23rd January 2016 by Nigerian Tribune

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SATURDAY, 23 JANUARY, 2016

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pgs3&4 Olubadan: Govt gazette voids It was fun waiting for 40 years

Seriki line’s claim

—Olubadan-designate Oba Odulana’s burial rites begin Feb 6

Corruption killing Nigeria, 5 others —US

pg5

IBINABO FIBERESIMA

What love has taught me pg33

Tompolo: Ijaw leaders plead with FG on pg6 soldiers’ presence

pg4

438 people under monitoring

Former National Security Adviser (NSA), Colonel Sambo Dasuki (retd), confers with his lawyers at the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory where he is standing trial over alleged misappropriation of N32bn arms fund, in Abuja, on Friday. PHOTO: NAN

Dasuki to court: Free me from SSS custody

pg6

14 cases of Lassa fever in Lagos

entertainment

23 January, 2016

Saturday Tribune

Why I left

usa for Nigeria —Osas, Tinsel star

Born in New York, United States, Osariemen Martha ‘Osas’ IghodaroAjibade, a Bronx native of Nigerian parents, came to international acclaim in 2010 after winning Miss Black USA pageant competition — the first Nigerian to hold the title. But she remained unknown to many Nigerians until she surfaced as ‘Adanna’ in Mnet-sponsored TV series, Tinsel. Since then, the graduate of Broadcast Journalism and dual minor degrees in Entrepreneurship and Theatre in Pennsylvania State University has cut through mainstream acting, featuring in prime Nollywood movies and TV series. Osas, who is now happily married to a Nollywood colleague, Gbenro Ajibade, shares with Newton-Ray Ukwuoma her journey in the entertainment industry and marriage.

esides acting and presenting, what else are you known for? I am a philanthropist and a proud child of God.

You mean you are born-again? Yes.

How long have you been born-again? It has been some years. I gave my life to Jesus with my family. It was a beautiful thing. Is there a story behind it, did something hap-

pen? No. Nothing needed to happen. After looking at how much we had come and what God had done in our lives, we needed to give our lives where they needed to be given, and that was to the Lord. You said you are a philanthropist, was it influenced by your religious background? Mmhmm, not directly. My sister passed away in 2006. She died of malaria. I decided to set up a foundation for the needy and also to bring awareness about malaria. Very often, we go to different communities to give out bed nets and to educate people about malaria. And for those who do have malaria, we provide drugs and other

treatments. Sorry about the loss of your sister. It is all right. Do you have sponsorship for the foundation? It is primarily funded by me at the moment. But I am most willing to receive help from anywhere. Do you have a name for it? It’s called the Joyful Joy Foundation.

Continues on pg30

news

23 January, 2016

Saturday Tribune

Olubadan: Govt’s 2001 gazette annuls Seriki line’s claim By Laolu Afolabi

S anxiety mounts in Ibadan over claims by the Seriki line to the Olubadan stool, it has been learnt that existing government documents actually preclude that line from consideration for the throne unless as stipulated in the 1959 Ekerin Balogun Declaration. The 1959 Declaration gave opportunity for a Seriki to be promoted to the Ekerin Balogun chieftaincy line in the case of simultaneous deaths on the Balogun line. An Oyo State government’s White Paper, published in Gazette No 27, Volume 26 of July 16, 2001, contains the decision of the state government to reject a recommendation by the Justice Akin Oloko-led commission to allow the Seriki to become Ekerin Balogun in rotation with the Ekarun Balogun. The commission was set up to review disputed chieftaincy declarations in the state including Ibadan its capital. Excerpts from the Gazette: “113.1.1 Commission’s recommendation: “The commission proposed an amendment to the 1959 Ekerin Balogun Registered Declaration thus: ‘the Ekerin Balogun title should be filled in the event of a vacancy by the Ekarun Balogun and the Seriki in rotation.’ “113.1.2. Government’s Decision: “Government rejected the recommendation in favour of the existing declaration which should subsist.” Meanwhile, the Baale Ekotedo, Ibadan, Taye Ayorinde, has asked the head of the Seriki line in Ibadan, Chief Bayo Oyediji, not to do anything that could disrupt the existing peace in the city. He dared any court which may want to build on illegality, adding that you can’t give what you don’t have. According to him, it was on record that after Chief A. M. A. Akinloye, who took the Olubadan

to court over promotion in the Seriki line, no Chief in the Seriki

line had since been promoted. Baale Ayorinde said

“going by the government’s rejection of the recommendation of the

Oloko commission, it is obvious that the status quo ante must be main-

tained, which is the 1959 Ekerin Balogun Declaration.”

My 40 years of waiting were just like 40 days —Adetunji, Olubadan-designate By Dipo Ogunsola THE Olubadan of Ibadandesignate, Chief Saliu Adetunji, says having to wait for forty years before ascending the throne was fun-filled. “It is 40 years that I waited but how long is forty years? It could be boring for others but the 40 years to me is like 40 days,’’ Chief Adetunji told Saturday Tribune in his Popoyemoja mansion in the South East of Ibadan on Friday. “I began the race in 1976, I don’t know how old you are now, but you look quite young (talking to the reporter) and if you must know, all these years I have enjoyed every step taken that I can’t believe it is forty years when I look back.” Chief Adetunji said it would be ungodly of him to declare that he knew he would be an Olubadan someday. “Every day of your life, try and do good, you are not the owner of your life. I pay tributes to all Ibadan chiefs who have passed on

along the line. That I am alive is a blessing. I am more thankful than joyful.’’ Chief Adetunji said he hoped to improve Ibadanland by talking and liaising with relevant people who are knowledgeable and sociable. “This is a very big city, I can’t know or do everything.” Meanwhile, Mogaji Laboo of Ibadanland, where the Olubadandesignate belongs, Shittu Adebisi, has said the claim of Seriki line to the throne of Olubadan would soon be addressed by custodians of history. ‘In the first place, is there any Seriki of Ibadanland? Of all the past 40 Olubadans, have we ever heard of an oba from the Seriki line?” He described the agitation of the Seriki clan as both political and illtimed. Walking down memory lane, Adebisi said: “Traditionally we have the Egbe Oba (civil or Otun) and the military line rotating the kingdom. The Egbe oba or

the Otun line was the original ruling clan but stretched hands of rulership to the military line in appreciation of the protection accorded Ibadan by the warriors.” “Meanwhile, the position of Seriki originated from the Balogun line. When there were troubles in any zone in Ibadanland, the

military would go there to quash the uprising but before doing that, the warriors would ask after the opinion leaders and influential figures of the troubled zone. It was from this peculiar situation that the title of Seriki was recognised in Ibadanland. When Seriki clan became

powerful and sought the right to the throne, Adebisi explained that it was resolved that Seriki title holder could only come in as Ekerin Olubadan when two chiefs of Balogun extraction died simultaneously. “Ibadan people do not know how to turn people down outright. That is why they stipulated that two people along Balogun lines have to die before a Seriki comes in as Ekerin Olubadan. In the history of Ibadan, this has never happened. The late Chiefs Omowale Kuye and Sulaiman Omiyale (who died recently) did not die simultaneously and belonged to different lineages,” Adebisi said. Meanwhile, Lagunna Balogun of Ibadan, Sharafa Alli, has assured that the city would experience smooth transition. “We are still mourning Oba Samuel Odugade Odulana and we are felicitating with Chief Adetunji, so we are not disturbed by any controversy. Ibadan people know what is right, and we are going to do it,” Alli told Saturday Tribune on Friday.

news

23 January, 2016

Late Olubadan’s burial rites commence Feb 6 By Tunde Ogunesan and Wale Akinselure

INAL burial rites for the late Olubadan of Ibadan, Oba Samuel Odulana Odugade I are slated to hold from Saturday, February 6 to Friday, February 12, 2016. Oyo State governor, Senator Abiola Ajimobi made this disclosure on Friday when he, in company of some government officials, paid a condolence visit to the Olubadan’s palace at,

Monatan, Ibadan. Speaking, Ajimobi asserted the readiness of the state government to accord the late Olubadan a befitting burial, as a final respect to a man of revered ideals. Describing the Olubadan as an accomplished human being in all ramifications, he reiterated that the state government would not shy away from its responsibility to give the late Olubadan a respectable burial. Ajimobi said: “He was a good father to all of us. We are happy and sad at the

same time. We are happy that he grew old and lived a fruitful life. Olubadan was a disciplinarian and was orderly in his endeavours. He was elegant and had integrity. “Thrice, he fought for me to be governor. He had a mind and heart of assessing people’s credibility. Olubadan was an accomplished human being by all standards. He was fulfilled and content with all he had. He was an epitome of patriotism, who was passionate about the progress

Olubadan: Buhari, Oyinlola, Wale Oke, commiserate with Oyo govt, Ibadan people Leon Usigbe - Abuja and Saheed Salawu - Ibadan PRESIDENT Muhammadu Buhari on Friday commiserated with the people of Ibadan and the government of Oyo State on the passing away of the Olubadan of Ibadan, Oba Samuel Odulana. In a statement issued by the Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, Femi Adesina, in Abuja, the President, who also extended heartfelt condolences to the family of the late monarch, described the highly revered traditional ruler as a patriot, promoter of peace, unity and champion of the wellbeing of his subjects. He noted that the passage of Oba Odulana was a great loss, not only to the people of Ibadan, but also the entire country as the rich and wise counsel of the late royal father will be missed. He said: “Nigeria needs the wisdom of such senior citizens and their wealth of experience and moral standards, especially at a time like this that we want to change the orientation and ethical values of our people to place higher priority on hard work, discipline, honesty, accountability and transparency.” He enjoined all those mourning the late Oba Odulana who died at the age of 101, to take solace in the fact that he lived well and left behind remarkable imprints for his successor and admirers to emulate. President Buhari also prayed God Almighty to grant the soul of the late Olubadan a peaceful rest. A former governor of Osun State, Prince Olagunsoye Oyinlola, has

also commiserated with the Oyo State government, the Olubadan-in-Council and the entire indigenes of Ibadan on the death of the Olubadan, Oba Samuel Odulana. In a message, Prince Oyinlola described Oba Odulana as a wellrounded monarch whose contributions to development at local and national levels helped deepen democracy and good governance. Oyinlola said the detribalised posture of the departed king caused his reign to be marked by peace and harmony among his subjects, particularly among the various ethnic groups that make up such a populous city as Ibadan. The former governor, while praying for the repose of the soul of Oba Odulana, urged the people of Ibadan, especially the Odulana family, to take solace in the fact that the traditional ruler lived a meaningful life and, yet, died peacefully in his sleep at a ripe age. Similarly, the Presiding Bishop of the Sword of the Spirit Ministry, Bishop Francis Wale Oke, described the death of Oba Odulana as saddening. This was contained in a press release made available to Saturday Tribune on Friday. “Even though he passed away at the ripe age of 101, the death of the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Samuel Odulana Odugade I, is quite saddening and still comes as a rude shock to me. “As a first-class monarch, he steered the ship of his kingdom in a way that touched the lives of many

people and impacted positively upon humanity. His Royal Majesty lived for the good of all and the peace and progress of his people, Bishop Oke said in the release. “Oba Odugade is a shining star with sterling qualities who was a disciplined, courageous and highly detribalised. “As a devoted Christian, he loved and feared God and was passionately committed to the work of God. “He paid his dues as a war veteran, teacher, administrator, lawmaker and leader par excellence. He was a revered elder statesman which earned him the national honour of the Commander of the Order of the Federal Republic (CFR). “He was a selfless politician who became a unifying force and a bridge. He was a man of impeccable character who lived a worthy and fulfilled life. He has come, he has seen, he has conquered. He will be sorely missed at this auspicious time of nation building. “I commiserate with the Odulana family; His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Oyo State, Senator Abiola Ajimobi; the people of Oyo State and the entire Yoruba race on the demise of our revered king and illustrious father, Oba Samuel Odulana Odugade I. “May the Lord comfort you and give you the strength to bear this irreparable loss. Though Oba Odulana has gone to be with the Lord, he has bequeathed an enduring legacy which I urge everyone to embrace and preserve,” Wale Oke said.

Saturday Tribune

‘Nigerian military killed 63 B/Haram fighters, recover ammunition in one week’ Chris Agbambu - Abuja of Ibadan.” In his remarks, the Otun Olubadan of Ibadanland, Chief Lekan Balogun appreciated the state government’s commitment to a befitting burial for the late Olubadan. He assured of the support of the Olubadan-incouncil towards a successful burial for the late Olubadan. Some of those on hand to receive Ajimobi were the Osi Balogun of Ibadanland, Chief Olufemi Olaifa; sons of the late Olubadan: Prince Femi Lana and a former Commissioner for Information in Oyo State, Prince Gbade Lana. It was gathered that members of the committee set up for the Olubadan’s burial ceremonies comprise members of the Olubadan’s family, Olubadan in Council and state government officials. Meanwhile, the widow of the late Kabiyesi, Olori Moriyike Lana says that her husband died in his sleep, thanking God that he grew old in good health. She expressed her appreciation to God almighty for giving the deceased Olubadan the grace to have all his children as his survivors. Other dignitaries that paid condolence visit to the Lanas are Pastor Femi Emmanuel, Chief Lekan Are, Chief Kola Daisi, Bishop Taiwo Adelakun, daughters of all former Olubadans and Chief (Mrs) Olanrewaju Otiti. Others are the President of Jericho Business Club, Chief Bayo Olugbemi; President, Ibadan Solidarity Club, Chief Debo Oladejo, Professor Akinbola Morakinyo and representatives of the Hand of Grace Christian Centre.

NIGERIAN troops, on Friday announced that they killed 63 Boko Haram terrorists and intercepted suicide bombers within a week. The Theater Commander of Operation Lafiya Dole, Major General Hassan Umoru, who made the disclosure in Maiduguri disclosed that the period covered January 18-22, 2016. Represented by his Deputy Commander, Major General Lucky Irabor, General Umoru said that the troops also recovered many AK47 rifles, ammunition, Anti-Aircraft Gun, RPG, GMPG, IEDs, vehicles and motorcycles among other items from the terrorists. He said that the troops conducted fighting patrols at Afe, Kudiye, Souma, Dikwa Mijigeta, Mida villages of Borno State. According to him, the troops, during the operations, came in contact with Boko Haram terrorists at Kudiye and Mijigete where 370 hostages were rescued and brought to IDP camp in Dikwa. He stated that the troops cleared some Boko Haram hideouts in Wala, Tirkopytir and Durubajuwe in Gwoza Local Government area, where they recovered GMPG, locally made dane guns and a grinding machine. In Huyum in Askira/Uba Local Government Area, he said that the terrorists, sighting the troops, abandoned their families. The commander stated that the troops also intercepted three suspected suicide bombers trying to infiltrate Maiduguri, along Maiduguri-Mafa checkpoint in Borno State. He said two female suicide bombers detonated the explosive which killed them instantly, while the male suicide bomber was immediately gunned down while trying to run into the troops at the checkpoint. General Umoru commended the efforts of the troops and renewed call for the troops and the public to be more vigilant and security conscious at all times, especially at checkpoints, worship centres, markets, motor parks and schools.

APGA dead in Nasarawa —Al-Makura Leon Usigbe - Abuja FOLLOWING his latest victory at the Supreme Court, Governor Tanko Al-Makura of Nasarawa State has observed that the All Progressive Grand Alliance (APGA), the party of his rival and former Minister of Information, Labaran Maku who dragged him to court over the last gubernatorial election, does not exist in the state. Fielding questions from reporters after seeing President Muhammadu Buhari in Abuja on Friday, he said the judgement of the apex court which affirmed his victory at the poll was predictable as he had previously floored his opponent in both the state Election Tribunal and the Appeal Court. He said he won the election fair and square, saying that the outcome over which he was challenged by Maku’s APGA could not have gone anywhere else because APGA was non-existent in the state. The governor said President Buhari would soon visit Nasarawa State to commission the ultra-modern Karu International Market undertaken by the state government to boost economic activities in the state in an effort to diversify the economy. He said this was imperative as the state wanted to key into the Federal Government’s policy of diversification in view of the dwindling resources from oil revenue.

Lagos records 14 cases of Lassa fever, places 438 under monitoring THE Lagos State government, on Friday, announced that it had recorded 14 suspected cases of Lassa fever as of Thursday, January 21. According to the state Commissioner of Health, Dr Jide Idris, out of these cases, three had been confirmed positive: one of the cases was confirmed on January 15, while two cases were confirmed on January 18, while eight had been confirmed to be negative and results of three cases were being awaited as of Friday

afternoon. The commissioner also said that about 438 people who got in contact with the suspected Lassa fever patients are currently being monitored. The three confirmed cases, according to the commissioner, included that of a 25-year-old undergraduate of the Ahmadu Bello University, Kaduna State, admitted on January 9; a 51-year-old man living in Ilasan, Lekki who came back with the ailment after attending a wedding ceremo-

ny in Edo State and was admitted on January 12; and a 36-year-old lady from Kogi State who was admitted on January 18. Dr Idris said while one of the patients, the 51-year-old man had died, the two other cases were responding to treatment. The commissioner said the breakdown of those being monitored showed that 91 people are being monitored in Ifako Ijaiye, 18 in Mushin, 42 in Alimosho, one in Kosofe, 66 in Eti Osa, and 220 in Amuwo.

news Corruption killing Nigeria, 5 others —US

he United States, on Friday, decried the level of corruption in Nigeria and in four other countries, challenging the world to make it a national security issue. US Secretary of State, John Kerry, in his speech at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, mentioned Nigeria, Syria, Iraq, Ukraine and Yemen as countries wracked by corruption. Kerry said the US would redouble its commitment to fighting corruption as a national security priority that costs the global economy some $2.6 trillion a year and “complicates every single security, diplomatic, and social initiative we undertake.” “We have to acknowledge in all quarters of leadership that the plagues of violent extremism, greed, lust for power, and sectarian exploitation often find their nourishment where governments are fragile and leaders are incompetent or dishonest,” Kerry said in a keynote address to the forum. He noted that graft and ineffective governance had either caused or contributed greatly to crises in Iraq, Nigeria, Syria, Ukraine, Libya and Yemen and thus had become

an international, rather than purely domestic, problem. “The fact is there is nothing, absolutely nothing, more demoralizing and disempowering to any citizen of any nation than the belief the system is rigged against them and that people in positions of power are — to use a diplomatic term of art — crooks who are stealing the future of their own people; and by the way, depositing their ill-gotten gains in ostensibly legitimate financial institutions around the world,” Kerry said. He said corruption is a social danger, a radicalizer used as a recruitment tool by extremist groups, and a destroyer of opportunity. “The bottom line is that it’s everybody’s responsibility to condemn and expose corruption, to hold perpetrators accountable, and to replace a culture of corruption,” Kerry said. “Never forget: the impact of corruption touches everyone,” he said. “We all pay for it. So we have to wage this fight collectively — not reluctantly, but wholeheartedly by embracing standards that make corruption the exception, not the norm.” On refugees, Kerry said

the US would encourage donors to increase financing for worldwide humanitarian appeals by 30 percent, from $10 billion to $13 billion a year. He said the US would also push countries that currently accept refugees to double the number they resettle, increase the number of refugees in school by one million and the number of refugees legally

allowed to work by one million. And, he said at least 10 more countries should begin accepting refugees or make major improvements to their policies. “These calls will be a centerpiece of a refugee summit that President Barack Obama will host at the UN General Assembly this fall,” Kerry said.

200 shops razed in Sapele market fire Ebenezer AdurokiyaWarri Several buildings and goods worth several millions of naira were, in the wee hours of Friday, lost to a raging fire at the Sapele main market in Sapele Local Government Area of Delta State. No fewer than 200 shops and warehouse stocked with goods were said to have been destroyed in the inferno at the market located along the popular Sapele Palm Avenue. A resident of the area, Mr. Gweke Esimagboko, said the inferno was probably caused by an electric spark from an unusual high voltage.

According to him, the warehouse where the fire started housed electronics and over 200 bags of rice and other wares. The witness added that another warehouse that was completely destroyed was stocked with electronics, household stuffs and edibles like rice, beans, salt and tomatoes, among others. The fire service, when called upon, was said to have complained of lack of facilities to fight the inferno. It was, however, gathered that men of the Oghara Fire Service eventually rose to the occasion and was able to prevent to total wreckage of the entire market.

Scene of the fire incident at Sapele market on Friday.

Tompolo: Ijaw leaders ask FG to reduce soldiers’

presence Ebenezer AdurokiyaWarri

Ijaw leaders from Gbaramatu Kingdom in Warri South West Local Government Area of Delta State have asked the Federal Government to reduce the presence of soldiers in their area. They also said they were ready to partner with the military to ensure that the perpetrators of last weekend’s bombing of oil and gas pipelines are brought to justice.

Chairman of the Gbaramatu Political Forum (GPF), Mr Godspower Gbenekama, made this known in a chat with journalists on Friday, in Warri, Delta State. He, however, urged the military to rescind its decision to go after community leaders over the vandalised pipeline at Egwa community. Gbenekama, who is also the Benemowei of Gbaramatu kingdom, described

the statement credited to the military as “unfortunate.” He condemned the pipeline vandalism and urged miscreants behind the act to desist from sabotaging the nation’s economy, noting that if they have scores to settle with the Federal Government, Gbaramatu kingdom should not be engaged as the battle ground. “If they have issues to grind with Tompolo, they should do it constructively

and give him a soft landing rather than using the military to deal with defenseless civilians. “We are aware that a bench warrant was issued against Tompolo. The last time they declared him wanted bombs were flying and many people were killed. “Now they say the same Tompolo has been declared wanted, we are afraid of our lives, especially when the military say they are going after the leaders ,” he said.

23 January, 2016

Saturday Tribune

CBN to refund N35m mandatory caution deposit to BDCs The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) says it will refund the mandatory caution deposit of N35 million to licensed Bureaux De Change (BDCs) operators. This is contained in a circular signed by Mr Kevin Amugo, the apex bank’s Director, Financial Policy and Regulation Department and issued to all BDCs on Friday in Abuja. The circular, with reference number REF: FPRD/ DIR/GEN/CIR/01/004 stated that this was in consideration of developments in BDCs’ operation. “Given the recent development in the operations of BDCs in the economy, the CBN has decided to refund the mandatory cash deposit of N35 million to all BDC operators. “The bank will also refund the retention of one million naira licensing fee. “Therefore, all eligible BDCs may wish to apply for refund of their caution deposits, attaching evidence of payment and bank transfer details,’’ the circular said. The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) recalls that the mandatory caution deposit was implemented and pegged at N35 million in 2014.

news

23 January, 2016

Saturday Tribune

Senate to pass budget in February —Saraki Adamu Amadu - Dutse

From left, leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Senator Bola Tinubu; national chairman of the party, Chief John Odigie-Oyegun and former governor of Ogun State, Chief Segun Osoba, during the burial of the late Pa Pius Ngige, the father of the Minister of Labour and Employment, Senator Chris Ngige, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Alor, in Anambra State, on Friday. PHOTO: NAN.

Dasuki asks court to free him from SSS custody

Court adjourns till Feb. 2 Sunday Ejike - Abuja

USTICE Hussein Baba Yusuf of a High Court sitting in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), on Friday adjourned till February 4, 2016 to take an application of stay of proceedings brought before it by the former National Security Adviser ( NSA), Col Mohammed Sambo Dasuki (retd). In the application filed through his counsel, Joseph Daudu (SAN), the former NSA asked the court to stay proceeding or discharge him from the matter on the ground that he was re-arrested by the agent of the Federal Government after being granted bail by the court. He also asked the court to order the Department of State Security Service (DSS) to release him since he had perfected the bail conditions as granted by the various courts that he was charged along with his co-accused. The prosecution counsel, Rotimi Jacobs (SAN) objected to the application in a counter affidavit wherein he told the court that the era of stopping criminal trial is gone, with the existence of section 396 of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA). According to the prosecution, trial in criminal matter should be day to day, once an accused person is arraigned in court, adding also that section 396 of the ACJA provides that application for stay shall not be entertained by the court. The prosecution urged the court not to entertain Dasuki’s application. Meanwhile, Daudu, representing Dasuki, informed the court that he was served with the prosecution’s six paragraph-counter affidavit in court yesterday morning

and asked for time to reply to the counter affidavit. Counsel for other defendants told the court that they had not been served with Dasuki’s application and the prosecution’s counter affidavit and added that they ought to be served with every processes filed, since they are parties in the matter. The trial judge, Justice Hussein Baba Yusuf adjourned the matter till February 4, 2016 to take Dasuki’s application as well as the counter affidavit of the prosecution. The judge also directed that Dasuki’s application and the prosecution’s counter affidavit be served on all the defendants in the matter. Jutice Baba Yusuf had on Thursday compelled the Federal Government to produce Dasuki in court to answer the criminal charges preferred against him. The judge who took swipe

at the Federal Government for failure to bring Dasuki to court, stood down the trial for two hours and insisted that the trial will not be conducted until Dasuki had been brought before him as required by law. Operatives of the State Security Service (SSS) who had taken Dasuki to an unknown custody in the past six weeks eventualy brought Dasuki to the court around 11:00 am in compliance with the court order under tight security. A judge of the Federal High Court, Abuja, Justice Adeniyi Ademola had on Wednesday ordered the Federal Government to produce Dasuki before him on February 16, 2016 to answer another set of criminal charges brought against him by the Federal Government. Ademola maintained that it was wrong of the government to have expected the court to conduct a criminal

trial in the absence of the defendant and in violation of the law. Three different courts where Dasuki was arraigned for criminal charges had granted him bail but the bail orders were not obeyed by government which, instead took the defendant to an unknown custody. Dasuki is facing trial along with a former Director of Finance in the Office of the NSA, Shuaibu Salisu, a former General Manager at the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), Aminu Babakusa and a firm, Acacia Holdings, on a 19-count charge bordering on money laundering, illegal diversion of public funds and criminal breach of trust before Justice Baba Yusuf . They all pleaded not guilty to all the charges preferred against them by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission ( EFCC).

Warri refinery may stop operation if vandalism continues —NNPC warns Collins Nnabuife - Abuja THE Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) on Friday said that the Warri refinery will soon shut down if the recent vandalism in the Niger Delta persists. This was disclosed by the Group Executive Director Commercial and Investment of the NNPC, Babatunde, Adeniran, at an inter-agency meeting on the recent pipeline vandalism in the Niger Delta region. Adeniran said that the Kaduna refinery was affected greatly due to the vandalism and warned that the Warri refinery may be affected soon. “The Kaduna refinery is

down because we are supposed to be supplying crude from Warri to the refinery through this line that has been vandalised, so because the line is not in place, we could not get crude across to Kaduna. “Warri refinery is still working, but Warri too may come down any moment from now because of the same reason and if we are to go through the alternative means which we have used in the past, it was very expensive, if we have to go through it again, of course it’s going to affect the country’s revenue which we know as at this time, is on the low ebb,” he said. Speaking further, Adeniran said that the Port-Har-

court refinery shut down due to vandalism related to that of the Warri refinery. His words: “Port-Harcourt is not affected by this, Port-Harcourt is down because even though we have the line from Bonny to Okirika, it is supposed to have been ready and it’s under the same situation but different from this one we are talking about because as we continue to repair the line, we have people going there to go and vandalise the line, but as it is, we are working very hard to make sure the line is back in two or three days so that we can start supplying crude to PortHarcourt refinery from Bonny”.

THE Senate President, Bukola Saraki, has expressed hope that the Senate will pass the 2016 budget by the end of February. The Senate President made the disclosure on Friday in Dutse, the Jigawa State capital while speaking to newsmen, saying “we are working hard to try and see whether we will meet the end of February, that is our target”. Senator Saraki explained that “we are looking straight to the public procurement law, because some times after passing the budget there is a lot of bureaucracy”. According to the Senate president, the National Assembly would scrutinise the budget, carry out all its legislative responsibility and ensure speedy passage of the budget to allow Federal Government to start delivering dividends of democracy to Nigerians. Senator Saraki also assured Nigerians that the sharp drop in oil prices would not affect the budget, urging them to feel at ease. He maintained that “On the issue of the Federal Government budget, there is no cause for alarm, as it was designed not depend on oil revenue.” The president of the Senate added that “if you look at the budget, the Federal Government has designed it to depend on non-oil revenue for the first time in our recent history, the oil revenue is below 50 percent in the budget, so the dwindling price cannot change anything in it.” He, therefore, debunked the rumour doing the rounds that the Senate is planning to effect changes in the budget, adding that the National Assembly would do everything possible to see that the budget meets the expectation of Nigerians. Senator Saraki enjoined Nigerians to be hopeful. “None of us would predict the price of oil, it is not only in Nigeria it is all over the world.”

Again, gunmen kill 3, set houses ablaze in Rivers community Dapo Falade - Port Harcourt RIVERS State may have come under siege as gunmen killed three persons and set ablaze houses at Isiokpo community in Ikwerre Local Government Area of the state.? The latest killings and burning of houses was coming less than 24 hours after the reported invasion, by suspected cultists, of Ahoada East and Ahoada West local government areas, where 16 persons, including a police corporal, were shot dead. According to a report, the gunmen, persons suspected to be members of a cult group, invaded the Isikpo community on Thursday night to perpetrate the dastardly act. It was learnt that the suspected cultists, said to have dressed in military uniforms, invaded the community and shot all through the night. A source in the community, who spoke anonymously, said residents of the community woke up on Thursday morning to see three persons dead and some houses burnt. The source stated further that the attack might possibly be a reprisal to avenge the recent killing of one Ebubedike Wabali, who was kidnapped and later found dead in a forest. As of the time of filing the report, the source stated that the villagers were scared to go about their businesses for fear of uncertainty.

