Osun defender feburary 13, 2016 edition

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saturday, FEBRUARY 13, 2016

The governor of the state of osun, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola has put in a seminal effort running the state virtually alone for a while without a cabinet. n doing so at a personal physical cost

Front Page Comment

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VOL. 11. NO.011 Even if it is not, it makes sense to make very conservative estimates and projections.

There are a myriad of other factors spinning off from there.

The economic downturn has also had a detrimental effect on other factors such as inward investments as well as internally generated revenues.

As Ogbeni IsThere Set To Constitute A New Cabinet was a very he has made immense costs savings in the process. We salute his effort and his courage. It is to be commended for it has been a great effort put in at a very difficult

compelling reason and patriotic reason to have done so. The Ogbeni felt that he had to retool the cost and restructure the machinery of the government

fiscal climate. And the situation has been dire.The dramatic collapse of allocations from the centre is just the most poignant of many debilitating factors.

Unfortunately the collapse will continue into the near future according to all the projections made for the international oil markets at least in the next few years.

I Am Not In Supremacy Battle With Anyone - Ooni

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Aregbesola Assents Public Procurement Bill Into - See Story On Page 2

•State of Osun Governor, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola (left); State of Osun Chairman, Nigeria Institution of Civil Engineers, Engineer Olusegun Abiona (middle) and Chairman, Committee on Design of the Road Network within the Kiriji War site, Engineer David Oni, during the presentation of the design of road networks within Kiriji War site in Igbajo and Imesi-Ile to Governor Aregbesola, by the Nigeria Institution of Civil Engineers, State Of Osun Chapter, Last Tuesday.

Osun Assembly Fumes Over Indiscriminate Erection Of Filling

- See Story On Page 2

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Osun Defender Saturday, February 13,

Aregbesola Signs Public Procurement Bill Into By kehinde ayantunji

o sustain transparency and accountability T in government transactions, the governor of the State of Osun, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, on Wednesday signed into law, the State of Osun Public Procurement Law 2015.

The law provides for procurement is one public dissemination way in which the o f i n f o r m a t i o n government interfaces o n g o v e r n m e n t with the people and procurement, which re-inflates its domestic w i l l g u a r a n t e e economy.

According to citizens, particularly small and medium him, considering the s c a l e e n t e r p r i s e s , volume of government opportunities to procurement, it participate in public i s i m p o r t a n t t h a t procurement processes. t h e r e s o u r c e s o f Aregbesola, while g o v e r n m e n t b e signing the bill into managed judiciously law at the Executive and the procurement L o u n g e o f t h e process seen to be Governor’s Office in t r a n s p a r e n t a n d Osogbo, stated that equitable.

He added that government, as stewards of public funds, must be accountable and be seen to have got the best deal for the people with public funds.

“Just today (Wednesday), a report in one of the newspapers compared the airport we are building in Osun to similar ones built by other states and concluded that ours is the cheapest, even when we have the longest runway.

“A recent similar comparison on the mega-schools we are constructing was done with that of a neighbouring state

and also gave us a favourable rating, not just in cost but in quality. It is stuff like this that separates us from the rest.

“It is the need to have these values codified into law and make it bounding principles of governance for whoever is in government that motivated us to make this law.”

He pointed out that the State of Osun Public Procurement Law 2015 consists of 81 sections, which will ensure probity, accountability, transparency, value for money, as well as establish fair

•President Muhammadu Buhari (2nd right); in a handshake with President of Germany, Joachim Gauk, during a courtesy visit by the German President to President Buhari at the State House, Abuja last Thursday.

pricing standards and benchmarks.

Aregbesola stressed that government has put in place adequate provisions to safeguard the law from being abused by people.

He said: “No matter how wellintentioned any policy of government is, it is bound to be abused by unscrupulous elements saddled with its operation.

“Hence, the Section 23 (1)-(27) was coined in line with best global practices in procurement and even modelled to suit our own peculiarities in the State of Osun so as to forestall any act of sabotage right from the outset of any procurement process.”

