Osun Defender - April 5th, 2014 Edition

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SATURDAY, APRIL 5, 2014 From a paltry N300 million a month less than three years ago to N1.6 billion now, internally generated revenue (IGR) in the State of Osun will appear to have taken a quantum leap.

This, of course, cannot be in absolute terms. Compared to Lagos that now does no less than N15 billion a month and is set to hit the N20 billion mark, N1.6 billion monthly is puny.

VOL. 9. NO.041

Front Page Comment IGR: Osun's Quantum Leap But the news is not Osun's present IGP in absolute terms. It is even not its comparison with Lagos, brother states they may be.

The news is rather about where Osun was coming from, and the strides it has made, less than three years,

and the strides it has made, less than three years, under a government that is focused but which nevertheless inherited a near-paralytic infrastructure from a previous government, which was in power for more than seven years.

Indeed, it is from this standpoint of near hopelessness in government that the

Osun current IGP triumph must be viewed and celebrated. The at Aregbesola administration has done well. So it is kudos to the governor and his team.

But as the reward for hard work is even more hard work, they must know that it is only a sweet beginning. They should therefore also aim an even sweeter ending.

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Who Killed Chief Bola Ige, formerAttorneyGeneral and Minister of Justice?

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Countdown To Osun PDP Gov Primary Election:

How Jonathan’s Minister, Omisore Beat Ex-Gov Adeleke •Isiaka, I Am Warning You To Steer Clear Or Else I ‘ll Kill You - Omisore - See Story On Page 3

•Front view of the ongoing construction of Ejigbo High School, Ejigbo, under the administration of State of Osun Governor Rauf Aregbesola as captured by our cameraman, GBENGA ADENIYI, last Wednesday.

Osun Assembly Passes N234bn Budget Into Law

- See Story On Page 4

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OSUN DEFENDER Saturday, April 5, 2014

Countdown To Osun PDP Gov Primary Election: How Jonathan’s Minister, Omisore Beat Ex-Gov Adeleke •Isiaka, I Am Warning You To Steer Clear Or Else I ‘ll Kill You - Omisore

By SHINA ABUBAKAR

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HE crisis rocking the State of Osun chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) over the conduct of its governorship primary election in the party has taken a new twist, as Senator Iyiola Omisore and the serving Minister for Police Affairs, Mr. Jelili Adesiyan, reportedly attacked the first Executive Governor of the state, Alhaji Isiaka Adeleke, before members of the National Working Committee (NWC) of the party.

According to a source at midway as supporters of the party secretariat, the the major aspirants made committee was in the state the atmosphere tense and to see to the smooth almost uncontrollable, as conduct of the primary they clamoured for election and decided to attention. meet stakeholders in the poll It was gathered that to ensure that the exercise Adesiyan was all over the would be violence-free. place giving instructions to However, the gathering, the anti-riot policemen and held at Ideal Nest Hotel in officers from the Directorate Osogbo, turned sour of State Security (DSS)

around to unleash terror on those he perceived as supporters of other aspirants.

Adeleke’s supporters were also gathered to have received more of the raw deal from the Omisore henchman, as they were severally beaten before the arrival of their principal by the security operatives on Adesiyan’s instruction, who labelled them as thugs, who came to disrupt the meeting.

Matters however got to the climax with Adeleke’s arrival at the venue, who was observed to have been more surprised to see his supporters being brutalised by the security operatives.

He was reported to have

explained to the security men that those being brutalised were actually his supporters and were not in any way connected to thuggery as being erroneously painted by the Police Affairs Minister.

It was at this stage that Omisore walked up to Adeleke and started warning him to steer clear of his path or must be ready to face the consequences of his action.

“On entering the hall, I saw Omisore, Adesiyan, Sogo Agboola sitting together. I went to Adesiyan to complain that police officers and DSS operatives were holding party men outside. But,

•Nigeria Police Officer (NPF) surrounding Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) State Secretariat at Ogo-Oluwa, Osogbo, State of Osun, during the crisis between two PDP governorship aspirants in the state, Senator Iyiola Omisore and Senator Isiaka Adeleke as captured by OSUN DEFENDER, last Wednesday.

Preserve Nation’s History - Aregbesola

By SOLA JACOBS

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N appeal has gone out to federal, state and local governments in Nigeria to protect the nation’s history from going into extinction through the maintenance of high level safety of the nation’s history through the payment of quality efforts to safeguard the nation’s museums and monuments.

Governor of the State of Osun, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, gave this appeal at an official opening of Exhibition/Gallery with the theme: “Ife Archaeology and Material Culture in Retrospect”, held at the National Museum, Enuwa Square, Ile-Ife. Represented by his deputy, Otunba (Mrs.) Grace Titilayo Laoye-Tomori, Aregbesola tasked management of museums across the nation to inculcate international best practices in tourism management into their activities, with a view to attracting foreign tourists and sensitising the Nigerian populace on how best to preserve these sites together with telling them about the significance of the sites to their being.

Relaying the various efforts of his administration on making tourist centres in the state to meet international standards, Aregbesola said his administration has invested substantially on the upgrading of facilities at all the tourist

centres in the State of Osun and urged Nigerians abroad to return home to see the rich heritage of the state.

According to the governor, the state government had signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with government of Antigua and Bermuda for the promotion of Yoruba culture.

Minister of Tourism, Culture and National Orientation, High Chief Edem Duke, said Osun Osogbo Festival will receive attention of the Federal Government budget starting from the current Year 2014, adding that Ile-Ife Museum could be upgraded to the status of the second World Heritage Centre in Nigeria after Osun Osogbo Grove, if all concerned could play their expected roles judisciously..

Describing culture as a vector of development that could be used to create wealth, generate employment and reduce poverty in the nation, Duke said culture and tourism sector is one of the epicentres

of the transformation agenda of the Federal Government.

He therefore, urged all Nigerians, irrespective of political, ethnic, religious or social status, to join hands together to restore the lost glory of the nation’s museums, with a view to annexing the avalanche of natural resources available in the sector to the best interest of all.

The Ooni of Ife, Oba Okunade Sijuwade, said Ile-Ife has continued to receive diverse accolades from across the world through the presence of artefacts in the ancient town.

The royal father said artefacts found in Ile-Ife dated back to 11,000 years before the birth of Jesus Christ, saying the National Museum has contributed immensely to the propagation of Yoruba premodial heroes and heroines.

In his welcome address, Director-General of the National Commission for Museums and Monuments, Alhaji Abdallah Usman, said the exhibition was focussed on bringing Ife clay, stone, bronze, technology and abstract form of artwork from 800AD to the naturalistic masterpiece onto the fore.

He said the exhibition also recognized and honour outstanding heroes of Ile-Ife archaeology and material culture.

High point of the epochmaking event, which drew participants from all works of live, was the official opening of the exhibition by the Honourable Minister of Tourism, Culture and National Orientation, High Chief Edem Duke, assisted by Governor Rauf Aregbesola and other notable figures present together with cultural displays.

instead of listening to me, he jumped over a table before him and hit me with a blow on the chest. Sogo Agboola also attacked me.

Before I knew what was happening, Omisore hit me with a blow from the back.

About seven guns corked were pointed at me,” Adeleke asserted.

According to an impeccable source at the gathering, Omisore looked at the senator in the eye and said: “Isiaka, I am warning you to steer clear of my way, else I will kill you.”

Adesiyan, who had all along stood at a distance watching what was going on between him and Omisore, could no longer control his anger and went ahead to slap the former governor from the back, on the instruction of his benefactor.

Findings revealed that Adesiyan slapped Adeleke and harassed him before the entire committee, paving way for other thugs to harass the former governor.

It was gathered that it took the intervention of antiriot policemen at the hotel, venue of the meeting, to free the Ede-born politician from his assailants.

However, as tension doused a bit, Omisore still moved closer to the former governor and warned him of the consequences of standing on his way of becoming the next governor of the state.

With what transpired between him and the former senator, Adeleke was gathered to have hurriedly organised a press conference at his country home in Ede where he alleged Omisore of threatening his life.

Adeleke confirmed that political thugs suspected to be working for Omisore attacked him and some of his loyalists on Tuesday night.

He said he had since petitioned the Commissioner for Police in the State of Osun, Mr Ibrahim Maishanu, on the alleged threat to his life by Omisore’s loyalists.

The petition was submitted to the police on Wednesday.

Adeleke, while addressing pressmen on

Wednesday said: “At about 11pm on Tuesday, I went to the Ideal Nest Hotel in Osogbo, where I was invited by the officials of the party from the National Secretariat, who were in the state for the party’s ward congress.

“On getting to the hotel, I saw some of my loyalists lying on the floor. I asked what they did wrong to warrant such cruel treatment and I was told that they were thugs and they were ordered to be arrested by the Minister for Police Affairs, Alhaji Jelili Adesiyan, who is an associate of Omisore.

“I was later asked to go into the meeting and as I was going, I told Adesiyan that it should not have been him, who I made the Director-General of my campaign organisation, when I wanted to contest the governorship election in 1992.

“Before I knew what was happening, I was punched several times by Omisore’s men, who were there.”

Omisore has however denied the allegation, saying he and none of his men was after Adeleke’s life.

Speaking through the director of his campaign organization, Mr Diran Odeyemi, on Wednesday, Omisore said the Minister of Police was assaulted by some thugs, who claimed to be working for Adeleke.

The Commissioner of Police in the State, Mr Ibrahim Maishanu, confirmed that some people were arrested at the Ideal Nest Hotel in connection with political matters, but were later released on selfrecognition.

Maishanu also acknowledged that Adeleke had made a formal complaint to his office on the alleged threat to his life, promising that the police would conduct thorough investigation into the matter.