Oil prices climb as cold weather boosts energy OIL prices surged as much as 10 percent on Friday, one of the biggest daily rallies ever, as bearish traders who had taken out record short positions scrambled to close them, betting the market’s long rout may finally be over. The onset of a massive snowstorm on the U.S. East Coast sent heating oil HOc1 up more than 10 percent. This helped fuel a 15 percent gain in crude prices over two days, reversing nearly half of the relentless, funddriven selloff that had pushed crude below $30 a barrel for the first time in 12 years. “I think panic took over common sense and now we’re starting to get a grip on reality,” said Phil Flynn, analyst at Price Futures Group in Chicago. A large driver of the rebound in prices over the last two days has also been short covering, buying back barrels sold previously at a higher price, as investors take advantage of the lowest prices since 2003. Short positions in the U.S. oil futures and options markets had doubled in three months to record highs of more than 200 million barrels.

news

23 January, 2016

Saturday Tribune

Reverend, 6 others arrested over stolen vehicle By Olalekan Olabulo A clergyman with the Presbyterian Church, Reverend Titus Onwuchekwa and six members of a trans-border robbery gang have been arrested by the police in Lagos State. The clergyman, however, claimed innocence of the operations of the gang, stating that the stolen vehicle that was recovered from him was used for ‘sowing a seed’. Also arrested by the operatives of the Special Anti Robbery Squad of the state police command are Opeyemi Aregbesola, Nola Salami Osas Felix, Chibike Umeh and, Ndibe Samuel. The suspects were on Friday afternoon paraded before newsmen by the state police boss, Fatai Owoseni, who stated that the police were on the trail of the fleeing members of the gang.

Nigeria will consider tax changes —Osinbajo

From left, Minister of Communication, Barrister Bayo Shittu; Oyo State governor, Senator Abiola Ajimobi and the Rwandan Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr Stanilas Kamanzi, at the communications sectors retreat, in Ibadan, on Friday. PHOTO: NAN.

ICT can create 2 million jobs annually for Nigerians —Shittu By Tunde Ogunesan

igeria’s Minister of Communication, Barrister Adebayo Shittu has disclosed that Information and Communication Technology could employ as many as over two million Nigerians if properly explored. Shittu disclosed this on Friday at the official openining of a two-day maiden

communications sector retreat organised by the ministry at the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA), Moniya, Ibadan, Oyo state. The retreat was declared open by the state governor, Senator Abiola Ajimobi. Also in attendance were the Rwandian Ambassador to Nigeria, His Excellency Kawanzi, members of ICT and Communications committee at the National

Assembly, Senator Fatai Buhari, Senator Abiodun Olujimi, Senator Musa Kwankwaso, Honourable Dada Awoleye and Saheed Fijabi. In his keynote address entitled “Continuing innovation while innovating continuity: Creating a smart digital Nigeria,” the Minister said the retreat was about ICT as a key element for inclusive as well

Don’t expect too much from FG, minister tells health workers Olayinka Olukoya - Abeokuta THE Federal Government has appealed to health workers in the country to lower their expectations from the Muhammadu Buhari-led administration in the sector for now. The Minister of State for Health, Dr Osagie Ehinare, made the appeal when he visited the Neuropsychiatric Hospital, Abeokuta, and reassured Buhari’s commitment at revamping the sector. The minister’s appeal was against the backdrop of the continuous drop of crude oil price at the international market. He said, “we all know that President Buhari made a lot of promises during his campaign and he is determined to keep these promises and this (health sector) is one of the signature programmes of this present administration. “But the truth is that this country does not have that much money as before. So we must lower our expectations. The price of oil not long ago was 111, 120 dollars; as of now, it is about 29 dollars per barrel.

“There are many decisions the medical director will say are at the level of the ministry and when they come to the ministry, I will tell them it is at the level of the presidency and the president will say ‘go and look at the treasury, it is beyond me.’” The minister enjoined the management of the hospital to look for alternative means of generating funds, including seeking assistance from philan-

thropists. Ehinare also pleaded with the Joint Health Sector Union (JOHESU) and other labour groups to desist from pressing home their demands through industrial action. “One thing that we do not definitely want to see is strike because the lives of people depend so much on what we do in our hospitals. We should not use that (strike) as a weapon,” he said.

as progressive diversification and development of Nigeria’s economy. He added that “creating a knowledge economy has been the key element in ICT sector policy making for the last 17 years,” adding that the sector can conveniently create two million jobs annually. “At 9.58 percent, ICT contributes about as much to GDP as oil and gas. It is arguably one of the fastest growing sectors of the Nigerian economy and is the second largest, soon to be the largest, ICT market in Africa. “Given the absence of fiscal buffers in a time of low oil prices and rising unemployment, ICT, which already employs more Nigerians than the oil and gas sector, is poised to drive growth. Industry analysts suggest that the ICT tools and devices, software solution, IT outsourcing and ecommerce billions of dollars to our economy when appropriately channeled and nurtured,” he said.

Boko Haram still in control at Abadam, Mobbar —Borno IDPs James Bwala - Maiduguri THE Internally Displaced Persons ( IDP)s from Mobbar and Abadam local government areas in the north of Borno state have insisted that they won’t return to base for now because their areas are still under the siege of Boko Haram insurgents. Some of the IDPs, who claimed to be from those areas were initially denied entrance into the Bakassi IDP camp along Damboa road in the capital on Friday as they were accused of assaulting a member of the Civilian JTF.

However, the IDPs told Saturday Tribune that they were merely reacting to the overzealousness of the CJTF members, who daily, allegedly rip them off. “Daily, we look out for jobs and upon returning to the camp, some of members of this CJTF make funny demands from us,’’ said Umar Zannah. Zannah added that it was not the wish of the IDP’s to continue to leave in the camp but for the fact that Boko Haram is still in control of their homes. He recalled that last year, General Yusuf Buratai was in their area to drive away

the insurgents but that immediately the Army chief left the area, the soldiers withdrew and camped at Gubio, thereby allowing Boko Haram militants to return to base. “No soldier in Abadam. No soldier in Damasak. The last time they said some areas were liberated, we know what happened to those people who returned home. “We want to be sure that such did not happen to us but the information we have is that Boko Haram insurgents are still in Abadam and Mobbar,” Zannah said.

NIGERIA’S government is considering changes to the tax regime as part of efforts to overcome the crisis in Africa’s biggest economy brought on by falling oil prices, VicePresident Yemi Osinbajo said in Switzerland, on Friday. “We are looking at increasing our tax coverage,” Osinbajo, who is attending the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, told CNBC in a television interview. “VAT, for instance — we have been doing just about 20 per cent coverage. We think that just by increasing coverage, we could do much more and so we could earn more in terms of local resources,” he said.

Army/Shiite clash: el-Rufai names Yusuf Ali counsel for inquiry Muhammad Sabiu - Kaduna GOVERNOR Nasiru el-Rufai of Kaduna state has announced the appointment of Malam Yusuf Ali (SAN) as counsel for the Commission of Inquiry that will investigate the recent clashes between the army and members of the Shiite that led to the death of hundreds of people in Zaria. This was contained in a statement made available to the Saturday Tribune on Friday and signed by the media aide to the governor, Mr Samuel Aruwan. The Kaduna State government last week announced the membership of the Judicial Commission of Inquiry into the Zaria clashes. The chairman is Justice Mohammed Lawal Garba, the presiding justice of the Port Harcourt Division of the Court of Appeal and has 12 other members.

news

23 January, 2016

Saturday Tribune

43-year-old pleads guilty to sale of fake drink By Yejide Gbenga-Ogundare

From left, Ondo State governor, Dr Olusegun Mimiko; Major-General Austin Agba and his wife, Yeside, during the funeral service for a former Minister of Education, Dr Olaiya Oni, at St. Silas Anglican Church, Ise-Akoko, Ondo State on Friday. Photo: NAN.

Excessive intake of painkillers harmful during pregnancy — Gynaecologists

ynaecologists on Friday said that excessive intake of painkillers and Paracetamol during pregnancy posed health dangers to the unborn child. The gynaecologists told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Lagos that such drugs could lower certain hormones in the unborn, especially boys. Dr Adedayo Olakunle, a gynaecologist at the White

Waters Hospital, Ikorodu, Lagos State, said that these drugs could lower the testosterone in unborn boys when taken in excess. Testosterone is a hormone produced by the testicles and is responsible for the proper development of male sexual characteristics. It is also important for maintaining muscle bulk, adequate levels of red blood cells, bone growth, a sense of well-being and sexual

function. “Painkillers have the potential to reduce testosterone production in the developing testes of the male embryo. “The excessive intake of these drugs also comes with an increased risk of hidden testicles in male babies and this may affect their fertility later in future. “While Paracetamol appears to have side effects on the developing embryo, the

MTN hints at possible out-of-court settlement with NCC Gains at S/African stock exchange Ayomide Owonibi Odekanyin - Lagos MTN Nigeria Communications Limited on Friday informed a Federal High Court sitting in Lagos of the company’s readiness to settle amicably with the Nigerian Communication Commission (NCC) over the N1.04trillion fine imposed on it. MTN had dragged the NCC to court to challenge the sanction imposed on it urging the court to quash the fine. Joined as co-respondent in the suit is the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice. At Friday’s proceedings, counsel for MTN, Chief Olanipekun (SAN) asked for a 60-day period from the court to allow for the discussions. In his submissions, NCC’s lawyer, Yusuf Alli (SAN), disclosed that the court’s discretion is limited to the rules of court which allows for just 21 days to file and serve written addresses. Lawyer to the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF), Oladipo Okpeseyi

(SAN), in his response to Olanipekun’s 60 days request, expressed his reservations. He disclosed that the telecommunication outfit has not been consistent in its call for an out-of-court settlement of the matter. Following the various submissions of lawyers, Justice Mohammed Idris held that all the preliminary objections and substantive application shall be taken together while all

the processes filed shall be deemed as properly filed and served. He then adjourned the matter till March 18, for report of settlement or for hearing. Meanwhile, MTN rose the most in more than six years after the adjournment of the case. It rose as much as 9.3 per cent, the biggest gain since May 2009, before paring gains to 121.43 rand on Friday in Johannesburg.

fever it is suppressing could also be harmful to the embryo. “Expectant mothers should take painkillers at the lowest dosage for the shortest possible time as they could also cause damage to the liver,’’ Olakunle told NAN. According to him, every pregnant woman should learn to take enough rest when their body aches instead of always using painkillers. Olakunle advised expectant mothers to avoid using over-the-counter (OTC) drugs without prescription. Another gynaecologist, Dr Oriola Idris of the Rains Hospital in Ikorodu, Lagos State, said that excessive intake of painkillers during pregnancy could result in miscarriage. “These painkillers when taken in excess may interfere with the hormones that are important in inducing labour. “Any pregnant woman who needs pain relief for longer than a day should consult her doctor because the pain or fever needs to be addressed properly,” he said.

Security beefed as Ubulu-uku indigenes protest death of kidnapped ruler Alphonsus Agborh-Asaba Soldiers and riot policemen have been drafted to Ubulu-uku community in Aniocha South Council area of Delta State following protests by aggrieved youths over the kidnapping and subsequent death of their monarch, HRM Obi Edward Ofulue III. The king, who was abducted by gunmen suspected to be herdsmen on January 5, was found dead on Thursday in the forest between Umunede in Delta and

Ekpon in Edo State. According to the state Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Celestina Kalu, on Friday, the corpse of the traditional ruler was found already decomposing with another corpse beside it. The police spokesperson said security was beefed up in Ubulu-uku community in order to avoid any breakdown of law and order. Saturday Tribune’s visit to the area on Friday showed that all roads leading into the community were

barricaded by aggrieved youths who brandished cutlasses and sticks chanting songs of war. There were bonfires on the major roads and youths stopped vehicles and motorcycles from entering the community. All the government offices, including courts, private and public secondary and primary schools were shut down. The market and shops were equally shut down by their owners in protest against the death of their Obi.

A 43-year-old businessman, Julian Madu on Friday,pleaded guilty to a three-count charge bordering on allegations of distributing and selling unregistered Moet drink before a Federal High Court sitting in Lagos. Madu, who was arraigned before Justice Abdulazeez Anka, is a resident at No 18, Offin Road, Oke-Arin Lagos and he was dragged before the court by the National Agency for Food Drugs Administration and Control (NAFDAC). He pleaded guilty to the three-count charge bordering on distribution and sale of unregistered products when the charge was read to him and the prosecutor, Mr Shamaki Umar consequently prayed the court for an order remanding him in prison custody while he sought for a date for review of facts. The prosecutor had told the court that the accused committed the offence on March 16, 2015, adding that he was arrested at his residence at Oke-Arin area of Lagos where he engaged in the reproduction of the Moet wine. According to the prosecutor, Madu also sold and distributed the counterfeit products to consumers. The offence, he said, contravened the provisions of Sections 5, 6 and 6(1) (a) of the Food Drugs and Related products (registration) Act Cap F33 Laws of the Federation, 2004. It will be recalled that the accused who was earlier granted administrative bail after his arrest, had failed to appear in court on January 18, 2016, earlier scheduled for his arraignment. The prosecutor had then sought for an abridgement of time from the court for arraignment of the accused, when he was re-arrested. Justice Anka granted the request of the prosecutor and thereby ordered the remand of Madu in prison custody and adjourned the matter till January 26 for a review of facts.

Saraki tasks PCC on effective service delivery Ayodele Adesanmi- Abuja Senate President, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki, has called on the leadership of the Public Complaints Commission (PCC) to be more alive to their responsibilities so as to restore the confidence of Nigerians in the public service. Saraki, who gave the charge when the chairman of PCC, Chief Emmanuel Ogbile led other National Commissioners and Directors of the agency on a courtesy visit to the Senate in Abuja, said the PCC should be restructured in order to be true watchdogs on behalf of the people concerning the work and services of public servants. According to a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Sanni Onogu in Abuja, Saraki said: “Truly you are really the watchdog of Nigerians to ensure that the public service delivers for Nigerians. If you are performing, then, Nigerians should be satisfied with the public service or have confidence that there is a commission they can go to be able to report what they are not satisfied with.

NSCDC arrests 7 in Ekiti for petrol racketeering Sam Nwaoko -Ado Ekiti The Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Ekiti State said that its men have arrested two petroleum products dealers and five other people for offences bodering on the pricing of premium motor spirit. A statement by the corps in Ado Ekiti on Friday said the Commandant, Mr Raji Ibrahim, explained that the two dealers were nabbed for allegedly selling petrol above the prescribed N86.50 per litre. According to Ibrahim, the petrol stations were John Olatunde, Yokoto filling station and Famak petrol station in Emure Ekiti, who were alleged to be selling the product at N120 per litre. The statement, signed by the command’s Public Relations Officer, Mr. Tolu Afolabi, also disclosed that the operatives sealed off five filling stations in the state. According to the statement, Funmilayo Kolawole and Samson Oyedokun were arrested for allegedly storing over 600 litres of petrol and selling same above the approved prices.

23 January, 2016

Saturday Tribune

newsmaker Saliu Adetunji: Ibadan music merchant hits the dance floor By Dipo Ogunsola

HE city of Ibadan can’t wait for the installation of Saliu Adetunji as the 41st Olu of Ibadan. Following the demise of Oba Samuel Odulana Odugade I on Tuesday, the mantle naturally falls on Chief Adetunji who, as the Balogun of Ibadan, is the heir-apparent to the throne of the city. System of succession to the Ibadan stool entertains no rancour or acrimony, it rotates between the civil and the military lineage as prepared and documented in 1850 by the founders of the city and endorsed by the colonial powers which established the old Western region of Nigeria. the late Oba Odulana hailed from the civil lineage while Adetunji is from the military lineage, the system needs no oracular consultations, vote-buying from kingmakers, political interference, legal manouvering or government dictation — the succession hierarchy is as ordered as the universe. As nature was counting down on Odugade’s transition to eternity, the Adetunji compound and surroundings in Popoyemoja, South East of Ibadan, was wearing a regally new look.

Adetunji’s forty years of education in Ibadan school of royalty affords him the opportunity of emerging as a fully baked monarch.

the Ibadan tradition gives him the power to adjudicate on issues such as land disputes, marriage crises, communal misunderstanding and territorial clashes. Therefore he is expected to be neutral to all parties in contention. The author of this rule actually saw tomorrow. Ibadanland, because of its enormous size, has a stern reputation for tough tussles for political power-seeking groups and individuals. Oba Odulana stood out in this regard turning down suspicious offers from politicians or their agents. Ibadan has always had Obas with unique attributes. For instance, the reign of Oba Oloyede Asanike, the 37th Olubadan, drew national attention to Ibadanland. With a touch of whimsy, Oba Asanike etched evergreen statements in the memory of Nigerians who understand the Yoruba language profoundly. His comments were wisecracks to many. Others consider them satirical. Whichever way his words were viewed, Oba Asanike made his point. The British created Ibadan Town Council in 1897 and later named the city as one of the three provinces of Nigeria. While former provinces — Kano and Lagos — are already states on their own, Ibadan is not despite having eleven Local Government Areas (LGAs). Indigenes refer to the LGA’s as “United States of Ibadanland” because some of the areas are bigger than certain states in Nigeria. The fact is that the Ibadan state or the United States of Ibadan remain in the fiction of agitators. Does Adetunji have the clout to win a state for Ibadan? It is a record he will surely fancy. An Olubadan is not the type that balks in battle with challenges. The chain of chieftaincy promotion ensures that it takes decades of various experiences to ascend the throne of Ibadan. Adetunji’s forty years of education in Ibadan school of royalty affords him the opportunity of emerging as a fully baked monarch. Let the music merchant, Saliu Akanmu Adetunji, call the tune. In Ibadan, it is time to dance!

Even relatives and well-wishers were already changing wardrobes for iwuye (coronation) not necessarily in spite of Oba Odugade but in anticipation of the fanfare of ascension by one of their own. In his own special case, Adetunji is better known in social circles as an entertainment maestro who polished raw diamonds to rare gem, transformed musical talents from obscurity to celebrity than a symbol of royalty or an Olubadan-aspirant. His labels — Omo Aje, Adetunji and Baba Laje Records produced chart busting entertainers like the late Chief Dauda Epo Akara and the famous King Wasiu Ayinde Marshal, K1 De Ultmate. However, by accident of birth, he, like any other male indigene of Ibadanland who has been recognised as head of a family, has a legal claim to the throne of the city. In addition to this, the family name, Adetunji, clearly links him to royalty and easily gives him away as a prince of Ibadan. Thus a journey which began in 1978 as Jagun Balogun may only be long, but surely to Chief Adetunji, not longsome because all is well that ends well. This much the oba-elect acknowledges when he said : “It (impending crowning) is a favour from God. God is wonderful to me. The utmost ambition of any traditional chief in Ibadanland is to ascend the throne of Olubadan. I have nothing more to say but to thank God for making me the first Olubadan in my lineage.” Of course, it is divine to start a journey from 1976 as Mogaji (head of family) and terminate as the Olubadan, an intense but eventful journey of forty years filled with uncertainties because life or living is a privilege, not a right. As stakeholders await the trumpet flourish heralding Chief Adetunji to the throne, the task before him are daunting and manifold. An Olubadan is banned from politics because

entertainment

interview

achiever

What love has taught me —Ibinabo Fiberesima

What Afenifere knew about N100m from Anenih —Secretary

We didn’t share N53m with emirs, others —Yakassai

I borrowed money to buy my admission form —NOUN’s best graduating student

P33

P40

P38

P35

23 January, 2016

Saturday Tribune

08050498504 toluwaniforever@yahoo.com

AS there an experience which made you to opt for the job of a chaplain? I never thought I would be one because I had wanted to be a lawyer. I was called by God. I received the call in the late 80s. I attended the Nigeria Baptist Seminary, Ogbomoso, between 1990 and 1994 and I am the first female in the Baptist to go into full time ministry and God has been faithful. What was your conviction? I had always had that nudge, I know it when God is speaking to me and the experience then wasn’t different. God stood against every other move I made until I succumbed to His will. Can you expatiate on this? As I earlier said, I wanted to be a lawyer and wrote the JAMB examination more than twice. I was also attending coaching classes. My score was always over 200, but I would not reach the cut off mark to study Law. I eventually let God have His way and then, I had my peace. I never knew the seminary was waiting for a full-time pastor in-training. I automatically became a trailblazer. This step which I took removed all barriers of women becoming full time ministers in the Baptist. And why did you opt to work in a school? My husband,Reverend Dr Samson O.Oluwoye and I are into full time pastoral ministry. He was the pastor in charge of Ebenezer Baptist Church, Iwo, (now Precious Baptist Church, Iwo) while I was pastoring the children and juvenile (now teenagers) sections of the church. I gained the experience working with young people there. I joined Bowen University in 2002 as an assistant lecturer. In late 2006, there arose the need for a female pastor to take the students on spiritual lessons. The university had three centers-one for the male students and the other two for the female since they were more. The teachings were taken simultaneously at the three chapels. The then vice chancellor, Professor Timothy Olagbenro, asked me to apply for the post of a chaplain which I did. I became a full chaplain in January 2007 and in September 2008, I became the head of chaplaincy of the institution. What is your profound experience working with students? It’s interesting working with students, although it’s also demanding. You get to know what youths are passing through which adults take for granted. If you give youths adequate attention, you will find in them genuine love and trust. They are open and don’t hide their feelings. They come talking and want you to listen and they are very impatient. They are just a little above children in their ways. Again, I have learnt never to write a child off. There were students who drank and smoked and were carefree about life. We didn’t condemn such students, we rather condemned their acts. Through regular counselling, display of love and the teaching of the gospel, these gradually came out of these habits. Many, after graduating, still call me for counselling, some express their appreciation for the roles I played in their lives while some would run and hug me whenever our paths crossed. So do some parents. It’s common to see youths dress indecently these days, where do we place the blame? I believe parents and mothers, especially should take the most blame. We sometimes spot students with indecent wears and they would tell you their mother bought it for them. Some parents would call and tell you they were sorry they bought such improper clothes for their children. I always think, “How on earth would a mother buy such body-revealing clothes for her child?” But then there are also some students who feel their parents are not fashionable or well exposed and would go and buy these type of clothes by themselves. The university has a standing rule which states that a student should dress neatly and corporately—male students go with ties while their female counterparts have the length of their dresses below the knees. The school disciplinarian committee sits at regular basis to mete out punishment to students who err.

‘Life as a female chaplain is…’ A trailblazer in the area of her calling, she has learnt to walk where angels fear to tread. Reverend Dr (Mrs) Janet Olajire Oluwoye, Head of Chaplain, Bowen University, Iwo, Osun State, who also doubles as a lecturer in the institution, made a feat as the first woman to go into fulltime ministry in the Nigerian Baptist Convention. She speaks with TOLUWANI OLAMITOKE on her journey to chaplaincy, the challenges and marriage.

What is it about being a chaplain which most people don’t know about? It’s a jack of all trades. You are involved in almost everything. When people are happy you rejoice with then and when they are sad, you stand with them. Again, when people lack, you support. Many times I run zero account because I spend my money supporting the needy most especially indigent students. You are also careful to receive gifts. The office is not a place where you can amass wealth, you rather sow. You daily depend on the Holy Spirit to guide you on the job because you learn to handle the different situations through experience while you also learn to be practical. What was your husband’s reaction to your decision to take up this job? My husband knew I had the calling and I had even attended the seminary before we got married. He actually encouraged me and had always told me the grace of God was upon me which I must bring to limelight. Could this be your reason for marrying him? No. We met at Offa Teachers College, Offa. We both attended the same fellowship. He was the president while I was the Bible Study leader. I normally receive revelations through dreams and on some of these occasions I saw him helping me out of a place where I was held up or leading the way. I knew what the dreams meant but I always rejected it. I never wanted to attend a teacher’s college not to mention marrying a teacher. He later called me and proposed to me and asked me to pray about it. Anyway, I eventually did but I didn’t give him a ‘yes” for an answer until six to eight months after. We were almost graduating from school then. We courted for about nine years. That was long, how were you able to keep the relationship? We were communicating through letters and trusted in each other that we would not betray ourselves.

move to Ilorin and so I had to forfeit my admission since I had to move with him. I thus opted for a teacher’s college in Offa, Kwara State. Second, I believed those who attended seminaries were dropouts. My desire was to have a university degree. Again, I ended up in a seminary and as God would have it, it was when I was admitted that the Baptist Seminary was affiliated to the University of Ibadan so I ended up having a university degree. And third, I never admired people with many children. After having three, I announced we were through, but later a prophecy came we were still going to have more children. I disregarded this, but it came to pass. We had two more. In fact, before we conceived our last child, I was sure God meant business.

What lessons have you learnt from marriage? It has taught me to be more accommodating— I normally love to have my things apart. I have learnt to be tolerant, humble and practical.

What does your weekend look like? I try to put the home in shape, clean, cook or shop for necessary things for home use. But many times I still have to attend to students, parents and school matters.

And what lessons has life taught you generally? One is not to readily condemn or show disdain for somebody or something. I had three experiences in this regard. First, I had always regarded those who go to teachers college as failures and so went to a secondary school and came out overall best student. I gained admission into Benue State Polytechnic,Ugbokolo, while staying with my brother in Benue State. But he had to

Tell us your hobbies? I love travelling, singing—I released songs in 1990, 1992 and 2000 and also acted in “Fi wa jomi’’ a CD produced by the chaplaincy of Bowen University. How do you love to dress? I love to combine colours and appear simple and modest. Purple, red, blue, gold and white are my favourite colours.

23 January, 2016

food&drink

Saturday Tribune BLESSING EKUM ekumblessing@gmail.com 08116954639

inger foods commonly known as small chops have gradually become a staple in most parties. Serving as appetisers, they add colour and deliciousness to dishes served. But beyond parties, they can also be served at home as snacks. Interestingly, they can easily be prepared in the comfort of the home with easily available ingredients. Below are some finger foods and how to prepare them.

Chicken and vegetable minced spring rolls

Tantalise your buds with

tasty finger foods Omodasola Smith takes a look at the world of appetisers and shares how some delicious snacks can be added to meal times and parties.

Ingredients: Minced chicken breast, finely shredded cabbage, grated carrot, chicken stock, green bell pepper, green peas, grated onion, spices, vegetable oil, spring roll wrapper, flour and water Procedure: Place grated cabbage into a pot. Add chicken stock and salt to taste and boil until cabbage is tender Add grated carrots, green bell pepper and green peas and simmer until carrots are tender. Pour into strainer and drain the liquid from the vegetables. In a pan, heat up vegetable oil, add minced onion and garlic powder and stir-fry a bit. Then add minced chicken. Stir-fry minced chicken until the colour changes from pink to white. Then add stock cube, curry powder, black pepper and mix thoroughly. Now add drained vegetables and mix well into chicken. Add chopped green peppers and stir-fry the mixture for just two minutes In a small bowl, add a teaspoon of flour and a little water. Mix thoroughly and set aside. This would be used to bind the spring roll wrappers. Spread out spring roll wrappers and add the filling. Fold together and seal the edges with the binder. Set aside Heat up oil until very hot and fry spring rolls until crunchy and brown. Place a paper towel to drain out excess oil.

Gizdodo

Gizdodo is a coined name for finger food prepared from a combination of gizzards and plantain but with a yummy spicy twist. Ingredients: Chicken gizzards, ripe plantain, fresh tomatoes, habenero pepper (rodo), red bell pepper, ground crayfish,(optional), onion, garlic powder, curry, thyme, stock cubes, vegetable oil, chopped green bell pepper, chopped red onions. Procedure: Place clean gizzards in a pot, pour enough water to half the level of the gizzards. Season with onion, garlic, stock cube, thyme, curry and salt to taste. Cook until tender and set aside. Dice plantains and fry in hot vegetable oil until goldenbrown. Transfer onto a sieve. Fry gizzards in the same oil until brown and transfer unto a sieve lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil. Chop tomatoes and peppers and blend coarsely. Heat up some oil, add chopped onions, ground crayfish and stir fry for five seconds. Then pour the blended mix into the pot and fry for about 10-15 minutes or until the sour taste is lost. Then add one stock cube and salt, simmer for two minutes and set aside. Add the fried gizzards to the sauce and simmer for one minute to soak in sauce. Add fried plantains, chopped onions, green and red peppers. Mix thoroughly and turn off the heat.

23 January, 2016

conversewithyemisi

Saturday Tribune

08055001741 (sms only) yemiaofolaju@yahoo.com

Re: My husband takes me for granted

MOLEWA, first and foremost, I thank God that your marriage is fruitful. You and your husband are blessed with those promising children, the divine link of real marriage, balanced in two of male and female. Please, quickly accept the religious injunction that, after marriage the two halves have become one. Even if you do not go out together frequently, both of you own all you have, including the vehicles. But your husband is the head, whatever he decides should be lovely accepted. Psychologically, his decision could be for your good, safety and security. Probably you do not know enough what owning a car involves. Maintenance is one thing. Operation on the road in the Nigeria environment is another. All these could be the thinking or consideration of your husband. Do not see your husband and his friend as bad. I regard them as good people Nigerian need now for change. What do you need many cars for, especially at this period of austerity? Selling extra car is a wise suggestion and good resolve. Are all children out of university? As regards your contribution to make the family what it is, God does not expect anything less. As a helpmate, you are to aid his efforts for the blessings of God that the family requires. Even if you have no children, you have a responsibility to carry out. Allow no ego in your marriage. Accept your husband to lead. I am not suggesting that you become a fool. No! In God’s complimentary marriage design, some men are endowed to give good family management. Thank God yours is an example. Depo Onifade, 07061362450.

