Igando General Hospital, where she was receiving attention from health workers.

Efforts to get the reaction of the image maker in charge of the state police command, Dolapo Badmus, failed as calls to her mobile phone lines were not answered.

Why we are increasing bread prices —South-West bakers chairman As bakers hike prices in Kogi

By Moses Alao, with Agency Report THE chairman of the Association of Master Bakers and Caterers of Nigeria (AMBCN) in the South-West, Alhaji Abeeb Abolusodun, has explained that the high exchange rate of the dollar to a naira was behind the recent decision to increase the prices of bread. He also said that the association, though not unmindful of the plight of Nigerians, had to increase prices to sustain their businesses and “take care of their families.”

Abolusodun, who stated this in an interview with Sunday Tribune, however, said there was no uniform price for bread sellers in the region, noting that bakers in each state would determine the new prices based on market

reality.

Responding to a report

by Sunday Tribune last week that the bakers had rolled out new prices for the South-West region, Abolusodun stated that the prices reported were only for Oyo State, adding that every other state would come up with their prices.

“The truth is we are left with no choice but to increase the prices of bread, because the prices of virtually everything have increased. It is a pity that the common man will bear the brunt of all these increments, but everyone knows the position of a Naira to a dollar now. The foreign exchange will, no doubt, affect every business that depends on importation,” he said.

Meanwhile, bakers in

Kogi State have resolved to hike the prices of bread and other confectioneries in the state in response to high production costs.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) gathered that the decision was reached at a recent meeting of the state chapter of the Association of Master Bakers and Caterers in Lokoja, the state capital.

The chairman of the association, Chief Gabriel Bamidele, told NAN in an interview on Saturday that as a result of the increase in the prices of baking items, his members were left with no other choice.

Bamidele hinted that the bakers had been incurring losses in recent times, adding that unless there was price increase, many bakeries in the state would be forced out of business.

“IF Nigeria will be great, it must overcome its leadership challenges and this can only happen when leaders in the political, business, religious and other circles overcome their leadership giants by discovering people and ways of helping them become the best.”

These were the views of the founder of Northern Star Incorporated, a United States-based leadership development and training organisation, Dr Olatunde Adepoju, during the launching of his book entitled: “The Leader and his giant: Overcoming the leadership giant,” at the University of Ibadan Conference Centre, Ibadan, Oyo State, recently.

Adepoju, who noted that every time he thought about Nigeria, he saw a country that would still be great in the comity of nations, warned that leaders in every area, starting from the family, must do their parts to ensure that greatness is achieved.

Commenting, the chairman of the occasion and former Managing Director of the Nigeria Ports Authority, Chief Bayo Sarumi, stated that leaders can fail if they do not overcome their leadership giants, including followership crisis.

The book reviewer and Commander, Training and Doctrine Command of the Nigerian Army, MajorGeneral Bolaji Koleoso, warned leaders to be wary of sycophancy.

Church should harness modern technology, globalisation —Rector Yejide Gbenga -Ogundare THE newly installed Rector of the Methodist Theological Institute, Very Reverend Sunday Olasoji Onadipe, has called on the church to harness the benefits of modern technology and globalisation for improved service delivery.

Rev. Onadipe made the call on Saturday at the Rev. W. F. Mellor Memorial Methodist Centre, Chapel of Grace, Sagamu, during his inauguration as the Rector of the Methodist Theological Institute (MTI) and Founder’s Day anniversary.

According to him, the 21st century beckons on the church to harness the benefits of modern technology and the institute deserves a training paradigm shift to cope with the fast changing time by making it primus inter pares.

The Rector, stated that the MTI, like other establishments, witnessed a cycle of birth, rise and decline, adding that the declining standard has caught the attention of the leadership.

Rev. Onadipe said: “The declining standard has caught the attention of the leadership of the church in the last couple of years due to increasing complaints of ineffectiveness witnessed among products of this institute and other Methodist Theological Institutes.”

Bayelsa govt absolves doctor over sale of baby Austin Ebipade -Yenagoa REPRIEVE came the way of a Bayelsa State-based medical practitioner, Dr Wisdom Sawyer, who was alleged to have been involved in a baby sale scandal recently, when the state government absolved him of wrongdoing.

At a briefing held at the Bayelsa State Ministry of Health, Yenagoa, comprising all stakeholders in the matter, the Commissioner for Health, Dr Ayibatonye Owei, condemned the attempt to scandalise Sawyer, who the state government said should be lauded for his professionalism.

The commissioner maintained that Sawyer did the right thing by recommending that the newborn be kept with the relevant ministry to take care of it rather than abort what he termed “an advanced pregnancy”.

The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development, Ebiere Igodo-Adeh, who was present at the briefing, also insisted that all necessary documentation and paper works were completed with the ministry to ensure the legitimate transfer of the baby to the government, since the mother lacks the capacity to take care of the baby upon delivery.

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Merger, acquisition of banks imminent —Sterling boss Sulaimon Olanrewaju with Agency Report

T

HE Chief Financial Officer of Sterling Bank Plc, Abubakar Suleiman, has given a hint that banks may soon embark on recapitalisation that could result in mergers and acquisitions.

Suleiman, who spoke with Reuters, said the falling value of the naira coupled with increased regulatory pressure had been putting strains on the banks, hence the imminent resort to recapitalisation.

Suleiman told Reuters that he expected naira to

be further devalued by 20 per cent, saying this would erode the capital ratio of a number of banks exposed to foreign currency assets, adding that the situation would trigger mergers with Sterling Bank already thinking of “buying one or two medium-sized banks.”

The Sterling Bank chiefwas speaking in light of a letter issued by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) on March 13, 2015 to some banks that had failed to meet the minimum Capital Adequacy Ratio (CAR) of 10 per cent and 15 per cent for regional/national and international banks, respectively, under Basel

II. The apex bank had given them three months, till 13 June 2015, to submit their recapitalisation plans and till 30 June 2016 to implement the plan.