OSUN DEFENDER gathered that a former Chairman of Ede-North Local Government Council, Alhaji Kazim Akinleye, was one of Adeleke’s loyalists, who was attacked by suspected Omisore’s thugs.

Akinleye, as at the time of filing this report was receiving medical treatment at an undisclosed hospital in Ede, following the severe injuries he sustained when he was attacked.

PDP Primary: Osun Cautions Citizens To Be Wary Of Party

By SHINA ABUBAKAR

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TATE Government of Osun has called on the teeming populace of the state to be wary of the ongoing crisis among gladiators in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the state ahead of the primary election schedule to hold today.

A press statement issued by harmony for over three years the State Commissioner for of the Rauf Aregbesola-led Information and Strategy, administration, calling on the Honourable Sunday Akere, security operatives not to disclosed that reports allow the PDP truncate the emanating from the various peace the people of the state meetings of the party (PDP) in have been enjoying over the the state is a pointer to what years.

According to him, if the the party is capable of unleashing on the its members present lack of decorum, and the populace, as the race decency and civility is allowed for the governorship election to continue unchecked in the name of politicking, the masses thickens.

He said the state has been would be at the receiving end, experiencing peace and calling on the PDP leadership

to put its house in order and not jeopardise the peace Osun people have been enjoying, including members of the party.

Akere further cautioned the teeming populace of the state to steer clear of venues of PDP meetings, so as not to fall victims of violence or share in their orgy of violence, while also calling on the peace-loving people of the state to be vigilant of the violence-prone politicians.

He reiterated the commitment of the Aregbesola administration to the promotion of law and order and assured them that adequate provision has been made to secure the lives and property of the entire citizenry.

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OSUN DEFENDER Saturday, April 5, 2014

Osun Assembly Passes N234bn Budget Into Law

By KAZEEM MOHAMMED

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HE State of Osun House of Assembly on Wednesday passed into law, the 2014 Appropriation Bill of N234 billion.

The budget had an increase In the passed budget, the of N18 billion from the N216 recurrent expenditure stands at billion initially presented to the N99.7 billion, representing state legislature by the state 42.55 per cent, while capital governor, Ogbeni Rauf expenditure stands at N134.7 Aregbesola. billion representing 57.45 per Aregbesola, through his cent.

Special Adviser on Budget and The recurrent revenue Economic Planning, Mr Bade stands at N101.6 billion, Adesina, had on December 31, representing 43.34 per cent, 2013, presented the budget while the capital receipt stands estimate of N216 billion before at N132.8 billion, representing the House.

Avoid Osun PDP Secretariat Today - APC Warns Supporters

56.66 per cent.

The Speaker, Honourable Najeem Salaam, said the budget was increased to meet the yearnings and aspirations of the people.

According to him, the budget was not increased to increase the salaries or allowances of the lawmakers, but to ensure that Aregbesola’s administration continue to deliver the much-desired dividends of democracy to the people across all parts of the state.

“The budget was increased so as to ensure equitable distribution of service delivery to all parts of the state because we envisage that this government needs to do more.

“We did a thourough

assessment of the situation and we believe that the increament in the budget would bring about more service delivery to the people.

“The successful implementation of this budget needs the collective responsibility of everybody in the state and we must join hands together to see its successful implementation,” Salaam stressed.

Earlier moving the motion for the final reading of the budget, Chairman, House Committee on Finance and Appropriation, Honourable Kamil Oyedele said the budget must be revenue-driven in the course of implementation.

Oyedele added that the various House committees

must ensure that Ministries, Department and Agencies (MDAs) of government in their care are well-monitored and pushed to improve on their Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) for the successful implementation of the budget.

He explained that due to the dwindling allocations from the federation account, all hands must be on deck to improve on the state‘s IGR. The House Chief Whip, Honourable Ipoola Binuyo, urged all the MDAs to comply with the principles of full implementation of the budget.

He said the MDAs must also ensure that they did not spend beyond what was approved for them in the appropriation bill, saying that

if there is the need for it, such MDAs must seek the approval of the state parliament.

Binuyo added that money should be released to MDAs at the point of their needs.

In their separate contributions, the Deputy Speaker, Akintunde Adegboye; Leader of the House, Timothy Owoeye; Kamardeen Akanbi (Ede North); and Samson Fafiyebi (Obokun) among others commended the governor for coming up with such budget projection, inspite of the dwindling allocation from the federation account.

They therefore called on all stakeholders to continue their support for the administration to be able to actualise all its dreams for the state.

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HE All Progressives Congress (APC) has alerted citizens of Osogbo, the state capital- especially its members and supporters- to avoid as much as possible any contact with or attempt to observe the Peoples Democratic Party’s scheduled governorship primary election at its State Secretariat HQ along Gbongan road in Osogbo today, that is if the event holds as planned.

This is because there are crook.”

They are prepared to shed grave security fears that the event could turn out to be ocean of blood for one violent - perhaps even desperate individual to become governor and bloody, the APC warned. reverse all the dividends of According to a release democracy that the people from the party’s directorate of Osun have been enjoying of publicity, research and since 2010 when Ogbeni strategy signed by its Rauf Aregbesola came to Director Barr.Kunle power”, the APC said, Oyatomi, the APC alleged adding that, “God and the that even before this determined people of Osun scheduled primary, one of will forbid this happening” “Therefore,” the party the aspirants has been concluded, “anybody who reported as saying that if makes himself a victim of another of his colleagues PDP violence by coming stood on his path in this anywhere close to that contest, that colleague party’s Secretariat would would be killed by the have himself or herself to blame; that is why we are aspirant.

This threat amongst the giving this warning in •An ongoing rehabilitation project of Osogbo City Stadium, under the administration of the State of Osun the APC governor, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, as captured by our photographer, ABRAHAM JESUDOYIN, last Thursday. contestants, coming 72 advance,” hours before the scheduled declared. primary, is a clear indication that all will not be well in the PDP secretariat on Saturday. At least, it is now disclosed that amongst

By SHINA ABUBAKAR a common knowledge that other uses, Jatropha has at a meeting of PDP in been discovered to be locally known as ‘Lapalapa’ She added that, however, Osogbo on Wednesday, S part of his six-point integral action plan to promote in the state.

Lapalapa or Jatropha has effective in curing diseases Senator Isiaka Adeleke, an eco-friendly environment, Governor of the State According to her, in recent years attracted such as fever, cancer and former executive governor of Osun, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, has approved Jatropha, used to be very attention from researchers sores, while its industrial of the state, alleged that he was beaten black and blue the take-off of a twenty thousand seedlings Jatropha Pilot common in the South- and scientists, who have purposes extends to of domestic and by a Minister of Police Project for the state.

Western part of the country identified its medicinal, production engine fuel, soap making etc.

Affairs and another in the past, but is now fastindustrial, domestic and The State Commissioner disclosed this during a Professor Oyawoye aspirant who is hellishly for Environment and seminar held for becoming an endangered other values, hence, the particularly observed that desperate to become specie, because it is being need to preserve it.

Sanitation, Professor stakeholders on economic despite its many uses, governor.

The commissioner markets for the different importance of Jatropha, threatened with extinction.

Olubukola Oyawoye, If at that level, the PDP Jatropha products have not can exhibit such mean been properly explored, behaviour, one can only while the actual and imagine what might happen ACK of infra-structural facilities in tertiary enhance the academic key officers of the potential stakeholders, who today at their primary. “It lack adequate information on institutions across the nation has been described lifestyle of the students of institution. will therefore, be foolhardy as one of the factors militating against the the institution.

As part of the activities its prospects, have been for APC supporters, or any unable to achieve optimum peace-loving residents of development of the sector in the country.

Earlier in his remark, the marking the event, an 18Osogbo to venture The governor of the State which cannot be over- Chairman of the Governing seater bus was donated to economic benefits from the plant. anywhere near the PDP of Osun, Ogbeni Rauf emphasised.

Council of the institution, the campus of the Amongst eminent institution by the Executive secretariat because they Aregbesola, made this Otunba Tomori said a Professor Gabriel Olawoyin could suffer serious if not remark at the university without library is had lauded the government Secretary of Irewole Local personalities present on the Council, occasion were the Secretary fatal collateral damage”, the commissioning of a college unthinkable as the essence of the State of Osun for Government to the State Government, party warned. library and twin 500 ETF of university revolves giving financial support to Honourable Soji Ajayi.

Different Personalities at Alhaji Moshood Adeoti, “Besides”’ according to building at Ikire campus of round acquisition of the institution, despite the the commissioning Senior Special Adviser to the the APC, “the PDP could Osun State University on knowledge and research. dwindling federal allocation included Professor Siyan Governor on Environment turn around to frame up any Tuesday.

She however lauded accruing to the state Oyeweso, Professor Koya and Sanitation, Dr. Afolabi APC supporter seen around According to the deputy A r e g b e s o l a ’ s government.