Omolewa, God’s time is the best. When it is time for you, surely you will ride your personal car. There is no need paying your husband back in his own coin because of a car. Since you are gainfully employed, try to make some savings to buy one for yourself. For the sake of your children, do not do anything that will destabilise your home. There is no reason for your husband seeking for his friend’s advice before doing anything for you, Oloruniisola, Inisa, 08038611867. Omolewa, please, don’t allow your husband’s stinginess cause problem in your home. Pray and let God guide you in your decisions. Persuade him to buy you a car since he is not willing to give you any of the cars. Don’t be in a hurry to do anything that you may later regret. I believe the stability of your home is important to you. God is able to intervene in such a way that you will get what you want with your home intact as well. Gloria Amuro, 08073704461. Omolewa, forget your demand, leave all to God. Improve on your relationship with your husband by loving him the more to his surprise. Ultimately, you would wait

on God for your car. God willing, another gift from your children or car loan from your employer will surface. Avoid any rancour that can affect your home and marriage. 08098507580. Omolewa, please, don’t take laws into your hands and be of good cheer since you did not marry him because of a car. Keep on loving him. What he cannot do for you now, he can do more in future. God will use your children, not for only a car, He will build you mansion. It may be God is using your husband to save you from sudden death. The Yoruba adage says: ‘if we live longer, we will eat meat that is bigger than elephant” and if even everything fails, try love. Don’t think your husband is taking you for granted. The Lord wants to impart love and temperance into your life – Caleb Adedokun, 08024204553. Omolewa, why did you talk to your husband’s friend? Take your problem to Jesus, He will sort all your problems, 08079466962. Omolewa, there is no need of asking your husband anything. Work towards buying your own, when you buy, you can now raise the matter he will be shocked, 08160009669. Omolewa, pray to God to provide your own car for you. Leave the callous man alone so as to protect the marriage. At the same time, you need to join a cooperative society, 08034859650. Omolewa, if what you have said is true, your husband is wrong; but on the other hand, some men are too jealous and two wrongs cannot make a right. As you have children, all of you should sit him down to iron it out, Stephen Omirigwe, 08161387628. Omolewa, you should not ask your husband about the car again. At least you have children for him. With time, God will provide yours. Olaitan, 08101662506. Omolewa, the issue at hand is not a threat to your home only if you lie low. Where you want to live a flamboyant lifestyle, you will break the home yourself. While your husband is thinking of tomorrow, you are thinking of today only! How will both of you take care of three vehicles that are not for commercial purpose? Live a normal life. Take care and spend good on your children who are supposed to be your ‘cars’/today/tomorrow. Lanre Oseni, 07064181043. Omolewa, this world is full of different stories ranging from family affairs, finances, relationships, among others. Anyway, my advice for you for peace in the home and the sake of your children, ask him again and let's see if he would have a

change of mind. Above all, arrest his mind in prayer first so that it won't be a trick from devil to destroy your home. It is well. Tope Ijaopo, 07404588291. Omolewa, what you need right now is to move closer to your maker (God) in

prayers for Him to touch your husband’s heart because He is the owner of kings’ heart, He will surely answer your prayers, and your husband will surely change. Please, if you have in anyway committed sins, beg for forgiveness from God. Oluwakayode Adeniyi, 07030211137.

For Him Oyedele, 62, Christian, divorced, accountant, based in Ile-Ife, Osun State, needs a beautiful lady, divorced, working class in public institution in Osun State, aged 35 to 42, for a relationship. Call 08117153745. Akeem Lawal, 48, lives in Ikorodu, a property consultant, wants to be connected with a lady for a relationship. Call 08083640063. Man, 52, employed, dark, divorced, Christian, needs a good cook, loving, mature, employed, Christian from the Southwest for a relationship. Contact 08099492222. Oluwaseun, 32, lives in Ibadan, needs a God-fearing, working class lady, preferably Christian from 20 to 30, for a relationship. Call 07030796251. Ola, 47, 5.8 feet tall, from Ondo State, businessman, needs a responsible lady or divorcee of between 36 and 46 for a relationship. Call or text 08105493002. Ayo, 55, based in Oyo, needs a God-fearing, caring, educated, loving woman aged between 30 and 45, for a relationship. Call 08084419565.

For Her Fisayo, 29, from Osun State, needs a God-fearing man aged between 34 and 47 for a relationship. Call 08107054353. Opeyemi, 26, beautician based in Ibadan, needs a God-fearing, responsible, working class man who is ready to settle down. Call 09093325877. Omolayo, 43, needs a caring, understanding, honest man for a relationship. Call 09082664997. Temitope, 26, needs a caring, God-fearing man for a relationship that will lead to marriage. Contact 07016466069. Aduke, 44, single mother, wants a God-fearing widower, aged between 45 and 50, graduate and civil servant for a relationship. Call 09052516192.

23 January, 2016

intimacy

Saturday Tribune

With Bosede Ola-Samuel 08112658560 bosedeola_samuel@yahoo.com

STRICTLY FOR ADULTS

How to add spark to your sex life

HE truth of the matter when it comes to sex in marriage is that enjoying a great sex life is real. It is not a myth or a fallacy as some people insinuate. The other day, one man was saying that great sex life could not be achieved in marriage. He attributed this to couples pretense on the matter of sex because they are afraid of either being suspected of infidelity or being accused of sexual recklessness by their partners, especially the religious ones. So, they do not freely ask for the type of sex they need and are convinced will give them sexual fulfillment. The reasons given by this man may not be faulted outright. I believe the way couples handle the issues will determine how much of sexual fulfillment is achieved in the marriage. That is why I have devoted myself to educating couples on the issue of sex. With the right information, the huddles before great sex life are not insurmountable. What is required is the willpower on the part of each couple to face the issue of sex and fix it. I know a lot of couples who are enjoying great sex life, including me and my husband. So, I know great sex life in marriage is for real, if you will be ready to go after it. Let me avail you of this account of how a couple who could be termed religious achieved great sex life after many years of enduring sex instead of enjoying it. I hope it serves as an eye-opener to many others who may be seeking sexual fulfillment in their marriage. “I got married as a virgin to my husband who was also a virgin. We both grew up in a very religious setting and were not sexually exposed before we consummated our marriage. The journey of poor sex started during the honeymoon, because we did not even know how to go about it. We discovered that the theory we learnt few months to our wedding was different from the reality of having sex. However, because of the eagerness to discover what sex was about, we had initial fun once we succeeded in making a headway on how to engage in sex. In fact, we did not know anything about enjoying great sex other than to sleep together and produce children. “But the reality of our poor sex life started playing out

when we later discovered that we were not being sexually satisfied. In the act of sex, we later discovered that something must definitely be wrong about the way we were going it, or maybe we were biologically different from other humans. The problem could be likened to the biblical reading of “the child had come to birth but there was no strengthen to deliver.” We would want to give each other a nice time in bed, and honestly I mean real nice time to make ourselves happy, but premature ejaculation was becoming a stumbling block. I would be high up there waiting for my husband to go full blast, but after a few thrusts, he would go flat. If you have not been there, you would not know what I mean. I then realised why the other day, a woman was quarreling with her husband for not being able to give her sexual satisfaction. “With this situation, I became afraid of having sex with my husband because I was always feeling emotionally destabilised after each sex act. Of course, my husband could

One man was saying that great sex life could not be achieved in marriage. He attributed this to couples pretense on the matter of sex because they are afraid of either being suspected of infidelity or being accused of sexual recklessness by their partners, especially the religious ones.

also not enjoy sex anymore because it takes two to tango. Our case was like the hen that lands on a rope; both will be uncomfortable. This situation got us thinking of how to overcome the huddle and that was how we discovered the secrets of enjoying great sex life. The following are our discovery: • Female sexual response differs from that of male. This was why it took time for me to respond in bed to my husband. This made him to be worn out before the sex act. Thus, he constantly experienced premature ejaculation. • A woman is sexually better turned on at certain times than others. I realised that I am sexually turned on few days before my period and immediately after it. Also, a woman will be sexually ready for penetration when her emotion is tuned towards sex; when she has reasons to think sex, or expects that her husband will likely ask her for sex. This supports the assertion that the mind is the first sex organ of a woman other than her vagina. Any man who wants to enjoy sex with his wife must know how to touch her positively in her emotion. • There is more to sex than just ‘rise and sink’ which many couples know. We studied different sex styles and started putting them to use. • Open discussion about sex is helpful in achieving sexual fulfillment. We now freely discuss sex between us without being shy. • Sex is a truce breaker and conflict resolution technique. So, we align ourselves to do it regularly. We also realised that regular sex helps my husband to perform better in bed. We therefore do all we can to have sex regularly. “I believe my story will help other couples overcome poor sex life and move on to enjoying great sex life which you champion in your column in Saturday Tribune.” You may also wish to share your sexual experience in marriage to help others learn from such. In response to my readers’ request, I have packaged some of my previous articles into a book with the title: ENJOYING GREAT SEXLIFE. You can call me on 08112658560 for the book.

23 January, 2016

Saturday Tribune

With Aunty Yemi 08056834515 ojeleyeoyeyemi@yahoo.com

S T OR Y The pigeons and the hunter

pigeon couple. He at once stopped the wife jumping into the fire. He opened the cage and set the husband free. “I have been cruel and selfish. I will never trap any

bird in my net again,” said the bird-catcher and went away. The two pigeons were happy to be reunited. Source: www.englishforstudents.com

1. What is greater than God, more evil than the devil, the poor have it, the rich need it, if you eat it, you’ll die? 2. If you look at the number on my face you won’t find thirteen in any place. 3. Which creature walks on four legs in the morning, two legs in the afternoon, and three legs in the evening? 4. Tear one off and scratch my head what was red is black instead. 5. How many of each species did Moses take on the ark with him?

Meaning of Colour

e t o Qu

TO start with, colours are non-verbal communication. The meanings of colours depend on culture, circumstances or context. For instance, a person may wear a colour to show his/her mood (happiness, sadness, anger and so on) or just because he/ she likes it. Therefore, the meanings of colours change often. Each colour has many aspects to it. Red shows energy, passion, action, ambition and determination and can also mean danger, while yellow is the colour of the mind, showing being optimistic and cheerful. However, it can also show being cowardice. Green is a colour of growth and fruitfulness, while blue depicts trusts, loyalty and integrity. Purple shows imagination, individualism, immaturity and impracticality. Colour pink, which is nowadays adopted as ladies’ colours, depicts flexibility, elegance, prestige, luxury/extravagance and attraction. White is a universal colour which shows purity, perfection, innocence and peace. Black is a colour of danger, unknown, mystery, sorrow and secrets. Colours are all around us. Nature is full of colours. By Abimbola Kofoworola, 15 years old, SSS 3

class

gu e

ist er

Don’t walk out on your teacher, simply say ‘Excuse me ma/sir’ whenever you are going out of the classroom. Don’t distract other students in

the classroom; learn how to take permission before you leave the presence of an elderly person. When you do that, it shows that you are well-trained boys/ girls. Also, be outspoken at any point in time, so that you would not be cheated. Another thing is that if you want to ask questions, always raise up your right hand, not the left.

By Omotayo Fabusua

Etiquette

Ton

Riddles

1. Nothing. 2. A clock. 3. Man. He crawls on all fours as a baby, then walks on two feet as an adult and then walks with a cane as an old man. 4. Chess pawns. 5. None, Moses wasn’t on the ark, Noah was.

NCE upon a time, there lived two pigeons. They were husband and wife. They spent their days looking for food. In the evening, they would return and rest on their favourite tree in the forest. One evening, the wife returned home early. As usual, she was waiting for her husband when suddenly it started raining. Then she became anxious. “Where are you, my dear? You never get so late,” she whispered to herself. Just then, she saw a bird-catcher coming towards her. In a cage, he had a pigeon. It was her husband. “Oh no! What shall I do now? I wish I could help my husband,” she said. She desperately tried to distract the birdcatcher by flapping her wings, but all in vain. Soon, it stopped raining. “Brrr! It is so cold,” said the bird-catcher. His clothes were wet. He decided to sit under the same tree where the two pigeons lived. The poor wife sat by her husband’s cage. And she started to cry. The husband said. “Do not feel sad, dear. We now have a guest. This man is shivering and hungry. He needs your help.” Hearing this, the wife flew around getting dry twigs. She made a fire for the bird-catcher. Then she looked at the bird-catcher and said, “You are our guest, since I have no food to offer, I will jump into this fire. In a few minutes, I will become an edible item for you. You can eat me.” By now, the bird-catcher was overwhelmed by the hospitality of the humble

SPOT THE DIFFERENCES

23 January, 2016

health&fitness

Saturday Tribune BLESSING EKUM

ekumblessing@gmail.com 08116954639

Why you exercise but don’t see results mass and stronger bone density,” Jennipher Walters, a fitness instructor said. So after jogging or running, take time out to lift those dumbbells! More so, when your routine becomes monotonous, your body gets so used to it that it would fail to produce the desired change you need.

By Blessing Ekum

HEN it comes to losing weight, there are hundreds of advisors all claiming they have the ultimate solution. From diets and teas to exercise routines and extreme weight loss measures, there’s the assurance that all it takes is picking a weight-loss fad and in no time, all the accumulated fat would melt away. While many opt for purported quick results, others decide to go the natural way of diet modification and/or exercise. Upon embarking on exercises, it is expected that results would show,though this might take some time. So, when one spends month after month slaving in the gym and exercising at every given opportunity and yet doesn’t see results, it becomes frustrating. It can be tempting at that point to give up but just before throwing in the towel, a review of what you have been doing or missing out on is important. Afterall, with a successful loss of weight based on healthy Body Mass Index (BMI), the risk of health problems like stroke, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes is reduced. Saturday Tribune looks into some reasons your workout session may not produce the result of toned muscles and burnt fat. Your food is working against you When it comes to weight loss, exercising is just half the battle. The greater part of the challenge is in diet modification. This does not imply starvation or completely staying off carbohydrates. The key is in eating small, healthy portions. Mrs. Iyabode Aderenle Alabi, dietician and retired Deputy Director, Department of Dietetics, University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan, Oyo State, says when it comes to food, “Carbohydrates are good for the body because they provide energy, so, we can’t do without them. However, they shouldn’t be consumed in large quantities and when carbohydrates are taken, there should be plenty of vegetables. It is recommended that more of vegetables should be taken with carbohydrates and not more of meat. And when taking vegetables, a variety of them is best. Vegetables contain fibre and calories are minimal, so, not only are they nutritious, they also help with weight control.” She adds that it is advisable to eat small portions of balanced food four to five times a day rather than three heavy meals per day. Mrs Yemisi Solanke-Lawal, a dietician and Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Evergreen Health and Social Care International Limited, adds that some other diet issues that can stand in the way of efficient workouts inclde post-digestive and absorption effects, cooking skills, cooking methods as well as knowledge of food and nutrition. Where proper diet is followed, sometimes the error lies in foods and drinks taken after a workout session. “No matter how hard and long you spend working out, if you go back home and take soft drinks, cakes and other empty calorie, high sugar foods or drinks, it becomes counterproductive. All the calories you burnt have automatically been regained and sometimes at a higher number than you burnt. If you need energy after working out, go for water or hydrating fruits,” Chima Okafor, a fitness expert said. Lack of variety All exercise is good but when you are looking to lose weight and tone muscles, you need to infuse variety into your sessions. “A proper exercise plan includes strength training, cardiovascular exercises and flexibility. If you’re

You sit all day A sedentary lifestyle has been linked to various health issues and it can also work against your seeing results from your exercise efforts. Walters says, “even if you work out regularly, what you do the rest of the day matters, too. If you put in a solid exercise session only to sit at a desk all day and lounge in a recliner watching TV at night, you may be undoing all of your hard work at the gym. Try to work more activity into all areas of your life. If your job requires you to sit in front of a computer all day, set a timer to beep every half hour or hour to remind you to stand up, stretch and do a quick lap around the office.” You are too careful When it comes to seeing results, you need to push your body beyond its comfort zone. Do you always jog for the same number of minutes? Or always set your treadmill on the same speed? Or lift the same weight? If you do these, then you are not giving your body enough challenge to see results. It’s okay to break into sweats. Once you notice that you have mastered an exercise to the point it becomes too easy, it may be time for you to mix things up. You also shouldn’t be so careful as to allow yourself work out only when you’re in the mood for it. Pick a schedule and stick to it regardless of your mood. In fact, exercise has been known to improve emotional moods, so you’d be better for it. However, in pushing yourself, this should be done with the guidance of your fitness instructor. On the flip side, you shouldn’t push yourself so hard that you don’t create enough time for rest. Rest is important for torn or worn out tissues and muscles to heal.

just doing cardio, then you will be burning calories and strengthening your cardiovascular system, but you won’t be really changing your body composition by building more muscle. For that you need strength training. Lift weights or do body-weight exercises, such as lunges and push-ups, at least twice a week to reap the amazing benefits of resistance training; including decreased body fat, increased muscle

If you put in a solid exsercise session only to sit at a desk all day and lounge in a recliner watching TV at night,you may be undoing all of your hard work at the gym

You’re stressed and not managing it well Stress is a natural part of living but the problem arises when it is poorly managed. Besides health problems associated with poorly managed stressful situations, it could also affect your weight loss efforts. Mrs Solanke-Lawal said “The truth is,every human being encounters stress in life right from the point of delivery right up to death. Different events in life makes us stressed ranging from the labour of child birth, being a parent, work, marriage, etc. However, when we are stressed, we have a higher tendency to add more to our weight. This weight gain has been linked to several things from biological processes to environmental and lifestyle changes. A hormone called “cortisol” which the body releases has been linked to weight gain on the biological side. Too much cortisol can slow the body’s way of working including breathing, pumping blood, regulation of body temperature,etc, thereby causing more weight gain even if you are still eating the same portion of food. “Also, stress has been linked to the cravings of fatty, salty and sugary food which are unhealthy for us and also add to weight gain. It has also been linked to affecting the body’s fat storage system by storing fat in the abdominal area. Sadly, abdominal fat is not only unattractive, it is linked with greater health risks than fat stored in other areas of the body.”

16 healthandfitness

23 January, 2016

Back ache during sex I am a 29-year-old single lady. My problem is that I always have backache during sex. Kindly tell me what causes the backache and what I can do to avoid it. Temi (by SMS) Back pain during sex may be a sign of a gynaecologic problem, such as ovarian cysts or endometriosis (uterine tissue outside the uterus) as well as problems with the spine. Pain during sex also may be caused by problems with sexual response, such as a lack of desire (the feeling of wanting to have sex) or a lack of arousal (the physical and emotional changes

Dr. Wale Okediran

that occur in the body as a result of sexual stimulation). You will need to talk to your partner. Tell him where and when you feel pain. Try sexual activities that do not cause pain. For example, if intercourse is painful, you and your partner may want to focus on oral sex or mutual masturbation. Try nonsexual, but sensual, activities like massage. Take pain-relieving steps before sex: empty your bladder, take a warm bath, or take an over-the-counter pain reliever before intercourse.

EACH time I am sick and I go to the hospital, the doctor will diagnose staphylococcus infection as the cause of my illness. Is the sickness treatable? Kindly let me know what to do about it. Chika (by SMS) Staphylococcus is a type of bacteria that can cause many types of infections

Lassa fever and gari I am a great lover of Gari. I enjoy drinking it with ice cold water and groundnut. Now that we have been told to stop drinking it because of Lassa Fever, kindly let me know what to do as I can’t do without drinking gari at least, twice a week. Fatimat (by SMS)

with possible infected individuals, and proper hygienic care can reduce the incidence of staph infections. It is treatable with appropriate antibiotics which should be determined after proper laboratory investigations.

The reason for being asked to avoid drinking Gari is because of the fear that rats would have de-

Cold sores, also known as fever blisters, are small sores, or blister-like lesions on the face or inside the mouth. They usually cause pain, a burning sensation, or itching before they burst and crust over. Cold sores are

kets. If the gari is used for Eba, the Lassa virus may die because of the hot water used. But if the gari is eaten as soaked, the virus is directly ingested. The solution is for you to process the gari yourself or supervise whoever is processing it for them to avoid rats contaminating your gari.

No teeth at seven months I was told that babies should normally start having teeth from age six months. However, my baby is now seven months old and has no

I have cold sore I have some blisters on my upper lip. It’s quite painful and has made my lip to be swollen. My friends call it cold sore. What causes it and what do I do to treat it? James (by SMS)

fecated and urinated on it during the period of drying when it is usually laid out from drying in bush mar-

caused by the herpes simplex viruses; the most common cause of sores around the mouth is herpes simplex type 1, or HSV-1. Much less commonly, cold sores may be caused by HSV-2 (herpes simplex type 2), which may result from having oral sex with a person who has genital herpes. Cold sores are quite common. There is no cure or prevention for infected people, but steps can be taken to reduce their frequency and duration.

teeth. Kindly advise me on what to do. Jadesola (by SMS) It is true that a baby’s first tooth should appear by age six months. However, delayed teething is not unusual. If your baby is not teething by the time he’s 13 months, then he is experiencing late teething. In most cases, delayed teething is nothing to worry about. While late teething can be caused by a number of factors, often there is no identifiable cause, and the child may take up to 18 months to grow his first tooth. Late teething is known to be hereditary. Often, it runs in the family,

N quick successions I have had course to treat people of either stroke or worsening heat failure due to outburst of anger. One of the patients, an elderly woman was annoyed with her daughter over simple disobedience. She said her daughter had no audacity to challenge her instructions; after all, she was the one that sent the daughter abroad for training. Fortunately this same unruly daughter in quote carried her to hospital when the complication of anger occurred in her mum. Another elderly woman was rushed to our centre with history of sudden breathlessness, excessive sweating and inability to talk well. The investigation revealed a woman with heart attack. The symptoms were preceded by a scuffle between her and a member of the family. Again the same members of family she had issues with were the ones that rushed her to the hospital. She survived the attack but many may not be that lucky. Take it easy ma and sirs; anger is deleterious to your health. Human heart experiences a lot of unfriendly things but anger can be one of the most intense, destructive, and unhealthy emotions that one can experience. If not handled in the proper way, it can have drastic life-changing consequences. Anger may be caused by pressures of work, family or even from being the innocent victim of another’s wrongdoing. Whatever the cause of anger if it is to the extreme and left unresolved, it creates an intense desire to destroy something. Having a hot temper may increase your risk of having a heart attack or stroke, according to researchers. This apparently contributes to the burden of cardiovascular diseases in our community. Holy books warn against anger, although there are times anger cannot be prevented but be mindful of the extent. Psalms 37:8 reads thus: “ Refrain from anger, and forsake wrath! Fret not yourself; it tends only to evil.” Spiritual implications apart, anger can harm the owner. Proverbs 14:29 says Whoever is slow to anger has great understanding, but he who has a hasty temper exalts folly. When next anger comes, see it as devil’s work and resist it to preserve your life. Various studies have demonstrated the devastating ef-

waleokediran@yahoo.co.uk

08055069356 (sms only)

My problem with staph infection in your body. Commonly referred to as staph (pron o u n c e d “staff”), it is common bacteria found on most people’s skin, and often it does not cause disease. More than 30 types of staphylococci bacteria cause infections, but the most common type of staph infection is caused by staphylococcus aureus. If the bacteria gains access to the body, either through a wound on the skin or via the respiratory tract, it can cause serious infections. Careful hand washing, avoiding close skin contact

Saturday Tribune

and you should know that your baby has a genetic predisposition to delay teething unless he is your first child. Delayed teething can be inherited from either side of the family; therefore, if either parent started teething late as a baby, then it is expected their child could experience delayed teething.

Dr. Abiodun Adeoye adeoyemoshood@yahoo.com

08056564360, 08072000017 (sms only)

Outburst of anger increases the risk of heart attacks and stroke fect of anger on the brain and the heart. People who have existing risk factors, such as a history of heart disease and diabetes mellitus are particularly susceptible to anger-induced stroke and heart attack. In the two hours immediately after an angry outburst, risk of a heart attack increases nearly five-fold and risk of stroke increases more than three-fold, the data from nine studies and involving thousands of people showed. The risk with a single outburst of anger is relatively low - one extra heart attack per 10,000 people per year could be expected among people with low cardiovascular risk who were angry only once a month, increasing to an extra four per 10,000 people with a high cardiovascular risk. This risk is cumulative, meaning temper-prone individuals will be at higher risk still. Five episodes of anger a day is said to result in around 158 extra heart attacks per 10,000 people with a low cardiovascular risk per year, increasing to about 657 extra heart attacks per 10,000 among those with a high cardiovascular risk. My esteemed readers, how many times do you get annoyed in a day? What is the duration of each outburst of anger you experienced? Considering the findings above the next outburst of anger may not be palatable. On a personal note I seldom get angry but when I do it can be prolonged. After reading the research findings I had to readjust. Are you like me? Please have a rethink. Thomas A’ Kempis says, and I quote, “Be not angry

that you cannot make others as you wish them to be, since you cannot make yourself as you wish to be.” John C. Boger also said “Anger and bitterness are two noticeable signs of being focused on self and not trusting God’s sovereignty in your life. When you believe that God causes all things to work together for good to those who belong to Him and love Him, you can respond to trials with joy instead of anger or bitterness.” This week, I am so passionate about the effect of anger of cardiovascular diseases. If we must attain the World Heart Federation goal of reducing cardiovascular death by 25% in 2025, then all aspect of our lives must change. Many people now do regular exercises, take fruits and vegetables but can be angry at any time of the day. When you get angry for a few minutes, the effect lingers on for another two hours. Outbursts of anger may trigger heart attacks, strokes and other cardiovascular problems in the two hours immediately afterwards. A study found out that in the two hours immediately after an angry outburst, a person’s risk of a heart attack (myocardial infarction (MI) or acute coronary syndrome (ACS)) increases nearly five-fold (4.74%), the risk of stroke increases more than three-fold (3.62%), and the risk of ventricular arrhythmia (palipation) also increases, compared to other times when they were not angry. In conclusion , I say “ cool temper”r and protect your brain and the heart. Happy weekend.

23 January, 2016

mediascope

PRCAN is to public relations firms what NIPR is to individual public relations professionals. PRCAN is a sectoral group of NIPR created by Bye Law No 3 of 1993 and it is mandated by law to register and regulate the conduct of public relations firms in Nigeria. PRCAN has consistently educated the relevant publics about the compliance with the law and the benefits derived from being part of the sectoral group. No doubt, there are public relations firms who are yet to come under the fold and we had to protest to their clients as a last resort. However, the ultimate goal is to have them recognise need to operate as responsible corporate citizens. I will say that the campaign is attracting the right traction. PRCAN has grown by close to 100 per cent in the last six years as we have about 53 member-firms at the moment, and the number is growing.

On coming on board last year, the incumbent government at the centre dissolved the boards of agencies and parastatals of government which, included the Advertising Practitioners’ Council of Nigeria (APCON), the apex regulatory organ in the nation’s advertising industry. To what extent would you say the dissolution has affected the industry and what is your take on the clamour for the body to be completely off the ‘clutches’ of the government? I will expect the affected Federal Government parastatals to continue to discharge their mandates as their Chief Executive Officers were not affected by the sweeping dissolution. However, the danger is the concern that the reforms by APCON, which have elevated Nigerian advertising industry to international standards, might be slowed down by the non-composition of the APCON council. There are fears that the advert vetting guidelines and violation of the code of advertising practice by agencies and practitioners are beginning to rear their ugly heads. There is also the worry that foreign agencies may well have a field day in the country without complying with the laws which regulate advertising practice. I will urge the government to speed up the reconstitution of the APCON council so that the enforcement of the industry guidelines and regulations will not suffer, as the consequences are grave for the society. We cannot afford to have an advertising industry where anything goes. We cannot afford to have a regulatory body – in this case, APCON – whose council is populated by non-advertising professionals. If the reforms in the industry are to be sustained – and it is in the interest of the good health of the Nigerian society that it is sustained – then the APCON council must be reconstituted urgently to ensure compliance and enforcement. I look forward to the day when APCON will cease being under the control of the government. The industry should

WITH AKIN ADEWAKUN akadewakun@yahoo.co.uk 0805 468 3584

agencies been responding to the call for membership from PRCAN? PRCAN has over the years embarked on advocacy campaign to sensitise and nudge users of public relations services as well as professionals in the industry towards being on the side of the law. Public relations practice in Nigeria is regulated by the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations which derives its powers from the NIPR Act 16 of 1990 which makes it mandatory for anyone who desires to practise public relations in Nigeria to be certificated by the Institute. There are penalties under the Act for violation.

CEO/Lead Consultant of Leap Communications, a public relations consultancy firm, Mr. Muyiwa Akintunde, in this interview with AKIN ADEWAKUN, argues that though the fortune of the nation’s economy may be nose-diving, public relations will always remain relevant, especially for practitioners who know their onions. The incumbent vicepresident of the Public Relations Consultants Association of Nigeria (PRCAN), the consulting arm of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), also bares his mind on the dissolution of the Advertising Practitioners Council of Nigeria (APCON) Board and the need for government to quickly reconstitute the board, since the dissolution seems to be taking its toll on the industry.

N a nation that is experiencing economic downturn such as Nigeria, occasioned by the slide in price of oil, the mainstay of its economy, what role can public relations play in its economic recovery efforts? Public Relations is as good in good times as it is in bad times. Indeed, some will even argue that public relations is more needed in unpleasant circumstances, which is why crisis management and communication is a major element of the practice. Public and private sectors organisations, at this point in times, are faced with the main challenge of ensuring that their stakeholder groups understand the effects of the global economic downturn on their operations, particularly in a country that has over the years largely depended on oil resources. It is the responsibility of public relations to educate the public on the programmes of the government which are aimed at getting the economy out of the woods. Government will need to seek empathy from the citizenry on why it would get worse before it gets better, using the tools of public relations. The private sector also will also have to connect with their publics and push their unique offerings in more aggressive ways than in the years of doom. Those who adopt the strategy of shrinking their communications budget at the slightest hint of economic troubles will end up shooting themselves in the foot and may not survive the challenging times.