However, many of the banks have found it difficult to comply with the directive and may fail to meet the recapitalisation plans submitted to the CBN due to the instability in the economy and the stiff regulation imposed on them by the apex bank.

The introduction of the Treasury Single Account (TSA), which forced the pulling out of about N2.2 trillion from commercial

banks into the CBN, is said to have affected the liquidity of many of the banks with a number of them already disengaging their staff.

In addition to the TSA, the CBN also instructed banks to stop charging their customers Commission on Transaction (COT). This has also adversely affected banks’ liquidity as all of them hitherto relied on COT to shore up their earnings.

Persistent illiquidity was one of the reasons cited

by Professor Chukwuma Soludo, former CBN governor, for calling for bank consolidation in 2004.

Sunday Tribune

Mining society honours 5 VCs, 26 organisations for contributions to national development THE Nigerian Mining and Geosciences Society (NMGS) on Friday in Lagos honoured five Vice Chancellors (VCs) and 26 `outstanding’ corporate organisations for their contributions to national development.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reported that the five vice chancellors, who are members of the society, were being celebrated for their appointments all within a time frame of six months.

They included Professor Ibrahim Garba of the Ahmadu Bello University(ABU), Zaria; Professor Idowu Olayinka of the University of Ibadan, and Professor Elijah Ayolabi of the Mountain Top University, Ogun State.

Also honoured were: Professor Luke Anike of the Enugu State University of Science and Technology and Professor Isa Funtua of the Umaru Musa Yar’adua University, Katsina.

The NMGS president, Professor Gbenga Okunlola, in his welcome address, explained that the recognitions became necessary as this was the first time in the nation’s history that an association was able to record such feat.

He disclosed that the 26 outstanding companies in the extractive industry who have sponsored the society’s activities and championed the nation’s economic growth over the years, were also being honored.

“In six months, the NMGS has produced five distinguished vice chancellors and for making us proud, I think it is something to celebrate.” ``That we have produced these five VCs show that we have gone a long way and to gather the crem de la crem who produce the wealth of this nation in oil and gas, mining and the water sector, shows that we are indeed growing,” he said.

Okunlola announced that the NMGS would host a global conference of 1,000 geoscientists in the country, next month.

Woman who donated N1m to Buhari’s campaign is dead, president mourns Leon Usigbe-Abuja

President Dangote Group of company, Alhaji Aliko Dangote (left), with Governor Muhammad Badaru of Jigawa State at the inauguration of Dangote Rice Out-Growers’ Farm in Kafin-Hausa, Jigawa, on Saturday. PHOTO: NAN

World radio day: NBC urges broadcasters to be responsive THE National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), on Saturday in Abuja, called on radio broadcasters to exercise their power with great responsibility and sensitivity.

This was contained in a statement issued by the Assistant Director, Public Affairs, NBC, Mr Antia Ekanem, and signed by the Director-General of the commission, Chief Emeka Mba. “As we mark this year’s World Radio Day, we join the United Nations to urge all radio broadcasters in Nigeria to use radio to promote sustainable development.

“This will transform our world and demonstrate that, indeed, radio saves lives,” the statement said.

The theme of this year’s celebration, according to the statement, is “Radio in Times of Emergency and Disaster.”

It said that the theme was very relevant to the country in the face of mindless killing of innocent citizens

by Boko Haram and perennial floods which created millions of internally displaced persons (IDPs).

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reported that Feb. 13 of every year is celebrated as World Radio Day. It is a day set aside by the United Nations (UN) and recognised worldwide as

a day to celebrate radio as a medium of communication globally.

According to the statement, the 2016 world radio celebration focused on discussing freedom of expression and journalist safety during coverage of disasters.

It said that the celebration also centred on how

radio empowered survivors and vulnerable people, whose right to privacy was to be respected.

The statement stressed the need for radio broadcasters to raise awareness about the importance of radio, facilitate access to information and enhance networking among broadcasters.

NOA to celebrate soldiers, fallen heroes on Valentine’s Day THE National Orientation Agency (NOA) said, on Saturday, that it had concluded arrangements to honour on soldiers fighting insurgency in the North East today.

Mr. Mike Omeri, NOA Director General, said in a statement signed by the Agency’s Assistant Head, Press, Ms Helen Onuoha in Abuja.

He said that those who died in the line of duty

also known as `fallen heroes’ would be honoured and celebrated in a joint concert with the National Troupe of Nigeria (NTN).

He said the concert, which was part of the agency’s annual Patriotism Concert, has the theme, “Salute to Our Fallen Heroes; Songs to Our Fighting Forces.” ``This year’s concert is intended to raise positive narrative about the country, to a position of

dominance in national discussions and restore confidence in our unity as a people. . ``The bravery of our fallen national heroes and the gallantry of our fighting soldiers remain as untold stories in the country. ``The time has come for citizens to fall in love with the stories of these patriots as a way of boosting the feelings of patriotism among citizens.

PRESIDENT Muhammadu Buhari has extolled the virtues of Hajiya Fati Koko, popularly called Maitalla Tara, who died aged 95.

Buhari described her as “a woman with a good heart, who stood by her convictions, and gave sacrificially.”

A statement issued by the Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, Femi Adesina in Abuja on Saturday, recalled that Hajiya Koko had waited nine hours in Kebbi State early last year to donate N1 million to him as the then presidential candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), It said Hajiya Koko had offered virtually her life’s savings to candidate Buhari then, saying she admired his honesty, discipline, and stand for truth.

Receiving the news of her passage, President Buhari commended Hayiya Koko’s conviction and sacrificial giving, urging Nigerians to learn vital lessons from her life.