Ogen, Dr (Mrs) Adeola Hassan, General Manager, the PDP Secretariat governor of the state, administration for the According to him, this Amao, Colonel Fijabi and Osun premises as the cause of Otunba (Mrs) Titi Laoye- provision of infrastructures State Waste their bloody primary, in their Tomori, who represented such as befitting library and has shown the deep love many other personalities Management Agency, Alhaji the Ogbeni Aregbesola’s characteristic manner”. the governor on the lecture hall for the state Ganiyu Oyeladun, who administration has for Change Of Name The APC said that the occasion, the significant of university. represented the Governor, education. threat to violence in Osun any university is not on the Special Adviser Bola Ilori, In her words: “UNIOSUN I, formerly known and Other attraction of the by the PDP is growing from structure but on the is giving the best Chairman Special Task force addressed as MRS “latent to real”, and fundamental ideals; atmosphere for learning occasion was the dance G A R U S - A L A K A on environment and performance by the dramatic information from within the broadening knowledge, environment and this is one OMOWUMI FOLAKE, Forestry, Prince Ayoola, ranks of the PDP itself cross-fertilization of ideas area that is responsible for arts students of the now wish to be known members of Biofuel Farmers institution. speaks of “a bloody and others. and addressed as MISS Association of Nigeria, and the failing of high The library and the twin electoral process in which all F A J U Y I T A N of the Jatropha Producers’ She noted that for such institutions in Nigeria lecture hall were later forces of coercion available ideals to materialise there is today,” she stressed OMOWUMI FOLAKE. Marketers Association, commissioned for the use of All former documents to the PDP will be deployed the need for buildings and She however concluded the institution by the remain valid. General Directors and Staff of in Osun to win the coming other facilities, especially, that the provision of Ministry. deputy governor and the public should take note. election by hook and the necessity of a library, commissioned facilities will

Aregbesola Approves 20,000 Jatropha Seedlings For Osun - Oyawoye

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‘Lack Of Infrastructure, Bane Of Tertiary Institutions’

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OSUN DEFENDER Saturday, April 5, 2014

Group Launches Campaign Against Electoral Violence, Rigging In Osun

By KEHINDE AYANTUNJI

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Non-Governmental Organisation, Democracy Vanguard, on Wednesday presented Voters’ Handbook to the members of the public and tasked the people to protect their votes in the forthcoming August 9 gubernatorial election in the State of Osun.

The National Coordinator defined as the government of the group, Comrade of the people, by the people Deola Soetan, said the and for the people, it means organisation is duty bound the voters are the mostto ensure that electoral rules valuable consideration in are strictly adhered to any democracy, but in during the official Nigeria, voters are the leastinauguration of the considered to freely choose organisation in the State of their leaders.

Osun, held at Nigeria Union “As an independent and of Journalists (NUJ) Press non-partisan organisation, Centre, Osogbo, the state we shall interface with all capital. core stakeholders in the According to him, the Nigeria, election project and power of the people to all election managers to choose whoever to lead ensure that the sanctity of them, as guaranteed by the electoral process are 1999 Constitution, must be preserved before, during protected by all and after elections, so as to stakeholders, by ensuring guarantee that all votes credible electoral process in count and the principle of the country.

One-Man-One-Vote is He said: “Since respected and observed. democracy has been The State Director of

National Orientation Agency, Mr Remi Omowon, attributed electoral violence and rigging to human attitude and character, which is a reflection of the rot in the society and therefore, advocated change of attitude by respecting the will of the people to freely choose their leaders.

He rolled out the agency’s action plans to ensure that the coming election in the state is successful and pledged to work with Democracy Vanguard to ensure credible election.

The State Resident Electoral Commissioner of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Ambassador Rufus Akeju, represented by Reverend Stephen Ojewande, said the commission is working hard to ensure that all electoral processes are creditably performed to achieve

credible and acceptable election.

He urged the political parties and politicians to participate in the electoral process with full respect and adherence to the rules, in compliance with the code of conduct they had signed with civility and decorum.

INEC however, solicited the collaboration of NGOs Civil Society Organisations, and faith-based organisations in the area of voters and civic education

and public sensitisation.

Earlier in his welcome address, the State Coordinator of the group, Comrade Olowu Emmanuel, said the organisation has designed a programme of action to reach the market women, students, artisans and professionals in ensuring that the sanctity of ballots is protected in the August gubernatorial election and 2015 general elections.

Osun NUJ Chairman

Comrade Abiodun Olalere, who presented the handbook to the public, urged the people to read the manual so as to understand their rights and limitations in electoral process and cautioned the people against violence before and after the election.

Stakeholders at the event included professional bodies, market women, students, artisans and nong o v e r n m e n t a l organisations.

‘Desist From Taking Interest’

By MURTALA AGBOOLA

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USLIMS have been enjoined to desist from taking or giving interest on capital. The admonition was made by Alhaji Taofeeq Abdul Hameed at the 11th Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the NACOMYO (Islamic-Interest-free) Co-operative Investment and Credit Society Limited, Igbona, Osogbo, the State of Osun capital, last Sunday.

Taofeeq, who is the Chief the topic: Islamic Banking in Imam of Federal a Capitalist Society like Polytechnic, Ede, spoke on Nigeria”, explained that capitalism is built on interest, which is against the teachings of Islam.

According to the renowned Islamic scholar, Almighty Allah has permitted trade and forbidden usury as stated in the Holy Quran.

He emphasized the fact that economic meltdown is a characteristic of the capitalist economy, which emphasizes the individuals in the pursuit of personal and selfish interest.

Taofeeq did not fail to reiterate the fact that as it affects the individuals, it does affect countries that take loans from the International Monetary Fund (IMF), which is a capitalist institution.

He enquired to know if any country has taken loan from IMF and come out clean to which the congregation responded •An ongoing road project at Igbona area, Osogbo, under the administration of Governor Rauf Aregbesola as captured with a thunderous ‘No’. by our cameraman, BRAHAM JESUDOYIN, last Thursday.

The guest speaker urged Muslims to take advantage of the interest-free cooperative societies, which impose less discomfort on distablised the plans of party not to field Omisore as

By KEHINDEAYANTUNJI their flagbearer in the Omisore, who had been borrowers, relative to adjudged to be the leading conventional co-operative N what appears to be last-minute U-turn, the South- August election.

West Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) He said: “I can confirm to aspirant of the party in the societies.

Mobilisation Committee, Kashamu Buruji, has you that Kasamu has state.

Imam Taofeeq made It was believed that some withdrawn his support for one of the party’s gubernatorial dumped Omisore for reference to how they people from the Presidency aspirants in the State of Osun, Senator Iyiola Omisore.

Adeleke, but was never as a sponsored Senator Adeleke commenced Islamic-interest OSUN DEFENDER than what he got, as he had result of any disagreement. to contest the gubernatorial free co-operative at the Federal Polytechnic, Ede, confirmed on Thursday that hoped to be the one that It was a signal from the ticket. the party chieftain has would raise Omisore’s hand Presidency and our party pulled his weight behind the at the rally. If you noticed, national leadership and former governor, Senator he was invited to the podium Kashamu can never work Isiaka Adeleke, for the at the tail end of the against the presidency’s Saturday governorship programme.” interest,” the source said.

“Apart from that, Omisore primary election of the It was also gathered that and the party Chairman,

By FRANCIS EZEDIUNO party.

Omisore has made frantic A top strategist from Gani Olaoluwa, have not efforts to reconcile with HE State Government of Osun has restated Omisore’s camp confirmed been consulting him in decisions Kashamu, but to no avail, as its commitment to the production of quality to OSUN DEFENDER that taking Kashmu backed out from the concerning the party, which Kashmu was said to have cocoa and other agricultural produce for the Omisore project as a result forced Kasamu to consult been avoiding the former economic advancement of the state. of disagreement on party his loyalists in the state for senator.

The State to boost cocoa production It will be recalled that few issues, based on principles, an alternative aspirant, Commissioner for in the state. sensing that Omisore will days to Omisore’s which they have been not be submissive, should declaration, According to him, All managing for a long time.”

Kashamu Agriculture, Mr. Wale The source said: “The he eventually pick the party brought two trucks of Adedoyin revealed that Farmers Association of differences started on the ticket,” the source hinted.

Kerosene that were sold to the state government had Nigeria (AFAN) and However, a senatorial the people at the controlled commenced day Senator Omisore the other farmers’ unions in declared his ambition at the leader of the party, who price of N50 per litre and was enumeration of cocoa the state are co-operating pleaded not to be Freedom Park in Osogbo, used to woo unsuspecting where Kashamu was mentioned, dismissed the members of the public to the trees to ensure effective with the government on management. the efforts to boost saying party. relegated below his insinuation, He added that the activities in the agriculture expectations. He had Kashamu backed out from Senator Adeleke, who expected that with his Omisore’s project as a result joined the gubernatorial race enumeration was one of sector. financial support for the of the body language of the appeared The commissioner said to have the measures put in place senator, he deserved more national leadership of the

PDP Crisis: Kashamu Dumps Omisore For Adeleke

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where today members can borrow above a million naira.

He said it smacks of hypocrisy, when people choose to undertake both Islamic interest-free cooperative with the conventional one.

Earlier in his speech, the chairman of the occasion, Alhaji Abdul Rauf Ayinla, of Salam Co-operative Society, Ikirun, had commended the leaders and the organising committee for a job welldone.

He was impressed with how the society has been able to withstand the economic realities of the country to stay afloat for eleven years.

The President of the mother union of the cooperative society, Alhaji AbdulLateef Olayanju thanked Allah for another eventful year and reminded members of the objective of the society, which is to empower Muslims economically and bail them out of evils of usury, as condemned by the tenets of Islam”.

He also spoke about the strengthening of the investment committee in the New Islamic Year to go into business ventures that would generate income and profit for members.

The AGM, which was well-attended by members, had the new resolutions read and well-embraced by members, while the incoming executive members for the year for the four units were inaugurated.

The Financial Year Reports of the units were also presented and accepted by members.

Osun Committed To Development enumeration would assist the government in Of Cocoa, Other Produce the the provision of statistics

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for inputs, financial support and other incentives for cocoa farmers.

He stressed that the state government had inaugurated a committee on cocoa tree enumeration, adding that it involved all the stakeholders in cocoa production.

The commissioner noted that other measures had also been worked out to boost the production of food crops in the state.

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News

OSUN DEFENDER Saturday, April 5, 2014

IGR: Osun's Quantum Leap Continued from pg1

From their performance these three years past, they are well positioned to doing it. They must grab this historic opportunity to make a difference and modernize Osun for good.