Saturday Tribune

Ad practice in Nigeria may stagnate unless...

—Muyiwa Akintunde, CEO, Leap Communications be allowed to self-regulate. That is the only way to move advertising practice forward. Last year, the Public Relations Council Association of Nigeria (PRCAN), an association in which you function as the vice-president, had a running battle with some PR outfits, in the country, over the refusal of some of them to join the association. What is the relationship like now? How have these

The last general election has created deep divisions among the citizens and it is about time a programme is developed to get Nigerians back together.

But as a key member of PRCAN, what do you think can be done by the association to attract members to its fold? It is to create values. The first value is for the owners of the agencies to realise the importance of complying with the laws that govern the industry in which they operate and earn income. There is no greater value than being a responsible citizen, either as an individual or body corporate. We are also creating professional values. PRCAN runs a capacity development programme that trains and re-trains staff of its member-agencies to update their skills and competencies with the dynamic communication landscape. These programmes are conducted at various levels – entry, mid-career, senior and management. We do engage in thought leadership as well through the annual PRCAN Gold Medal Lecture and the Monthly Breakfast Meeting which allows our members to engage decision makers on the client sides in robust discussions. Through our advocacy initiative, we are building opportunities for our member-agencies to grow their businesses as more and more users of public relations services in the public and private sectors become aware of the competencies and skill sets that reside within PRCAN member-firms. In spite of the strong presence of reputationbuilding institutions in the country, such as NIPR and PRCAN, the nation is still having this image challenge. What do you think can be done to shore up the nation’s reputation and make it attractive, especially at this time when the country needs the intervention of investors, from both home and foreign scenes? We have to first make Nigerians believe in themselves. This is absolutely important. The last general election has created deep divisions among the citizens and it is about time a programme is developed to get Nigerians back together. I will expect governments at all levels to lead the campaign to heal the wounds and address the genuine worries of the different groups. What I see happen is that Nigerians de-market their country and expect other countries to have respect for us. It is not done anywhere. We all have to know this. What exactly does 2016 hold for the advertising industry, especially PR practice? My take on this is that where there is a challenge, there you will find public relations. And since we envisage challenges in 2016, that means public relations will, more than ever before, have huge role to play this year. However, the challenge for public relations professionals is to come up with strategies that will aid users of our services to understand why they have to invest in campaigns that will endear them to their stakeholders in more ways than ever before.

23 January, 2016

Saturday Tribune

crimeandcourt

She has refused to have sex with me since 2006 —Husband He calls himself a pastor, but he has no regard for his family —Wife Stories by Ayomide Owonibi and Rukayat Olufemi

with Agency Reports

70-year-old pastor, Mr Caleb Oluwafisibe, has pleaded with an Ojo customary court in Lagos State, to dissolve his 41-year-old marriage to his wife, Titilayo, because he was sex starved. AccordIng to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), the pastor, who ironically appeared in court wearing a polo T-shirt which had the inscription ‘peace’ at the back, told the court that he was already practising a celibate life, even as a married man. “Since I married my wife in June 1975, it’s been marriage and separation in two phases because any situation was determined by what I could offer. “We were living well until 1998 when things became tough for me. We separated from 1998 to 2006, when my church transferred me out to the East,’’ he said. According to him, his wife had a negative influence on their children, saying they had divergent views on their welfare and training. He said they always clashed because of them. He said that his wife refused him sex from 2006 till date and that forced him to practice a life of celibacy, in order to keep his vows as a man of God. “I even had a special prayer for my wife for three years to see if God would intervene in the difficult situation and change her personality,’’ he said. Oluwafisibe, therefore, pleaded with the court to end their union, so he could move on with his life. The wife, Titilayo, however, debunked the husband’s allegation, saying he was treating her without any tender consideration as a wife. “He calls himself a pastor yet he does not have regard for his family. He has really caused so much division among our children,’’ she said. President of the court, Mrs Veronica Willoughby, in her remark urged the pastor to reconsider his prayer of dissolution, as a man of God. “As a pastor, you should seek peace and not separation. I will give you a second chance to go back and reconsider your intention. “You have both failed in the training of your children by using them as a point of disagreement. Your children are your collective responsibilities,’’ she said. Willoughby then adjourned the case till February 16, to give the couple some time to reconsider their intentions.

He beats me regularly with dangerous objects,wife tells court Please give me more time to settle with her —Husband

AN Abuja Grade 1 Area Court, Lugbe has dissolved a fiveyear-old marriage between Adamu Hassan and his wife, Memuna on grounds of battery and irresponsibility. The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reported that the president of the court, Mr Garba Ogbede, dissolved the marriage after he had tried several times to reconcile the couple’s differences, to no avail. Ogbede held that it was obvious there was no longer love in the union therefore the two should go their separate ways. “You have ceased to be husband and wife henceforth; I put an end to the union between both of you from today in the interest of peace. “Both parties are to maintain the peace all the time, any violation of the order of this court will amount to contempt with grave consequences,” he held, Memuna, a 38-year-old businesswoman, had sought the divorce on the grounds that her husband was “irresponsible, uncaring and fond of beating her.”

At the resumed hearing of the case, Memuna told the court that she was tired of her husband’s ill treatment which she had endured over the years. Memuna, in Hausa language through an interpreter, said that her husband regularly beat her with dangerous weapons and had turned her into a punching bag. “My husband is a violent and aggressive man; he beats me mercilessly anytime we have misunderstanding. “He has failed in his matrimonial obligations; I am totally fed up. Please separate us, I am no more interested in the marriage,” she said. Hassan, 42, however, denied all the allegations, and insisted that the court should give him more time to settle with his wife. “I take good care of her and our son; it is just that she does not respect me, and she always fights with me any time we have a quarrel. “Please give me more time to resolve the issues with her,” he said.

He destroyed the generator on my kids’ birthday —wife ‘She insisted I was not their father’ A woman, Kehinde Ismaila, has urged a Grade C customary court at Agodi Gate, Ibadan, Oyo State to dissolve his 11- yearold marriage to Ismaila over what she described as his adulterous and irresponsible life.

Her sister negatively influenced her —Husband A trader, Mrs Monsurat Mudasiru, has asked a Grade C customary court at Agodi Gate, Ibadan to dissolve her seven-yearold marriage to Wasiu Mudasiru over alleged lack of care. Monsura stated that though the union was blessed with two children, Wasiu paid no bride price on her. ‘’There has never been any love between us, he beats me mercilessly and ensures he leaves a mark on me after scuffles. In one instance, he aborted my first pregnancy while beating me. There were times I fainted and at a time I had to call the police,’’ said Monsurat. She also told the court that she had parked out of Wasiu’s home on four occasions, adding that her family members had warned her never to report him again to them because they would no longer intervene. Monsura also stated that Wasiu accused her of adultery each time she went out adding that she went as far as doing menial jobs with bricklayers in order to make ends meet and take care of her children.

I can no longer bear the agony I’m going through in this marriage —Wife AN Ojo customary court in Lagos State has dissolved the nine-year-old marriage between Adewale Adeniran and his wife, Zainab, over frequent fighting and threats to life. The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reported that the

Her conversion to Xtianity brings me shame —Husband I converted cos he rains curses on me —Wife A 70 -year-old man, Mutairu Afolabi, has asked an Igando customary court in Lagos State to dissolve his 36-yearmarriage to his wife, Monsurat, 60, over alleged bleaching and for converting to Christianity. Afolabi told the court that as an Imam, his wife’s conversion from Islam to Christianity has brought him shame. He said that the marriage was consummated in 1980 and produced four children. “The smell of her body since she started bleaching is not good for my health, why should she be bleaching at her age, she’s now a grandmother. “Her name was ‘Monsurat’ before I married her, my wife is now known in the whole Celestial churches in Lagos; I’m an Imam, how do I explain that? “She goes out at will, without my permission, she curses a lot and I can see that her curse is coming to pass in the lives of my children. “I told my wife that I have diabetes, the next day she started singing that God should add honey and sugar to her life.

Saturday Tribune

“She always says that I will soon die, which I know is true, but even if I have a day to live, I want to live in peace, our children have tried but she does not listen,” he said. The respondent told the court that all the allegations levelled against her were false. “He stopped sharing the same room with me since 2005, he bought a new mattress, when I complained, a family meeting was held but still no change. “As we speak, he does not give me money to cook in the house, he usually gives money to the children to cook for him. “When I was sick and hospitalised for three weeks, he didn’t come to the hospital, even for once, to check on me. “He calls me a witch, he curses me at the slightest opportunity, he said I won’t be successful as long as I remain in his house, that is why I changed to Christianity,” Monsurat said. President of the court, Adegboyega Omilola,in his ruling for adjournment, told the couple to come to court with three family members for a possible settlement. Omilola then adjourned the case till January 27.

president of the court, Mrs Veronica Willoughby, gave the dissolution order in a judgement delivered in a petition filed by Zainab on August 17, 2015. “This petition borders on frequent fighting, threats to life, lack of care, stubbornness, among other allegations levelled against the respondent. The petitioner accused her husband of frequently beating her up, not caring for her welfare and that of her only son and not giving her a listening ear because of his stubbornness. “The petitioner also said she could no longer bear the agony she was passing through because there was no more

love existing in the marriage. “The court has taken steps to settle the dispute considering the future of the only child, but failed. “It is obvious that the marriage is already broken down and it is hereby dissolved with immediate effect. “The petitioner should take custody of the boy, including the welfare, medicals and education of the child. “Both parties must maintain the peace within 12 months of this judgement,” she held. Willoughby said any party that was not pleased with the aspect of the judgement should appeal to a superior court.

“His mother, who is a herbalist, had warned me before I married him that he was not ready to settle down and now he is proving his mother right as he does not leave any money for the family welfare anytime there is a quarrel,’’ explained Monsura. She said that Wasiu had taken their daughter to the custody of his mother and on a day she visited to plait her hair, her sister-in-law beat her up based on instruction from Wasiu that Monsura should not get near the girl again. Responding, Wasiu agreed to the dissolution of the marriage, saying Monsura is too troublesome and adulterous. He claimed that the two of them loved each other to the extent that they wore the same attire regularly but that Monsura was fond of packing her things following any misunderstanding. “Anytime I point this out to her mother, the mother would always say she would look into it. Soon after, I discovered that it was my sister-in-law who was masterminding the crisIs. I only know people from her mother’s side and only got to know something from her father’s side by the tattoo on her body.’’ Mudasairu debunked allegation of lack of proper care for his family, insisting that his children had never been sent away from school and that at a point in time, he opened a shop for Monsura and gave her the sum of N14, 000 for her business but complained that one of his area sisters hinted him that his wife does menial jobs with bricklayers. ‘She comes home late and I noticed that whenever any strange number calls her, she runs to the toilet to receive the call. President of the court, Alhaji Makinde Amusa urged both parties to maintain the peace until the next adjournment date of January 25.

I married another wife because she is too troublesome —Husband I can’t divorce him now that I’m heavy with his pregnancy —Wife A man, Yusuf Owolabi, has filed a suit seeking the dissolution of his marriage to Idowu Owolabi at a Grade C customary court Agodi Gate, Ibadan, Oyo State on allegations of persistent quarrel and threats to life. Owolabi told the court that Idowu had two children for him and is currently pregnant with the third but that the threatening attitude of his wife has defied the intervention of her father and sister-in-law.’’ ‘’I married another wife because of her troublesomeness and my father asked me to rent a separate house for the second wife because of Idowu’s troubles. I asked her to put our first daughter in my mother’s care but she replied that my mum would use her for money ritual. She does not want

any relationship between me and my family.’’ Owolabi also said that Idowu loves to curse him at every opportunity and that the day he decided to leave home for her with their daughter along, she went to his mother to beat her up thinking that the girl was in the custody of his mother he added that he opened a bank account to which he sends monthly allowances but that yet, Idowu still came to Lagos with the children to fight him. ‘’In fact, all my apprentices lost respect for her, not only for her behaviour but also because of the attire she wore.’’ However, Idowu raised an objection to the divorce because she was heavy with Owolabi’s pregnancy. ‘’I married him through Shehu (Islamic cleric) because we

are from the same prayer group and any time we had quarrel, he would report me to Shehu. There was a time we had a seven-day prayer programme but it was quite unfortunate that Shehu used the period of the programme to undo me. I had to leave the prayer in anger even before the completion of the seventh day. He called my mother-in-law to say I was behind his misfortune and Shehu asked him to leave the house immediately’’ Idowu further told the court that he went to Owolabi in Lagos just to tell him that their first daughter was sick and not to foment trouble. The case was adjourned till January 27 for further hearing.

‘’He is not a responsible father, I have two kids for him but he never participated financially in the naming ceremonies of the two of them.’’ Kehinde also accused Ismaila of converting the money she earmarked for foundation laying of a proposed new site she acquired. ‘’When I confronted him for spending the money meant for the foundation laying, he beat me mercilessly and eventually, I went ahead to complete the building without his consent because he also married another woman without discussing with me. I moved into the house because we were defaulting up to four years rent payment in our rented house, so he also moved in with me,’’she told the court. Kehinde recalled a day Ismaila beat her and sent her packing at 1am but was accommodated by a woman-neighbour. “I wanted to mark my children’s birthday and he pledged to offer financial help but failed to do so. I challenged him on this but he was so furious he spoilt the birthday party by destroying the power generating sets and threatening to burn me to death,’’ she said. Meanwhile, Imaila objected to the divorce because he was still living under Kehinde’s roof. “She comes home late and that is just the cause of our quarrels. I undertake all my responsibilities but she is just too pompous because she is the landlady. I disconnected the generator during the birthday ceremony because Kehinde was always saying that she will return the children to their father, a statement she repeated on the fateful day, which drew my ire. I told her on that day she had to tell me the father of the children and that was what caused the commotion,’’ he said. President of the court, Alhaji Makinde Amusa urged both parties to reconsider their stance and come back to the court on January 25.

We have resolved our differences, couple tell court

A Lagos-based businesswoman, Iyabowale Adesuyi and her husband, Moses Adesuyi, have pleaded with an Igando customary court in Lagos State that they were willing to give each other another chance. The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reported that Iyabowale had filed for divorce in November 2015 over alleged battering and lack of care for her and their children. Iyabowale told the court that she was the breadwinner of the family. In the resumed hearing, the couple presented a jointly written letter to the court stating they had resolved their differences and willing to give each other a second chance. The couple told the court that they want to withdraw the case. President of the court, Adegboyega Omilola, told the Akinsuyis that their decision to allow peace to reign was commendable. Omilola, however, told the couple that their letter would not be accepted because it was wrongly addressed. He, then adjourned the case till February 1 to enable them to present a properly addressed letter to the court.

23 January, 2016

voxpop

Saturday Tribune

With Kate Ani

08071080888 anikate92@yahoo.com

How can you tell if he is a Casanova?

A gentleman attracts the attention of many, but only has eyes for his own lady.

There are pretenders out there but they easily meet their match in astute observers of natural tendencies. RICHARD FAKUNLE asks ladies how they find out a pervert clothed in manly colours. Aramide Akintayo o know if he is a ‘player’, you have to get very close to him and study his behaviours and attitudes. An adage says attitude is like smoke, it can never be hidden for life, so through close encounters, you should be able to know if he is a ‘player’.

Ayo Adeosun The way he responds to you whenever you need his attention will enable you to know if he is a ‘player’. And again, when he tends to receive strange calls and act in a funny manner when you are together is also another avenue for you to know if he is a ‘player’.

Bimbo Mogaji If he is a perpetual liar, I will surely know he is a ‘player’, because through his lies I will definitely find some strange acts with him.

Funmilola Daramola One of the signs that will let you know if he is a ‘player’ is when on different occasions he is always difficult to reach, showing you a kind of carefree attitude and he is not always checking on you to know about your well-being.

Yetunde Olaleye If he is the type that drinks, it will be easier to know if he is a ‘player’. Why not get him drunk and try to use his drunkenness to extract some facts from him. When you know he is the type that drinks, then you get him drunk because in that stage, he will say things that he is not supposed to say and when this happens, you have an idea of his motive towards you. Also, his phone calls can help you to know if he is a ‘player’. Esin Comfort If he restrains me from knowing some certain things about his life, his family and friends and if he is always uncomfortable whenever I am with his phone and the manner with which he receives his phone calls around me will surely help me to know if he is a ‘player’.

Oluwatosin Samuel If he is the type that doesn’t want you around, especially when his friends are around, that kind of a person is surely a ‘player’. Again, if he is always ignoring your interest and doesn’t respect what you stand for in his life, think again. Shayo Brown If he spends too much time photo-shopping his image on Twitter, BBM and Instagram, run! He is a ‘player’. Akinpelu Omobolanle If he still contacts his ex-girlfriends and he claims they are just friends and claims there is nothing special about his exes who are still checking and saying ‘hi’ and asking about each other’s welfare. Also, if you can’t visit him anytime you want and feel like until he

gives you an appointment before you can get to see him, he is untrustworthy.

or not.

Bunmi Ogunsola You can test him by telling him you are pregnant if he is the type that doesn’t use condom. His reply will definitely expose him for you to know if he is truly the right one

Funmi Idowu If he slaps your buttocks on the first date and tells you how hot you are, he is not a serious person. He is a real ‘player’ and only interested in shagging and dumping you after the first date. Abisola Ishola When he does not want to know more about your personal details such as favourite colour, food, birthday and other important things, he is a ‘player’. Also, if he demands sex, then you have to know that he is a ‘player’.

Comfort

Yetunde

Ayo

Funmi

Bisola

If he spends too much time photoshopping his image on Twitter, BBM and Instagram, run! He is a ‘player’ Bimbo

23 January, 2016

Saturday Tribune With Tommy Adegbite 0811 695 4631 tommyabijo@yahoo.com

From left, GMD/CEO, Odua Investment Company Limited, Mr Adewale Raji; Osun State governor, Mr Rauf Aregbesola; chairman, Odua Investment Company Limited, Chief Isaac Akintade; Ondo State governor, Dr Olusegun Mimiko; DirectorGenreral, Development Agenda for Western Nigeria Commission, Mr Dipo Famakinwa and Dr Sikiru Tae Lawal, during the Odua meeting at Cocoa House, Ibadan, recently. PHOTO: TOMMY ADEGBITE.

From right, Vice-President, Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), Chief Olawale Cole; Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Guinness Nigeria Plc, Mr. Peter Ndegwa; President, LCCI, Chief (Mrs.) Nike Akande and the Deputy President, LCCI, Mr. Babatunde Ruwase, after a meeting between the leadership team of Guinness Nigeria and LCCI in Lagos, recently.

Pastor T. Bisi Otitiola (left), receiving a copy of the maiden edition of the Tribune from the Associate Editor, Sunday Tribune, Mr Wole Efunnuga, who stood in for the Managing Director/Editor-in-Chief, Mr Edward Dickson, during the visit of members of the Justice of Peace to the Tribune House, Imalefalafia Street, Oke-Ado, Ibadan, recently. PHOTO: ALOLADE GANIYU.

From left, Prince Adenrele Adegbite, Mr Tommy Adegbite, Nollywood actor, Mr Kunle Adegbite, Pa Oladayo Adegbite (the celebrant) and his wife, Maria, at the 82nd birthday of Pa Adegbite in Ilaro, Ogun State.

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Prince Rotimi Paseda (left), discussing with the chief host, Senator Buruji Kasamu, during the first meeting of the General Assembly of Omo-Ilu Foundation, held at the headquarters of the foundation in Ijebu Igbo, Ogun State, recently.

‘Those who steal billions should be hanged’ Which top govt official said this? Find out tomorrow. interview

People who say education standard has fallen are wrong —EKSU VC The new couple, Mr. Tosin and Dr. (Mrs) Aboluwade Adewumi, their parents and traditional rulers from Kwara State at the reception for the new couple at the Landmark Event Centre, Victoria Island, Lagos, recently.

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How my mum shaped my career —Thespis, Joke Muyiwa’s only child

Plus news, sports, fashion... and more! Friends and relations joined Femi Adewodu (second left), CEO, Mount Pleasant Hotel, Ibadan, as he hosted his wife Funke to a 50th birthday party.

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For bookings, contact ’Laolu Afolabi on 08054681741 or Tommy Adegbite on 08116954631

Only one condition can make me remarry —Regina Chukwu

23 January, 2016

EOPLES Democratic Party (PDP) vociferous spokesman, Chief Olisah Metu, has been in the news recently. Manacled as they do common criminals, Metuh, sporting grizzled beard, was shown during the week as he walked escorted into the courtroom to answer charges that bordered on corruption, to wit an alleged collection of the sum of N400 million from former National Security Adviser, Sambo Dasuki. Another charge of destroying evidence was slammed on the PDP publicist. As I wrote last week, the polity’s sense of excitement is assuaged by this battery of allegations and arrests. Flash back to 2007/2008 under late President Umaru Yar’Adua and you only needed to tamper with mere dates of occurrences. In other words, the frenzied atmosphere at governmental showcase of criminals is yet in the horizon; analysts are back to their season when they bring on board the ubiquitous blight of the Nigerian nation – corruption – to the fore of their analyses, with various proffers and recommendations. However, it will appear that this has been the trend ever since and the duo of societal frenzy and multi-pronged analyses have failed woefully to tame the goblin of corruption. Professor Richard Joseph, formerly of Emory University, John Evans Professor of International History and Politics at Northwestern University, former fellow of The Carter Center, Atlanta, and indeed one of the early scholars to engage Nigerians intellectually about the ruins that await the Nigerian nation if it continued on the path of the maggots (apology to Professor Wale Adebanwi’s Paradise for Maggots), had carefully and literally looked into his Ouija board to anticipate the ruins. In a book he entitled Democracy and Prebendal Politics in Nigeria, Joseph, who would be in Ibadan on February 1, 2016 for the Ibadan School of Government and Public Policy conference at the International Conference Centre, University of Ibadan, using the Nigerian second republic as case study, raised an intellectual voice on how public wealth is cornered by public officials and used to service a long list of local clientele through the distribution of what he called prebends to the local scavengers. This theory of prebendalism has come up as one of the most apt, and indeed, evergreen intellectual dissections of the public office cancer that has

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Olisah Metuh’s manacles

metastasized so phenomenally in Nigeria. Virtually all public office holders who are currently being accused of looting the till of our common patrimony did what they did to assuage local thirsts for returns from Abuja, the prebends of Joseph. When you look at the motivations behind the ravenous nature of corruption in public office in Nigeria, what tap-mouthed American presidential hopeful, Donald Trump, knocked Nigeria for recently, you will discover that the need to assuage a long clientele of local scavengers is the excitement or provocation for the looting. The Punch columnist, Abimbola Adelakun, recently provoked another dimension to this whole corruption business recently. According to her, it is time to stop the blind idealisation of the evil of corruption in Nigeria. In a country where the private sector is almost comatose, where government is about the only source of survival for virtually every citizen – and where access to that government is frozen and far between – the few who secure that access cannot afford to be lone-rangers. Whatever they corner from the national till is made available to a large clientele for redistribution. This makes the Joseph proffer of almost 40 years ago very germane to our existence as a nation. And the more reason why government must go back to that book and make it the bible of its drive to tame corruption. According to Adelakun, that denigrated corruption is what is sustaining many people in public schools today because even as callous as they seem, as venal and self-centred as they are, Nigerian politicians cannot exist alone without redistributing what she/he stole from the general coffers. Those who perforate the theory are those who freight their loot out of the country, without the loot being useful for the millions of disenabled people that populate the country. What this piece is saying essentially is that, since corruption has become a major – pardon this cliché – cankerworm that we can only neglect at our peril, can we begin to build institutions that will combat this notorious cancer? Can we begin to teach the essence of anti-corruption from homes, can schools begin to inculcate it? Can we begin to problematise corruption and hoist corrupt people as the problem

of the Nigerian nation? Can we have a system of reward for those who – against the grain – demonstrate dignity and uprightness and thus redirect the path of the nation towards truth and justice? This writer met a Permanent Secretary in a federal ministry recently who volunteered that if Nigerians know the tome of corruption that is daily inflicted on government at the centre, they will honour Dasuki as one of the most temperate villains ever in Nigeria. According to him, the ongoing theft therein is mind-boggling. And, you know what, many of those who steal Nigeria blind at the federal, state and now, local government levels, do so to benefit a long clientele, through their redistribution as prebends. If for instance someone steals a billion naira from the federal or state level, at the point of access to that money, he must have connived with some other folks who would get some portions of the loot; his people at home will get donations for community development; he will volunteer some who will report his activities and his ‘wonderful’ persona; lawyers would get some in case he is caught and it percolates down on and on. This may explain why some Igbo apologists of Metuh carried banners to attack his arraignment. That is why there is an ongoing ethnicisation of the manacles on Metuh’s wrists on the social media. Only a fool will not encourage the Muhammadu Buhari government in this drive to clean the Augean stables. However, tragically, there is no simultaneous building of institutions that can frighten corruption. If this is not done, we would be seeing the Metuhs in manacles, the Dasukis in their resplendent babanriga walking escorted to the courts but corruption will not cease eating us up. And if Buhari leaves, we will return to our vomit. And like Meja Nwangi wrote in his Going Down River Road, we would be walking down the boulder like the Greek god Sisyphus, again and again.

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23 January, 2016

Saturday Tribune

newsfeature

From Dapo Falade, Sam nwaoko, Biola Azeez, Ebenezer Adurokiya, Yinka Oladoyinbo, Ademola Adegbite, Olawale Akinselure and Austin Ebipade

n the last six weeks, Nigeria has been recording horrific cases of Lassa fever outbreak which so far has affected about 17 states in the country. The Federal Government said during the week that Lassa fever has claimed 63 lives out of 212 suspected cases reported from 62 local government areas in affected states. The Minister of Health, Professor Isaac Adewole, confirmed this at the emergency National Council of Health meeting in Abuja during the week on the outbreak of the disease. Adewole listed the 17 affected states as Bauchi, Niger, Taraba, Kano, Rivers, Oyo, Ondo, Edo, Plateau, Gombe, Nasarawa, Lagos, Delta, Ekiti, Ebonyi, Zamfara and Kogi as well as the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). He said there is high level of denial and conspiracy across some states, adding that health managers should not deceive executives by their pretence and silence. The minister described the refusal of Ebonyi State to report five suspected cases and one death as conspiracy of denial. Lassa, fever also known as Lassa Hemorrhagic fever (LHF) is an acute viral fever first discovered in Borno state around 1969. Similar to Ebola, clinical cases had been known for over a decade but had not been connected with a viral pathogen. Predominantly infecting people in West Africa, Lassa fever results in about 5000 deaths each year. The primary animal host is a particular specie of rodents (especially mice) found in sub Saharan Africa. Giving its high rate of incidence, Lassa fever is a major problem in affected countries. The disease can be contracted by ingestion of foods and drinks contaminated by the saliva, urine and faeces of infected rats who access grain stores in residences. Catching and preparing infected rats as food. Others include inhaling tiny particles in the air contaminated with infected rat urine or droppings. Direct contact with a sick person’s blood or body fluids, through mucous membranes, like eyes, nose, or mouth. Our team of reporters brings updates of the disease in some states in the country.

Delta State

“State of 22 persons quarantined unknown” While the discovered first victim of Lassa fever, a 65-year-old woman in Delta State died during the week, the state of the quarantined 22 persons said to have had contact with the woman could not be ascertained at the time of writing this report. This was just as the result of the five blood samples sent to the Specialist Hospital, Irua, Edo State could not be ascertained from the Commissioner for Health, Delta State, Dr Nicholas Azinge, whose disposition on phone when contacted smacked of someone under severe pressure. The 65-year-old woman from Ifiogwari village, Ayamelunu, Anambra State, before her death, was first admitted to St. Joseph’s Hospital and later referred to the Federal Medical Centre, Asaba. Her Lassa fever status was, however, confirmed at the virology laboratory at Specialists Hospital, Irua, Edo State. Meanwhile, residents of Warri South Local Government Area of Delta State have been enjoined to remain calm and maintain a hygienic environment. The Apex Nurse and Deputy Primary Health Care Coordinator for Warri South Local Government Council, Mrs. Marian Ayemere allayed fears of residents, in Warri. Ayemere, who is also the Diseases Surveillance Notification Officer (DSNO) for the local government, described Lassa fever

The disease can be contracted by ingestion of foods and drinks contaminated by the saliva, urine and faeces of infected rats who access grain stores in residences, catching and preparing infected rats as food.

sickbed. We are trailing those who have been in contact with the victims and we are urging our people to take care of their food items and they must not be exposed to rats. “People must report immediately to health authorities. Our enlightenment programme will be taken to the palaces of our monarchs for our people to meet health workers. Our food must be covered and we must maintain decent environment.”

Bayelsa State

Lassa fever: Apprehension as

disease spreads to many states

as a viral heamorhagic fever caused by a viral organism through contaminated water or food by urine and faeces of a rat specie. She noted that any case of Lassa fever, if reported, could only be confirmed through a blood sample taken to a laboratory at Irrua Specialist Hospital in Edo State, adding that any fever with symptoms of high temperature, general weakness (malaise), headache, cough, sore throat, diarrhea and protein-urhia, among others should be swiftly reported to the Delta State Rapid Response Team responsible for the management of outbreak of disease. Also in a chat, the Director, Primary Health Care Development of the local government, Dr. Emmanuel Areh, has admonished residents of Warri and other parts of the state to avoid rats and maintain a clean environment.