The governor added that Section 25 of the new law makes it mandatory that all procuring entities must have a Procuring Office with the function of initiating the entity’s procurement process.

He also noted that the procuring office must carry out appropriate market and statistical surveys, prepare analysis of cost implication of a proposed procurement among other functions.

Speaking earlier on the law, the former Commissioner for Regional Integration and Special Duties in Osun, Dr. Ajibola

Osun Assembly Fumes Over Indiscriminate Erection Of Filling

By KAZEEM M0HAMMED

he State of Osun House of Assembly has T frowned at the level of indiscriminate erection of buildings, most especially fuelfilling stations across the state.

Chairman, House were not meant for Committee on Lands such venture. and Physical Planning, The lawmaker also Honourable Nurein noted that the way Adebisi and members residential buildings o f t h e c o m m i t t e e and shops are also expressed displeasure being built without at an interactive session building approvals call with Directors of Town for serious concern.

Planning in all the local A l s o , t h e Vi c e government councils of C h a i r m a n o f t h e the state. c o m m i t t e e , Wa s i u He said, the level Adebayo, said the at which fuel-filling indiscriminate erection s t a t i o n s s p r i n g u p of structure has been in residential areas making the cities in the without recourse to the state unattractive. town planning rules He therefore, and regulations were charged the officers inworrisome. charge to be efficient in Blaming the officers their dealings. in the local government Responding, the councils and other Permanent Secretary, concern agencies for Ministry of Lands and not doing their jobs Physical Planning, appropriately, he said, Mr Wale Ojo, said the dangers attached many of the fuelto the indiscriminate filling stations erected building of fuel-filling i n d i s c r i m i n a t e l y stations could not be were built without over-emphasised. the approval of H e d e s c r i b e d a s government. dangerous, the erection He maintained of fuel-filling stations that those that got in residential areas that approval were made

to go through all the normal processes of approval before giving them permit.

The PS said the state government would order demolition of such unapproved fuel-filling stations, especially in

He however, revealed that circulars have been issued to all the local governments and concerned agencies to stop issuing approval to filling stations in builtup areas.

Also, the Chairman, Forum of Directors of Town Planning in the local governments, Mr Ojo Victor, explained that

sometimes, the developer of filling station deviate from approved plans when they are constructing.

Clerics Task Muslims Over Moral

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Muslim cleric, Uztaz Saheed Abdul Salam, has urged Muslims across Nigeria to keep to the tenets of Islam on morality and compassion for their neighbours at all times.

He disclosed this at a stressing that for one to public lecture organized to achieve meaningful change mark the annual Conference in government, citizens of Sherrif Jundulahi Society must first inculcate the habit of Nigeria in Osogbo, where of frowning at social vices.

Also, the speaker numerous Muslim groups converged on Oke-Baale admonished Nigerians to imbibe the act of praying Camp of the group.

According to the speaker, for their motherland instead the level of compassion of hurling curses on its p e o p l e s h o w e d o n e leaders, saying the level another during the Month of hardship in the country of Ramadan should be calls for divine intervention extended beyond the month and high level of discipline and humanity should treat among the citizenry.

He charged the teeming each other with such love populace across the country and respect.

He also stressed the need to keep hope alive and have for everyone to maintain the faith in God that the recent moral discipline, which, he crisis in Nigeria would said, should not be restricted become part of its history to the month of Ramadan,

in a short while, saying hardship is meant to bring the best out of the people.

Uztaz Saheed then urged Muslims to make themselves a positive reference point for others to emulate in all spheres of humanity.

“The country is witnessing the highest level of moral decadence because religion institutions have failed their duty to uphold morality in the society, hence, our society, despite being a religious one is one of the most corrupt in the world”, he added.

Bashiru, stated that the Public Procurement Law, 2015 is a wellresearched law in line with the demand f o r t r a n s p a r e n c y, accountability and effectiveness that the procurement process demands.

He held that the passage of the law will guarantee Osun citizens, opportunities to participate in the economic opportunities and benefits embedded in public procurement, among others.