“She gave practically all she had towards our campaign. Though well advanced in age, she still believed a new Nigeria was possible, and followed her conviction with action. What generosity of spirit and what tenacious faith in her motherland. Nigerians, old and young, have a lot to learn from her,” the president said.

Parents in Oyo urged to pay wards’ school levy

By Oluwatoyin Malik

THE Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Education in Oyo State, Mrs. Aderonke Makanjuola has urged parents and guardians of students in public secondary schools in the state to pay the educational development levy of their children and wards.

In a statement signed by the press officer of the ministry, Mr Sheriff Hussain, the permanent secretary said that the call was to remind the parents that the levy, meant for the second term of the 2015/2016 academic session, was due for payment.

She pointed out that the government was appreciative of their support and co-operation to move education forward in the state through the first term payment, expressing the hope that the current levy would be paid latest by Thursday, February 25, in preparation towards their exams.

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Sunday Tribune

Some acts of Aare Arisekola Alao By ’Lekan Alabi

T

ODAY is Valentine’s Day, a day for lovers all over the world and the 71st posthumous birthday of the lovable first Aare Musulumi of Yorubaland and late Vice PresidentGeneral of the Nigeria Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA) and Aare of Ibadanland, businessman and philanthropist, Alhaji AbdulAzeez Arisekola Alao, to be called by his popular title, Aare, in this tribute.

Aare was a well-connected man in and outside Nigeria, as attested to in a book of tributes titled, “Arisekola In Our Minds”, edited by Professor Rusheed Aderinoye.

It was launched by Governor Abiola Ajimobi of Oyo State at Aare’s Oluwo Kereke Basorun Area home in Ibadan, at the 70th posthumous birthday Fidau of Aare on Valentine’s Day last year. Besides writing the foreword to the book, my tribute forms part of the book.

The life and times of the late successful businessman, best known for his charity, who started out as an apprentice ‘Gammalin’ trader under his late uncle, Alhaji Karimu Olasupo Jenrola, at Ogunpa Business District in Ibadan in the 1960s, were very open and still open vide the said book. In this wise, I shall focus on some public acts of Aare between 1975 and 2014 when he died as witnessed (personally) by me. In Yoruba, “Awon ise Aare ti won soju mi korokoro” (translated – Some acts of Aare Arisekola Alao before my very eyes) as the title of this piece above indicates. May the kind and noble soul of the witty dapper continue to rest in Aljannah Fridaous. Amen.

I started my journalism career in 1973 with the defunct Sketch Publishing Company Limited, Ibadan as a reporter/ writer/reader, in addition to writing a column in the Yoruba language weekly in the Sketch stable – “Gboungboun”. One day in 1975, our News Editor, the late Mr. Abiodun Famojuro, a vibrant wordsmith and tireless journalist, assigned me to go and interview the young, with due respect, Alhaji AbdulAzeez Arisekola Alao. I did my job, but politely turned down the kind offer of Aare– “a token for your transport fare back to Sketch”. The editor of “Sunday Sketch” had warned us not to receive gifts in any form, with emphasis on prepublication gifts. That interview in 1975 was my first contact with Aare.

In February 1983, I was seconded to the then Governor of old Oyo State (present day Oyo and Osun States) the “Cicero of Esa-Oke”, Chief ’Bola Ige, my boss and mentor, as a Press Secretary. God grant his soul repose. Amen. In the general elections of 1983, the defunct Federal Electoral Commission (FEDECO) declared Chief Ige of the defunct Unity Party of Nigeria (UPN) a loser in the state’s governorship election to Dr. Victor Omololu Olunloyo of the also defunct National Party of Nigeria (NPN). Three months later, on December 31, 1983, the military staged a coup that toppled President Shehu Shagari-led NPN Federal Government and states government also. Our incumbent President Muhammadu Buhari became Nigeria’s military head of state, and the then Lieutenant-Colonel Oladayo Popoola (now a retired Major-General, lawyer and printer) was appointed the Military Governor of old Oyo State.

Governor Popoola, in what I always describe as the “eighth” wonder of the world, ordered that I resume as his Press Secre-

tary, after my appointment had been terminated earlier in October 1983, like some others, by Governor Olunloyo’s NPN government. I thus returned to my old desk in the Governor’s Office, Ibadan.

One day in 1984, my friend and colleague, the current resident media consultant to the Independent Corrupt Practices and other related Offences Investigation Commission (ICPC), Folu Olamiti, then a senior editorial staff of the Nigerian Tribune, Ibadan visited me in the office and told me of Aare’s urgent need for an appointment with the governor. I succeeded in fixing the appointment for Aare which Governor Popoola graciously approved. Their meeting, at which I was present, took place in a private home (not connected to Aare) in Bodija Estate, Ibadan. It was about a decade after the 1984 ‘rendezvous’ that Aare got to know that I was the ‘Mr. Fix It’ of his audience with the military governor. Of course, that further cemented our relationship.

On my last day (30th March, 1989) in office as the Press Secretary to the fourth governor of old Oyo State that I had the good fortune of serving, the late Brigadier-General Sasaenia Oresanya, God bless his kind soul, asked me at the end of our long farewell chat, to make a request, any request, with a vow to grant it. I stood up, thanked him, as it was unprecedented in Nigeria, and requested for 1989 Hajj sponsorship. My request was granted on the spot.

I visited Aare on my departure to Saudi Arabia. He prayed for me and my two professional colleagues (Alhaji Mikhail Adeogun and Alhaja Labake Adebiyi, both of the now defunct Concord Press Nigeria) who I took along to his home on Rotimi Williams Avenue, Bodija Estate, Ibadan.