Kwara State

We have no cases of Lassa fever —Commissioner Alhaji Atolagbe Alege, the Commissioner for Health in Kwara State spoke on the development in an interview with Saturday Tribune. According to him, the state government has been sensitising the public on the scourge long before now. He said: “As I am talking to you, I am attending a national emergency meeting on Lassa fever called by the Health Minister in Abuja. “In Kwara State, long before now, we have started airing jingles on Lassa fever awareness among the populace on both the print and electronic media owned by the state government. “We have also distributed what’s called personal protective equipment (jacket) for our health workers. “The state government has also set up a community response team in the 16 local government areas of the state and we have also addressed the health workers in the local government areas to alert the state government and its officials to anyone showing any sign of the disease. “Ultimately, the state government has created an Isolation

Centre at the Sobi Specialists Hospital, Ilorin, to treat people with the disease in preparation for such occurrence. “But for now, so far, we have no case of Lassa fever in Kwara State. Kwara State has not recorded any case of Lassa fever, and we don’t pray for it, though preparations have been made to combat it if it surfaces.”

Nasarawa State

One confirmed dead, 6 others quarantined in Nasarawa In Nasarawa State, only one person has been confirmed dead, while six others were placed on watch since the outbreak in Nigeria. In order to nip the disease in the bud, the state government has trained 70 health personnel on the treatment of Lassa fever to check its spread. This action, the state government believes, would play a key role in containing the spread of Lassa fever in the communities, and in boosting the confidence of health workers in handling patients with Lassa fever-related symptoms and how to manage them. To ensure that the government curtails it, participants were drawn from both primary and secondary healthcare facilities across the state. The state Commissioner for Health, Dr. Daniel Iya, who confirmed the casualty figure, admonished health workers to be committed to the efforts of government to curtail the spread of the disease in the state. Also, the chairman, Medical Advisory Committee of the Dalhatu Araf Specialist Hospital (DASH) in Lafia, the state capital, Dr.Edego Egba attested to the commissioner`s submission, saying the victim that died hailed from Akaleku village in Obi Local Government Area of the state. The medical expert explained that all the cases were from the Southern Senatorial district of the state, calling on the people to ensure a hygienic environment. He said that drugs

No case of Lassa fever in Bayelsa —Health Commissioner The Commissioner for Health in Bayelsa State, Dr Ayibatonye Owei has said that no Lassa fever case has been recorded in the state even as they prepare for massive sensitisation of the public. His position, however, is contrary to that of the Minister of Health, Professor Adewole who alleged a conspiracy of denial on the part of some state governments in the country. He specifically mentioned the case of Bayelsa State, where he described the denial of Ebonyi State to report five suspected cases and one death as conspiracy. Owei had earlier in the week posited that the state government had set up a nine-man committee as part of its plans to checkmate Lassa fever. According to him, plans were underway to embark on sensitisation of the public on the disease. “We are on top of the game in ensuring that Lassa fever does not affect the state and the ministry is working out strategies to embark on sensitisation of people on the preventive measures. “The sensitisation will cut across the eight local government areas in the state; there are also jingles on the media. “My advice to the general public is to cultivate a high personal hygiene because that is the most important ways to prevent Lassa fever; wash your hand and maintain proper sanitation in your environment,” he said.

Rivers State

have been made available by the government, while competent hands and certified laboratory scientists have been assigned for the endemic disease.

Ekiti State

We are trailing people who contacted index patient —Govt. Governor Ayodele Fayose on Wednesday made a statewide broadcast on the news media, in which he charged the people of the state to maintain adequate hygiene following the outbreak of Lassa fever in the state. Before the broadcast, the state Commissioner for Health, Dr. Olurotimi Ojo, had announced measures put in place by the government to handle the fever in the case of its outbreak in the state. Dr Ojo, apart from announcing the measures, which included the putting of the necessary agencies on red alert, also said that an isolation ward had been created at the Oba Adejugbe General Hospital in Ado Ekiti in case of the fever surfacing in the state. Last Saturday, just a few days after the government announced its preparedness, a student nurse at the Federal Teaching Hospital, Ido Ekiti (FETHI) was diagnosed with the virus. While the Chief Medical Director of FETHI, Dr. Lawrence Ayodele Majekodunmi announced on Wednesday that the patient, an index case in the state was responding to treatment, he, just like the state government, urged the people not to panic but must take measures to ensure adequate hygiene. FETHI, under Dr Majekodunmi, even organised a seminar on Lassa fever outbreak to douse the rising anxiety among the Ekiti populace. Governor Fayose on his part, said: “The disease is in the state and samples have been taken from a dead person to see whether the signs had to do with the disease, another is on the

We’ve built 3 centres to curb spread —Health Commissioner Rivers State Commissioner for Health, Dr Theophilus Odagme, has disclosed that the state government has established three centres to contain further spread of Lassa fever in the state. Speaking on the outbreak of the disease, which has so far claimed three lives, he said the three centres are Porp Johnson Health Centre, the VIP Ward at the Braithwaite Memorial Specialist Hospital and a space inside the University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital. The health commissioner also disclosed that 250 people had been placed under surveillance, admitting that the daughter of one of the victims had been taken in for close observation. Speaking through his Press Secretary, Mr Paul Bazia, he said field officers, drawn from the state Ministry of Health, were monitoring the 250 people to establish their status. “We have established three centres so far. They are Porp Johnson Health Centre in Port Harcourt and one person is being observed there. We also have the VIP Ward in BMSH and also a space in the University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital. “We are currently working on the disease control centre in Emohua that was used during the Ebola Virus outbreak. The centre has been vandalised by some unknown persons,” Odagme stressed. He also disclosed that the state government was collaborating with the World Health Organisation (WHO) as part of the measures put in place to curb the spread of Lassa fever in the state.

Kogi State

No reported case yet —Health Commissioner The Kogi State government has said no case of Lassa fever has been recorded in the state. The Commissioner for Health, Dr Idris Omede, said meas-

ures were being taken to ensure that the disease did not find a way into the state. Again, this position is not in tandem with what the Federal Ministry of Health disclosed during the week as Kogi State was listed among the states where the disease is found presently. But the commissioner had earlier disclosed that already, communication centres had been established in Anyigba, Kabba and Okene for people to immediately reach health officers if strange developments are noticed in their domains. The commissioner also debunked the insinuations that two cases of the disease have been recorded in the state. He said the two cases in question were not brought to hospital before the affected people died, saying government could not ascertain the cause of the death of the people. Omede, however, said public enlightenment on how to curb the spread of the disease would be stepped up to ensure that the state is saved from Lassa fever.

Oyo State

The people must embrace hygienic living —Govt In Oyo State, eight cases of Lassa fever have so far been investigated and results of tests conducted have turned out negative. Officials of the state Ministry of Health have maintained that there is no need for panic since no new or active case has been reported. The index case established by the state government was that of an eight-month old child, Danladi Azeezat, while tests conducted on both Danladi’s father and mother were reported to be negative. With the categorisation of the University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan by the Federal Minister of Health, Professor Isaac Adewole, as a reference laboratory for haemorrhagic fever, UCH management is in pole position to report incidents of Lassa fever and provide updates on cases. Special Adviser to Governor Abiola Ajimobi on Communication and Strategy, Mr Yomi Layinka stated that the state government’s sensitisation efforts hinged on people embracing hygienic living. Acting Director, Public Health, Dr Taiwo Ladipo noted that the traditional ways of storing food in markets in the state, such as keeping grains in baskets, sacks and tubers stored in the open, make it vulnerable for rats to feast on food. While stating that preventive measures had been put in place to prevent an outbreak, he adds that citizens must avoid contact with rats.

Ondo State

We are working hard to curtail spread —Health Commissioner The Ondo State government has said that aside the two people confirmed to have contacted Lassa Fever in the state, no other case has been recorded in the state. The state Commissioner for Health, Dr. Dayo Adeyanju, who disclosed this during a sensitilisation programme however, said that about 31 people who had contact with the victims have been quarantined in order to curtail spread of the disease in the state According to him, the disease, which broke out in Ose Local Government Area of the state, is leaving one dead, while health personnel are currently battling to save the other. Dr. Adeyanju explained that government had put the 31 persons who had contact with the victims on surveillance to prevent the disease from spreading. He revealed that outbreak control teams at the local government areas had been re-activated, while emergency lines and other sensitisation measures are available to the media in order to enlighten the public. He said the people of the state must maintain hygienic environment at all times, just as he said that the state government will continue to put in place measures to keep away rats from the environment.

23 January, 2016

Saturday Tribune

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Taking the civil service to the next level: More personal reflections By Tunji Olaopa

EFORMING the Nigerian civil service system requires an enormous amount of optimism. And optimism is not an emotion that flourishes when confronted with enormous dysfunction and troubles. It is the truth to say that the condition of the Nigerian civil service is not something anyone can be cheery about. And there is justification for this: Nigeria has been at the democratic experiment for close to twenty years now, and there is still a glaring democratic deficit manifesting in a more glaring infrastructural gap that prevents the citizens from participating actively in the enjoyment of the dividends of democratic governance that has transformed so many other countries serious with honouring their citizens and transforming their living condition. And at the centre of this democratic deficit in Nigeria is a civil service system that has been struggling, since independence, to come to term with the challenge of an efficient service delivery framework backstopped by an optimal performance management dynamics. Optimism is not a child’s play. It is not an emotion that can be turned on and off at will. As a matter of fact, optimism was not available to me at my inception as a public servant of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. The civil service system had come full circle into a bureaucratic culture that stalls performance and progress. And that culture was at full throttle when I joined the service as a naïve novice looking for means of making ends meet. But it did not take long for me to shed my naivety; it took a bit longer for me to realise the herculean task that faces the civil service in a postcolonial context like Nigeria and it eventually became obvious that reforming the public service in Nigeria was an inevitable responsibility. Reform stands at the very heart of national development. This realisation comes with a lot of emotion—for anyone who is truly interested in Nigeria must wish that she would succeed and overcome all her travails. It is this passion that inspired the last eight serial post-retirement reflection that was widely published in national tabloids. In this nine-part concluding serial, I will attempt to systematically sketch out the step by step actions that reform managers need to undertake and at that from me, for the benefit of deepening discourse and, as my seminar public education contribution to enlist support of all and sundry for institutional reform as a sine qua non to national change management to deliver true and sustainable overall national socio-economic transformation. Thus, the first qualification for any reformer anywhere is optimism. To re-form, rehabilitate, restructure, reorganise implies a project of hope and renewal. It signifies faith in the capacity for rethinking institutional mandate in a manner that serves the purpose of the future. And so it takes a little reflection to see how a committed reformer would also unconsciously be a committed patriot. This is because the fate of the Nigerian state is inextricably tied to that of her civil service system. I definitely

did not begin as a patriot. On the contrary, I grew up, like every other Nigerian, loving to hate Nigeria for her inability to contribute to my existential comfort. In fact, it was the search for employment that drove me into the public service appointment. But by some kind of curious coincidence, it turned out that becoming a public servant became a means by which I could assist in fighting against the predicament that Nigeria has been struggling with since independence. It was the reform imperative that made a patriot, in a manner of speaking, out of me. I eventually gave myself the challenge that it is better to leave the civil service better than I met it. I have been at that for twenty seven years, until the retirement. And the fact of retirement, apart from the suddenness of it, is entirely irrelevant to my zeal to continue confronting a system that has engaged my intellect for many years. But more than this, I also owe Nigeria. Tunji Olaopa represents an administrative investment. My expertise and professionalism were not my own making; I got them in the course of understanding the dysfunction of the civil service system. I became a reform expert through the many voyages of learning around the continent and the world in search of reform insights, dynamics and paradigms that could assist Nigeria in transforming her public service into a world class institution that can respond to the challenges democracy poses for us as a nation. Thus, there is no other way to pay back than to remain committed to the task of injecting the public service with a reform consciousness that would undergird the urgency of positive institutional change. Thus, right from 1999 when I became the Head of the Policy Section at the Ministry of Education, I began seeking a bigger and more formidable platform from which I could deploy the experience and insights that I have gathered over the years on the quest for reform paradigm specifically suited to Nigeria’s unique administrative situation. When I became the permanent secretary, it became a natural institutional ambition that a team of champions (myself inclusive) emerge in government that would join its vision with my kind expertise (which are scattered all around the community of service and practice — local, in diaspora and international) to push the frontiers of

public service institutional re-engineering to the omega point of systemic transformation. And, in addition, as I will show in the next part of this series, the critical institutional actors within the public service that should play significant role in playing out this dynamic process. However, since counterfactual logic rarely works in administration, what is significant at this stage is the question: How can we (we here meaning the team of champions still in the service with the usual support of expert-outsiders) take the civil service to the next level in performance and reform implementation? This is the same question that has animated my administrative reflection for more than twenty years now. It is a question that poses a lot of difficulty for public administration in Nigeria because of the burden of history that surrounds the many attempts at restructuring the system without much success. And the best that could be done is to outline the frameworks of reform variables and dynamics that I believe could form the basis of reform for the critical mass of reformers that I believe are still embedded within the institutional space of the civil service, from the HoS down to the rank and file. This is not an act of philanthropy, but a necessity. The public service still has a very long way to go, and there are still so many elements that are missing in our reform arsenal. What are these elements? How do they factor into the reform vision of making the civil service an efficient service institution? What is the role of the Office of the Head of Civil Service of the Federation (OHCSF), the Federal Civil Service Commission (FCSC), et al? What challenges does what is called the ‘environment of reform’ pose to the implementation of the reform ideas? These questions are fundamental because genuine answers to them point to a viable implementation framework that could facilitate institutional transformation of the civil service system. Once the reform elements are identified, all that would remain would be an ingenious and creative calibration into a neat and sustainable package that will require vision and will and gut to see through to its logical conclusion. This is all the more so because we are in the season of the frenetic excitement of change. As I see it, change requires a specific institutional capacity to transform our situation as we see it for the better. It implies that the civil service system needs to brace up for the challenge of its own transformation. It needs to be ready for the demands of democratic governance. The challenge of change, for the Buhari administration, is the challenge of deploying the capacities of the civil service system towards a future of optimal institutional performance that actively intervenes in the lives and experiences of Nigerians. Andrew Grove warned that ‘The important things of tomorrow are probably going to be things that are overlooked today.’ I owe it as a duty to this institution that I love to ensure that those things that matter with regards to institutional rehabilitation are not overlooked in ignorance. Dr. Tunji Olaopa is a retired Federal Permanent Secretary based in Abuja.

Corruption fights back in Nigeria By John Campbell PRESIDENT Muhammadu Buhari successfully ran for the presidency on an anti-corruption ticket and a promise to restore security by destroying Boko Haram. His geographical support was based in the north and the west of the country, and he also benefitted from a general sense among the political class that incumbent President Goodluck Jonathan was incompetent and had to go. But, in the predominately south and east of the country, a majority apparently voted for Jonathan and his Peoples Democratic Party’s (PDP) candidates in the National Assembly. Just how large a majority is not clear, as there was election rigging in the region on Jonathan’s and the PDP’s behalf. Nevertheless, the bottom line is that notwithstanding Buhari’s electoral victory, the PDP has not gone away. With its votes in the National Assembly, it remains a powerful political factor that can thwart Buhari’s reform agenda. Since election day, there have been complaints that Buhari’s government is “northern” in character, and that it is not

moving to address the genuine grievances in the southern and eastern parts of the country, including the oil patch, that had voted for the PDP. There has been a revival of public sentiment in favor of Biafra, a predominately Christian, Igbo-dominated state that tried to secede from Nigeria and failed in the 1967-70 civil war. In a government misstep that risks inflaming Delta opinion, the Buhari administration has arrested the head of Radio Biafra and denies him bail. Since election day, President Buhari has vigorously pursued an anti-corruption campaign that includes senior associates of the Jonathan administration in its dragnet. Many of those arrested or under investigation are Christians from the areas that voted for Jonathan and the PDP. It should be no surprise that there are complaints that the Buhari government is selective in its investigations and prosecutions to the detriment of southern Christians, though, in fact, northern Muslims (including the former national security advisor and a close associate of Buhari himself) have also been caught in the anti-corruption dragnet. Last week, the Abuja High Court ordered the arrest of the warlord Government Ekpemupolo (or Tompolo), one

of Jonathan’s more disreputable political allies from the oil patch, for corruption. Apparently as a result of the arrest, Niger Delta militants over the weekend attacked oil and gas pipelines that shut down two of Nigeria’s four refineries. Long out of operation, the four refineries had recently been revived as part of the Buhari administration’s effort to reduce Nigeria’s dependence on imported refined petroleum products. During the last round of unrest in the oil patch under the 1999-2007 Obasanjo administration, militant attacks on the oil infrastructure significantly cut production and reduced government revenue. The Yar’Adua and Jonathan administrations in effect bought off militant leaders, like Tompolo, through government contracts and office. Ex-war lord and man of violence, Tompolo faces credible charges. But, he is also seen by some in the Delta as a Robin Hood by a region that is feeling marginalized. As the anti-corruption campaign unfolds, it should be anticipated that Delta restiveness and associated attacks on the oil infrastructure will continue. Campbell is a US former ambassador to Nigeria.

23 January, 2016

Saturday Tribune

style

Saturday Tribune With Kate Ani 08071080888 anikate92@yahoo.com

Fashion myths you should stop believing!

If you are past 40, you shouldn’t wear mini-skirts or short dresses

Matching your shoes with your bag It can be so difficult to find the perfect bag to match your new shoes, but it really shouldn’t have to match. Nowadays, anything goes!

IF you are above thirty and you like fun and the girly look, there is no reason why you shouldn’t wear whatever you want! Kris Jenner is fifty and is still competing with her famous daughters in the fashion scene and killing it!

Don’t combine clashing prints

Certain clothes only look good if you are tall and skinny SAYING that a certain kind of clothing — be it wide leg pants, crop tops or bodycon dresses only look good on someone tall is just a myth and must be discarded! The likes of plus-sized fashion magazine editor, Ngube Natasha, Onair personality, Tolu Oniru ‘Toolz’, stylish BBC presenter, Peace Hyde, are certainly slaying the fashion scene in the above mentioned style ensembles.

IT’S nice to come out of your comfort zone and try new pieces together. You’ll never know what will go together and what won’t until you try it on.

Sneakers are meant only for the gym

You should only show skin on top or bottom TRASHINESS” has a lot more to do with how you act in public than how much skin you choose to show in your fashion get-ups.

High heels are more sophisticated than flats TRUE, high heels do change the way you carry yourself, but you can alter your posture without raising the height of your shoes. Shoulder back, chin up, chest out — that's all it takes. You can even do it barefooted.

Channel your inner school girl in the trendy pinafore WHO would have thought that pinafores would be back in fashion? Probably the last time you wore a pinafore was way back during junior secondary school days (as senior secondary school students were made to wear skirt and blouse). The pinafore symbolises a stress-free comfy school uniform that takes seconds to slip on. The fact that it keeps schoolgirls well-ventilated could be the reason why most schools choose pinafore as uniform wear. These days, this girly dress has been given a fresh breath of style and design interpretations to make them more modern and chic, the pinafore dresses have also been imprinted with a variety of trending prints and patterns like floral, animal, paisley and camouflage to name a few.

REAT style is about being daring and bold, don’t let those false fashion rules pin you down from rocking your personal style. Here are some fashion myths you should stop believing right now. While taking full charge of your wardrobe, let your outfit reflect your personality!

SNEAKERS can be sported in a really cute way when paired correctly. Whether you choose to buy sporty sneakers or more casual ones is up to you, but there is always a way to pair it with your normal wardrobe instead of your workout clothes.

Tinuola Ayanniyi tayanniyi@yahoo.com 08055069379

Gold leaf faux ring

THIS DIY faux ring is like the most glamorous temporary tattoo we’ve ever seen. Just paint a special non-toxic adhesive Do-it-yourself: directly onto your finger, then cover it up with gold leaf.

Saturday Tribune

23 January, 2016

outofthisworld

With femi osinusi

osfem2@yahoo.com 08055069292

These companies founded thousands of years ago are still in business!

here is no doubt that these companies have weathered the storms of thousands of years are

still standing. These companies were able to survive today due to their ingenuity and ability to adapt to changes

that came during those years. According to oddee.com, some of these companies also survived the years due to the fact that while

Kongo Gumi in Japan, construction company founded 1,438 years ago

Japanese construction company, Kongo Gumi, was the world’s oldest continuously operating independent company. Headquartered in Osaka, the once family-owned company traces its origins back to 578 AD when one

of the engineers, Prince Shotoku, brought from Baekje to Japan to build the Shitennoji Temple decided to start his own business. A 10-foot, 17th-century scroll traces 40 generations back to the company’s start.

As with many distinguished Japanese families, sons-in-law often joined the clan and took the Kongo family name. Thus, through the years, the line has continued through either a son or a daughter.

others could not see what the future held, they were not only able to see, but also prepared for it.

Nishiyama Onsen Keiunkan Hotel, Japan founded 1,311 years ago

In 705 AD, the natural hot springs surrounding Nishiyama Onsen Keiunkan allowed for the creation of a number of healing baths that drew visitors to come to the hotel and relax. Among

its early patrons were Samurai and Shogun. Fifty two different generations of descendants have cared for and operated the inn, growing the space and modernising it slowly with each passing

epoch. Keiunkan is considerably larger than it was over a thousand years ago, but both the look and feel of the inn have remained unchanged, despite its modern amenities.

St. Peter’s Stiftskeller Restaurant, Austria, founded 1,213 years ago

Post och Inrikes Tidningar Newspaper in Sweden founded 371 years ago

The St. Peter Stiftskeller is mentioned in a document by the scholar Alcuin, a follower of Charlemagne, in the year 803 AD. The Salzburg establishment claims to be the oldest documented restaurant in continuous operation. The Stiftskeller, located in St. Peter’s Archabbey, was at one time indistinguishable from a monk’s

The Post och Inrikes Tidningar newspaper was founded in 1645 by Queen Christina and was a staple for Swedish news junkies throughout the late 17th and 18th centuries. In its storied history, PoIT published international and domestic news coverage, weather observations, poetry and serialized novels. As the number of newspapers multiplied, PoIT reduced its news content, and, by the early 1900s, was no longer the newspaper of reference in Sweden. Instead, it became the country’s official notification medium for announcements like bankruptcy

pub. Not only is it the old- pany in the world and the est restaurant, but it’s also oldest company outside the seventh-oldest com- of Japan.

Rathbornes Candlemakers in Ireland founded 528 years ago Rathborne Candles, based in the Dublin suburb of Blanchardstown, was founded in 1488 — four years before Columbus discovered America. It has survived everything from plagues to the com-

ing of electricity, and the Second Vatican Council. During the 19th Century, Rathborne held the contract for all the street lighting fittings in Dublin. When electricity became the norm, the company refocused its efforts on church candles. However, the Second Vatican Council decreed that Catholic churches should be stripped of much of their previous ornamentation including elaborate candles.

But, as Rathborne’s financial director Vincent Brady says, “the meddling ecclesiastical busybodies relented and the traditional church candle survived.” The company has big plans for the future and is determined to be around another 500 years. Says Brady, “We would like to set up a museum where we could exhibit all the old machines and demonstrate the ancient candle-making skills, and maybe one day return to East Wall, which is our ancestral home.”

declarations or auctions. In 1978, the paper adopted the booklet format, but readership continued to decline. The final print

version had a circulation of only 1,500 and on January 1, 2007, it switched over to an Internet-only format.

Beretta Firearms in Italy founded 490 years ago During the Middle Ages, Gardone, Italy, was a mecca for iron working. At the beginning of the Renaissance Era, the city was known for its high-quality gun making. Maestro Bartolomeo Beretta was a master gun barrel maker living in Gardone. In 1526, the Ar-

senal of Venice paid him to make 185 arquebus barrels, making the Beretta company the oldest weapons manufacturing company in the world. The Beretta family has continuously controlled the company for its entire history. Ugo Gussalli Beretta and his two sons, Pietro and Franco,

still maintain leadership of Beretta today.

businessextra

Why foreigners are taking over Nigeria’s cargo clearance business The Shippers Association of Lagos State (SALS) recently raised the alarm that foreigners are taking over the cargo clearance business at Nigerian seaports. In this report, TOLA ADENUBI looks at why Nigerian freight forwarders are losing out to their foreign counterparts.

he President of Shippers’ Association Lagos State (SALS), Reverend Jonathan Nicol, recently called on the Federal Government to immediately begin investigations and impose necessary sanctions against foreigners taking over freight forwarding business from Nigerians. In a statement issued by the association in Lagos, Nicole lamented that foreigners have taken over almost all the processes of cargo clearance at the ports, leaving Nigerians freight forwarders idle. He cautioned that if nothing is done urgently to correct the trend, not less than 10, 000 Nigerians will lose their jobs. The SALS president equally expressed worry that the essence of government setting up the Council for the Regulation of Freight Forwarding in Nigeria (CRFFN) has not been achieved. In his words: “The essence of the CRFFN among other things is to protect indigenous freight forwarders. But what do we have today? Foreigners prepare all the Form M and place order with suppliers of the firm, ship it into the country, clear the cargo and deliver to consignees. “Nigerian freight forwarders are losing their jobs to foreigners. Reports reaching us at the Shippers Association Lagos State are that some private foreign companies are bent on taking over all the blue-chips companies and manufacturing industries in Nigeria through outsourcing. “The implications are that the existence of the CRFFN will be threatened. I believe that freight forwarding in Nigeria should be an exclusive business for Nigerians as it is done in the Republic of Benin. “If nothing is done urgently, over 10,000 Nigerians will lose their jobs. The Federal Government should please protect our people from foreign concerns complicating the fragile economic situation in the country.” The position of Reverend Nicol, a seasoned shipper, speaks volume of preference for foreign freight forwarders by blue-chip companies and multinationals who import huge amount of cargoes on a monthly basis, leaving Ni-

gerians to handle importation for importers who bring in one or two cargoes monthly. However, a number of reasons can be said to be behind this preference. Lack of regulation Although the CRFFN was established by the Federal Government to set standards of practice, register the practitioners and also regulate the various freight forwarding associations in Nigeria in order to make them conform to international best practices, happenings in the freight forwarding sector have revealed that the sector reeks of poor regulation. The debacle that trailed the attempt by the CRFFN to introduce the Transaction Levy readily comes to mind as regards the lawless state of activities in Nigeria’s freight forwarding sector. The fact that some freight forwarding associations collect this same levy from their members as Practitioners Operating Fee (POF) led to the dead-on-arrival status of the CRFFN Transaction Levy. This association, knowing full well that if the CRFFN Transaction Levy becomes successful, will replace their POF, thus depriving them of desired funds, opposed the CRFFN quest for the introduction of the Transaction Levy, and thereby starved the Council of its required funds to function as a government agency. With no funds in place, the CRFFN gradually became a

Findings have revealed that school dropouts and even secondary school holders parade themselves as freight forwarders.

23 January, 2016

Saturday Tribune

Edited by Sulaimon Olanrewaju

lanresulaiman123@gmail.com 0805 500 1708

toothless bulldog whose barks can never harm anybody. With a weak CRFFN, many freight forwarders were left to practise their profession their own way. Speaking to Saturday Tribune, the National President of the National Association of Government Approved Freight Forwarders (NAGAFF), Eugene Nweke, bemoaned the lack of regulation in the nation’s freight forwarding sector. According to him, “if Nigerians must compete with foreigners in the cargo clearance chain, it has to do with allowing a regulator to regulate the sector appropriately. If the CRFFN is being encouraged to regulate the industry appropriately, perhaps we might come back to take over our position in the industry again. “If we look at it from the legal angle, the CRFFN was established without a proper means of funding put in place. A regulatory body like the CRFFN ought to be funded in order for it to be able to carry out its functions. “If the CRFFN is properly funded, then we will not be talking about foreigners taking over jobs that Nigerians should be doing.” Lack of capacity Nweke added that “The entire system is lopsided. We all know what is happening to the Cabotage Act. Despite its passage, foreigners are flouting the Act due to lack of capacity on the part of Nigerian shipowners. “It’s the same thing with the CRFFN. We need to ask ourselves how prepared are local freight forwarders to meet with the demand of international trade. But we are not. Anybody just comes to the port and parades him or herself as a freight forwarder. “We lack capacity to compete with this foreign freight forwarding firms. Some of these foreign freight forwarding firms have a well organised structure in place, while some of the local freight forwarders operate from the streets, without an office. Not all are even registered.” Fake practitioners Findings have revealed that school dropouts and even secondary school holders parade themselves as freight forwarders. Many practise their freight forwarding without a registered office space and in recent times, many importers have lost huge sums of money to freight forwarders who operate from the streets. When the CRFFN conducted a registration exercise for all freight forwarders in the country, not everybody turned up because not all of them could defend what they claim to practise. In the words of an importer, Mr. Chuks Inedum, “the issue of fake freight forwarders is really alarming because many of my colleagues have fallen victim. “They claim to have office space. They will even take you there, but as soon as you give them money to help you clear your consignment, they disappear into thin air. And when you go to this offices, it’s either the place is under lock and key or you see a different person in the office. “They litter the ports entrance gates. When you come to the seaports, you will see them hanging in twos and threes, looking for an unsuspecting importer to swindle. It is that pathetic and government is doing nothing about this. “That is why you will never see all these big multinationals patronising Nigerian freight forwarders. They will rather give their money to foreign freight forwarders because they bring in large numbers of consignment “For a company that brings in about 50 to 100 containers in a month, you will never see such a company dealing with Nigerian freight forwarders because the larger the numbers of containers, the higher the risk involved.”