Ajibola also added that the law will also ensure probity, a c c o u n t a b i l i t y, transparency, value for money, as well as establish fair pricing standards and benchmarks.

He said: “The new State of Osun P r o cu r e me n t La w, 2015 is the provision for E-procurement, as contained in Section 61, which provides

Man, 37, Sentenced To Prison For Stealing Motorcycle By ismaeel uthman

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or stealing a motorcycle, a 37y e a r- o l d m a n , Mathew Adebisi, has been sentenced to two years imprisonment by an Osogbo Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday.

Adebisi was accused of stealing a Bajaj Boxer motorcycle with registration number GNN 257 QJ Osun, being property of one Kazeem Adepoju.

The convict admitted that he was guilty of the crime when the charge sheet was read to him in the dock.

P o l i c e P r o s e c u t o r, Inspector Elisha Olusegun, told the court that Adebisi was arrested on January 15, 2016 around Asubiaro Area of Osogbo.

Adebisi, who had no lawyer, pleaded with the court to temper justice with mercy on him, vowing that he would turn a new leaf henceforth.

Presiding magistrate, Mr Olusola Aluko convicted the accused person and subsequently sentenced him to two years jail term with an option of N10,000 fine on

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Osun Defender Saturday, February 13, 2016

I Am Not In Supremacy Battle With Anyone - Ooni

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By ismaeel uthman

he Ooni of Ife, Oba Enitan Adeyeye Ogunwusi, has declared that he is not in supremacy battle with any of the traditional rulers in Yorubaland and Nigeria generally.

Oba Ogunwusi was apparently responding to a statement credited to Benin, said: “The Ooni of the palace of the Oba of Ife, by historical facts, is a Benin, which said that son of the Oba of Benin. the Ooni of Ife was a son So, they are not in the of the Oba of Benin and same class.”

However, the Ooni that the stool of the latter could not be compared of Ife, Oba Ogunwusi, with that of any Yoruba in a press statement signed by his Director King.

The Alake of Egbaland, of Media and Public Oba Adedotun Gbadebo, Affairs, Comrade Moses had stated that the Oba Olafare, said that he was of Benin was third in the not contesting hierarchy hierarchy of Obas in the with anyone, adding that South-West, and that the he was not in supremacy Ooni of Ife was the father race with any traditional ruler. of Yorubaland.

According to the Responding to the A l a k e ’ s c o m m e n t , statement, the only thing the Esogban of Benin that was paramount to and Odionwere of the the Ooni is the need to Kingdom (traditional foster unity and healthy h e a d ) , C h i e f D a v i d development among the Edebiri, on Monday, Yoruba and the entire described the comments nation.

The statement reads: of the Alake of Egbaland as ‘unnecessary excursion, “Let me emphasize for an unnecessary attempt the umpteenth time to turn history upside that Kabiyesi Ooni is less-concerned on any down’.

Esogban, who is the supremacy hullabaloo. third in command in His only interest for now the palace of the Oba of on the sacred throne of

Oduduwa is to explore measures through which the collective interest and genuine unity among Yoruba and other tribes within the larger House of Oduduwa can be enhanced. ”This is what informed his resolve to build bridges of harmony among Yourba Obas. Oba Ogunwusi is resolutely committed to how Yoruba ethnic group can restore its glory and pride position among other ethnic inclinations.

“The Ooni does not want to be dragged into supremacy contest or join issues with anybody.

The statement credited to the Alake of Egbaland did not emanate from us but the reality is that as a highly-experienced and well-informed monarch, the Alake of Egbaland, who is a bonafide Oodua descendant, is entitled to his opinion, based on his knowledge and understanding of history.”

On the relationship between Benin and

Yorubaland, the statement said: “We in Oduduwa land have always seen and regarded our people in Benin kingdom as part and parcel of Oduduwa House. They are our brothers and sisters, coupled with historical facts to back up this position. ”About six years ago, an attempt was made by some people to upturn history during the launch of a book titled: “I Remain Sir, Your Obedient Servant” which stood historical facts on its head.