On my return from Hajj, I paid him a

thank you visit accompanied by my wife, Adetokunbo, at his office in Lister House, Ring Road, Ibadan. He was so delighted to see us, particularly me. We went into a long, lively discussion which suddenly turned sour the moment I answered his question of “Which of your houses did you return to from Makkah?” with a “sorry, sir, I have not built a house”. Rising from his seat with the famous frown on his face, he retorted “Lekan, se emi loo maa pa iro fun? Sebi won ni o ko ile si Bodija ati Oluyole? O ko fe soro loju iyawo re? (‘Lekan, why will you lie to me? But, people say you have built houses in Bodija and here in Oluyole Estate. Or you don’t want to disclose the secrets before your wife?)

He sat down and requested that ’Tokunbo should please excuse us. I repeated my earlier denial of ownership of any personal house either in Bodija, Oluyole Estates or anywhere in the world. At that point, he called ‘Tokunbo back into his office to join us. Facing her, he blamed her for not “pushing” me hard enough into owning at least a house in the course of sleepless nights of running around for four governors of Oyo State for six years!

In 1998, Aare asked me when I would be promoted from Mogaji to the Olubadan Traditional Chieftaincy line and to let him know what the requirements were. I made enquiries and recounted to him my missed chance of what would have been an instant appointment/promotion by the late Olubadan Yesufu Oloyede Asanke I in 1986, who said that he felt honoured and proud of me for acceding to his royal order to forgive two civil offenders, despite the fact that I was the press secretary to the then Military Governor of old Oyo State, Colonel Adetunji Olurin (now a retired Brigadier-General). One day in August 2002, after closing from my

office at Odu’a Investment Company Limited, Dugbe, Ibadan, where I was the pioneer General Manager Corporate Affairs, I paid a routine visit to Aare at his Oluwo Kekere home…Aare entered my car, and asked me to drive the two of us out of his palatial home. “Turn right, turn left, go straight” were the directives given by him to me till we got to the front of Olubadan Ogundipe’s palace at Oranyan where he asked me to stop and park. By the time I parked the car, got out and entered the palace, Aare had climbed the staircase to meet with Kabiyesi upstairs. After spending an hour or so with Kabiyesi, Aare came out and we departed the palace for his Oluwo home together again in my car.

A few weeks after that dash by Aare and I to his palace, Olubadan Ogundipe broke the good news of his intention to promote me from Mogaji to Jagun Olubadan of Ibadanland. And this took place on December 14, 2002. Aare had initiated my promotion on that unscheduled visit to Olubadan Ogundipe.

But since the universal path is not an endless straight lane, there would always be twists, turns and corners in every journey. The long, mutual, sweet and beneficial relationship between Aare and I received a jolt, which turned our relationship sour in 2009. Someone received a biting, acrimonious and rude text message intended for Aare on her handset.

She forwarded the rude message to Aare.

Naturally, as a human being with feelings, Aare was discomfited by the acrimonious text message. He, thereafter, summoned the famous “Aare’s Inner Caucus Cabinet” to his home and read out to us the highly offensive text message wherein the author alluded to Aare as a one-eyed man in a land of the blind. Our comments on the message were invited. I, in my contribution, said even though the sender was anonymous, the registered subscriber (owner) of the GSM number could be traced by the police and the network service providers. Little did I know or could ever imagine that I was suspected by Aare to be the author as I was told some days after the meeting, of the damming text message! A gulf was thus created between us. I maintained my innocence, and stayed off Aare’s company.

As light conquers darkness, and truth defeats lies, I was later vindicated by God, men and women of goodwill. Aare and I put the issue behind us and our relationship resumed with greater gusto, as he practically demonstrated at my 60th birthday party on October 27, 2010, during which he danced with relish in public for the first time after his several decades of “switch-off” from socials.

Aare travelled to Switzerland and the United Kingdom early in June 2014 with a promise to return early to chair a 60th birthday celebration in Ibadan of one of his younger sisters, which I was co-ordinator. His last words to me on his departure for the fateful overseas visit were, ’Lekan, Baba Oloye, go ahead with your aburo’s 60th birthday plans. I shall, Insha Allah, arrive a day to the celebration”. Pitifully, he did not.

Aare died in his sleep in his London, UK home on Wednesday, June 18, 2014, aged 69 years and was buried in his Oluwo Kekere Basorun, Ibadan home on Friday, June 20, 2014. May his kind and noble soul continue to rest in peace in Aljannah Fridaus. Amen.

Oloye Alabi, D.Litt (h.c) is the Aare Alaasa Olubadan of Ibadanland

53

14 February, 2016

sport

SUNDAY

Sunday Tribune

Editor: Ganiyu Salman tribunesporteditor@yahoo.com 08053789060

Theophilus Afelokhai, was in goal for Enyimba in Uganda.

Igbinoba

Confederation Cup:

‘Nasarawa will tame Foot’

CAF Champions League:

Aigbogun defends Enyimba defeat E NYIMBA head coach, Paul Aigbogun is still seething over his side’s 0-1 defeat to two-time Ugandan champions, Vipers SC in a first leg, preliminary round of the CAF Champions League game on Friday.

Erisa Sekisambu struck on 63 minutes as the Wakiso club tore the form book to shreds with an unlikely win at the Nakivubo Stadium, Kampala.

Aigbogun reckons his side will however, turn the tables in the return fixture when some of the big hitters who missed Friday’s game will be available for selection.

“We should not have lost this game. We

had enough chances to win. I believe we will advance to the next round.

“In the next game we would have our full squad and play very differently from how we did. It’s not over for us.

“Vipers have shown what they are capable of, scoring with a rare chance at goal. We too will show what we can do at home,” Aigbogun told the club’s official website, www.Enyimbafc.net.

The return leg of the tie will be played at the Adokiye Amiesiamaka Stadium, Port Harcourt on February 28, as the Enyimba Stadium in Aba is still under renovation.

Meanwhile, Vipers Sports Club coach,

George ‘Best’ Nsimbe, has declared that the game is not won and lost yet given the pedigree of the Nigerian opponents.