23 January, 2016

ntertainment News

Society Gist

Saturday Tribune with Joan Omionawele and

jistwtjoan@yahoo.com Twitter:@joanbajojo 08059793705 Newton-Ray Ukwuoma 08052271251

Celebrity Interviews

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3 ke pg I a ek nks s of GN Emebu ur g A d mo rin y ru atte tar b cre se

What love has taught me â&#x20AC;&#x201D;Ibinabo Fiberesima

23 January, 2016 Saturday Tribune 30 ‘It is not right comparing Nollywood with American, Indian brands’ Continues from pg2

You are known by Nigerians as Adanna, have you done any work besides Mnet’s TV series, Tinsel? No. I have done some works in the [United] States. Moving back to Nigeria, Tinsel was the first TV series I was featured in. I have been in Nigeria for three and a half years. From Tinsel, TV series, I have also featured in the movies. Tell us, at what point did you decide to return home? I was born and bred in the USA. After I was crowned Miss Black USA in 2010, I had a conversation with my aunty in Nigeria, who told me about an audition for a soap opera called Tinsel. The truth is I had heard of the success of Nollywood and I wanted to be part of it; plus, I have been interested in entertainment since I was a child. So, it wasn’t easy to convince me to come back. I came back, auditioned and got the role. As a little girl growing up, did you ever see yourself as a queen? Yes. And I believe all little girls should see themselves as queens. The training should start at home with our parents allowing us to know that we are beautiful, that we are smart, that we are strong, that nobody can take advantage of who we are and that it is only God that can direct our paths. Trained liked that as I was trained, I think little girls, especially little African girls, will grow to know that they are queens. Which of your parents encouraged you into pageantry? Both my parents supported me. Like I said earlier right from a young age, I have always loved entertainment. My parents discovered this early. They put me through a modelling school, where I was groomed as a beauty pageant. That helped with my self-esteem. And it was through that process that I discovered my love for acting. Do you still model? It’s in me. It is part of the platform of everything I do today. I am a brand ambassador for Konga, in one of their fashion lines. So I do that for them. It comes in handy any time. How then would you define your talents? I am an actress who knows how to model. Would you say Tinsel introduced you to mainstream movie? O yes. Tinsel gave me the major awareness I needed. It practically launched me into Nigeria. I was relatively unknown before Tinsel, though I was a queen in the USA. It opened to me opportunities beyond acting, like modelling. I have shared that. For acting, I have done quite a number. It’s been three or so years now. My first major project was GbomoGbomo Express. I was also in The Department. I am also working on a number of films that will be screened this year. One of the current projects I am doing has the working title “Put a Ring on It”. There is another film called Rat Neck. I will be working on another film few weeks from now. Just being busy doing what I love best. Has there being any challenge so far? Yea. The film I am working on right now. I can’t really talk much about it. However, it has been challenging. Pulling up the character has been emotionally draining. It is like the roles I love to do. But it is definitely going to be a great movie. So stay tuned. How long have you been acting? I have been acting since I was young, doing school and church plays. I am blessed to do it for a living. What do you have to say about Nollywood? Nollywood is amazing. I am glad it has evolved to where it is now. I want to say that it is wrong for people to compare Nollywood with Hollywood or Bollywood. Most times we are on our own path. Right now, every

Marriage changes people. It has changed my thinking. I was used to being focused on myself. You know, Osas, Osas, me myself and I kind of life. Being with Gbenro has taught me the importance of partnership, of working together, of communicating. new work from Nollywood is like an improvement from the last one. We keep getting better and better. And hopefully we will arrive at our promised land. We remember you also got married to a Tinsel/ Nollywood mate. How has being married to an actor affected your life? Marriage changes people. It has changed my thinking. I was used to being focused on myself. You know, Osas, Osas, me myself and I kind of life. Being with Gbenro has taught me the importance of partnership, of working together, of communicating. We are still working on it. It is a day to day thing for us. I am grateful for the change and the growth in terms of being able to grow with him. The image we have of Gbenro was the dreadlock model and actor. That changed after your marriage, what do you have to say about his haircut? I have answered this question a number of times. I was

as surprised as everyone seeing him on our wedding day with a new look. Everyone’s belief was that Osas made her husband shave his hair. It wasn’t like that at all. It was a huge surprise for me. When he was telling me he was thinking of doing it, I was the one trying to convince him not to tamper with his hair. I didn’t make him change his hairstyle. I guess it comes with the sense of responsibility that marriage brings. Most people know you in Tinsel, were you two cast together? We never met, we never acted together, we never crossed the same scene. I was Adanna and he, Soji. We have never been on the same production, or ever acted together until in GbomoGbomo Express. How did you meet him and how has it been combining work with family? We just met and struck a very healthy friendship during Tinsel shoots and we had respect for each other. And since we started as colleagues, being married and working together is much easier. We already have a mindset of working together without bringing family into it. We don’t struggle to separate business from family. It happens naturally. And we respect each other for that. How do you manage over night shooting? I am grateful and blessed because Gbenro knows I am an actor. He understands the responsibility that comes with that. There was an occasion we were shooting overnight. If he wasn’t an actor himself, no man would have taken it. Well, only few men would have taken it lightly. But it was wonderful because he was actually there. On the other hand, it was grilling because of the mosquitoes.

32 entertainment

23 January, 2016

How 2face, Waje and Timi Dakolo emerged coaches of The Voice Nigeria!

Stories by Joan Omionawele and Newton-Ray Ukwuoma

he year 2016 is getting ready to illuminate the entertainment industry as leading Nigerian vocalists 2face Idibia, Waje, Timi Dakolo and Patoranking have been announced as coaches for the maiden edition of the Airtel- sponsored show, ‘The Voice Nigeria.’ The coaches were unveiled last Tuesday at The George Hotel in Ikoyi, Lagos. The announcement of the coaches came as preparations for the maiden edition of the show reached fever pitch following talent auditions in Calabar, Port Harcourt, Abuja and Lagos. Speaking at the press conference, the Director, M-Net West Africa, Wangi MbaUzoukwu said: “It’s an exciting time for us at M-Net. ‘The Voice’ is an internationally renowned franchise and has consistently provided exciting television content whilst giving great opportu-

From left to right- The Voice Coaches, Waje Iruobe,; Innocent Idibia (2Face); Wangi Mba-Uzoukwu, Regional Director, M-Net West Africa; Timi Dakolo, (The voice Coach) and Emeka Oparah, Director Corporate Communications, Airtel, during the press conference to unveil The Voice Nigeria Judges held at The George Hotel , 30 Lugard Road, Ikoyi,Lagos during the week. nities to talented individuals like the US, Australia, South remainder of the season ic will use to give voices to to showcase their talent to Africa and the UK, where whilst also competing to the voiceless in the society. the world. The Nigerian ad- other renowned artistes ensure that their act wins While speaking at the aptation will be no different have occupied the show’s fa- the competition. conference, 2face Idibia and our viewers can expect mous red chairs as coaches. Revealing the reason for affirmed :It will be an amazthe best television enter- ‘The Voice Nigeria’ employs the choice of the coaching show and being a coach tainment even as we wait to the same format, including es, Wangi noted that the will be very exciting for discover the next generation a panel of four coaches who coaches have a huge follow- me, especially having to of talented singers!” critique the contestants’ ing and have persistently direct people. I am proud Since its original launch performances. The coaches touched lives with their to be an Airtel ambassador in 2010, ‘The Voice’ has guide their teams of se- voices and this is the plat- as this is a massive project won audiences in countries lected artistes through the form Airtel and Africa Mag- towards uplifting the lives of people.”

Seyi Shay’s fans to win gadgets in new competition

ensational Afropop singer, Deborah Oluwaseyi Joshua, popularly known as Seyi Shay, will be giving out electronic gadgets such as Ipads, Android phones, among other prizes to winners of a recently launched competition captioned, “Seyi or Shay Instagram Karaoke”. The Ragga Ragga crooner made this known on Tuesday on her Instagram page with an instructional video and rules of the competition. According to her, the Instagram competition

will be a follow-up on her debut album titled, “Seyi or Shay” launched last year November at the Eko Hotel and Suites, Victoria Island. According to the singer, fans will be required to post a 15 second video of themselves singing the chorus of their favourite song of Seyi Shay’s debut album “Seyi or Shay”, mentioning @iamseyishay with hashtags #SeyiorShay #SeyiorShayInstagramKaraoke to be entitled for the prizes. The competition closes on January 26, 2016.

Eccentric presenter, Denrele Edun, who is known for pulling various fashion stunts recently got himself injured while on a movie location during the week. Edun, who posted some pictures on Instagram to narrate his ordeal, revealed: “They say that true artistes suffer for their craft but perhaps no artiste has suffered like myself on this hustle of mine! All in a bid to make my acting more convincing, I was supposed to drop into a faint in the very first scene of the movie “PEPPER SOUP”

but I guess I miscalculated and fell hard on a metallic

object on the floor that pierced my face.” A sober Edun further added: “I blacked out for a few seconds and felt something warm running down my face… Truth is, a blood vessel just a lil (sic) above my right eye (an inch away from my eyebrow bone) was burst open and it was hard to control the bleeding! The production team was stunned and scared at the same time. They almost called off the production but I refused! The show must go on! And I finished this job with all the grace, strength,

An exited Waje said “This is just to seal my name because I describe myself as the voice of Nigeria. We thank Airtel Nigeria for creating jobs and adding value.” On his part, Nigerian Idols winner, Timi Dakolo said “I know that there are lots of people out there who have voices and I pledge to do my best.” Commenting on the unveiling of coaches, Mr. Ahmad Mokhles, the Chief Commercial Officer of Airtel Nigeria, sponsors of ‘The Voice Nigeria’ noted that Airtel is passionate about creating platforms that will delight, excite, entertain and engage talented youth as well as telecoms consumers across the country. According to him, ‘The Voice Nigeria’ demonstrates Airtel’s commitment to its vision of connecting Nigerians to their dreams. We are also pleased by the fact that the majority of the coaches are not just icons in their respective music genres but also members of the Airtel family, underscoring our intense interest and support for the entertainment and creative industry.”

‘Diary of a Lagos Girl’ premieres in February Fresh from the fry movie, ‘Diary of a Lagos Girl’ is ready to hit public domain as all is set for the premiere of the movie in February. Nike Erinle-produced movie tells a comic-filled romantic story in that it will make viewers laugh as well as learn from the antics of Lagos girls who go in their search for Mr Right. Dire cte d by Jumoke Olatunde, ‘Diary of a

Denrele Edun gets injured on movie location

Saturday Tribune

Lagos Girl’ features among other actors, Dolapo Oni (Bim), a materialistic, single Lagos girl in search of the ideal man, Alex Akubo (Ife) and OC Ukeje (Timi), who teach her valuable lessons regarding the truth about love and the weightier matters of life. The movie also stars such as Liz Ameye, Linda Ejiofor, Adunni Ade and Paul Adams.

How Nollywood child actor died

resilience and amazing character interpretation that I could muster!” It will be recalled that this is not the first time Denrele has gotten injured while performing or working. Last year, he reportedly slipped and fell off stage while trying to thrill the audience during a show.

Just a few weeks into the new year, Nollywood has been thrown into mourning as a child-actor named Olamide David gave up the ghost during the week. The award-winning actor, Olamide, who acted in the ‘Cobweb’, a film produced by Nollywood actress, Foluke Daramola, was recognised by the organisers of the Best of Nollywood (BON) as the best child act, last month, in Akure, Ondo State. Following the demise of the talented child-actor, Foluke Daramola-Salako posted his picture on her Instagram page, with a caption which reads “Death! Where is your sting? Olamide David, my lead character in Cobweb, why does it have to be now?

Why, why, why?”. Revealing the cause of his death, the CEO of BON, Oluwaseun Oloketuyi told Saturday Tribune that Olamide was kicked while playing football and fell. He was rushed to the hospital but gave up under 24 hours.

33 entertainment

23 January, 2016

Stories by Joan Omionawele and Newton-Ray Ukwuoma

New movie, Alayo set to expose escapades of ‘smart’ ladies

he president of the Actors Guild of Nigeria, Ibinabo Fiberesima has been glowing since she got married to her heartrob, Uche Egbuka last year. In a brief chat with Saturday Tribune, the Nollywood actress revealed that falling in love has changed a lot of things about her and made her see love in a different light. According to her, “I am more accommodating now and there is so much to learn with being married and I’m enjoying it. Being a wife and a mum is a very amazing experience,” she said.

Franklin Lenoard, Olamide Akintobi, Shade Ladipo, Vixen Ikwerre, Zainab Balogun and Funke Bucknor Obruthe.

A new Yoruba flick just released by Oyindamola Awotidebe, entitled ‘Alayo’ is out in the cinemas. The subject matter is a story of three friends who fell in love with the same man. This ruins their relationship as other gory events follow. The movie stars Oyindamola Awotidebe, Saheed Balogun, Muyiwa Ademola, Sola Kosoko, Liz da Silva and many Nollywood acts. The story is borne out of a personal experience which reveals escapades of ladies who always think they are smart. They go about playing men and end up being played in the process. It is about teaching both sexes to be wary of their moral life, as either can get played and fall prey to the antics of the other.

tors’ Guild of Nigeria barely nine months after Nollywood actor, Emeka Ike resumed as the president of the Actors Guild of Nigeria. Sources alleged that trouble between both parties began after the executive members of the Guild at-

tended a church service in Onitsha and an argument had ensued between the national secretary and the president over what has been tagged negligence and constitutional breaches by the president. It was further alleged that following the altercation between Ike and Onibiyo in the church, the president had joined forces with the chairman of the Anambra State chapter of AGN, Browny, to inflict harm on the national secretary. When Saturday Tribune contacted Emeka Ike, he dismissed the rumour, saying “the opposition would not stop spreading cheap details because it is directed to distract, rattle, defocus the guild. The actor further stated that “it is laughable because it is a ploy to distract. In fact it is nonsensical.”

Daddy Fresh returns with ‘Oyoyo’ video Off the radar singer, Daddy Fresh, has returned with the video of the single which he dropped in December, titled Oyoyo. The singer, who was one of those that brought attention to the ghetto city — Ajegunle — with his music, says he will be releasing more videos in preparation for his new album in April. After many years of restrategising and redefining his music, the defunct Pretty Busy Boys group leader, who came into limelight more than two decades ago, assured fans in a quick interview with Saturday Tribune that he will foster a brand of music that will be loved by his old and prospective fans. “I started as a hip-hop rapper and I became versatile, able to do R&B, dancehall, reggae and different genres. Music has always been my first wife, so I’m out with different songs for my fans. ‘Oyoyo video will be out latest on Monday after which other videos like ‘I No Be Onion’ and ‘See Dem’ will be shot before my fifth album drops in April. Watch out of for the best from Fresh Records”, says Fresh who hails from Abia State. He however urged the government of the day to support music and show business like the American government as it will reap the fruit in the future. The album is anticipated to have 12 tracks.

Saturday Tribune

I’m enjoying my marriage —Ibinabo Fiberesima ‘Hotel Majestic’ ends with pomp and excitement Hotel Majestic, a renowned telenovela on Africa Magic, came to grand closing with the premiere of the last episode recently at the Intercontinental Hotel in Lagos. Celebrities, socialites, cast and crew of the soap, attended the event amidst a candescent atmosphere. Hosted by popular television host, Ebuka Uchendu, the event provided an avenue for fans of the show to celebrate with their favourite cast members, as Africa Magic, the continent’s leading provider of premium African entertainment content, joined in drawing the curtain on one of its highflying soap operas. The finale witnessed stellar performances from artistes and comedians, including rave of the moment, Y.C, Harrysong, Funnybone and Kenny Black. Speaking during the event, Ms Wangi Mba-Uzoukwu, the Director, M-Net West Africa, attributed the success of the one-year budget series to the faith and support of viewers and cast. Hotel Majestic was first premiered on Africa Magic Showcase on 5 January,

2015 and has since endeared viewers across Nigeria and the rest of Africa with its fresh storyline, exciting blend of established and budding talents. However, the daily telenovella which focuses on the Emeni family and the fight to protect a hotel, situated in a beautiful and flawless riverside community in Nigeria, was brought to a grand end with the premiere of the last episode on January 8. Wangi, ended her speech by assuring viewers of a rerun of the episodes as well as the premiere of a new telenovella. “We are excited to announce that for those viewers who missed out on all the excitement of ‘Hotel Majestic’, the show will be rebroadcast soon on Africa Magic Urban (DStv channel 153). But the excitement on Africa Magic does not end there as this January we are also premiering ‘Jikulumessu’, an exciting Angolan series,” adding that “the Africa Magic channels will continue to be the home of the best entertainment for Africa by Africans” Among the stars that lighted the event up were Patrick

Doyle, Sadiq Daba, Ivie Okujaye, Tina Mba, Linda Ejiofor, Wole Ojo, Ibukun Ukeje, Kemi Lala Akindoju,

Emeka Ike debunks rumours of battering AGN secretary

Factional leader of the Actors Guild of Nigeria, Emeka Ike has debunked the rumours that he beat up the secretary of the AGN, Samuel Onibiyo. During the week, reports had it that crisis reared its ugly head again in the Ac-

23 January, 2016

Saturday Tribune

with Tunde Ayanda ayandaayotunde@yahoo.com 08034649018

Sade Balogun

back on the grill S ADE Balogun’s recent appearance at a social event may have quashed the rumour doing the rounds concerning her whereabouts and why she no longer socialises. Balogun gained popularity as a chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Ogun State during the tenure of a former governor of the state, Chief Gbenga Daniel. The woman maintained a low profile for a while before she attended the wedding of Folake Ogunlesi some weeks ago in Lagos. Her comeback aroused a welcome from her friends and admirers who contented that she has not lost a bit of her grace.

Femi Lekuti is hopeful TOP socialite and the Chief Executive Officer of Biolek Continental, Femi Lekuti, is not a new name in the social circle. The man, known in the social circle as 'Danku', was a big attraction that added glamour to any social event he graced in the 90s. He also has a big heart and gave to his friends and acquaintances, but as fate would have it, the socialite is at the moment not enjoying the best of health. The businessman, who some years ago contested the House of Assembly seat in his area under the All Nigerian Peoples Party (ANPP) confirmed that he is seroiusly ill and that he needs help as he has spent a lot taking care of the illness. Lekuti was a choice number that ruled the past as he was the favourite of different musicians like fuji musician, Wasiu Ayinde, who nicknamed him ‘Danku, ara wa’.

Atedo Peterside plans big for dad’s burial

CHIEF Atedo Peterside, a former Managing Director of Stanbic IBTC Bank, is not in the best of moods. The reason is the death of his father, Dr Michael Atowari, who passed on a few days ago. The late Dr Atowari, an ophthalmologist and a retired Controller of Medical Services in the old Rivers State, died during a brief illness at the age of 97. The ex-banker is left with little choice but to stage a befitting burial for the elder statesman, who is regarded by his people as a role model in the medical profession. Atedo, who broke the news of his dad’s passage to his friends on the social media, is said to be meeting with his sisters and other family members over the burial ceremony.

Family, friends mourn Bola Dare THE sad news hit the town a few days ago that the warden of the Mother Theresa Orphanage, Abuja, Yeye Bola Dare is dead and it shocked many of her friends and admirers. Until her death, the socialite, who was a vital part of President Goodluck Jonathan's campaign committee, devoted her life to helping the needy and was planning to celebrate her 50th birthday this year when she was snatched by the cold hands of death, leaving behind unfulfilled dreams and hopes. Her orphanage was established in Abuja in 2007 as a non-profit organisation to cater for the needs of over 100 babies. Bola Dare was appointed the Director of Strategy and Logistics of the Goodluck Support Group, a position that earned her friendship

with top politicians. Her last public appearance was the recent visit of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) boss, Christine Lagarde to her orphanage, where she interacted with the children and offered to improve the welfare of the home through the agency.

Florence Ita-Giwa plans 70th girthday gig THE news doing the rounds in the city of Lagos and the capital city of Abuja is that Florence Ita-Giwa, former Special Adviser on National Assembly Matters to former President Olusegun Obasanjo,is about to celebrate her 70th birthday. The woman, popularly known as 'Mama Bakassi', has friends all over the country and it is no surprise that her

entrance into the septuagenarian club will not be just a ceremony but the convergence of the finest in Nigeria. Ita-Giwa ranks among the top society women in the country that ruled the social scenes for decades and she is not slowing down, even at 70. The woman of substance has picked February 21 to host the mother of all parties.

23 January, 2016

achievers

Saturday Tribune

With Ronke Sanya (Winner, NMMA, Innovative Reporter of the year 2015) 07036050161 | sanyaaderonke@gmail.com

& Oyeyemi Okunlade | 08056834515 | ojeleyeoyeyemi@yahoo.com

I borrowed money to buy my admission form —NOUN’s best

graduating student

The National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) last Saturday held its 5th Convocation. A major feature of the event was the unique class of graduands who bagged first class honours in various disciplines. CLEMENT IDOKO, who covered the event, spoke with the best graduating student of the school and also writes on other outstanding graduates.

HE story of Mr Udo Ukeme Effiong, the 2016 best graduating student of National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN), may not be that of bed of roses. But Effiong, with unusual determination and resilience worked hard to bag first class honours degree with Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) of 4.71 from School of Science and Environmental Management, NOUN. A father of three, Effiong did not allow the burden of having to take care of his family, including his aged mother, affect his academic pursuit. He carted home several awards and prizes from the convocation ceremony that was held last Saturday at the university’s permanent site in Abuja. Effiong, who hails from Ekot-Udom in Akwa Ibom State, said he came from a humble family background. He said: “I’m from an average family because my father was a civil servant at a time salaries were not paid regularly. I managed to attend public primary and secondary schools and finished in 1996, and I did not make my papers and I moved to Lagos to hustle but I met tougher times”. According to the jubilant first class graduate, he had to resit for his Senior Secondary School Certificate Examination (SSCE) in 2001 and came out with (8) eight credits but as he was prepared to register for the Universities Matriculation Examination in 2002, his dream was short-lived as his father died in January of the same year. Effiong, following his father’s untimely demise, had no other choice but to return to Lagos to continue to eke a living. He added that luck smiled on in 2003, when his pastor at the Power Pentecostal Church gave him a job, first at Promasidor and later at Flour Mills of Nigeria, where he is still working. The

Mrs Amina, a 52-year-old mother of 12 and eight grandchildren, came out with first class in Islamic Studies. Surprisingly, she graduated from Gulak Study Centre of the University in Adamawa State, which is in the heart of Boko Haram carnage. quest for higher education, reawakened in Effiong, in spite of his poor financial standing. He borrowed money to obtain the admission form to the National Open University of Nigeria following an inspiration from his bishop in the church, when he said: “The journey of a wise man is by faith and not by sight, go ahead and do whatever you want. God is in control.” Effiong has this to say: “I then borrowed money and bought the form. Like play, I paid the fees. I worked hard and studied diligently even at work, having sleepless nights. Many saw my zeal and prayed for my success. Today, I’m happy that all my toils were not in vain. I’m very glad.” Mr Effiong, who saw the flexibility in studying at NOUN, acknowledged that graduates of the university were equipped with skills and competences to better the lot of the society.

According to him, even though the open university set up was not like the faceto-face mode of teaching and learning obtainable in conventional universities, the courses are simplified for everyone’s understanding and comprehension. He added that it depended on individual’s ability and determination to excel. The best graduand, who noted that his alma mater, had contributed significantly to educational and manpower development in Nigeria, appealed to the Federal Government to address some of the challenges the institution was facing, including inadequate deployment ICT for

teaching and learning since that is the bedrock of open and distance learning. Another outstanding graduate at the convocation ceremony was Mrs Abdullahi Amina. Mrs Amina, a 52-year-old mother of 12 and eight grandchildren, came out with first class in Islamic Studies. Surprisingly, she graduated from Gulak Study Centre of the University in Adamawa State, which is in the heart of Boko Haram carnage. As if that was not enough, a 70-yearold retired Rear Admiral Orishamolade Stephen Ola, graduated with first class honours degree in Mathematics.

23 January, 2016

weekend cartoons

Saturday Tribune

Adeeko Olusegun adeeko.olusegun@yahoo.com 0811 695 4638

Just a Laffing Mata

To go like Jesus

POLITICO

An old preacher was dying. He sent a message to his lawyer and his politician-friend, both church members, to come to his home. When they arrived, they were ushered up to his bedroom upstairs. As they entered the room the preacher held out his hands and motioned for them to sit, one on each side of his bed. The preacher grasped their hands, sighed contentedly, smiled and stared at the ceiling. For a time, no one said anything. Both the lawyer and the politician were touched and flattered that the preacher would ask them to be with him during his final moments. They were also puzzled. The preacher had never given them any indication that he particularly liked either of them. They both remembered his many long, uncomfortable sermons about greed, covetousness and avaricious behaviour that made them squirm in their seats. Finally, the politician asked, “Preacher, why did you ask us to come?” The old preacher mustered up his strength, then said weakly, “Jesus died between two thieves; and that’s how I want to go.”

Why do brides

wear white

FUNOLOGY

Attending a church wedding for the first time, Segeluulu whispered to his mother, “Mom, why is the bride dressed in white?” The mother replied, “Because white signifies happiness and today is the happiest day of her life.” Stubborn Segeluulu thought about this for a moment then said, “So why is the groom wearing black?”

Coming out soon...

37 interview

23 January, 2016

Saturday Tribune

How Nigeria can turn around its economic misfortune —Kalu Idika Kalu Former Minister of Finance and National Planning, Dr Kalu Idika Kalu, speaks with KATE ANI on sundry national issues, including the state of the economy and the government’s crackdown on corruption. Excerpts:

HE naira has continued to fall against the US dollar, foreign reserves are going down and oil prices are nosediving. What do you think are the implications of these situations for the average Nigerian? Clearly, we need to really and fully understand the structure of prices. We have, for a very long time, been a mainly trading nation; we are not an island. Essentially, whether you trade or not, all economic activities have a bearing on the pricing of foreign exchange, the foreign exchange conversion into national currencies. The entire economy is linked up through the complex structures of the economy, production, pricing, labour, transportation, name it. They are all indirectly linked to the foreign exchange market, which is why foreign exchange affects everything ultimately. In effect, we have spent too much time being very anxious about the foreign exchange rate. What we should really be spending more time on, and in a timely fashion, are the things that contribute to determining the price. The demand and supply structures, the inputs into production, infrastructure, power, water, name it, have to be improved in order for us to stabilise the exchange rate. But, of course, these things are not instantaneous or short term; they are medium and long term, so, the whole planning process should be focusing on how to increase our ability to earn foreign exchange, how to reduce our demand for foreign exchange by import substituting and export promotion. Import substitution would mean that we are not demanding more foreign exchange over time to import, an export promotion means that we are changing our domestic structure in order to earn more foreign exchange. Those are the things we should be doing: focusing on the factors in the short-medium and long term that affect the economy and the value of the naira. Then what does the country have to do? Of course, in a more practical sense, say, on the 2016 budget, I don’t exactly recall the percentage of borrowing to the total budget, but all we know is that it is very high. I understand there are changes being made but it should be something in the neighborhood of 50 percent, which is way too high. Do you consider the 2016 budget as realistic and in line with the fiscal discipline promised by the government? We are dealing with a very dynamic context now and in that dynamic context, the best way to move towards stability is to be as prudent and conservative as possible and fashion our projections on the basis of more realistic expectations, starting with the overall size of the budget. In other words, you can manage inflation and other pressures better where the borrowing element is drastically reduced. At the maximum, we should be talking about 20 to 25 percent, certainly not 50 percent. So, clearly, you need to take a deep breath and reverse things quickly. I believe that is what the government is probably trying to do now. To do that, it means that Nigerians have to know that we are paying a very high price for what we did not do in the past. What we did not do was to save our funds from the terms of trade gains of the past, expand the structure of the economy to be more stable and diversified and that will give us a more robust borrowing stand such that we can leverage on borrowing so that they don’t start cutting foods and cutting employments because oil prices have dropped. If you have the right reserve level and the potentials are clear, we should be able to bridge the gap between what we are expecting and what we really get. When that is done, it limits the rate of depreciation of the currency. The currency might depreciate but it would not be in such magnitude as we have seen for several months.

What are the implications of the improved relations between the United States and Iran on the global economy, in terms of US lifting its sanction on Iran’s oil export?

The direct impact is that it is going to make it more difficult for Nigeria to sustain its share of the market, because those new additional productions would be coming in from Saudi Arabia, Iran and, possibly later, Libya, in larger quantities and that will turn to saturate global supplies and put downward pressure on the oil price. Their target is to make sure that Shale oil producers that were really encroaching on the hydro-carbon market would not be so encouraged because of the lower price of oil. So, if the price remains low, Shale oil investors will find it difficult to break even by directing investment to the Shale oil industry in the United States. So, the impact of Iran coming on stream is to make things more difficult and as if that is not enough, we are having so many domestic problems, including - even maintaining our reserves, maintaining our level of production, sustaining our oil facilities, as you can see from the headlines. All kinds of political factors are impeding Nigeria’s ability to even produce before we now talk about being able to market profitably. So, we are really facing multiple problems right now. You cannot envy the government. Nigerians have to be fully aware of what is happening and how they can assist the government to mitigate the impacts of these processes.

All kinds of political factors are impeding Nigeria’s ability to even produce before we now talk about being able to market profitably. So, we are really facing multiple problems right now. You cannot envy the government. Nigerians have to be fully aware of what is happening and how they can assist the government to mitigate the impacts of these processes.