“If the position espoused in the media is aimed at distancing our people in Benin from the South-West and Yoruba, so be it. We still identify with them as our kinsmen, regardless of the attempt to change the course of history.”

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he Governor of Osun, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, has said that his administration will invest more to resuscitate the dearth status of the state’s tourist centres to boost the state economy.

H e s a i d , t h e c u r r e n t thought out proposal to e x c r u c i a t i n g e c o n o m i c improve our cultural heritage. system remains a sacrosanct Though, our government wake-up signal for every has been very undaunted, s e r i o u s g o v e r n m e n t t o resilient and steadfast in look beyond the crude oil rehabilitating, enhancing and improving the tourism sector, revenues.

Aregbesola made the but nevertheless, much still disclosure while receiving need to be done to ensure the proposal of a special that all the tourist sites in the committee set up by Nigerian state are revamped for the Society of Engineers, (NSE), betterment of our people.

“Although, implementing a to design Kiriji War Site Road Networks in Igbajo and project like this takes much in terms of resources and timing Imesi-Ile. He described Kiriji site as that cannot be completed or significant historic site for all finished in a short period, Yoruba race, adding that his but notwithstanding, we will government would do all it commit necessary human and could to position the site to a material resources to ensure world class recreation centre. that the good gestures are The governor attributed realized.

“Our government is highly the primitive Kiriji War site to what he described as interested in initiating some cultural repository asylum, things that will show that stressing that his government Kiriji is not an ordinary would not hesitate to invest site to Yoruba race, rather, in bringing back to life, the an historic site that creates Yoruba socio-cultural and importance and significance of our unity, commitment ethnical legacies.

He described tourism as to peace, progress and a lucrative sector that has development.

“We will do this so as to the countless potentials to boost the state’s Internally continuously promote our G e n e r a t e d R e v e n u e cultural heritage for future (IGR), and as well place the generations,” the governor state on an enviable position said.

He therefore, called for in the world.

He however, charged deep research into all aspects the State Ministry of Home of the Kiriji War, which he A f f a i r s , To u r i s m a n d opined that would enhance Culture to facilitate the the seamless execution of project, promising that his the project.

Earlier, the Chairman, government would ensure allround revival of the historic C o m m i t t e e o n t h e Kiriji War site to attract the Design of Kiriji Road Network, Engineer deserved economic values.

He said: “I am fully D a v i d S o l a O n i , impressed on this well- commended the state

up to the responsibility in spite of the nation’s dwindling revenues.

Oni, while briefing the governor on the project proposal said the war site had farmlands, and various war relics such as spear bullets and other weapons used during the civil war.

He explained that the site was the location of the War Treaty signed on September 23, 1886 among Ibadan, Ekiti and its affiliates, adding that extensive research had been conducted on the historical relevance of the site and its economic opportunities.

According to Oni, the war locations include

Armed Robbers Kill Civil Defence Corp

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Osun To Turn Kiriji War Site To World Class Recreation Centre Aregbesola government for living By kehinde ayantunji

•Oba Ogunwusi

Aga-Ogedengbe, a stone seat of Ogedengbe, Latoosa’s camp at Igbajo, Okuta Orunorunga, Latoosa stool, Fejeboju Stream, Latoosa Grove, the peace treaty site among others.

Engineer Oni therefore, assured the state of effective and efficient implementation of both cultural and infrastructural designs as being promised.

n officer of the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) attached to the private residence of the Ooni of Ile-Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi at Parakin, Ile-Ife, has been reportedly killed by suspected armed robbers on Monday.

OSUN DEFENDER Folarin said: “It is true gathered that the armed one of our officers attached r o b b e r s , w h o w e r e to the Ooni’s palace was shot apparently coming from dead by some unidentified an operation, opened fire persons in front of a private on the NSCDC officer, residence of the Ooni. The when they sighted a gun killers went away with his gun. He died at the teaching with him.

The deceased was said hospital, Ile-Ife. “We have arrested three to have left his duty post suspects in connection with to buy recharge card from the crime and investigations a shop close to the Ooni’s continue, as the command residence. will get to the root of the It was gathered that the matter. deceased was walking to Also, the Director of the shop, when the armed Media and Public Affairs robbers came across him of the Ooni, Comrade and shot him to death.