“Ten of the players who started the game against Enyimba played in a continental game for the first time and it showed in their performance,” Nsimbe said in an interview monitored.

“We showed them too much respect in the first half and it reflected in our performance.

“We made some mistakes which we hope to correct in the second leg.

“Enyimba will be difficult to beat in Nigeria. To progress to the next round, we must double our effort.”

TEAM Manager of Nasarawa United, Solomon Babanjah has said his team is focused to win massively today against AS Academie Generation Foot of Senegal in the CAF Confederation Cup preliminary first round first leg clash.

The Solid Miners host the Senegalese outfit at the National Stadium, Abuja, in their first competitive fixture of the season and Babanjah says they are poised to record a big win.

“We have prepared very well for the match.

The boys are in high spirits and are ready to make a lasting impression,” Babanjah told Goal .

“Nasarawa United has a place on the continent, that is why we are leaving no stone unturned in our bid not to disappoint Nigerians who have so much belief in us, we are ready.

“The support from the state government has been massive. We are grateful to Governor Umaru Tanko Al-Makura and his deputy, Silas Agara for always assisting the management.

Just like “Oliver Twist” we are asking for more from them.

“Our fans are in Mararaba, Nyanya, Ado, Keffi and Lafia. So we wouldn’t be lacking support from them. They will turnout massively to cheer us to victory,” he said.

Striker Esosa Igbinoba has however, warned his team-mates not to underrate the Senegalese opponents today.

“Our team is a very good one. There are many quality players in the team and we showed this last season in the league, and hopefully we want to show it in the Confederation Cup though it is a different competition,” Igbinoba, who scored 15 goals last season said.

The forward said he will not forget Lobi Stars’ scandalous 1-7 defeat at Liga Muçulmana de Maputo in the same competition in 2013, saying he has learned a lesson from it.

We are ready to host Sporting Cruz —Warri Wolves Akwa Utd wins in Congo WARRI Wolves chairman, Moses Etu has said the side is going ahead with its match plans against the Sao Tome & Principe side, Sporting Praia Cruz.

The Seasiders are expected to host the side from Africa Island today in the CAF Champions League first leg round match at the Warri City Stadium.

However, there are strong speculations that the visitors may not honour the clash as scheduled.

Etu said his side is aware of the unconfirmed report, but will go ahead with match plan until the authorities direct them otherwise.

“We are aware of the report but we have not been able to establish the authenticity of the claim as we speak (Saturday).

“We have put calls across to the side but heard a voice over the telephone saying no match we cannot act on it.

“We have communicated to the

Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), who has done the same to the Confederation of African Football (CAF) and we were told to hold on for a while for firm statement.

“Unofficially, we gathered that the Sao Tome & Principe side hinged their withdrawal on flight challenges.

“The officials for the match are on ground they have even inspected the match venue, Warri City Stadium.

“We are going ahead with all the match plans until it becomes clearly unreasonable to do so.

“We will dress for the match and if eventually they did not show up then a formal walk-over ceremony will be performed,” Etu told Supersport. com.

Warri Wolves will automatically advance to the second round of Africa’s first tier club competition without kicking a ball should Sporting Praia Cruz fail to honour the match today.

Dele Ajiboye, Wolves goalkeeper

AKWA United got its campaign in the 2016 CAF Confederation Cup off to a fine start on Saturday with a 1-0 win over Vita Club de Mokanda in Pointe-Noire, Congo.

Akwa United’s new-signing, Ubong Ekpai, scored the winner to ensure that the reigning Nigeria Federation Cup champions return home with a goal advantage ahead of the return leg in a fortnight.

Ekpai was one of four new signings named in the startlist of Akwa United by head coach, Maurice Cooreman for their maiden appearance on the continent. Kufre Ebong, Emeka Isaac and Michael Okoro Ibe were the others.

The Promise Keepers had the odds stacked against them before kick off, but pulled through a first half lead.

Ekpai scored the solitary goal of the contest with eight minutes to the break after a sweeping move.

The Nigerian Premier League campaigners were peppered by Vita Club for longer spells and would have their goalkeeper Olufemi Kayode to thank for his agility, jump power and sharp reflexes between the sticks.

However, there was late drama inside the Stade Municipal de Pointe-Noire when Akwa United defender Samuel Okon was sent off.

The numerical disadvantage was not enough to deny the visitors a winning start in their debut in a CAF club competition.

Akwa United will host the reverse fixture at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium, also known as the Nest of Champions, in Uyo.

54

14 February, 2016

THE

Sunday Tribune

Fabio Lanipekun 08050498512 lanipekunfabio@yahoo.com

Oliseh: In the midst of insanity F EBRUARY 13, 2000 after the Super Eagles lost via a penalty shoot-out to Cameroon in the final of the African Cup Nations, at the National Stadium, Surulere, Lagos, Skipper Sunday Oliseh stepped onto the podium to receive the runnersup trophy.

Tears rolled down uncontrollably from his face and thousands of fans watching on the screen shared in Oliseh’s agony.

To the majority of Nigerians, none of us had ever witnessed such overflowing patriotic emotions over the defeat of the national team.

Two years later, Oliseh captained the Super Eagles to yet another African Cup of Nations finals in Mali and after being shoved out in the semi-final, Oliseh turned nasty and had a spat with the Sports Minister, Engineer Ishaya Mark Aku and the then Director of Sports, Dr Patrick Ekeji, who reportedly placed a ban on Oliseh from playing for Nigeria again.

I guess playing for Nigeria is different from coaching Nigeria and thirteen years later, Oliseh popped up as the successor to Stephen Keshi, who was the toughest of the 1994 Super Eagles set that transited from playing to coaching the Super Eagles. Austin Eguavoen was the first, followed by Samson Siasia, Keshi and now Oliseh. Except for Oliseh, all the others had a stint as coaches at whatever level, but Oliseh picked up the Super Eagles job as the Chief Coach, right from the top.