Still, what is responsible for this nearmeteoric rise in Osun IGP? Some say it is sounder husbandry of Osun resources. This cannot be wrong. To assume office under those debilitating circumstances and yet engage 20, 000 youth volunteers under the Osun Youth Employment Scheme (OYES) was well and truly amazing. Now, to see the second batch of OYES literarily fall upon their jobs, menial as it is, even with their educational attainments, shows a positive improvement in the collective ethos of Osun people.

Still on good husbandry of state resources, that the Aregbesola government has embarked on a massive infrastructure and urban renewal programmes, the most extensive and ambitious in the history of the State of Osun, is well and truly breath-taking.

It almost sounds as if the state is experiencing positive spiritual pay back: it is as if the state is getting compensated, in arrears and on the double, for past misrule that had resulted in stagnation.

In all sectors of the Osun economy education, health, agriculture, roads, environment and rural development, just to name a few - something new is happening.

Osun, with its futuristic infrastructure under construction, is on its way to being a competitive player on the economic front.

Even in commerce, something big is about to happen with the impending launch of the standard measure for grains, to further instill the ethos of parts of the country, Lagos prices.

But while doing all these, the government is also building its tax base. Indeed, the climb in IGP, aside from good resource husbandry, is also due to taxable economic activities. The more people witness upswing in facilities, the more they are convinced to pay tax.

or grains, to further instill the ethos of parts of the country, where in Osogbo, products and produce can be bought at Lagos prices. honesty and integrity in the Osun market folk.

The more tax payable, the greater the possibility of higher IGP and even more facilities. This economic growth, other things being equal, in due course translates to development and development itself translates to prosperity.

This development is intended to make Osun the hub of commerce, between the South-West and the northern . That in itself would reclaim the old glory of the railway-linked Osogbo as a commercial nerve, next only to Ibadan and Lagos in the old Western Region. So, from an economic backwater which inhabitants groan with moans and regret,

Even with its puny resources, the Aregbesola government has proved the almost limitless possibilities of the Osun economy. But it is early days yet. The government should continue on these winning lanes. That is the logical and reasonable path to socio-economic dev e l o p m e n t .

OSUN DEFENDER Publisher

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Moremi Publishing House Ltd.

Managing Editor

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Kola Olabisi (0803-392-7286)

Editor

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Kayode Agbaje (0803-388-0205)

Lagos Editor

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Kola Odepeju (08023191891)

Production Editor

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Pet-Kola Taiwo Ibitowa

Senior Reporter Senior Reporter

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Sola Jacobs Kazeem Mohammed

Magazine Editor

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Niyi Olasinde

Reporter Reporter

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Kehinde Ayantunji Francis Chukwuma

Photographer Photographer

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Oluwagbemiga Adeniyi Olushola Aderinto

Admin. Manager

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Murtala Agboola

Computer Operator – Computer Operator – Assistant Computer Operator

Saheed Afolabi Mary Akintola – Lukman Oseni

OSUN DEFENDER is published by Moremi Publishing House Limited, Promise Point Building, Opposite Guarantee Trust Bank GTB, Gbongan Road, Osogbo, State of Osun.

All correspondence to the above mail address.

ISSN: 0794-8050 Telephone: 0803-392-7286, 08033880205 Website: www.osundefender.com/index.php e-mail: osundefender@yahoo.com

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FEATURE

OSUN DEFENDER Saturday, April 5, 2014

Corporal Punishment And Adults’ Misplacement Of Emotions In Schools “Corporal punishment is any punishment in which physical force is used

and intended to cause some degree of pain or discomfort, however light.”

ND when most parents in the west get A upset for the mere mentioning of corporal punishment in schools and fought tooth and nail for their kids not to be punished this way no matter what, because it is just not right to encourage violence in schools, as the end result is never any good. When this happens, most Nigerian teachers just could not get it. ‘How do children learn, if you don’t beat them?’ They’d say. In Nigeria, most teachers think we needed to be flogged, beaten like a loveless animal before we could learn.

‘That’s how I was raised, they’d boasted.’

That’s right, of course you were raised that way, which only explains your inability to manage your frustrations now as adults.

I have never learnt a thing from being flogged and most of the beatings that I still remember today are from teachers for the offences that I didn’t know I had committed and or that the punishment was way too extreme in comparison to my offence.

The thing is we don’t learn from our mistakes, and when horrible accidents happens as a result of being flogged by mindless teachers or adults in care, we will be quick to misplace blame, usually all would come down to the devil’s work and disobedient children/students and right before our eye, the same accidents would happen, again and again.

Take for example the recent case of a young girl, whose life was cut short by a complete mindless student teacher at Akingbile Oluana Memorial School, Moniya, Ibadan, Oyo State.

Esther Oyeleke was 14 years old, pride of her family, I bet! On January 27th, 2014, she was among three students that their teacher beat with a cane for not paying attention in class.

Few days later, Esther was showing signs of ill-health; her whole body had swollen up. She was rushed to Osoko Maternity Hospital in Ibadan, where she was pronounced dead on January 30th, three days after she was flogged by her teacher.

My condolences to Esther Oyeleke’s family; no amount of tears or sympathies could ever fill the hole that has just been dug into their lives. They will forever feel the absence of their dear daughter.

This is where I don’t understand my people and this is why it makes me so sad (decided not to be angry anymore). Esther is dead and people are beating around the bush about who was responsible. I have read about the fact that it must have been the devil’s work - no surprise with that one, I read about Esther being Emere (a spirit child) - I expected that. Now hear me, obviously Esther did not die as a result of been beating with the cane, however, it was the act of been flogged that triggered whatever medical condition that Esther had, which perhaps was not obvious to her parents before now. Esther’s medical condition could have showed up in months, years time, and could have been treated and she might have survived, grow up to lead a happy healthy life. However, a student teacher, whose job was to teach, decided to beat students. It is clear whom the murderer was, so why do we pretend or blame imaginary people? It is up to the court to decide the right punishment the teacher should be given after the medical staff have done the necessary checks. In this case, autopsy to confirm the real reason Esther died, to raise awareness for others. God help me, the teacher does not deserve to walk the street like a saint, too bad she would learn her lesson the hard way, but someone need to be made a scapegoat, so the message could be clear that no student or any children for that matter, enjoys being beating. It is just plain wrong.

The student teacher is a product of failed education system in Nigeria. Her lecturers spent half of last year on industrial strike actions, so the school skipped the part that should have taught her how to engage students in class. So, obviously she lacked the formal training and most of all common sense. The result: Murder.

What is ironic in our schools was that nine out of 10 times the pupils get beating, it has nothing to do with learning. I was once a victim of such teacher, Mrs Oshobi. I have no idea how she managed to be principal of a school or even teacher of any level. The woman was a sadist and a mad one at that; not some of the time, but all of the time.

One morning at the assembly, I was at the front of the row, one of the teachers led the prayers and we were supposed to say amen, which I did religiously. Out of curiosity as any normal 16-years would, I opened one eye momentarily out of boredom. A couple of

•The Late ESTHER OYELEKE

By FOLAKEMI ODOAJE seconds later, Mrs Oshobi; our new principal hit my head with her callous fingers, so hard I staggered sideways. I cried for most of that day, not necessarily for the constant throb of ache on my temple, but because I had no idea what I did wrong. It was her first week in my school, we have heard about her wickedness weeks beforehand, so we called her Mrs Oso (wizard) and I promised myself never to cross her path, I was wrong.

Another time I was late to school by five minutes. This day, I had to run back home midway to school because I left my ball pen at home while doing my homework. So, by the time I got back to school at 7.50am, the school gate was closed as I was five whole minutes late. Mrs Oshobi only gives three strokes of cane, not on your hands, not on the buttocks and not across your back. She gives it vertically on the spine! This is true. Three strokes could end up being 10, if you dared move. In front was a chair that you hold on to, the 5-foot monster, whom I am sure God has a special place for in hell, would flog us from behind. She had no heart, not even a small one, so The Grinch was a saint. She didn’t want to know reasons behind any lateness and there were absolutely no logic to her punishment.

When I went to the village on the weekend and told my mother I needed two pens so one could be in my bag always just in case I left one at home, I showed the scars on my back to her, like many mothers would ‘God will punish her.’ she said with empathy and that motherly aching heart. See, Oshobi’s beats me mercilessly because I was late for assembly that I have attended hundreds of times and it was the same old story. I was a good student and was rarely late for school. My first lesson for the day was 8.00am, I missed that lesson because of the school principal’s irrational behaviour.

Like any other situation in Nigeria, it’s all about survival, hustle we say. You find a way to ride the tide, otherwise there were just too many forces about that were there just to swallow one up. They don’t know nor cared for your personal story. They were just really bad and sad public figures, who were supposed to educate, but will take their frustrations on the innocent young ones around them, ignoring we all had stories to tell.

Just after the first morning lesson one day, at around 9.00am. Our next subject teacher didn’t show up, so naturally, we were chatting

with one another. Behind the class was a group of quite matured girls, all looking at a magazine; something like a Playboy type, so the noise got out of hand from there. I didn’t even get to see what the noise was about, but I heard it was about nude adults. You could imagine what a group of sixteen year old girls in a Catholic all-girls school would be doing... right? I was rushing to finish my course work, so I could beg to have a glimpse. About to get up feeling excited, I heard someone said Mrs O... She didn’t have to finish saying her name, I knew we were in for a very big trouble, not only for the noise, which we wouldn’t be making, if we had our teacher in the first place, but we would have to explain the cause of the noise. No one in his or her right mind would ever show that magazine to Mrs Oshobi.