Moses Olafare, confirmed The armed robbers, it the incident, describing it was gathered, thought as unfortunate. the NSCDC officer was coming to engage them.

Several gunshots were also fired into the air by the suspected armed robbers to scare away people for free movement.

When contacted, the spokesperson of the NSCDC, Osun Command, M r . Wa l e F o l a r i n confirmed the incident.

•(L-R) Alhaji Oyolola, IMC-OSBC member; Adeoye Bakare, Station Manager, Orisun FM, Ile-Ife; Alhaji Bayo Oyekanmi, IMC-OSBC member; Pa Ropo Ogunwusi, Ooni’s father; Mr Kola Akanji, Chairman, IMC-OSBC and Ogbeni Kola Olabisi, IMC-OSBC member during the condolence visit of the IMC members and chairman to Pa Ogunwusi over the death of his mother in Ile-Ife on Wednesday.

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Osun Defender Saturday, February 13, 2016

Osun Assembly Wades Into Fountain University, Host Community Land university, Professor By kazeem mohammed

Isiaq Oloyede, said

all to no avail.

he State of Osun House of Assembly has the university has He however, appealed waded into the land tussle between the not gone beyond its to the warring parties Fou n tain University, Osogbo and land boundary, saying it to further shift grounds,

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epresenting Ede North C o n s t i t u e n c y, H o n o u r a b l e Adegboye said though,Kamardeen Akanbi, appealed to the the case was in court andparties to find a way of resolving the no step could be takenissue amicably, rather than resorting on it, but the Assemblyto violence. decided to wade in for They appealed to the university the two parties to allowto find a way of creating access road that would enable the residents peace to reign.

Also, Owoeye andaccess their homes conveniently.

While speaking,

owners in the host Koba-Ope community only started fencing with a view to ensuring at Oke-Osun area, appealing to the two the areas on which it t h a t t h e o n g o i n g parties to allow peace to reign. was issued Certificate peaceful coexistence in The intervention exposing people’s of Occupancy by the the community was not truncated. government. followed the cries of lives to danger. member r H e c o n t e n d e d the residents of the Another resident, community, alleging Imam AbdulKabir that the fencing of that the university Adepoju, said the the land was being a u t h o r i t y h a s r e s i d e n t s o f t h e carried out by the encroached into their c o m m u n i t y h a v e university authority lands and captured r e s o l v e d t o t a k e to ensure the security their houses in the destiny into their of lives and property

By SHINA ABUBAKAR newly-constructed hands and fight their of students in their f e n c e o f t h e course in their own hostels. he lawmaker representing Olorunda State According to university, without way.

Constituency in the Staten of Osun House of giving them access Noting that the him, since the case Assembly, Honourable Waseeu Adebayo, has road to go into their land belongs to the w a s a l r e a d y i n reiterated the commitment of the state legislators houses. respective community court, it would be to making law that could impact positively on the At a meeting with members through inappropriate to begin electorate. the stakeholders on inheritance, he said, to discuss it, saying, it stated this at a The legislator disclosed Tuesday, the Deputy t h e l a n d o w n e r s would run foul of the r eHe c e n t g a t h e r i n g o f that the dedication and law and the principle Speaker, Honourable would not trade off youths and women at Akintunde Adegboye; t h e i r i n h e r i t a n c e o f s e p a r a t i o n o f his constituency office perseverance shown by the electorate during the powers.

Also speaking, Majority Leaders, u n d e r w h a t e v e r intimate them of the electioneering campaign the National President, to Timothy Owoeye circumstance. development in the state and the election proper and Chairman, In defence, the Pro- Osogbo Progressive Union parliament. was an attestation of their House Committee Chancellor of the ( O P U ) , C h i e f R a s a k on Land and Physical Planning, Adebisi Nurein among other members, appealed to the concerned parties to shift grounds for the sake of peace.