In addition to that favour the NFF went further to pay Oliseh three months salary in advance which is unusual which gave the untested coach the impression that he was a “special one”. Nigerian ex-international footballers, especially those who are into coaching have a terrible habit of constituting themselves into a cabal of super critics. Those who played in the World Cup finals of USA ‘94, France ‘98, South Korea 2002 are so full of bile, one begins to wonder why they are so jealous of one another. Nigerian World Cup players of South Africa 2010, USA 2014 behave with better decorum in criticising their erstwhile colleagues, but generally not enough respect is shown all around. Why did Sunday Oliseh throw the latest tantrum after he failed to get the Super Eagles past the first round stage in the African Cup of Nations.

If he blasted critics “insane” apology notwithstanding, can he recognise an insane person when he sees one? A Dictionary defines “insane” as “seriously mentally ill and unable to live in normal society.” Surely Oliseh did not mean that, he merely wanted to show off his romance with the English language

which endeared him to the NFF while freelancing with the South African television station.

So apart from his well known hot temper, arrogance has once again come to play a nasty role in Oliseh’s tempestuous life. But does he deserve to be pardoned like the Sports Minister has advocated?

Oliseh vented against multiple targets – the NFF, the general public, his former colleagues and the sports media. If one can guarantee others’ forgiveness, media is hard nut. Oliseh’s charge that some media people were harassing him to bribe them before giving him positive exposure, might sound plausible, but it is unprovable and therefore constitutes a serious offence. The Nigerian sports media are going through a hard time and to add a spurious allegation may be unforgivable.

Now to the role of the Sports Minister.

I have met the amiable Minister, Barrister Solomon Dalung a couple of times at public functions and I admire his friendliness, open heartedness and go go spirit. As the Sports Minister, he should reserve his position as the last resort, not the first in burrowing into all sorts of issues and disagreement. By delving into the Oliseh/NFF imbroglio half way would not help and as the direct employers, the NFF should not be reduced into a toothless bull dog. As at the time of putting this piece together, news filtered into the effect that the technical development committee members of the NFF had resigned en masse in protest against Oliseh’s outburst, that they were all “insane”. Should we not appeal to the word “insane” to please have mercy on us?

Oliseh

Lagos lighting speed marathon MARATHON is the longest race in the world. It covers a distance of 42.195 kilometers and featured in the ancient Olympic Games, and has since become the cynosure of Modern Olympic race for both men and women.

Apart from the Olympics which attract gold, silver and bronze medals, the marathon, from the 19th century has become a phenomenal road race involving thousands of competitors and huge amount of cash prizes from the corporate world.

Many big cities in the world have marathon races named after them and they have become an integral part of the tourist industry.

Lagos held a whirlwind marathon penultimate Saturday, less than two months of announcing it. It was a run-away success. In the past it took several months to plan for a marathon race but the recent one powered by Access Bank and driven by the Lagos State government with Governor Akinwunmi Ambode in the driver’s seat, everything went smoothsailing.

Lagos State unleashed all their communications channels to reach the teeming population and if anyone said they did not hear of the Marathon then, they were not in Lagos! One thing though, marathon race is a television event and LTV, TVC and Channels which reportedly jointly covered the race, did not add up to scratch. The coverage was reduced into a studio affair whereas the race is about athletes chasing each other in the streets of Lagos with landmarks and tourist attractions popping in once in a while. The lead pack, the chasing pack, the front runners, the back markers must be clearly identified and the running commentary and route map must be clearly shown. I saw some aerial shots intermittently which showed the beauty of the third Mainland Bridge but none picked the marathoners in action.

Hopefully next year, there will be more time for the organisers to plan, but one thing is certain, get professionals involved.

Mailbag: On Bolaji Oni, Austin Akosa, Olu Akoja I have just finished reading your column now. The article is refreshing and informative. Thank you for taking us through the memory lane again. The Lord will continue to enrich your knowledge sir, Babs Oyetoro Lagos. …………………….

Thanks Babs.

55

sport

14 February , 2016

Sunday Tribune

Anthony Martial attempts to keep out Lamine Kone’s header on the line as David de Gea falls on the ball and knocks it for the goal which earned Sunderland maximum points on Saturday.

EPL Table Team

P

GD

Pts

1

Leicester

25

20

53

2

Tottenham 25

26

48

3

Arsenal

25

17

48

4

Man City

25

21

47

5

Man Utd

26

9

41

6

S’ampton

26

10

40

7

West Ham

26

9

40

8

Watford

26

1

36

9

Stoke City

26

-5

36

10

Everton

26

11

35

11

Liverpool

25

-4

35

12

Chelsea

26

02

33

13

C Palace

26

-5

32

14

West Brom 26

-8

32

15

B’mouth

26

-14

28

16

Swansea

26

-10

27

17

Norwich

26

-20 24

18

Newcastle

26

-22

24

19

Sund’land

26

-18

23

20

Aston Villa 25

-20 16

Ighalo with his award

D

AVID de Gea’s cruel 82nd-minute blunder condemned Louis van Gaal’s Manchester United to a 2-1 defeat at struggling Sunderland on Saturday that compromised their hopes of Champions League.

Bidding to close the six-point gap separating them from fourthplace Manchester City, United fell behind in the third minute when Wahbi Khazri’s free-kick from out on the left eluded everyone and crept in at the far post.

Anthony Martial equalised in the 39th minute, but Sunderland took the points when Martial’s

attempt to clear Lamine Kone’s header off the line struck goalkeeper De Gea’s arm and rolled into the net.

It was United’s seventh league defeat of the season and it will only serve to fuel speculation about the position of their manager Van Gaal, amid reports that

the club has approached Jose Mourinho to succeed him.