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) president, Christine Lagarde, during her visit to Nigeria recently predicted that the country’s economy would recover marginally this year. Do you share her prediction, despite the economy being on the brink? I share her prediction but, you know, at times, we surprise ourselves. If other sectors of the Nigerian economy are gingered by appropriate credits and improved management, they can reduce the impacts of the drop in the oil sector. We would produce more food, improve storage and create a higher level of economic activity. Other than that, there is no question that all the indicators are somewhat negative in relation to our relative position over the past few years. As Nigerians, I will use some strong words here, we have to grow up and mature. You see, institutions like the African Development Bank, World Bank and IMF have been set up to assist countries like Nigeria. They were set up to help mitigate the kinds of things we are now experiencing. Where we have projects that could give you production, employment, goods and services but all of a sudden, a major source of revenue drops, there are facilities within these institutions to help you recover as quickly as possible. But then we, over the last 20 to 30 years, seem unwilling to address the situation analytically, rather than emotionally. We talk of how we don’t want this loan or that loan. Outside there, it sounds uninformed. Whereas we are members of these institutions, we subscribe to their administrative costs and we pay for the visits of people like Lagarde. Indirectly, we are subscribed to the funds that have been put up to assist other countries. And here we are, in our relative ignorance, relishing the fact that we do not want to access those relatively cheaper funds. If your resources are down, you reduce your expenditure. If we re-examine our budget, tighten our administration and improve our efficiency, these institutions will assist us by providing additional resources to complement what we have. These are the conditions or conditionalities which they ask us to put in place in order for them to assist us. And these are the requirements for the economy to recover; we ourselves on our own are already undertaking those refunds as Mr. President has said. But over the last 25 years, we just had seemed unwilling to do what others do. It is simply amazing. One of the things that we need to understand in our present predicament is that we must overcome our fears. If we do that, we can recover quickly, provided we know what Continues pg42

politics&policy

23 January, 2016

Saturday Tribune With Saheed Salawu

0811 695 4643

yinkadejavu@yahoo.com

We didn’t share N53m with emirs, others —Yakassai

A former Special Adviser to former President Shehu Shagari, Alhaji Tanko Yakassai, speaks with Saturday Tribune’s Kano State correspondent, KOLA OYELERE, on issues ranging from the arms deal scandal to the performance of the All Progressives Congress-led Federal Government. Excerpts:

AN you say precisely how much you collected from the former chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Chief Tony Anenih, and for what purposes? I just want to wait for Chief Anenih to come back. I have mentioned the figure. He has equally mentioned the figure. However, I would rather wait for him to come back to clear the air on the amount. I would not like to talk on the issue until he comes back.

You said that the money was meant for travelling round the country to meet some traditional rulers on how they would mobilise their subjects for the general election. In the course of your visits, did your committee give part of the money to the traditional rulers? Can I tell a lie? I am an elder statesman. I produced the list of members of my committee. I mentioned their names. I also mentioned the names of the traditional rulers we visited, from the Sultan of Sokoto to other notable traditional rulers in the country. Why this question again? All this was published. You can go back to other publications if your newspaper did not publish it. The journey to visit all these traditional rulers took my committee 32 days - from 14 January to 15 February [2015]. Was any of the traditional rulers given part of the money? We never gave anybody a kobo. Nobody ever gave us a kobo to give anybody. The total amount, if you work it out, was eight [of us] times 32 days at the amount of N200,000 [per day], including our allowances, hotel bills and transportation. Recently, an associate of President Muhammadu Buhari, Jafar Isa, was arrested by the EFCC but he was released within hours, while other people like Colonel Sambo Dasuki and Nnamdi Kanu remain in detention, what is your take on this? That man, Jafar Isa, is a son to me. I don’t want to comment on that. Can you comment on the rearrest of Col. Dasuki just after the court granted him bail? I have heard so many words [comments] from the government’s side, but I have never heard a single one from Col. Dasuki. Therefore, I am tired of commenting on one side. My religion requires me to hear from both sides before forming a decision or judgement. I want to hear from Col. Dasuki’s side because, to me, he has not been tried by a competent court and normally, an accused is presumed innocent until proven guilty by a competent court of the land. If you, Alhaji Tanko Yakassai, were arrested and told to refund the money you collected, would you do it? I would not refund any money because I did not collect money from Col. Dasuki. The period between the day Dasuki gave money to Chief Anenih and the day he [Anenih] gave money to my committee was exactly 45 days. Chief Anenih gave us cash. What is your take on the gale of arrests of prominent members of the PDP? I have said it many times, that this government is not fighting corruption; it is all about vendetta. What has become of the reports of at least three committees, those of Elumelu on power, Farouk Lawan on fuel subsidy and Professor Haroun Adamu on PTF? Anybody who is serious about fighting corruption would take those reports and see the people that were indicted and the

charges were false. They just wanted to victimise us. Given current events, do you believe that the country is practising true democracy? Certainly not.

The Secretary to the Government of the Federation has all these reports. All they need to do is to pick them up, see who-and-who were indicted and take them to court. amount of money involved and take them to court to defend themselves. Anybody who is honest about fighting corruption would know the right thing to do. All these happened before Buhari came to power, therefore, to show sincerity about fighting corruption, let them get those reports. They are available. The Secretary to the Government of the Federation has all these reports. All they need to do is to pick them up, see who-and-who were indicted and take them to court. After the administration of former President Shehu Shagari, you were arrested by General Muhammadu Buhari when he was military head of state. Now a similar scenario is unfolding still during Buhari’s administration as civilian president, what do you say to this? Go and check the number of people who served in the government of [former] President Shehu Shagari then as ministers, special advisers and in other capacities. The total is 86 people. Of this number, only five were indicted by the military tribunal after their sitting for two consecutive years. You could even see that the

Why? Because if truly we were practising democracy, there must be respect for the rule of law, constitution and rights of individuals. I want you to bear in mind that any man who spent most of his life in the military can never be able to build democracy. This is my point. When [former] President Olusegun Obasanjo ruled for eight years, he did not build democracy. The person who started building democracy was the late President Umaru Yar’Adua. After he died in power, [Goodluck] Jonathan came in. The military man, Obasanjo, who quarrelled with him because he (Jonathan) did not allow him to dictate to him, connived with others to prevent him from securing second term. But despite that, he [Jonathan] was defeated with the smallest margin in the history of presidential election - just 2.5 million votes. With all the allegations of corruption levelled against some aides of former president, Dr Jonathan, are you not convinced that the former president has been indicted? All the things that you are hearing are leads or deliberate one-sided words from the EFCC. No one has ever been tried by a competent court of law or a reputable judge and pronounced guilty. Where a matter has not been decided by a court that has jurisdiction, it would remain a mere allegation that cannot hold water. Our law states that an accused remains innocent until proven guilty by a court of competent jurisdiction, not even every court of law. So, I cannot pass any judgement or even accuse former President Jonathan of any wrongdoing. On this so-called arms money, it would be unwise Continues pg41

39 interview

23 January, 2016

Saturday Tribune

Buhari not running one-sided corruption crusade —Lagos Majority Leader

The Majority Leader in the Lagos State House of Assembly, Honourable Sanai Agunbiade, in this interview with CHUKWUMA OKPARAOCHA, looks at President Muhammadu Buhari’s anti-corruption crusade in relation to the reactions it has been eliciting from different quarters in the country. Excerpts:

IVEN some recent developments, the anti-corruption crusade of President Muhammadu Buhari has been described as one-sided in some quarters, shouldn’t the president prove his critics wrong by treating all corrupt people alike? I have known Nigerians to be good in criticism, even when they do not have anything to criticise. We suspected rot in the system but we did not see someone who would expose the rot until a man came along and said ‘the ground on which you want me to start running is slippery and muddy. Let us first remove the mud so that I can stand firmly.’ He started holding meetings and in no time, he discovered where the rot was and started beaming his searchlight on it. If the majority of those that have been exposed so far are from a particular political party, then it means that members of that party should watch themselves. If they know of any other area which the attention of this man (President Buhari) should be called to, then let them mention such. Nigeria was faced with insecurity and corruption. We, however, did not know that the corruption was seriously embedded in the security saga, as the insurgency was not immediately linked to corruption. Now, Nigerians have seen that the spate of insurgency in the North-East was aggravated by machinery which is rooted in corruption. I think we should be careful of what we say. Do we want a Nigeria we will not all be proud of? You cannot build something on nothing. This man [Buhari] said he would bring change and part of that change is exposing those who have brought Nigeria into serious economic problem. He is doing it. The result is showing. We will continue to have more revelations as more people come out to reveal what they have done. So, I think the man is in order and is doing well. Does the change you are talking about also include disregarding of court rulings, seeing that the president appears opposed to the granting of bail to some of these people? The law is a respecter of nobody and nobody is greater than the law. But no two cases have the same facts. I will talk to this because a lot of things go into the legal processes. I am sure the president would not want to disregard court decisions because he symbolises the change that we claim and that change is total. So, regarding the issue of not complying with court orders, I want to believe that he is not the chief legal officer of the country, even though he is at the helm. Those at the helm of the legal segment of the country will be able to address the issue very well. But the law has to respect itself; no individual is greater than the law and no individual can override the court. I am sure we will see what brought about all these. Let’s come to the Lagos State House of Assembly, which is predominantly made up of APC members with only a few PDP who have been observed not to be doing the job expected of them... (cuts in) What job is that? The job of opposition. One hardly hears them talk on the floor. They talk. That you don’t hear them does not mean they don’t talk. Must we all talk at the same time? What I am trying to say is that they hardly comment or possibly condemn some of the critical decisions made by the ruling party, APC. But you can only condemn what is not properly done. You can only condemn something you don’t know about. You can only condemn something that you are not involved in from the beginning. When a bill is brought, we invite the attorney-general and his team to do executive briefing if it is an executive bill. At this briefing, everybody would ask questions as regards the grey areas of the bill. The bill would be discussed and the executive would tell us the thrust policy of the bill and why it is coming up. If it is an amendment, they would tell us why they want the amendment. So, we are on the same page with them; everybody is involved. Whatever the opposition is likely to raise would have been raised before we go for the first and second readings and discuss. Some of them discuss too. It is unfortunate that we love people to always disagree and fight. And when they start to fight, people would start saying legislators are fighting without putting the interest of

It is not everything that the executive does that it must bring to the House for approval. The policy statement of the government has to be carried out by the executive, and if they have done anything that we have not condemned, it is because we support it. the state at heart. Legislators are collaborating, expressing their views in a civilised manner but you still expect them to start throwing chairs. Do you expect them to simply oppose what is obviously right? No, that is not a progressive opposition. A progressive opposition must differentiate between that which is the truth and that which is not the truth. So, I see them as doing their job, or maybe there is simply nothing on the ground that would engender the real spirit of opposition in them yet. Maybe tomorrow, when we start to do something they don’t like, they will speak up. But six months in a journey of four years is too hasty to decide whether they are in active opposition or not. Do you see the dominance of the APC in Lagos State at the executive and legislative arms not hampering the ways things should be done at some point? In Lagos, we do disagree but because the party in control in Lagos has a viable internal mechanism, we disagree but the disagreement does not result in crisis that would put the yearnings and aspirations of the people of Lagos State in jeopardy. You will not see us throw stones or chairs because we have a way we disagree with ourselves. We can disagree but that disagreement will not lead to crisis. We are doing our job as legislators and the executive are doing theirs. So, there will be collaborations in the interest of the state.

Did the House approve the demolition of parts of Oshodi? It is not everything that the executive does that it must bring to the House for approval. The policy statement of the government has to be carried out by the executive and if they have done anything that we have not condemned, it is because we support it. But some people are saying it was done by the governor to get back at the Igbo for not supporting him at the election... When the [Babatunde] Fashola administration first cleared Oshodi, was it because of election? I have told you that in this part of the world, we love making allegations that we cannot substantiate. Of course, we should expect this in any political dispensation. People from the same clan as you can raise allegations against you anytime you do something that is not in their interest. So, whatever the governor does and the House does not kick against, the House supports. How implementable is Lagos’ record-breaking N662.588 budget in the face of falling oil prices? Before the budget was passed, there were sessions between the executive and legislature on the policy thrust behind the budget. We deliberated, we criticised and a lot of amendments were made. The governor presented his budget and it was received by the House. The appropriation committee got hold of the budget and together with the ad-committees, we looked into it before it was passed and sent to the governor. We looked at revenue which is the strength of the budget. We also looked at the expenditure. We are convinced that the revenue drive of the budget is competent to run the projected expenditure of the government. Budget is about revenue and expenditure. The revenue will not come from just one area because there is federal allocation and there is also internally generated revenue (IGR). Lagos is not one of the states that rely on federal allocations. It has a strong mechanism to generate revenue internally and that is the trust that we have in that budget. Without necessarily putting pressure on our people, the House of Assembly is convinced that the proposed revenue will run the proposed expenditure, which will give us an effective budget that will help us deliver the dividends of democracy to the people. Lagos has never failed in budget appropriation and we will not fail now, by the grace of God.

40 interview

23 January, 2016

Saturday Tribune

What Afenifere knew about N100m from Anenih —Secretary

The Secretary-General of the Yoruba socio-political group, Afenifere, Chief Seinde Arogbofa, in this interview with HAKEEM GBADAMOSI, talks about the running and funding of a political party vis-a-vis the involvement of his group in the money given to the Social Democratic Party (SDP) leadership by a former chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Chief Tony Anenih. Excerpts:

S it compulsory that members of Afenifere belong to a political party? In the beginning, that was the situation, when our founding fathers founded the Action Group, which was a political party. It got to a stage that in order to win more people to the Action Group, the leaders had to think of a catchy name that people could use and propagate in their own language, which had the same philosophy and connotation. It was then that one of the leaders then, the late Chief A. M. A. Akinloye, suggested ‘Afenifere’ and it was adopted, because the Action Group was welfarist in nature and Afenifere connoted, and still connotes, welfarism. So, in the beginning, if you were a member of the Action Group, automatically, you became a member of Afenifere. During the time of Papa [Adekunle] Ajasin as leader, up to the time of Papa [Abraham] Adesanya, that was the practice, even though the Action Group changed name, first, after the military banned political parties, from the Action Group to the [Unity Party of Nigeria] UPN, to the [Social Democratic Party] SDP, to the [Alliance for Democracy] AD and so on. But things changed because of the attrition in the membership of Afenifere and because the party funded by Afenifere is no longer in control of any state. Considering these, we had to relax; that anybody who believed in Afenifere’s philosophy would be absolved into the group, while Afenifere as a socio-political group would establish or fund the party officially. Those who don’t believe in that party, for example the PDP, but believe in the philosophy of Afenifere were also allowed to attend Afenifere meetings. How did you fund your political party in the past? Funding of our party then was based on openness and sincerity without any corruption, because the party was based on welfarism. Members were encouraged to make contributions towards the running of the party. Well-todo members of the society who saw the wonders being performed by the sage, [Chief Obafemi] Awolowo, when he was the Premier of the [defunct] Western Region, who did not want the philosophy to die also contributed to the coffers of the party. Another source of income was through contributions by members who enjoyed some patronage. Such members were encouraged to inject something into the running of the party. And in some cases, our governors, who did not even spend the security votes, occasionally gave out something if the party was in need. I remember when I was made the national chairman of the Progressive Action Congress (PAC). I was the first national chairman and Mrs Sarah Jubril was the treasurer. We founded this party. It was an extension of the AD then because those who seemed not to understand the meaning of Afenifere were becoming unnecessarily

It is true that contacts were made, not only with us, but also with other groups... While it is true that we heard that Anenih made overtures to the SDP - and the SDP has its own structure to operate - the nittygritty was left with the party to handle. Nobody told us that Anenih got the money from an awkward source.

jealous but we had to found another party instead of using the AD to contest elections in some states. It was on the platform of that party that the late Ganiyu Dawodu contested as governor of Lagos State. We had to make a lot of sacrifices to fund the party. The late [Chief Adebayo] Adefarati and some other leaders made a lot of contributions to keep the party alive so that in the parts of the country where they couldn’t sell the AD, they would be able to sell the PAC. Again, the money that we spent running the PAC was from a genuine source. It was not anything hidden at all. What would you say about the reports that your group benefitted from the $2.1 billion fund that was meant to procure arms to fight insurgency? We founded the SDP to continue the struggle of welfarism and those of us who are leaders of Afenifere were stakeholders after renewing the party - because we had it before. We renewed it and got it back to reckoning and allowed some of our members who could handle it to be in charge. That was how one of us was made the chairman of the party. Not all of us, like I

said, belong to the SDP. We have PDP members. We have ACN members. And some of us who founded the SDP, at a point, decided to opt out for one reason or another, while we allowed it to be run. For instance, I had to excuse myself from the SDP because I felt that at my age, I should reduce my partisanship in politics and only give advice and allow Afenifere to grow. Although this might not go down well with some of our members, a few of us took a stand. In other words, the running of the SDP is quite different from the running of Afenifere; they are two separate entities. Afenifere as a political organisation should not be seen as a political party. Afenifere is not a political party. We can fund a party to propagate our philosophy but it doesn’t mean that Afenifere is a political party. No. Are you saying in essence that Afenifere as body didn’t share from the N100 million said to have been given to one of your members and the SDP to prosecute the last general election? It is true that contacts were made, not only with Continues pg41

interview

23 January, 2016

Saturday Tribune

‘Buhari should act on PTF probe report’ Continued from pg38

Incompetence on whose part? Those who are running the government.

to comment for now. For now, we are only hearing one side talk, while the other side being accused has not been given a fair hearing.

Nigerians are concerned that the dollar now exchanges for as much as N305, how do you think this would affect the economy? The present government came to power on the ladder of change. This is the type of change they are bringing to the country. This is their understanding of change. Let me tell you something: this kind of change will continue to be seen this year, the next and the subsequent year till 2018. Quote me on this.

During the purported arms deal, it was reported that at least three vehicles were given to President Buhari... President Buhari admitted that he was given the vehicles and they are his entitlements as a former head of state. However, what you journalists were supposed to do was to go further and find out if other former heads of state like General Yakubu Gowon, General Abubakar Abdulsalam, General Ibrahim Babaginda and Chief Olusegun Obasanjo equally benefitted at the material time. After you might have found that out, you should have drawn your conclusion on whether it was justifiable for a car to have been collected by President Buhari. If he was the only one given vehicles at that material time, one would be right to ask where the money came from and if such money was supposed to come from where it came from. Is it the office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, the presidency or office of the National Security Adviser that is [most] important? I am waiting for anybody to investigate and confirm this, then we would be able to pass judgement. Radio Biafra proprietor, Kanu, has remained in detention in spite of a court granting him bail, what is your take on this? It is absolutely wrong to have him detained in view of the fact that he has been granted bail by a competent court of the land. It is wrong on the part of government to continue detaining him because it is the prerogative of the court to decide whether an accused is entitled to bail or not. And there are provisions in the constitution that certain offences are bailable. The offences he has been charged with are bailable and as such the EFCC or anybody refusing to let him enjoy the bail is acting contrary to the rule of law. Any disobedience of the constitution automatically indicates that such a person does not respect the law of the land.

Then what is your advice for the government? I keep it to myself. They have their advisers; I don’t want to dabble in their affair. Let them continue their plans but I know that since they came to power, I have never heard that they commissioned a project. The only project the present government commissioned was one executed by the Akwa Ibom State government. I want to hear a project commissioned by the Buhari administration. This government did not come to power with any plan. They were not prepared for it [power]. They did not believe they were going to win the election. The APC came to power by chance and in a country like this, you need to be prepared; you need to plan. Do you think the president is working according to his oath to uphold the rule of the law? Actually, with the Qur’an, Buhari said he would respect the constitution and defend and protect the constitution and the law but he has not complied with what he swore to. A few days ago, it was reported that the appropriation bill submitted to the Senate by the president was missing, how do you react to this? It is so funny. This kind of situation had never happened in any country of the world. What does this portend for democracy? It is incompetence.

The president once said that by the end of December (2014), insurgency would have been rooted out from the country, how do you view this? We are in the middle of January but the Federal Government has kept saying they are prepared to negotiate with credible leaders of Boko Haram. The question now is: if they have finished with Boko Haram, what is the need to negotiate with them again? With such a pronouncement, they are admitting that they [Boko Haram] have not been dealt with. What is your word to Nigerians? Our prayer is that Almighty Allah will deliver our country from all the problems it is facing.

‘In Nigeria, we spend too money much on politics’ Continued from pg40

us, but also with other groups. When there are elections, contacts are made and people are mobilised. We have parties coming together and we have others disintegrating. While it is true that we heard that Anenih made overtures to the SDP - and the SDP has its own structure to operate - the nitty-gritty was left with the party to handle. Nobody told us that Anenih got the money from an awkward source. Being a political party that needed to support another political party, especially the PDP, which had been in power for a long time, nobody would have thought that the money came from any awkward or dirty source. Our mind didn’t go to that at all because we were trying to source for money. The SDP leadership was trying to source for money from people of good minds. Afenifere as a socio-political group will never and would never have agreed to any dirty money or fund coming from a bad source. Sir, did Afenifere get out of the money given to the SDP for campaigns? Was your group aware of the money? No, Afenifere did not run any campaigns; it was the SDP that ran the campaign. But members of Afenifere are part of the SDP... Yes, you are right. As we have PDP members who are was like assisting and nobody would have ever thought also members of Afenifere, there are some of our mem- about the source of the money and Anenih didn’t disclose the source of the money. Although some leaders bers who are in the PDP. of Afenifere were aware that Anenih made proposals to So, some members of the group were not in- some leaders of the SDP and this proposal was negotiformed about the money from PDP to the SDP? ated between the SDP leadership and Anenih, nobody Even if we were informed, we didn’t know the source. It would have believed, because of the way we do our

things, that the source of funding the party was this. Don’t forget that even when it was about to launch its campaign, the PDP had a fund raiser. So, if such money came to any other party, such party would believe that the money was from the raised funds and not from a dirty source. How then do you think campaigns should be funded nowadays? There is no party nowadays that is free. Let us get that clear, because we are operating in the same society. The PDP can’t say it is free. The APC, APGA, SDP... no party can say they are free. They fund their campaigns the same way, through moneybags and others. But when it gets to government fund, it is very bad. If it is correct that money meant for the procurement of arms to fight insurgency was tampered with, the law must take its course. The money must be refunded. It is just too bad. It is messy and we in Afenifere see that as corruption and we won’t condone such act. This is our stand. No party is free. This is why we said President Buhari needs to do something about our politics in this country. We spend too much money on politics, on campaigns. It is a door-die affair. A former head of state, [Chief Olusegun] Obasanjo, said it – do or die – but it should not be do or die. That is why I have been saying that politics should be made part time. Legislature should be made part time. We must make politics less attractive but once it is a do-or-die affair, we will be having problems in this country. Like I mentioned not too long ago, I can’t see myself now contesting for local government chairman. Where would I get the money to bribe? I hope this is one of the changes the president will bring so that politics is made less attractive and not a do-or-die affair.

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Saturday Tribune

I’m impressed with Buhari’s war on corruption —Kalu Idika Kalu as much as possible with interest. It is not in every case that those found guilty should go to jail.

Continued from pg37

we are putting the additional funds into. It is a task that leadership at all levels has to accomplish. If we are able to do this properly, it may be a watershed that can make us get away from all these misinformation and misconception of so many years and now get to understand what we need to do in order to overcome our short-term difficulties. The Nigerian Stock Exchange is also facing serious challenges, what advice do you have for investors? When the economy is in turmoil, you don’t expect anything else, so it is not surprising. Resource mobilisation through the stock exchange is the function of prices, returns on capital, interest rates, terms of funding, cash flows, organisations, leadership, security, management and infrastructure. Stock markets, therefore, reflect the state of the economy. Those indicators are very useful because they tell you, more or less, the sum total of the atomistic units within the economy. The decision points in various sectors, small, medium and large scale across all sectors, across all administrative decision-making processes at the state, local and federal levels are the things that are reflected in the so-called speculations in the stock exchange. They reflect the tendency, what people are expecting and the overall socio-political climate. Therefore, we have to go back to correct all those underlining factors that influence these realities and perceptions. If you were the finance minister, what specific policy decision would you take to rescue the economy? I don’t address questions like this. I don’t want to second guess anybody. You can infer from what I have said, the kinds of emphasis we should be placing on various areas. When you are short of funds, for instance, one of the things I really think should be uppermost is that we should be looking at the suffering segments — the disadvantaged people in the society. Pensioners are not being paid, people need money for education, health, people can barely survive and those are the things that should be uppermost in our budget. We shouldn’t owe people pensions, gratuity and basic salaries. Then we should look at our processes and cut down on all kinds of allowances which are way and above the basic salaries of those within the system that are really needed for their job. This is the essence of this zero budgeting; zero budgeting means that you don’t just project from the previous year but you take a stock and re-justify every single item that you put in the new budget. This is what the finance and the budget planning people should be doing. This is how they should tone down so that they can reduce this 40 or 50 percent debt expectation which can get worse, if the oil price goes down further. Before you know it, you will find that the borrowing rate has gone over 60 percent of your budget which would be very bad. Bad in the sense that it makes it more difficult to have a handle on inflation and when you have inflation, then you would ruin everything else and of course, it would affect the living standards of the people in the country, particularly the lower income groups. There have been mind-blowing revelations in the ongoing fight against corruption by President Muhammadu Buhari, would you say the fight is impressive or vindictive? I don’t think it is vindictive. As a matter of fact, I am impressed and fully in support. There is no way that we can back down from this fight against corruption. We have to change this country for it to grow to become perhaps, one of the best economies in 35 years, as it has been projected and perhaps, the third largest nation by population size. If we are going to get there, we have to cut out all these inefficiencies and corrupt practices that have held the country down and prevented it from attaining its potential. I am a hundred percent in support of cleaning out the system. Now, in terms of restitution and punishment, of course, there can be ways of handling this to reduce the disruptive effect. There is no question that the society must recover ill-gotten wealth and use those recovered funds to ad-

People die in wars but maybe much less would have died if we had procured arms within our financial capacity, which is quite considerable because Nigeria can raise revenues, use credit to make sure we are able to protect our borders, sovereignty and integrity. But look at how people have lost their lives. When we look at it, it is very hard to say that people should just return and go. dress the needs of the poor and build our infrastructure. We should recover everything and put it into the most needed areas. We must also set up structures to prevent a recurrence of this shameful level of corruption that we have seen over the years. Should those arrested for stealing public funds be made to go free after returning their ‘loot’ or face jail time after having returned the money? We cannot take a blanket view. I think this is where the EFCC, ICPC and the judiciary should be given the discretion to make recommendations based on their findings. But in general, I think those found guilty should pay. Look at the one that concerns funds that were meant for procuring arms. What do you tell families who have lost people? Of course, people die in wars but maybe much less would have died if we had procured arms within our financial capacity, which is quite considerable because Nigeria can raise revenues, use credit to make sure we are able to protect our borders, sovereignty and integrity. But look at how people have lost their lives. When we look at it, it is very hard to say that people should just return and go. It should not be just return-and-go but there may be cases where inadvertently, people were given money that they didn’t earn and they couldn’t quite ascertain where it came from, depending on the amount involved. It would be sufficient to make sure such monies are returned and

Militancy is rearing its head once again in the Niger Delta with the reported cases of pipeline bombings, aren’t you scared for Nigeria? I am not scared. I am angry about it. You know, I played a major part in the Niger Delta technical study. We recommended all kinds of measures for rebuilding the region. Part of our failure was that we did not follow through with the recommendations beyond the amnesty programme. I particularly designed a system whereby we should have had a pledging conference in which regions and companies that have a part in exploitation of our oil and gas would be made to pledge sizeable funding that could transform the Niger Delta to what we see in Dubai, somewhat similar to what is happening in the Eko Atlantic City project, for example. Really fantastic modern structure should be in the Niger Delta - school, hospitals, rails, agriculture and all kinds of industrial and employment facilities. The government didn’t quite follow through but that is not to say that I support people allowing themselves to be used for political reasons, which I think is part of what is going on in the Niger Delta right now. We can’t deny that there are political factors behind the current militancy. They don’t have fresh water. They don’t have enough fresh water, housing, hospitals, schools and so on but we should not rationalise the new militancy, when we are facing so many other national problems. I think all those concerned should be brought to book but it is not enough to rationalise the new militancy when we are facing other problems. Boko Haram has not been resolved. Perhaps, it has been reduced to a manageable level, but there is still a lot of restitution to be done. The Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) are still there floating with so many needing to be resettled. We have too many problems in the country right now for people to start bombing pipelines and creating havoc and thereby reducing further, the resources available for addressing these mega problems. Nigerians have accused the APC government of spending a considerable amount of time playing the blame game with the past administration, what is your opinion on this? This is what politicians do. Whether they are APC or PDP, this is what they do. We should be urging everybody to get on with the job and not be distracted. They should come up with new ideas to help the personnel that will get the work done. But I think we should not join the chorus that what they are doing is playing the blame game. I think they are trying to do more than that, subject to the constraints of the quality of the personnel that have been deployed here and there. As I just said, the militancy in the north has declined a bit, there are efforts to create a cleaner and leaner government and there are efforts to recover stolen funds and a few other areas. It was a slow start because of all the things that had to be done. What is your take on former CBN governor, Professor Charles Soludo’s recent comment that former President Goodluck Jonathan ran the economy like the late dictator, Idi-Amin? Although I haven’t read the comment, we are all certainly appalled by the amount of leakage and wastage. We are appalled by the amount of talk in relation to action. There were too many slogans and when you look at the structures, you didn’t see the semblance of those things. I wouldn’t go as far as comparing former president Jonathan to Idi-Amin. I don’t think that is a fair comparison. But considering the sheer enormity of the resources that we have had, and the potential for leveraging, we expected our roads to be in better shape than they are. Certain structures like the second Niger Bridge should have been completed already or about to be completed. We expected improvement in power. The privatisation process as I have stated in the past wasn’t properly done. We didn’t allocate these things to people who had the capacity to pay, who understand the technology, who have the requite business experience and those who came up with the best business plan. But having said that, I think we should just focus on how we can correct these problems.