Speaking on behalf of the six families affected by the land tussle, Mr Semiu Alajo said despite the fac t t h a t t h e university has been sued and the case was still pending in court, the management of the institution went ahead to construct fence without giving them access to their houses.

He lamented that w i t h t h e p r e s e n t •(L-R) General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Pastor Enoch Adeboye and the Ooni s i t u a t i o n , i t h a s of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi (Ojaja II), during Pastor Adeboye’s courtesy visit to Oba Adeyeye at his palace been difficult for in Ile-Ife last Thursday. the residents of the community to access their houses, a situation, which, he the election to support his By kehinde ayantunji of OSBC Chapel. said, has been forcing administration.

Other elected members some of them to he State of Osun Council of the Nigeria Also speaking, the Depclimb fences before of the union are: Kehinde Union of Journalists (NUJ), on Thursday they could enter their uty National Secretary Ayantunji, Vice Chairelected new executive members to pilot the houses. of the union, Bamidele man, OSUNDEFENDnext three years.

Alajo also alleged affairs of the union for theComrade Olatunji and the Vice ER; Egbodofo Olusola, Abiodun OlaThe election, which the university President, B Zone, Mr Internal Auditor, OSBC; authority of hiring took place at the NUJ lere from Osun State Adebisi Alao, Treasurer Cosmos Oni, commended Broadcasting Corpothugs to harass them Press Centre in Osogbo, Awe Isaiah as As- the members of the union in their various houses was conducted in a very ration (OSBC) chapel and sistant Secretary from for their peaceful conduct over the land tussle, peaceful manner, while emerged for a second the State Ministry of and urged them to support term as the Chairman. saying the action of Change Of Name the new administration.

Olalere polled 195 Information. the institution could I n h i s a c c e p t a n c e I, formerly known and trigger uncontrollable votes, while his rival, Mr Change as OfBADMUs Name v i o l e n c e i n t h e addressed Dele Ajayi, from Uniq speech, Olalere promc o m m u n i t y a n d NIKE, now wish to be FM Chapel polled 169 ised to fulfil his electoral known and addressed promises and give welbeyond. votes.

He therefore, urged as OGUNTOYE NIKE B o l a d a l e B a m i g - fare of members deserve t h e A s s e m b l y t o B O S E . A l l f o r m e r bola of National Mir- priority. come in and assist documents remain valid. ror emerged the SecreHe then called for the in resolving the issue The general public should tary with 198 votes to support of the members before it degenerates take note. defeat Tunde Fanowopo and those who contested to the level of

Our People ‘ll Get Better Service From Govt – Lawmaker

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Olalere, Bamigbola Emerge New Osun NUJ

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Change Of Name

I, formerly known and addressed as OYERINDE O Y E B O L A M ARY , now wish to be known and addressed a s AR I K E W UY O O Y E B O L A M ARY. All former documents remain valid. NYSC and the general public should take note.

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Osun Defender Saturday, February 13, 2016

Change Of Name

Change Of Name

Change Of Name

Change Of Name

I, formerly known and addressed as IZEEC FEMI FESTUS, now wish to be known and addressed as OGUNWOYE FEMI FESTUS. All former documents remain valid, general public should take note.

I, formerly known and addressed as TAJUDEEN SADIAT BUKOLA, now wish to be known and addressed as AKOREDE SADIAT BUKOLA. All former documents remain valid, general public should take note.

I, formerly known and addressed as IBRAHIM ELIZABETH AJOKE, now wish to be known and addressed as LAWAL ELIZABETHI B RA H I M AJ O K E .

All former documents remain valid. NYSC and the general public should take note.

I, formerly known and addressed as ayorinde nimota adenike (Miss), now wish to be known and addressed as LAWAL NIMOTA ADENIKE (Mrs). All former documents remain valid. The general public should take note.

belief in him to contribute to the development of the constituency, assuring that he would not fall short of their expectations.