United fell to a first league defeat on Wearside for 19 years and became the first top-half team that struggling Sunderland have beaten this season in 14 attempts.

In their first game since an-

nouncing the sacking of Adam Johnson after the England winger admitted to child sex charges, Sunderland took an early lead in fortunate circumstances.

The hosts earned a free-kick near to their left touchline following a foul on Patrick van Aanholt

by Matteo Darmian.

Adebayor nets first goal for Palace in home defeat At last, Emmanuel Adebayor scored his first goal for his new club, Crystal Palace on Saturday at Selhurst Park, but his goal counted for nothing as Watford’s Troy Deeney netted a brace to make the Premier League game end in 2-1.

Adebayor ’s last goal in the top flight came 475 days ago, but his header went to waste as

Ighalo wins Goal Nigeria player award WATFORD forward striker, Odion Ighalo has won the 2015 Goal Nigeria Player of the Year award after seeing off keen competition from Portland Timbers’ Fanendo Adi. He follows in the footsteps of his illustrious compatriots who have won the prestigious award: John Obi Mikel (2012 & 2013) and Vincent Enyeama (2014).

Ighalo took 30.5 per cent of the votes ahead of Adi whose 28.6 per cent made this the most keenly contested Goal Nigeria Player of the Year award since inception, as the field was widened from five to 10 contestants for the first time.

The Hornets forward was presented with his award in Eng-

De Gea’s blunder earns Sunderland victory

land during the week and he appreciated the fans for believing in him.

“First, I thank God for the great achievement and all that and I’m very happy to have won the Goal Nigeria Player of the Year award. It’s a great achievement for me in my career and my life,” Ighalo who has 14 goals in the Premier League this season said.

“Thanks to my family, thanks to all those who made it possible, my team-mates, my coaches and all the people who gave me the opportunity to grow as a player and most especially those who made this award at Goal and the fans that chose me to be the winner of the award.”

Deeney put Alan Pardew in the doghouse, while Palace stretched their winless run in the Premier League to nine games.

Deeney’s first came from the penalty spot, while his second was more straightforward. Having himself not scored since Boxing Day, the captain won’t care how they go in.

His form before the turn of the year made him along the most feared in England and Quique Sanchez Flores will hope it sparks something in his striker at the business end of the season.

For Alan Pardew and Palace, though, the problems are piling up.

They are without a win since December 2015 and had Pape Souare sent off in stoppage time for an awful challenge on Valon Behrami. It’s going from bad to worse as it stands.

Deeney shot the Hornets ahead in the 16th minute frm the spot.

The visitors almost doubled their lead in the 36th minute through Odion Ighalo, when the striker slipped past Damien Delaney to only be left with Hennessey to beat.

Winners of Valentine’s day messages (1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (6) (7) (8) (9) (10) Adebayor celebrates his goal against Watford

Oziyere Ojirogbe Chioma Karen Adebowale Tolulope Damilare Sodiq Daniel Ele Attah Oyetumbi Idowu Noren Oluwatosin Paul Akomolafe Yetunde Ajesola Felix Ayo Ale

Winners are to collect their gifts at Tribune House, Oke-Ado, Ibadan, Oyo State on Thursday, February 18 and should come with valid means of identification.

SIDELINES NIGERIA’S MOST INFORMATIVE NEWSPAPER

NO 2,033

14 FEBRUARY, 2016

www.tribuneonlineng.com

N200

Valentine’s Day is a season for celebrating love. Curiously, love, in Nigeria, loves money and the one with the money will be the “Honey” today, especially among the youth. Now that a dollar is N338 and most Nigerians are famously said to live on less than a dollar per day, just how many dollars will be required to remain “Honey” at the end of today?

Yoruba culture will revive

Y

ORUBA culture appears to be in danger today. In most schools in the South-West, the language is hardly taught to students, with teachers preferring to use the English language instead. Students who dare speak the Yoruba language in school are penalised for speaking in “vernacular”. The malady has become even worse with parents blatantly refusing to use the mother tongue, shutting out their children from learning and understanding the beauty of their language and culture.

• • • • A few days ago, in a leisurely discussion involving many Yoruba men, women and children, I mentioned the movement of Yoruba Cultural Nationalism of about onehundred years ago. Most of my hearers had no idea what I was talking about. That is what always happens whenever I happen to mention this movement. It is painful that our people, especially our youths, know nothing about it – painful because the story of the Yoruba Cultural Nationalist Movement, spanning the last years of the 19th century and the first years of the 20th,is one of the most glorious stories in the modern history of the Yoruba Nation.

It is a story that we should all know inside and out – a story that our children should be told over and over at home and at school.

The following is the background to it.

From about 1885, various European countries came scrambling for territorial empires all over Africa. Peoples after peoples of Africa fell to the European forces. The British, the French, the Germans, the Portuguese, the Belgians, the Dutch, all carved out empires for themselves. Most of Yorubaland became British possession (later to be included in Nigeria), and the rest became French and German possessions (later to be included in what are now Benin and Togo Republics).

But the conquest of Africa was not only military and territorial; it was also massively psychological. Usually, small European armies were taking over African territories, because they were armed with better weapons, or because the African nations were not fully aware about what was happening to them, and because they did not unite to defend their homelands. Naturally, the European colonialists became enormously arrogant. Everywhere, they proclaimed the doctrine that Africans were culturally and

intellectually inferior to Europeans, that Africans were incapable of developing any civilisation, and that it was the duty of Europeans to bring civilisation to Africans.

These attitudes gradually infected all aspects of European relationships with Africans all over tropical Africa. The growing disrespect of Africans even spread into the Christian missions. In the mission churches and schools, it was now being said that, to become a Christian, or to be regarded as educated or civilised, one must give up one’s native culture. One must give up such things as one’s indigenous name, clothing, manners, and language, and take on European ones. Even the Yoruba clergy working in the missions began to experience seri-

these newspapers joined excitedly in the movement. “We are Africans first (or we are Yoruba first) before we are Christians” became popular among Christians in Lagos.