Having heard someone mentioning her name, I was so terrified like I have never been in my life. I was convinced she would kill me. She has only been in school for a few months and I have been in trouble with her twice already. I looked back and spoke to my best friend, Kemi. I told Kemi I was running out of the class before Oshobi got to us, Kemi didn’t need much convincing, she has being a victim once too, and only a week prior a whole class was suspended for a week because someone brought sweets to class for her birthday and they sang Happy Birthday songs to celebrate.

They were all flogged and had a whole week at home to ‘think’ about their sins. That was the first and the last time I would witness a whole class been suspended. As it turned out, cheerful songs were like daggers to Mrs Oshobi’s non-existing heart. Without going into lengthy details, I told Kemi exactly where I’d be, she joined me a few minutes later. We sat by one of the big trees by my school gate.

My school was one of the very lucky schools that were built with a purpose; plenty of space and greens around, it was built by the missionaries. Kemi and I were glued to our spots for at least three hours. Our gateman was terrified for us, he was happy we escaped but worried we might never live to tell the tale if we were caught. Mrs Oshobi wasn’t that smart to do a head count, she just assumed we were bunch of morons that no one could have contemplated running away. On our return to class, all our classmates were very sad with red eyes and scars to show the source of the pains, Rashida, one of my mates ended up with 12 strokes because she just could not stay still, we nicknamed her waterleaf. They all hated Kemi and I for escaping the torture, but not enough to tell on us.

A note to say I was not being brave to run away, I was just so scared and didn’t think I could survive another beating down my spine.

I wanted to save my parents burying yet another child. That was my rationale at the time.

For the two years that this woman was in my school, it was just plain pain. Why didn’t we do something about it, you ask? We or I didn’t know how. School principals are supposed to be caring, loving and aid learning in schools, not torturers. I have had a different female principal at the same school, who took great pains of teaching the whole school at the assembly how to sit properly like a lady; the lesson I still cherish until today. For those who may have difficulty visualizing Mrs Oshobi, think about Miss Trunchbull (a character in ‘Matilda’ by Roald Dahl) and multiply her attitude towards her pupils by 10. Yes, you are right there!

Mrs Oshobi ended up leaving my school to go to Urban Day Grammar School in Modakeke to take up a lower position. We were just happy she was gone. She blamed her leaving on the fact that we were all witches and wanted to kill her. The rumour I knew was far from the truth. If I knew how to get into witchcraft, I would without any slight hesitation get into it just so I could float around my school peacefully and being invisible would be my preferred spell, perhaps my first real job would have been to disable her right hand wrist.

Having read enough about Mrs Oshobi, you would be pleased to know that the day she got into a car accident one mile away from my school, she was chasing students around town.

My school gate closes at 7.45am during her torturing years, so if you were not in before this time, you were doomed. Some simply went back home, others like me, who just had to be in school, would have to risk being flogged. At this point, it was not enough for her to stay at school, so she embarked on a mission of rat racing students around town.

On this fateful day, she was so focused on running after students, who were supposed to been in school, but chose to wander around town in uniforms instead, so she lost concentration of her driving and drove straight into a sharp bend, lost control of her car and the car turned over, she was lucky, as she survived. That was her last day at my school, she left after few weeks at the hospital and we were happy.

See, Mrs Oshobi was chasing students that chose not to learn. She left those who really wanted to learn behind and when she was actually at school, she just had to pick on something to beat us for.

Mrs Oshobi was not the only mindless teacher that used beating to torture young ones in their care. I was taught by quite a few similar to her, but she was by far the worst of all. Take Mr Adio for example, a good-looking music teacher. I liked him the first time and I was excited to learn music. He was good at teaching and would speak clearly and then I noticed his obsession for beating us at the tips of our fingers with the shard end of a long ruler if we got anything wrong and his inability to realise it was near impossible to teach music without instruments. We were supposed to visualise and play imaginary piano (I have never seen a piano at the time) and sounding out the notes correctly... heaven help me.

To come back to the original story, this student teacher, who triggered whatever health problem Esther Oyeleke had that eventually led to the poor girl’s untimely death deserves to face the consequences, otherwise how could anyone learn that there are other ways to engage students than flogging them.

On a more positive note, I recently ran into one of my high school teachers –Mrs Ayandike at Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) Museum. It was over two decades ago she taught me, I jumped into her, she was one of the many teachers who made me believe there’s still hope for decent education in the country and particularly Osun State. Very beautiful woman, she taught me English Literature. I had huge problem understanding Shakespeare’s play, Macbeth, she made tremendous efforts without intimidating us, her students. If you think teaching any subject in Nigeria is hard, imagine an Ibo lady teaching English Literature to a group of Yoruba students... ha, not uncommon, but super confusing, everyone was, trust me! But Mrs Ayandike managed to carry us along. So when I saw her years later, I had the utmost respect for her strength and perseverance. She now has a school of her own somewhere on Road Seven in Ife, she told me. I was happy for her. She was that great of an educator.

•ODOAJE wrote in from London.

OSUN DEFENDER Saturday, April 5, 2014

FEATURE

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Media Tour Of Completed And Ongoing Projects In The State Of Osun Under The Administration Of Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola.

•Commissioner for Regional Integration and Special Duties, State of Osun, Mr Ajibola Basiru (middle); his Permanent Secretary, Mr Adelowo Adewumi (2nd right) and journalists, during the media tour of completed and ongoing projects in the State of Osun, recently. Behind is Olufi Model High School in Gbongan; awaiting commissioning.

•An ongoing Freedom Bridge along Ring Road East Bye-Pass, Osogbo.

•Another Freedom Bridge along Ring Road, East Bye Pass, Osogbo.

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PHOTOTALK

OSUN DEFENDER Saturday, April 5, 2014

Ongoing Construction Of Ejigbo High School Under The Administration Of Osun Governor Rauf Aregbesola As Captured By Our Cameraman, GBENGA ADENIYI, Last Wednesday.

•One of the blocks of classrooms.

•Administrative Office.

•Back view of the school building.

OSUN DEFENDER Saturday, April 5, 2014

PHOTOTALK

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Ongoing Construction Of Ejigbo High School Under The Administration Of Osun Governor Rauf Aregbesola As Captured By Our Cameraman, GBENGA ADENIYI, Last Wednesday.

•An ongoing construction of the school hall.

•One of the classrooms.

•Aerial view of the block of classrooms.

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PHOTOTALK

OSUN DEFENDER Saturday, April 5, 2014

Media Tour Of Completed And Ongoing Projects In The State Of Osun Under The Administration Of Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola.

•Completed portion of road along Oba Adesoji Aderemi Road, East Bye-Pass, Osogbo.

•Another completed road at Oroki Estate, Opposite LAMECO Petrol Station, Osogbo.

•Prophet Ilesanmi Crecent, Eleyele Estate, Old Governor’s Office, Osogbo.

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HEALTH

OSUN DEFENDER Saturday, April 5, 2014

Need For Medication While Travelling?

RAVELLING outside Nigeria brings you into contact with new sights, sounds, and new foods and perhaps with new bacteria and viruses that your body is not accustomed to. The result can be serious disorder or nagging, irritating discomfort such as traveler’s diarrhea.

In this edition we are going to discuss some of the illnesses that can affect you when you travel abroad and how to prevent them.

Immunizations Before you leave on a trip out of the country, make sure that you and your children are adequately immunized against any infections diseases you might encounter. Every adult and child should have up-to-date immunity against tetanus 5-and polio, whether travelling or not. The other types of immunization you may need would depend on the country. Generally, you are more likely to be exposed to infectious diseases in rural areas than in an urban one [particularly lessdeveloped countries] because water supply systems and sanitary conditions may not be as up-to date in rural areas.

Therefore, each country has immunization requirements that travellers must fulfill before entering.

These are listed in the booklet “Health Information for International Travels” which is written by the Centre for Disease Control [CDC] and published yearly by the US Government printing office. For more up-to-date information, you can call the CDC in Atlanta, Georgia. You can also ask your physician, Local or State Health Department or the consulate or embassy of the country you plan to visit recommends that you only take those vaccinations that are really required.

If you are going to an area where diseases are prevalent, check with your physician about immunization, at least a month before you plan to depart, because some vaccines must be given several weeks before exposure to the infection.

Take vaccination records with you when travelling out of Nigeria. Some countries require certificates of vaccination against disease such as Cholera and Yellow Fever.

Some trips-related illnesses do not become evident until after you return home. If you are reporting symptoms to your physician, be sure to mention any trips you have recently taken. Here are some suggestions for basis vaccination schedules.

Tetanus: Tetanus vaccination is usually given to children as a series of shots and is completed by the time the child enters school. A tetanus/diphtheria booster is given to adults and children over 12 years every 7 to 10 years thereafter. Every child and adult should have up-to-date immunity at all times.

DIPHTHERIA: It is usually given to children in combination with tetanus and pertussis vaccines (DTP shot). It is given as series of four shots. Children over 12 and adults should receive tetanus diphtheria toxoid, adult type, and booster shot every 7 to 10 years.

Mark sure that your immunization schedule is up to date.

Polio: Poliomyelitis vaccination generally is performed by giving a line vaccine orally at ages 2, 4 and 18 months of age (and 6 months if polio is prevalent in the area) at the same time at the DTPvaccine. All adults must be immunised, whether they are traveling or not.

Influenza: Immunization is not recommended for the general population, but certain persons at high risk of serious illness should be vaccinated before leaving the country.

Elderly people in particular should be vaccinated.

T

By MOSES BOBA

Pneumococcal: Pneumonia- elderly people who have not received this vaccine previously should be vaccinated. Once a person has received this vaccine, however, no further dose should be given.

Hepatitis B :- There are two vaccines available for people who do not test positive for antibodies to the hepatitis B virus, but are at risk to travel to a country where hepatitis is prevalent. If you are at risk of acquiring the disease, you should be vaccinated.