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Saturday Tribune

23 January, 2016

The agony of 5-year-old girl who needs corrective surgery Oluwole Ige - Osogbo

OOKING at the physique of Ayomiposi Fortunate Ogunwale, one would conclude that she is a twoyear-old innocent girl with energy and zeal to fulfill her dream of a secure future. But this reporter was amazed when her father, Mr Ayodeji Ogunwale, said the little girl is four years old. Ayomiposi’s condition was precipitated by a heart problem (Tetralogy of Fallot with Pulmonary Atresia), which is stunting her growth and physical development. Similarly, the heart condition of Ayomiposi has changed the colour of her tongue to black, while her fingernails are not normal. Speaking with Saturday Tribune, Mr Ogunwale lamented that his daughter’s travails first manifested as malaria fever. “We took her to several hospitals and the malaria refused to go.” He stated that “sometimes, she would develop high temperature. But, the most agonising part of it is that she often goes into convulsion. If you see her in that condition, you will shed tears, considering the pains she usually goes through. “Later, when we were perplexed on what to do in ameliorating her suffering, we proceeded to Biket Medical Centre, Osogbo, where she was diagnosed with a heart problem after a medical test. The medical director of the centre, Dr A. D. Adenle said the corrective heart surgery that my daughter undergo in India would cost N3 million.”

Ayomiposi

He stated further that “I am painter, while my wife works as a secretary in a law firm. How do I raise a whopping sum of N3 million?! I am pleading with wealthy Ni-

gerians to help me so that may daughter can be saved from this heart problem. “I cannot say the exact amount of money I have spent taking care of her. I am appealing to Governor Rauf Aregbesola and his wife, Alhaja Sherifat Aregbesola, other governors in the South West, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, the Ooni of Ife, Oba Enitan Adeyeye Ogunwusi, corporate organisations and other prominent Nigerians to help me so that we can get the N3 million needed for the corrective heart surgery in India.” Apparently convinced that Ayomiposi’s father could not raise the money for the surgery of his ailing daughter, the medical director of Biket Medical Centre, Dr Adenle, in an appeal letter, dated 10th December, 2015 solicited for assistance on behalf of Ayomiposi. The appeal letter entitled “Re: Ogunwale Ayomiposi,” reads in part, “I will appreciate it if you can help in alleviating the problem of the aboved named four-year old girl who has a heart problem (Tetralogy of Fallot with Pulmonary Atresia), which is affecting her growth and physical development.” “This problem can only be solved by surgery. This corrective surgery would cost about N3 million. We would be very grateful for any assistance you can render.” Meanwhile, a bank account has been opened for Ayomiposi, with the hope that kind-hearted Nigerians would make donations. The bank details are: Name, Ogunwale Fortunate Ayomiposi; account number, 3100780104; Bank, FirstBank.

news

Customs asset declaration exercise in slow take-off TWO of the 11 commands of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) in Lagos State have submitted their nominal roll to the Code of Conduct Bureau in Lagos for the asset declaration exercise. The state director of the bureau, Mr Ezekiel Olusoji, made the disclosure in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) as maritime activities closed on Friday. Olusoji, however, did not disclose the two commands that have submitted their nominal roll. He said the nine other commands were set to submit their nominal rolls, adding that the agency would start giving customs officers forms to fill. “The officers will collect the form by next week and our officials will enlighten them on how to complete the form. “The form is technical and it is when we enlighten them that they would not fill it wrongly. “The officers do not have any option but to comply because it is their constitutional responsibility,” Olusoji said. According to him, anybody who collects the asset declaration form, statutorily, should return the form

within 30 days of collection. NAN had previously reported that the NCS issued a directive directing all its officers to declare their assets within 14 days. In the week under review, the Tin-Can Island Command of NCS said it generated N266.1 billion in 2015, down from N284.2 billion recorded in 2014. The Public Relations Officer (PRO) of the command, Mr Chris Osunkwo, told NAN that there was a shortfall of N18.1 billion compared with the revenue recorded in 2014. Osunkwo said the shortfall was attributable to inconsistencies in fiscal policies like restriction of foreign exchange placed by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) on some imported items and the forces of demand and supply. Also in the week, the Shippers Association, Lagos State, said that 10,000 indigenous freight forwarders might lose their jobs, as some foreign shipping lines had taken over freight forwarding business. The president of the association, Mr Jonathan Nicol, told NAN that the issue of dominance of Nigerian freight forwarding business came up in 2015

and was resisted by freight forwarders. Nicol said that the CRFFN was established to train Nigerians for the purpose of freight forwarding. “We feel that freight forwarders are an integral part of our business and we provide jobs for them regularly. “They are licensed by Nigeria Customs Service yearly and if foreign shipping lines will want to take their jobs, I think it should be resisted,” the shipper told NAN. Also during the week, the director, Consumer Affairs Department, Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC), Ms Azuka Ogo, said that the council had been collaborating with many local and international organisations to eliminate corruption at the ports. Ogo made the disclosure at a two-day workshop on “Corruption Risk Assessment and Implementation of Integrity Plan in the Ports Sector,” held in Lagos. According to her, the council has equally held a series of conferences to proffer lasting solutions to the problems facing port users. She said that there was the need for a Nigerian port operator to have vis-

ible complaints desk or complaints mechanism. Ogo said that it was agreed that operators in Nigerian ports should have a handbook or manual. “The NSC as the economic regulator for Nigerian ports has been taking note of the outcome of a survey, which shows that a large number of government officials request facilitation of payments in the ports. “The request varies from ports and the survey also shows refusals to pay, delays and allegations of irregularities of documentation or operations between 2014 and 2015. “In 2014 and 2015, there was no significant improvement in neither vessel waiting time nor ease

of interacting with the authorities,’’ Ogo said. Also speaking, Mrs Rasheedat Okoduwa, director, Public Enlightenment, Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), said the workshop was part of anti-corruption intervention in Nigerian ports sector being executed by the commission. Okoduwa said that the statutory powers of ICPC encompassed enforcement, prevention and educating against corruption. She said the ICPC had power to examine the system and procedures of government agencies and review those systems that were corruption-prone. The chairman of Maritime Anti-Corruption Network

(MACN), Mrs Cecilia Torbrand, said the body was established in 2011 to promote good corporate practices in the maritime industry, eliminate bribery, facilitate payments and stamp out corruption. Torbrand said MACN was set up to implement and share best practices as well as create awareness of industry challenges faced by port operators. “One of MACN’s responsibilities is to tackle issues affecting port terminal operators, shipping agents, freight forwarders, cargo owners and others,’’ she said. Torbrand said that MACN had been implementing collective action projects in Egypt, Nigeria, Argentina and Indonesia.

Lassa fever patient responding to treatment —LUTH sposkesman THE management of the Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH) in IdiAraba, Lagos has said that the patient that contacted Lassa fever disease was responding to treatment at its isolation ward. Mr Kelechi Otuneme, the Public Relations Officer (PRO) of LUTH told the News Agency of Nigeria

(NAN) on Friday. Otuneme said that the hospital’s medical personnel and health workers had been working together to ensure that the patient was well and healthy. ‘’The management had to lodge the health workers within the LUTH premises for safety and fast treatment for the patient,’’ he said.

NAN had previouslyreported that the first case of Lassa fever was diagnosed at LUTH on January 15 on a 25-year-old student of the Ahmadu Bello University, (ABU) in Zaria, Kaduna State, (names withheld). He had contacted the virus before he came to visit his parents at Ifako-Ijaiye area of Lagos State.

23 January, 2016

Saturday Tribune

Editor: Ganiyu Salman tribunesporteditor@yahoo.com 08053789060

Eweje, ex-3SC striker dies

The late Eweje Oladele (right) wins an aearial contest when he featured for Shooting Stars Sports Club (3SC) against Kwara United, in the 2015 Glo Premier League season.

By Olawale Olaniyan FORMER Shooting Stars Sports Club (3SC) of Ibadan striker, Oladele Eweje died in the early hours of Friday in Lagos. Tribunesport gathered that Eweje died after a successful appendictis operation and he has since buried. The midfielder, was instrumental in the promotion of 3SC back to the Glo Premier League two seasons ago from the Nigeria National League (NNL). Eweje featured for 3SC in the early part of the 2015 Glo Premier League season before he rejoined his former team, Remo Stars in the mid-season. Tribunesport further gathered that Eweje underwent trials with Sunshine Stars of Akure before he was dropped from the squad which commenced a closed camping in Ilorin last week. One of his former teammates, Mutiu Adegoke revealed to Tribunesport that he will sorely miss the deceased who he described as a humble and disciplined player. “Oladele was a brother to me and we lived very close to each other in Lagos. We always engaged in personal training every morning in Lagos whenever we had time to do so. I will forever miss him, he was a young man who was full of hope but God knows best.”

I will end Nigerian football leadership crisis —Dalung M INISTER of Youth and Sports, Barrister Solomon Dalung has assured Nigerians that he will put a check to the crisis rocking the leadership of football in the country. Dalung had a four-hour long reconciliation meet-

ing between the sitting Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) president, Mr Amaju Pinnick and factional leader, Chris Giwa in Abuja. Dalung stated that his efforts were to separate football from secular politics. “You know sometimes the issues could be con-

tentious us, but to God be the glory, we were able to appreciate the issues and identify them,” Dalung told journalists. “We have not been able to tidy up all the issues but we have adjourned it till next week. By the time we tidy up the issues, I believe it’s going to be in the interest

of Nigerian football. “I have not only the will power, but political will power to resolve this issue. In conflict resolution, you must listen to all parties and must give the opportunity to ventilate grievances. “In democracy, your give room for expression of opinions and listen. I have

Chikatara made Abia Warriors proud —Team-mate ABIA Warriors attacking midfielder, Ifeanyi Onyeali has described his team-mate and Super Eagles forward, Chisom Chikatara as a great player. Chikatara scored the lone goal in the 1-1 draw against the Carthage Eagles on Friday in Kigali at the ongoing African Nations Championship (CHAN) Rwanda 2016. The North Africans dangerman, Ahmed Akaichi scored the equaliser that kept the side in the race for qualification to the quarter-finals. Onyeali said Eagles will not have any difficulty booking their passage to the last eight

at the expense of the Syli Nationale of Guinea in Tuesday’s last group match. “Chisom has continued to prove himself as great and fantastic player at every given opportunity we (Abia Warriors team-mates) are quite proud of him and exploits in Kigali, Rwanda. “His goal against Tunisia is world-class and I’m personally overjoyed with his steady progression in the championship. “The score draw is good result for the Nigerians as it would have been terribly bad if we had lost to Tunisia. “Four points in two matches going into the last match is enough morale booster and I do not see the Guineans posing a threat to our qualification to the quarterfinals. “I see Nigeria going as far as contesting the podium dance on the last day of the champi- Nigeria’s Chisom Chikatara (left) dribbles past an opponent during the CHAN group C opener onship,” Onyeali told supersport.com. against Niger Republic.

listened to them and narrowed the issues and at the next meeting, we will resolve the issues and it will be over. “FIFA is an umbrella body for football and I don’t think it’s a monster. It is supposed to play a fatherly role of trying to ensure federations operate within the rules and global best practice. “When you fear FIFA, that means you have something to hide. So FIFA is a father, big brother and we will relate with FIFA when the need arises. “The bottom-line of the whole thing is that football politics should be isolated from secular politics. Once secular politics is brought into football or unionism, it could lead to some crisis. The next meeting will hold on Wednesday next week,” Dalung said. Giwa in his remarks said “The minister has done well. What he needs to do is what he has done. Everything is moving on fine and we are waiting.”

23 January, 2016

Saturday Tribune With

outofplay Rousey has nothing to hide

Dipo Ogunsola 081 169 54 641

Ronaldo shares body issue with model

Ronda Rousey’s scars from her defeat by Holly Holm appear to have fully healed as the American walked through the streets of California make-up free. Rousey was stopped by fans for selfies as she casually strolled through Venice in tracksuit bottoms and a hooded jumper. The former UFC women’s bantamweight champion told Fight magazine it ‘could be months’ until she is able to eat an apple again after being knocked out by Holm at UFC 193 on November 15. Rousey looked in high spirits on Tuesday but has still ruled out the possibility of returning to the cage anytime soon. President Dana White said of Rousey’s future: ‘What that woman has done is above and beyond what anyone has done. “I mean, it’s just unbelievable what she’s done in the last three years. Anything we needed, she didn’t say no to anything. She even took over responsibilities somebody else was supposed to have. “So when she tells me she wants more time, you know what? She’s got it.”

hey’ve both got more than their fair share of admirers. And together Alessandra Ambrosio and Cristiano Ronaldo made quite the sexy duo as they stripped off to grace the cover of GQ’s latest body issue. Famed for their incredibly toned physiques it was no surprise the leading supermodel and the world famous footballer were chosen to front the mag’s latest fitnessinspired installment. Cosying up for the camera, Alessandra, 34, wraps her arm around Cristiano’s ripped shoulders while suggestively pulling down on a silver chain he sports. The model hoists her lithe leg up against Cristiano’s thigh, which he holds in place with a gripping fist as he leans his body forward to emphasise his bulging muscles.

Silva gets it wrong Despite living in the home of couture, Paris Saint Germain defender Thiago Silva made something of a fashion faux pas while modelling the club’s new Levis jacket. As any style conscious dresser will attest: ‘Everyone knows you don’t do double denim’. This advice, however, was missed by the Brazil international who paired the £105 jacket with a denim shirt - and even a hint of jeans beneath. The 31-year-old appeared oblivious to his cowboy impersonation when sharing an Instgram picture while wearing the ensemble, accompanied by a religious caption that translated as: ‘Perhaps no one understands you, Jesus more , but he knows every anguish and distress that goes i n t o your heart, trust your cause him , and he will solve everything’.

Silva

McGregor flaunts £280,000 flame-throwing Lamborghini

Rousey

Conor McGregor may be sporting a fierce new no-frills buzz cut but make no mistake, the UFC featherweight champion is very much a member of the camp that believes if you’ve got it, flaunt it. As Irishman McGregor continues to share snippets of his hard grafting preparations to take on Rafael dos Anjos for the organisation’s lightweight crown, he definitely not skimping on his bling. McGregor showed off a £280,000 (about N112million) white Lamborghini Aventador shooting flames from a custom exhaust while it’s V12 engine roars, and explains on Instagram why sharing his success is so important as a motivational tool.

“I’m not trying to rub it in posting these,’ he says. ‘We don’t even have these at home. I am blessed. “I celebrate and reward each of these good moments with more hard work and effort. And through this I receive more good moments. “Nice things in life are motivating. They are designed to push you further. Embrace them. Use them as motivation and you will have them.” There’s no hint of McGregor losing focus ahead of his March 5 bout at UFC 197 though, with his training maintaining its intensity if the ambitious fighter’s social media persona is anything to go by. His latest posts include shadow

boxing in front of the mirror with Tupac’s Gangsta Party blaring in the background and beating up on a heavy bag with the car not-so-subtley in the background.

McGregor poses with his Lamborghini Aventador. PHOTO: SPORTMAIL.

46 sport

Asamoah with the FIFA Fair Play Award on behalf of all football organisations.

hat does this night in Zurich mean to you? Gerald Asamoah: Ultimately it’s about standing up for something that should be completely normal – opening our hearts to vulnerable people. I know first-hand what it’s like to arrive in a foreign country and be accepted, and that’s why committing to a cause like this makes perfect sense for me. Of course, it’s an honour for me to accept this award on behalf of all the people who fight for these values. How did football help you personally? Football has the power to bring people together. It gives you the opportunity to meet people and play against them, no matter what their background. As soon as the game kicks off, you share a common goal – to be successful. Football really helped me when I arrived in Germany from Ghana at the age of 12 because it meant I had contact with people from the start. Although I had my family on the one hand, thanks to football I got to know this other culture first-hand and was immediately made to feel like part of a community by my fellow human beings. That’s why I’m very grateful to the sport; I always say that without it I would never have had the chance to get to where I am today.

23 January, 2016

Fans called me nigger days after representing Germany at 2006 W-Cup —Asamoah

Gerald Asamoah has a special place in the hearts of German fans. After moving to Europe from Ghana aged 12, he went on to become the first black player to represent Die Mannschaft, including at two FIFA World Cups. At the first of those, Korea/Japan 2002, he finished runner-up wearing the shirt of his adopted nation, while he is also a two-time DFB Cup champion with almost 300 Bundesliga appearances to his name and has earned 43 international caps. The striker also played his part in Germany’s ‘summer fairytale’, in which the hosts finished third at the 2006 FIFA World Cup. Just a few months after hanging up his boots, the 37-year-old made another major appearance, this time at the FIFA Ballon d’Or 2015 Gala, accepting the FIFA Fair Play Award on behalf of all the football associations and clubs around the world that are working to support refugees. FIFA.com caught up with the former Schalke star for an exclusive interview after the ceremony. That was Fabian Ernst; he helped me a great deal. Without him I might never have made that leap or mastered the German language as well as I have. Did you experience any discrimination? Yes, plenty! I have always said that nothing changes if nobody speaks out. In my case I was lucky enough to be the first black, African-born footballer to play for Germany, and although I also encountered a lot of negativity, I stood up to it. I was always a role model. Unfortunately it’s difficult to reach those who already have a discriminatory mindset, and that’s why it’s important to show young people with a fresh and unbiased view of the world that all people are equal, regardless of the colour of their skin. That’s something I’ve always tried to convey. Can you describe some of your experiences? The more famous I became, the more extreme it got. It was worst after the 2006 World Cup. After that tournament I actually thought that I would really belong and be totally accepted in Germany; after all, the team had a really good World Cup. But suddenly, when I started playing matches with Schalke again a few weeks later, I

Why is it so important for people in that situation to join a sports club as soon as possible? I didn’t yet speak any German back then, so that’s why I always tell people that the first thing they should do is join a sports club. It gives you a good foundation for taking your first steps into everything from language and integration to shared goals and successes. Besides, playing a sport is always better than sitting in front of the television at home. Football really helped me to stand on my own two feet and learn to make my own decisions, because that’s what you have to do out on the pitch. What memories do you have of arriving in Germany for the first time? My father was a refugee who had settled in very well, but although I had a residence permit, it was still a new country for me. As I mentioned before, I didn’t speak a single word of German, the cold weather was completely alien to me and I had really had to be ready to face new challenges. In that situation you definitely need people who can provide support. For example, I met one player during those early days in the sixth grade and even went on to play alongside him for Schalke 04 and Germany.

Saturday Tribune

Asamoah on duty for Germany

was once again being whistled and called a ‘nigger’ in the stadium, even by people who were cheering me on just a few weeks earlier! That hurt me so, so much. It was a backward step that left me incredibly disappointed. Which emotion prevailed at that point: your pride at being the first black man to play for Germany, or the sadness of experiencing more discrimination? Pride won in the end: the idea of making a difference and showing that you can play for Germany no matter where you come from. It wasn’t an easy decision to follow that path, because I knew it would be difficult. Nevertheless, I didn’t set out intending to change anything at first; I was simply following my gut instinct because I felt so at home in this country. The important thing for me was that the people around me always accepted me for who I am. And when you see all the guys who play for Germany today and the range of different backgrounds they have, it shows that perhaps I did actually play a part in that – and that makes me very proud! How are you currently getting involved with refugee aid? I’m very committed to it. There are already all kinds of camps, but at Schalke we’re doing a huge amount to reach out to people. Football unites us! No matter where you come from, you can forget your problems for a while simply by playing our sport. We’ve got to show people that they’re part of our communities, and that’s why I believe football is so vital. The beautiful game has made such a difference. Although 2016 and the years ahead will be tough, we’ve got to fight to ensure that football and its associations and clubs lead the way in making people feel at ease. I’m actively involved in Schalke’s initiatives such as the Kumpelkiste initiative, which collects donations and distributes them to refugees, and we also frequently invite refugees to visit our training ground. At Schalke we’ve also taken a clear position in the current debate with our #standup campaign. Can you still recall how you felt during your first match for Germany? It was incredible! I even scored my first goal for Germany during my first international [during a friendly against Slovakia on 29 May, 2001]. At first I couldn’t believe it and had no idea what to do. Afterwards I couldn’t sleep all night because I still couldn’t comprehend what had happened that day.

47 sport

23 January, 2016

Saturday Tribune

UEFA shelves presidential poll for Platini European soccer governing body, UEFA will not schedule presidential election until Michel Platini completes the appeals process against his FIFA-imposed suspension from all footballing activities. Platini and his FIFA counterpart Sepp Blatter were each handed eight-year bans in December following an investigation by FIFA’s Independent Ethics Committee into a payment of two million Swiss francs

(£1.3m) made by FIFA, and authorised by Blatter, to the former France captain in February 2011. The Investigatory Chamber of the Ethics Committee is seeking to increase the punishment, meaning Blatter and Platini - who both each deny any wrongdoing - could be landed with life bans from football. French newspaper, L’Equipe reported this week that Uefa would seek

to hold an election in May to replace Platini, who entered his post in January 2007. But in a statement released on Friday, UEFA confirmed that it would not hold any ballot until Platini had carried his appeal to the relevant sporting bodies, possibly including the Court of Arbitration for Sport. “At its inaugural meeting of 2016 at the House of European Football in Nyon,

the UEFA executive committee decided there will be no UEFA presidential election scheduled until the sports justice appeal bodies, including potentially the Court of Arbitration for Sport, have taken a decision regarding Michel Platini’s suspension. “We hope his name is cleared and that he can return to the European football family as quickly as possible,” read the statement.

Ivanovic (left) with Chelsea’s Technical Director, Michael Emenalo

Ivanovic extends Chelsea stay Chelsea defender, Branislav Ivanovic has signed a one-year deal keeping him at Stamford Bridge until the end of the 201617 season, the Premier League champions said on Friday. The 31-year-old, made vice-captain at the start of the current season, said he considered Chelsea to be his home after eight years with the West Londoners. “There is no other place I would rather play football,” he told the club website (www.chelseafc.com). “I have enjoyed so much success since moving to the club and I am determined to help the team achieve more in the last months of this season and

next year as well.” “I am very happy to stay with Chelsea for another season,” said Ivanovic. “After eight years here this is my home and there is no other place I would rather play football.” The Serbian international has won every major club honour at Chelsea, including the Champions League and two Premier League titles, since his debut in 2008. He has also scored 32 goals in 341 appearances. Misfiring Chelsea now placed 14th on the league table will face leaders Arsenal tomorrow, with Ivanovic facing a side that includes his former team mate Petr Cech in goal for the Gunners.

Aguero woos Messi for City Manchester City and Argentina striker, Sergio Aguero said he had extolled the virtues of England’s north-west city to his compatriot and Barcelona forward, Lionel Messi to consider for signing. Messi, 28, has expressed no desire to leave Barca, where he is contracted to until 2019, but Abu-Dhabi owned Manchester City,

Aguero

backed by the billions of Sheikh Mansour, are one of the few clubs who could afford to buy him. “He already knows there’s no beach!,” Aguero, who has scored 120 goals in 185 appearances during his four-and-a-half years at the Etihad, told Sky Sports. “We play every three days so we just eat, rest between games -- so the weather is

not really that important. “So I told him that Manchester is ideal as a city because you stay at home all day, you play every three days, we can eat, we can meet up, drink Mate (a traditional Argentinian drink) and play football together.” Real Madrid would also have the resources to sign Messi but Barca would never sell a player of his stature

to their arch-rivals. According to the latest valuations released by Football-Observatory. com. Messi’s transfer value is put at €251 million, nearly €100 million more than the next on their list, Brazil striker Neymar. Earlier this month Messi won the FIFA Ballon d’Or (world player of year) award for a fifth time.

Van Gaal blasts media again

Van Gaal

anchester United manager, Lous van Gaal has again dismissed reports he will leave Old Trafford at the end of the season, saying on Friday he does not have to answer to the media. The Dutchman’s future has been the subject of persistent speculation after United’s Champions League groupstage exit and indifferent Premier League displays sparked discontent among fans. Former Chelsea manager Jose

Mourinho was linked with Van Gaal’s job last and United were forced to deny a report that they had met with Pep Guardiola, the Bayern Munich boss who has said he wants to manage in the Premier League next season. “I don’t think that the press have to help me with my decisions. First they have sacked me. Now they are interfering with my future. I don’t have to answer,” Van Gaal told reporters. “I have a relationship with the

players of Manchester United. That is the most important thing. Not everything the media are writing is true.” United which last won the EPL title in 2013 under Alex Ferguson, amassed eight points from their last four games, including a 1-0 victory over Liverpool last Sunday to occupy the fifth on the log. Van Gaal said that while the pressure on him had eased “a little bit”, it would return if they did not beat 10th-placed Southampton at Old Trafford today.

“It is always the same pressure for Manchester United -- we have to win. Our fans are always expecting us to win, especially at home,” he said. United will again be forced to reshuffle their back four after winger Ashley Young, who has been filling in at full back, was ruled out for the foreseeable future with a severe groin problem. Midfielder Bastian Schweinsteiger (knee) and defender Phil Jones (ankle) are still unavailable through injury.

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Mikel

CHAN 2016:

Nigeria’s Chisom Chikatara (left) challenged by a Tunisian player during Friday’s CHAN group C match in Rwanda.

Chikatara earns Nigeria point against Tunisia By Adebayo taoreed

igeria maintains its top spot in group C of the ongoing African Nations Championship (CHAN) despite a 1-1 draw with Tunisia on Friday afternoon at the Stade Regional, Kigali. The Super Eagles lead the group with four points from two matches as the second game of the day between the Menas of Niger

Republic and Syli Nationale of Guinea ended in a 2-2 draw. Tunisia and Guinea are tied on two points each on the log leaving Niger with only a point. Chisom Chikatara also maintained his scoring form after a hat-trick feat in the opener against Niger. The Abia Warriors striker on Friday, shot the Super Eagles into the lead in the 52nd minute when he clinically finished an effort initiated by Osas Okoro, for his

Women’s U-17 W-Cup qualifier:

fourth goal of the tournament. However, the Carthage Eagles would have taken the lead before half time after Ahmed Akiachi’s glancing header had beaten goalkeeper Ikechukwu Ezenwa, but the goal was overruled as the ball was judged to have crossed the line before Mohammed Ben Amor connected it. Amor was later booked by the centre referee for protesting against his decision. Akiachi again turned

sharply inside the box to fire home the much needed equaliser in the 70th minute after he was set up by substitute Essifi. Goalkeeper Ezenwa however, made a number of saves in the game to ensure Nigeria remain unbeaten in the tournament. Coach Sunday Oliseh introduced Orji Kalu in place of Stephen Eze at the start of the second half to fortify the defence. He also brought in Warri Wolves striker, Bar-

tholomew Ibenegbu in the 71st minute in place of Usman Mohammed, while Prince Aggreh was later replaced by Ezekiel Bassey in the 80th minute. The Eagles’ last group match is billed for Tuesday at 3pm Nigeria time, against Syli Nationale of Guinea, while Tunisia will confront Niger in the games to be played simultaneously. The first two teams on the log will move to the quarter-finals.

Flamingoes oust Namibia

9-0 aggregate •Draw South Africa in final round Nigeria’s Flamingoes on Friday silenced hosts, Namibia 4-0 in the second round, second leg qualifier for the 2016 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup qualifier. A brace from Cynthia

Aku with strikes from Rasheedat Ajibade, Patience Dike and Yetunde Fajobi were all the Flamingoes needed to brush aside the Baby Gladiators and qualified 9-0 on aggregate at the Sam Nujoma

Stadium, Namibia. The Bala Nikyu’s girls it will be recalled in the first leg tie in Abuja, spanked the Baby Gladiators 4-0. Meanwhile, the Flamingoes will face their coun-

terparts from South Africa in the final qualifying round to Jordan 2016. South Africa had advanced without sweat following the withdrawal of Zambia from the qualifying series.

Coach Bala Nikyu

Chinese club offers Mikel £60,000 a week pay Nigeria international, Mikel Obi is reported to be attracting interest from Chinese Super League club, Shanghal SIPG who is ready to pay him £60,000 weekly after tax. Mikel earns £80,000 a week at Chelsea, and is before tax. According to the Daily Mail, the Chinese club managed by former England manager, Sven Goran Eriksson, has tabled a bid to that effect. The 2013 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) winner joined Chelsea in 2006 from Lyn Oslo for a fee of £16 million. Mikel, a silver winner with the Flying Eagles at the 2005 FIFA U-20 World Cup has won two Premier League trophies, four FA Cups, two League Cups, a Europa League and a Champions League. He was a key player in Nigeria’s triumph at the 2013 Nations Cup in South Africa. If this deal sail through, he will join Ghana skipper Asamoah Gyang at the club. Efe Ambrose was also linked to this club but the Celtic defender said there have been no offers from the club for him.

Printed and Published by the African Newspapers of Nigeria PLC, Imalefalafia Street, Oke-Ado, Ibadan. E mail: saturdaytribuneeditor@yahoo.com Website: www.tribuneonlineng.com MANAGING DIRECTOR / EDITOR-IN-CHIEF: EDWARD DICKSON. EDITOR: LASISI OLAGUNJU. All Correspondence to P. O. Box 78, Ibadan. ISSN 2712. ABC Member of the Audit Bureau of Circulation. 23/1/2016.