This movement of Yoruba Cultural Nationalism produced very many effects. In popular culture and fashions, Yoruba Cultural Nationalism promoted a great pride in Yoruba clothes and dresses. The Yoruba way of dressing became very popular indeed. It became more attractive as new styles and modifications were added.

Yoruba men and women serving in the Lagos colonial service responded in their own way. Many of them resigned their jobs and started private businesses, schools and churches of their own.

diranapata@yahoo.com

ous disrespect and discrimination from the mission bodies that they served.

For a start, some Yoruba Christian converts in Lagos did respond by trying to become “black Europeans”. They hoped that doing so would earn them acceptance into the “civilised” British community in Lagos. Many of these changed their names to European names. Some others adopted European dress items such as the stovepipe hat, the feathered bonnet, highheeled shoes, and gloves, etc. Some young persons who went to study in Britain returned home in only two or three years and claimed that they could no longer understand or speak the Yoruba language.

However, a powerful Yoruba reaction to all these rapidly brewed, and it soon became a great movement – the movement of Yoruba Cultural Nationalism. As it grew, most of those who had adopted aspects of European culture gave them up and returned to their Yoruba culture. There had been newspapers in Lagos for decades, and

In the Christian missions, the Yoruba clergy responded by introducing Yoruba culture into church services and church life. For instance, they introduced Yoruba music and songs, which the missions had earlier regarded as pagan. Some of the Yoruba clergy even went further than that.

They withdrew from the service of the European mission organizations and started an African Church Movement. This created separate African churches in the various denominations - African Anglican churches, African Methodist churches, and African Baptist churches. The African churches brought Yoruba culture into the Christian church in a big way. They also wrote Yoruba hymns and published hymn books. But another movement soon started which went even further than the African Church Movement to integrate Yoruba culture into Christianity. This was the Aladura Movement. The Aladura Movement developed into a number of main branches – the Christ Apostolic Church,

I shall be disappointed if Mourinho talk is true —Van Gaal LOUIS van Gaal says he would be upset if it is true that Manchester United have approached Jose Mourinho behind his back.

The embattled United boss, Van Gaal had his woes compounded on Saturday, as his men lost 1-2 to struggling Sunderland, with speculation mounting that Mourinho is waiting in the wings to take charge at Old Trafford.

United have refused to deny reports they have spoken to Mourinho in recent weeks following their team’s slump and the former Chelsea boss is said to have made it clear he is ready to replace Van Gaal if the

Dutchman is sacked or departs at the end of the season.

Van Gaal concedes it is plausible the club have made contact with Mourinho in secret, but he is hoping that is not the case.

“Then I shall be disappointed (if contact has been made).

“Because that is the consequence of what I have said. In a football world that is possible, I know, but I do not think that.

“I have a relationship with (executive vice chairman) Ed (Woodward) and the Glazers. They (would) tell me I think,” Van Gaal said.

the Cherubim and Seraphim Church, and the Celestial Church of Christ.

Yoruba Cultural Nationalism also promoted a lot of interest in the study of Yoruba culture and history. Many books were written in these years on both subjects. And many literate Yoruba people wrote the traditional stories of their towns – some in English, and many in the Yoruba language. Lessons in Yoruba history and culture were introduced into schools, including the mission schools.

Yoruba Cultural Nationalism created a powerful Yoruba national consciousness.

It unified the modern Yoruba elite for service to their nation. That unity was to express itself in many productive ways later – in the various Development Associations of the 1920s and 1930s, in the highly influential Egbe Omo Oduduwa from 1945, and in the first-rate government of the Western Region in the 1950s. It also charted great modern ambitions for the Yoruba nation – ambitions to acquire education, and to achieve modern economic progress, prosperity and power in the world. In these many ways, the movement of Yoruba Cultural Nationalism laid some of the foundations for Yoruba achievements and progress in the modern world.

All in all, Yoruba people did not merely challenge European cultural arrogance; they suppressed it quite successfully in their own country. Nowhere else in Black Africa, among no other Black African nation, did the Europeans experience another powerful cultural challenge like this.

A British colonial official who served for years in Nigeria in the 1950s testified to the later-day effects of Yoruba Cultural Nationalism. He wrote in his memoir that, in his experience, the Yoruba were one African people who never treated the British, or any other Europeans, as superiors or “as gods”. He wrote that the Yoruba are a people with “personal dignity and political finesse”. “In my experience” he added, “the Yoruba regarded themselves as superior to the British - - -. The Yoruba were often highly intelligent and they taunted the British with sending inferior people to Nigeria.” He also added that many other Nigerian peoples could usually not look the white man in the eyes, but that even the lowliest Yoruba servant tended to carry himself with confidence and pride.

EPL results: Sunderland

2 Man Utd

1

Bournemouth

1 Stoke City

3

C/Palace

1 Watford

2

Everton

0 West Brom

1 2

Norwich

2 West Ham

Swansea

0 Southampton 1

Chelsea

5 Newcastle

1

POOLS: 8, 14, 19, 20, 26, 30, 33, 46.

Van Gaal

Today’s Matches: 01, 02, 07.

Printed and Published by the African Newspapers of Nigeria PLC, Imalefalafia Street, Oke-Ado, Ibadan. E mail: sundaytribuneeditor@yahoo.com Website: www.tribuneonlineng.com ABC Member of the Audit Bureau of Circulation. 14/2/2016 MANAGING DIRECTOR/EDITOR-IN-CHIEF: EDWARD DICKSON. EDITOR : SINA OLADEINDE. All Correspondence to P. O. Box 78, Ibadan. ISSN 2712.