Meningococcal meningitis: - If you are travelling to regions of Africa or South America, where meningitis is prevalent, you should receive types A, C, W 135, and Y vaccines against this disease.

Rabies: - If you plan to stay or live in areas where rabies is common in domestic animals, such as India and parts of South America, you may want to develop immunity to the virus before leaving, by obtaining injection of human diploid given as three injections at intervals of one week with a booster 3 weeks later. Mild adverse reactions are common Malaria: There is no vaccine, as yet, against malaria; but effective preventive medications are available.

Consider taking chloroquine phosphate once in a week; begin a week before you arrive in a country where malaria is present. Continue taking the drug for six weeks after you leave the area. If you are traveling to countries, where there is malaria that is resistant to chloroquine, consider an additional medication (fansidar). Consult your physician about other prescription drugs and ask about possible adverse reactions to them.

Cholera: - If you are traveling to certain areas of the Middle East or or Asia or other areas where cholera is present, you should be immunized against this disease. The vaccinations are given as two injections, 2 to 6 weeks apart, with booster shots every 6 months while you are at risk of exposure.

Typhoid: - If you are traveling to a country where typhoid is prevalent, consider receiving the vaccine which is given in two doses at least one month apart. If you live in that country for an extended period of time, have a booster

short every 3 years while you are at risk of exposure.

Plague: vaccination consists of three injections a month or more apart and is given to people traveling to area where the disease is still prevalent.

Yellow fever: - A live virus vaccine, available only at certain medical centers, should be given to those traveling to certain areas of Africa where the disease is wide spread.

Vaccination must be repeated at least every 10years.

Small pox: - This has been eradicated since 1980; therefore, vaccination is not necessary.

PREVENTION OF TRAVELER’S DIARRHEA Traveler’s diarrhea, turista, montezuma’s revenge are familiar name for a common ailment of travelers. A trip to a foreign country by no means guarantees above with gastrointestinal discomfort but if you travel to a land whose climate, social conditions or sanitary standards and practices are significantly different from yours at home, the risk may be high.

Traveler’s diarrhea may be attributed to a number of causes, including unaccustomed food and drink, change in the bacteria that live naturally in the bowel, change in living habits and sometimes, viral infections.

Prevention : - Taking antibiotics or other medications as a preventive measure before and during your trip is not generally recommended, but follow your physician’s advice. Taking bismuth subsalicylate throughout your trip as a preventive measure can reduce your risk of diarrhea.

The first rule for avoiding diarrhea while traveling: Do not drink water whether it comes from the stream, a well, a tap unless it has been sterilized. Bottle water may be safe, as far as it is indeed factory-bottled.

Cooked foods are usually safe, but do not eat raw foods, especially, do not eat salads that contain lettuce or raw vegetables. Fruits and vegetables that can be peeled immediately before you eat them are safe. Orange, pineapples, melons, apples, and other fruits with red skin that can be peeled off usually are safe. Eat in restaurants that have a reputation for safety. When you travel, most of what you think about should be your wallet, passports [if necessary], and suitcases. But also remember to

take a range of items to fill any of your or family’s health needs during the trip.

Here are some suggestions: Medication: - If you need a medication at home, you probably need it while you are travelling too.

Make sure that you have an ample supply of medications you take regularly on prescriptions and it should be up-to-date; an extra supply is a good idea, too because you may be staying longer than you anticipated.

Other Pharmaceutical Products: If you need sunscreen, contact lens solution, insect repellant other familiar products, take them with you.

If you have allergies or other acute medical problems that you routinely treat with medications, take the medications along. A familiar remedy may not be readily available in foreign lands.

First Aid Kit:- Taking a simple first aid kit is a sensible precaution.

Antiseptic cream, aspirin or acetaminophen, adhesive and gauze bandages, a thermometer, and an elastic wrap [for sprains].

Medical Records:- In case of emergency or illness, the physician you consult on your trip will need to know something about your medical history; be prepared to inform him or her of the following; •Any chronic diseases you have in particular, like diabetes, glaucoma, heart disorder, or hypertension.

•The prescription medications you are taking for either chronic or acute ailments; make sure you know the generic and brand names [if any] as well as the dosage and frequency at which you take them.

•Whether your physician has observed abnormalities on an x-ray or electro cardiogram, if so, have those test results with you.

Any allergies you have, especially to drugs, foods or insects stings keep all these materials together. Make sure that other members of your family know where it is kept, so they can quickly and easily provide relevant information to any medical professional who may need it. The package should also contain the names, addresses and telephone numbers of your Primary Healthcare physician and your travelling companions and physicians.

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OSUN DEFENDER Saturday, April 5, 2014

Job Vacancies In Nigeria Candel Company Limited Entry Level Graduate Jobs for Warehouse Assistant/ Territorial Administrative Personnel (30 Positions) Candel Company Limited - A Nigeria’s leading crop yield advancement and production company. As a result of growth and the need to strengthen our current team, we require exceptional individuals with the right qualifications, mentality, drive and experience to join our team of professionals.

We require the services of suitably qualified candidates to fill the position stated below: Job Title: Warehouse Assistant/Territorial Administrative Personnel Reports to: Supply Chain Officer Location: Nigeria Job Function: Distribution, Administration, Customer Service Employment Type: Full time Slot: 30 Job Description Conduct smooth functions of the warehouse relating to requisition, receipt, stacking, and dispatch of goods and supplies.

Perform all work related duties assigned by the Warehouse Manager.

Coordinate with transporters and supplies for the dispatch and procurement of goods.

Supervise the maintenance of warehouse tools and machinery.

Organize the systematic storage of goods and materials in the warehouse.

Follow proper documentation and safety procedures of all warehouse functions.

Maintain inventory of all supplies and take note of damaged goods, expired goods etc.

Qualification HND/B.Sc in relevant discipline from a reputable institution At least 3 years experience (Entry Level).

Desired Skills and Expertise: Cognate experience in warehouse management with emphasis on stock management.

Ability to maintain accurate computer records.

Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.

Adherence to oral and written instructions.

In-depth knowledge of modern storeroom and inventory practices.

Ability to count and inspect a variety of stores and materials accurately and thoroughly.

Sound knowledge and application of Microsoft Office suite.

Method of Application Interested and qualified candidates should forward their applications to: hr@candelcorp.com Application Deadline 15th April, 2014.

————————————————————————————————— Vacant Job Positions in Nigeria today, April 3rd 2014 at Compovine Technologies Ltd Compovine Technologies Ltd was incorporated as an indigenous company with the main aim of offering Information Technology, sales and services to individuals and corporate organizations.

The company was incorporated in Nigeria on the 14th May, 2004 with registration no RC 510866.

Our services, which are tailored to meet individual and corporate needs of our clients, have been found appropriate even in diverse and harsh conditions of operation.

Compovine Technologies Ltd is recruiting for the vacant positions of: Job Title: General Manager, Admin Location: Lagos Qualification/Experience HND/BSC 2nd Class Upper in Bus. Admin/Mgt or any related discipline with 7 Years Post NYSC Experience, out of which 3 years is in senior mgt position Job Title: Branch Manager Location: Lagos Qualification/Experience HND/BSC 2nd Class Upper in Mgt Sci or Computer Sci/ Engr. or Related Discipline with 5 Yrs Post NYSC Experience.

Applicant must be ready to relocate outside of Lagos Job Title: Accountant Locations: Minna, Lokoja, Port-Harcourt, & Lagos Qualification/Experience HND/BSC 2nd Class Upper in Accountancy, with 5 Yrs Post NYSC Experience Job Title: Computer Analyst Locations: Lagos, Abuja, Port-Harcourt & Lokoja Qualification/Experience HND/BSC 2nd Class Upper in Computer Sci Engr. or Related Discipline with 3 Yrs Post NYSC Experience Job Ttile: Company/Truck Driver Location: Lagos Qualification/Experience SSCE with 5 Yrs Experience.

Higher qualification will be of added advantage Method of Application Interested candidates should submit their credentials/CV to: The Compovine Technologies Ltd 2 Olu Koleosho Street, Off Simbiat Abiola Way, Ikeja-Lagos.

OR E-mail to: job@compovine.com Note: Please include your phone numbers and email address.

Shortlisted candidates shall be contacted.

Application Deadline 16th April, 2014 ————————————————————————————————— Vacant Job Positions for Marketing Executives in an Insurance Company Whyte Cleon Limited - Our client, a major player in the insurance industry seeks to engage intelligent, self-motivated, driven and dynamic young professionals with integrity for the following position: Job Title: Marketing Executives Ref: (ME - 200) Location: Nigeria Job Description Aggressive marketing / Selling of the company’s insurance mobile platform product GNIONGO. Enlightening prospective buyers of the functionality and advantages of the mobile platform Creating awareness for the product.

Processing customers request and ensuring that customers inquiries are adequately treated and on time.

Perform other duties as assigned by the Marketing Manager.

Qualification B.Sc., HND, NCE (Minimum Lower Credit).

Age: 25 - 40 Years.

Commission will be paid on all sales made.

Skills: Great communication skills.

Good documentation and record keeping.

Good reading and listening skills.

Good dress sense.

Good customer service skills.

Good relationship skills.

Good problem solving skills.

Method of Application Interested and qualified candidates should: Click here to apply at http://www.whytecleon.com/component/content/ article.html?id=150&vaccode=ME-200 Application Deadline 9th April, 2014.

————————————————————————————————— Vacant Job Positions for Field Sales Representatives at Gateway Universities Publishers Gateway Universities Publishers - A fast growing Publishing Company with distribution channel across Nigeria seek dynamic persons who are goal getters and are zealous in result orientated courses to fill up positions in the areas below: Job Title: Field Sales Representatives

Job Location: Calabar, Enugu, Owerri, llorin, Akure, Yenogoa, Asaba Responsibilities Begin and carry out marketing strategies for achieving a given sales and revenue targets.

Source for customers: promote company’s titles especially in top grade Schools Conduct simple market surveys and market intelligence.

Carry out any other assigned duty Requirements and Qualification Must be dedicated and result-oriented, Must have desire for creation of new business relationships and breaking new grounds.

Minimum of OND (Ordinary National Diploma) in relevant discipline.

Minimum of 0-1 year relevant work experience.

Mode Of Application: http://www.gatewayunipublishers.com/index.php/vacancy or submit by hand at: Gateway University Publishers 71, Textile Mill Road Benin City, Edo State Application Deadline 20th April, 2014 —————————————————————————————————— Chams Plc Jobs for an Installation Officer in Lagos Chams Plc is recruiting to fill the position of: Job Title: Installation Officer Location: Lagos Activities Troubleshoot hardware, software and network operating system Be familiar with all hardware and software Be familiar with network operating system Provide recommendations about accessing information and support Maintain current and accurate inventory of technology hardware, software and resources Monitor and maintain technology to ensure maximum access.

Provide orientation to new users of existing technology Train staff about potential uses of existing technology Train staff about new and potential use Provide individual training and support on request Main Activities Troubleshoot all technology issues Maintain log and/or list of required repairs and maintenance Install work stations Connect and set up hardware Load all required software Make recommendations about purchase of technology resources Research current and potential resources and services Provide network access to all staff and students Requirements OND / HND / BSc qualification required Desired Skills and Experience Knowledge: The incumbent must have proficient knowledge in the following areas: Computer hardware and software systems and Programs: Computer networks, network administration and Network installation: Computer troubleshooting Computer viruses and security E-mail and internet programs Skills: The incumbent must demonstrate the following skills: Ability to install and administer computer hardware, software and networks Team building skills Analytical and problem solving skills Operate computerized accounting, Spreadsheet, word-processing, graphics and website development programs at a highly proficient level Stress management skills Time management skills.

Decision making skills Effective verbal, presentation and listening communications skills Effective written communications skills Computer skills including the ability to Method of Application Interested and qualified candidates should: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/10HEEnI0Qf9llWLX3bNvU7Tw6gyfTg4smpEj4Rb2rt4g/ viewform Application Deadline 16th April, 2014.

————————————————————————————————— April 3rd Jobs in Lagos, Nigeria in a Manufacturing/Marketing Organization A reputable Manufacturing/Marketing Organization in Lagos, requires the following personnel below: Location: Lagos 1.) Marketing/Customer Service Officers Requirement OND/HND/B.Sc in Marketing or Business Studies.

Three (3 years) cognate experience, Age 25-35 years.

Excellent communication/interpersonal skills.

At least three (3) years driving experience + valid drivers license.

2.) Drivers Requirement Minimum of Secondary School Certificate.

At least five (5) years experience, preferably in a marketing/manufacturing company.

Valid National Drivers’ License.

Valid Lagos State Drivers’ Institute Re-certification Card.

Age 25-40 years.

3.) Graphic Artist Requirement Male of female, OND/HND/B.Sc. with 3-5 yrs experience in Computer Graphic Arts and design with Photoshop, corel draw, and ICT Knowledge.

4.) Accountants Requirement HND/B.Sc. with 3-5yrs experience in manufacturing Accounting with a production-oriented organization and experience in Tally ERP. 5.) Printing Technologists Requirement HND in Printing Technology with five years experience in operation of Sord Z, Cord and 201 printing machines, die-cutting and polar machines.

6.) Admin. Secretary Requirement OND/HND/B.Sc. in Business Administration, Secretarial Admin/Office Technology with vast experience in computer and internet.

How to Apply Interested and qualified candidates should forward their applications and CV’s to the Human Resource Manager: oruhtradeinterl@yahoo.com Or P.O. Box 4271, Oshodi.

Application Deadline 7th April, 2014.

—————————————————————————————————

You can subscribe to Job Vacancies in Nigeria, Jobs in Nigeria via your e-mail: www.recentnigerianjobs.com

13

FOR THE RECORDS

OSUN DEFENDER Saturday, April 5, 2014

A memorable Quote from Senator Isiaka Adeleke on A PDP Aspirant in the State of Osun, Senator Iyiola Omisore, Minister of Police Affairs, Alhaji Jelili Adesiyan and Another PDP chieftain in the state, Sogo Agboola.

Omisore, Police Minister Beat Me Up - Adeleke “On entering the hall, I saw Omisore, Adesiyan, Sogo Agboola sitting together. I went to Adesiyan to complain that police officers and DSS operatives were holding party men outside. But, instead of listening to me, he jumped over a table before him and hit me with a blow on the chest. Sogo Agboola also attacked me. Before I knew what was happening, Omisore hit me with a blow from the back. About seven guns corked were pointed at me,” Adeleke asserted.

•Culled from Nigerian Tribune, Thursday April 3, 2014

•OMISORE

•ADELEKE

•ADESIYAN

14

FOREIGN NEWS

OSUN DEFENDER Saturday, April 5, 2014

Egypt Crisis: Police Chief Dies In Cairo Bombings

A

police brigadier-general was killed and at least five people were injured when three bombs went off near Cairo university, officials said. attacks on A group calling itself militant Ajnad Misr, or Soldiers of government targets since Egypt, said it was behind the Muslim Brotherhood was ousted in 2013. the attack.

The government says The first two bombs went off within minutes of each militants have killed almost other, with the third 500 people since last July, exploding about two hours most of them policemen and soldiers. later.

There have been fears of There has been a rise in

an increase in violence in the run-up to the presidential election in May, correspondents report.

‘Screaming’ police Ajnad Misr issued a short statement, saying it was targeting police officers involved in mass killings of protesters, the Associated Press reports.

The little-known group said the attack also came in

response to increased detentions of female demonstrators.

Wednesday’s explosions happened near a riot police post outside the main gate of the university’s faculty of engineering.

The blasts were reported to have been caused by improvised explosive devices.

Investigators inspect the

scene of the bombings near the police post State TV named the dead officer as Tariq al-Mirjawi, the head of Giza’s investigation department.

“I was waiting for the bus when I heard two explosions. There was dust in the air and policemen were screaming” an eyewitness told AFP. The third explosion took place as journalists and emergency workers attended the scene, but was reportedly much smaller than the first two and caused no casualties.

The BBC’s Orla Guerin in Cairo says the area around the university has become a battleground for clashes between police and student

supporters of the banned Muslim Brotherhood in recent weeks.

The military-backed interim government outlawed the movement at the end of last year, declaring it a terrorist organisation.

It accuses the movement of supporting attacks against the police and army - a claim the Brotherhood strongly denies.

Since the overthrow of the Brotherhood-linked President Mohammed Morsi, more than 1,000 people have been killed and thousands of members have been detained in a crackdown by the interim authorities.

EU-Africa Leaders discuss CAR Crisis At Summit

A

•Egyptian security forces stand guard outside Cairo university after the blasts.

FRICAN and EU leaders held crisis talks on the spiralling sectarian unrest in the Central African Republic (CAR), at a two-day summit in Brussels.

The UN Secretary-General the summit, which ends on Ban Ki-Moon, who is also Thursday.

The meeting is being attending, promised to do “everything possible” to attended by 30 heads of state improve the international and government - 15 each from Africa and Europe. response to the crisis.

Zimbabwe’s President The European Union (EU) has already announced plans to Robert Mugabe is boycotting send 1,000 troops to the the summit after the EU refused to temporarily lift a country.

The UN earlier warned that visa ban on his wife, Grace.

Mr Mugabe received 19,000 Muslims “face support from South African slaughter” in CAR. Trade and immigration will President Jacob Zuma, who also be high on the agenda at chose to boycott the summit in a show of solidarity for his Zimbabwean counterpart.

“I think that time must pass wherein we are looked [upon] Army psychiatrist Nidal as subjects,” Mr Zuma said.

Hasan was convicted and “We are told who must come, must not come. It is wrong sentenced to death last year in who causes this unnecessary that mass shooting. He said he and unpleasantness.” acted to protect Islamic Genocide warning insurgents abroad from Mr Ban warned that the American aggression. situation in CAR could spiral According to testimony into a genocide, at Wednesday’s during Hasan’s trial last crisis meeting with EU and August, Hasan walked inside African leaders.

He said the people were carrying two weapons and several loaded magazines, facing “grave and deplorable shouted “Allahu Akbar!” — atrocities”, and he promised to Arabic for “God is great!” — do everything possible to and opened fire with a handgun. improve the international The rampage ended when response to the conflict.

The EU is sending 1,000 Hasan was shot in the back by troops join the 6,000 African Fort Hood police officers. He Union to soldiers already in CAR was paralyzed from the waist German Chancellor Angela down and is now on death row Merkel said her country and at the military prison at Fort France were “seeking to be a Leavenworth in Kansas. motor” for Africa’s After that shooting, the development, including its military tightened security at security.

The EU force was due to be bases nationwide. Those measures included issuing deployed to CAR last month, security personnel long- but was delayed because of barreled weapons, adding an insufficient troop and aircraft insider-attack scenario to their commitments from the group’s training and strengthening ties 28 member-states.

The EU said its troops to local law enforcement. The would operate in the capital, military also joined an FBI Bangui, which is worstintelligence-sharing program affected by the conflict. aimed at identifying terror Some 8,000 African Union threats.

(AU) and French forces are In September, a former battling to restore stability in Navy man opened fire at the CAR after more than a year of Washington Navy Yard, leaving conflict, following the seizure 13 people dead, including the of power by mainly Muslim gunman. After that shooting, rebels.

On Tuesday, the UNHCR Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel ordered the Pentagon to review said it was trying to evacuate security at all U.S. defense some 19,000 Muslims from installations worldwide and areas near Bangui.

16,000 people had examine the granting of fledNearly their homes in Bangui in security clearances that allow the past 10 days amid an access to them. upsurge of violence, it added.

Asked Wednesday about After rebel leader Michel security improvements in the Djotodia, who had become wake of the shootings, Hagel president, was forced to step said, “Obviously when we down in January, vigilante have these kinds of tragedies groups began targeting on our bases, something’s not Muslims across the Christianmajority country. working.”

Gunman Kills 3, Wounds 16 At Fort Hood Army Base

A

N Iraq War veteran being treated for mental illness opened fire Wednesday on fellow service members at the Fort Hood military base, killing three people and wounding 16 before committing suicide at the same post where more than a dozen people were slain in a 2009 attack, authorities said.

The shooter apparently McCaul, chairman of the walked into a building and House Homeland Security began firing a .45-caliber semi- Committee, said he was named automatic pistol. He then got Ivan Lopez but offered no other into a vehicle and continued details. firing before entering another The weapon had been building. purchased recently in the local He was eventually area and was not registered to confronted by military police be on the base, Milley said. in a parking lot. As he came Late Wednesday, within 20 feet of an officer, the investigators had already gunman put his hands up but started looking into whether then reached under his jacket Lopez’s combat experience and pulled out his gun. The caused lingering psychological officer drew her own weapon, trauma. Among the possibilities and the suspect put his gun to they planned to explore was his head and pulled the trigger whether a fight or argument on a final time, according to Lt. the base triggered the attack.

Gen. Mark A. Milley, senior “We have to find all those officer on the base. witnesses, the witnesses to The gunman, who served in every one of those shootings, Iraq for four months in 2011, and find out what his actions had sought help for depression, were, and what was said to the anxiety and other problems. victims,” said a federal law Before the attack, he had been enforcement official, speaking undergoing an assessment to on condition of anonymity determine whether he had post- because he was not authorized traumatic stress disorder, to discuss the case by name.

Milley said.

The official said authorities The married suspect had would begin by speaking with arrived at Fort Hood in Lopez’s wife and expected to February from another base in search his home and any Texas. He was taking computers he owned. medication, and there were The injured were taken to reports that he had complained the base hospital and other after returning from Iraq about local hospitals. At least three suffering a traumatic brain of the nine patients at Scott injury, Milley said. The and White Hospital in Temple commander did not elaborate. were listed in critical condition.

The gunman was never Wednesday’s attack wounded in action, according immediately revived memories to military records, Milley of the shocking 2009 assault on said.

Fort Hood, which was the There was no indication the deadliest attack on a domestic attack was related to terrorism, military installation in U.S. Milley said. history. Thirteen people were The military declined to killed and more than 30 identify the gunman until his wounded. family members had been Until an all-clear siren notified. Texas Rep. Michael sounded hours after

Wednesday’s shooting began, relatives of soldiers waited anxiously for news about their loved ones.

“The last two hours have been the most nerve-wracking I’ve ever felt,” said Tayra DeHart, 33, who had earlier heard from her husband that he was safe but was waiting to hear from him again.

Brooke Conover, whose husband was on base at the time of the shooting, said she found out about it while checking Facebook. She immediately called her husband, Staff Sgt. Sean Conover.

“I just want him to come home,” Conover said.

President Barack Obama vowed that investigators would get to the bottom of the shooting.

In a hastily arranged statement in Chicago, Obama reflected on the sacrifices that

•OBAMA

troops stationed at Fort Hood have made — including enduring multiple tours to Iraq and Afghanistan.

“They serve with valor.

They serve with distinction, and when they’re at their home base, they need to feel safe,” Obama said. “We don’t yet know what happened tonight, but obviously that sense of safety has been broken once again.”

The president spoke in the same room of a steakhouse where he had just met with about 25 donors at a previously scheduled fundraiser for the Democratic National Committee.

The November 2009 attack happened inside a crowded building where soldiers were waiting to get vaccines and routine paperwork after recently returning from deployments or preparing to go to Afghanistan and Iraq.

15

OSUN DEFENDER Saturday, April 5, 2014

www.osundefender.org

THE 6TH MOST-VISITED NEWSPAPER WEBSITE IN NIGERIA

SATURDAY, APRIL 5, 2014

I

F one may ask, what is government all about? Do we need government in our daily activities, especially in modern society, where the rich can afford to be independent, so to speak, of the government?

The answer is an affirmative ‘Yes’. This is so because the theory of mandate in a democracy ensures that while the people surrender their sovereignty to the elected representatives, the leaders owe it a duty to protect life and property.

In a nutshell, the basic or fundamental function of any government is the protection of life and property. The natural question that follows is that what happens if the government is not able to perform this basic task satisfactorily? The response is that it has no business being in government.

One is compelled to ask these questions in the face of a seeming intractable security challenges bedeviling the country. The challenges seem to overwhelm our security forces, such that they are only made to react when the deed has been done.

Unfortunately, rather than look at issues holistically, we prefer to adopt the reductionist approach, whereby we simplify it on an issue.

This has not helped in the past and cannot be the solution to the challenges.

The menace of Boko Haram may have international dimension, but I strongly believe that we have not done enough to justify our claim that we are fighting the terrorists.

The terrorists seem to be having an upper hand with the way they go about their callous activities.

This is exactly what the Governor of Borno State, Alhaji Kashim Shettima said recently and he was condemned by President Goodluck Jonathan and one of his media aides, Dr Doyin Okupe. If the truth must be told, what Shettima said was not anything extraordinary. He had told journalists after meeting with President Goodluck Jonathan at Aso Villa that the terrorists seem to be well-motivated than our Armed Forces.

The bandits have attacked military barracks, schools and other public places before the police and other armed forces chase them out.

People who know have talked about making use of intelligence report, which could help solve this

AUDACIOUS EXPLOIT with MURTALA AGBOOLA TEL: 0806-119-7897 E-mail: murtalamuag@yahoo.com

OurApproachToSecurityChallenges

•JONATHAN

problem. Among the places these wicked souls attacked are the Police Headquarters, Abuja ThisDay newspaper headquarters, Abuja, The Sun newspaper office in Kaduna and the United Nations office, Abuja.

Infact, some Nigerians have concluded that the fear of the Boko Haram is the beginning of wisdom.

The security breach at the State Security Service (SSS) office in Abuja close to Aso Rock last weekend is a testimony to the fact that, our security services are not in absolute control.

According to Ms Maryln Oga, the Deputy Director of SSS on Public Affairs, one of the Boko Haram detainees hit an operative of the SSS with the handcuff in an attempt to force their detained members to flee from detention.

The social media was awash with information to the fact that it was a serious breach in the comfort zone of the presidency, which was akin to a coup de’tat. This even led

to speculations in some quarters that there was an attempt to overthrow the government.

In this modern technology, are we saying that there is no device by which the ogas at the top can monitor the detainees to know what is transpiring at anytime. As close as the office of the Department of Security Service is to Aso Rock, one would have thought than close monitoring would be given to activities involving these bandits.

Closely related with the bandits havoc is the issue of arms importation into the country.

Recently, an arms daler was apprehended in Lagos, when he stated that he buys rifles from Mali and Burkina Faso through Benin Republic. There are so many criminals who carry out such nefarious activities.

The level of killings in the North-Central states of Plateau, Nassarawa and Benue is alarming.

Benue State popularly called the

food basket of the nation was until recently, very peaceful. Though, the Tivs are warriors by nature, they hardly had problems or issues to settle with the nomadic Fulanis until recently at anytime of the day.

The people of the Plateau used to enjoy near perfect tranquility some years back until everything went haywire. Jos, the capital of Plateau state has a climatic condition similar to the cool atmosphere in Europe. During my university days in Jos, travelers who went by train could access any part of the city.

It was convenient for people to move at anytime of the day without being molested or arrested. As a person, my attraction to Jos was the fantastic information I heard abut the city.

However everything has changed such that people are being slaughtered as goats. Sometimes, one wonders if what one hears or read in the newspaper is a true refection of what transpires in the tin city. Marauders now hunt for people to kill, either as reprisals or for the joy of it. The same people that have lived together for decades suddenly have become enemies.

Unfortunately, all attempts by successive governments have failed to solve the problem. Why has killing of fellow human beings become the pastime of some criminal elements in the society?

I have been so concerned about the level of killings in the country that I am so amazed. Nothing concret has been done. However, I stand to be corrected that the level of killings under Jonathan’s administration is unprecedented, except during the civil war, Nigerians have not been killed on such a large scale. It is a frontpage news everyday about killings in the country.

When government wanted to justify hike in petroleum products, reasons adduced was that custom officials are helpless in the face of petroleum cabals.

Maybe these customs officials are equally helpless in the face of arm merchants, who import arms and ammunitions into the country?

The arms that have found their ways into the economy is not meant for animals, but human beings. One hopes something would be done very fast.

May God help us under Jonathan’s administration?

OSUN DEFENDER is published by Moremi Publishing House Limited, Promise Point Building, Opposite Guaranty Trust Bank GTB, Gbongan Road, Osogbo, State of Osun. All correspondence to the Managing Editor, KOLA OLABISI, Telephone: 08033927286 (kolaolabisi@yahoo.com); Editor, KAYODE AGBAJE, Telephone: 0803-388-0205, E-mail: osundefender@yahoo.com, kayodeagbaje@yahoo.com. ISSN: 0794-8050.Website: www.osundefender.org.