According to him, the people of Osun, especially Olorunda Local Government Council Area have shown their belief in the ability of APC to deliver good governance by voting for the party during the elections, adding that despite the economic hardship in the country, the party would not let them down. “ Olorunda has shown that APC, apart from being a progressive party , is the only party that has the interest of the masses at heart and will continue to stand by the party, irrespective of attempt by the opposition to malign the party before and after the elections.

“The APC as a party knows the trust the people of the constituency had in our party, hence, we would not do anything to hamper the trust the electorate had in us,” he added.

He said, the legislative arm, having the power to perform oversight function, is more committed to ensure quality service delivery to the electorate across the state and the Osun lawmakers would not compromise such function under any guise.

He stressed that the current situation of things is not peculiar to the state, as economic situation is a general problem in the country, saying it only reflects more in the state because of its political complexity.

However, Adebayo said things would soon start to return to normalcy and the people of the state would once again begin to enjoy the much-desired dividends of democracy as it were before the economic meltdown.

The lawmaker promised to rededicate himself to serving the people better and commit himself to quality lawmaking that can enhance the lives of the masses, especially in his constituency.

He then commended the electorate for believing in him and giving him another chance at the lawmaking chamber, assuring that he will not disappoint their trust in him.

As Ogbeni Is Set To Constitute A New Cabinet

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from pg1

It has required managerial sagacity, innovative skills and fiscal discipline to weather the storm. The Ogbeni deserves kudos for weathering the storm. He could have used a number of excuses for not doing anything. This has been used as a convenient getout clause in other states; it has not been used in the state of Osun because the Ogbeni has a compelling sense of duty. He is also aware, that, to quote the British politician R. A .

Butler “politics is the art of the possible”. The art of the possible requires imagination which the Ogbeni has in bucketful. It has also led to a reordering of priorities, much needed to attain the possibilities required in a difficult economic climate.

Today the state has in spite of it all maintained its services and continues to make steady progress.

For example, the much admired free school meals

programme has continued.

This is admirable. Steady progress has continued in every sector such as the school building effort and the development of the Opon Imo (tablet of knowledge).

Crucially the machine of government has now been retooled into twelve ministries. The costs savings and induced efficiencies will be immense. This means that the soon to be constituted cabinet will be very resourceful, service focused and effective. This is crucial in a difficult fiscal climate.

The machine of government is now in alignment with the difficult economic years in which the state governments in a defective federation will bear the biggest pain. It is to be expected that who ever succeeds the Ogbeni will maintain the cost effective structure. Overall it’s looking good in the state of Osun. The Ogbeni is looking good too after a back breaking shift!

In summary the nay sayers have been confounded.

The criticisms meted out

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on themselves despite the fact that the case is still pending before the court. Why can’t we wait for the court to settle this issue?

I will not want to blame any of the parties for the land dispute.

This is because, while the

university is claiming that it has the Certificate of Occupancy of the affected land, issued to them by the last government of Prince Olagunsoye Oyinlola; the ‘Omo Onile’ are saying that the fencing has denied residents access to their various homes.

In my view, what it required is for the

two parties to seek understanding with each other and find a way of accommodating themselves, while they await court verdict on the matter.

Osun, most especially Osogbo, the state capital, has continued to enjoy

peace for long and it is important for the warring parties not to truncate this peaceful co-existence.

For the time being, while the court verdict is still being awaited, we need to appeal to the university to find a way of ensuring that the residents of the community are given

In calling Aregbesola the symbol of an alternative perspective we are looking at dexterity such as the one he has shown in handling an unexpected situation. He has shown great strategic and tactical skills in turning crisis which he did not create into an opportunity for good governance. If he had rushed to create a cabinet it could have actually become an obstacle in terms of costs and resistance to the change that was very much needed. Even President Muhammadu Buhari had to adopt the same approach at the center. We therefore recommend that after the wait the new cabinet will be fashioned in the new mould of dedication to service and putting the pegs appropriately where they belong.

The accomplishments of the Ogbeni Governor without a cabinet shows that it is possible for men to make a positive impact on the process of history in a way that they would not have wanted or asked for. The Ogbeni did not ask for the situation of an economic downturn in which he inadvertently found himself. Nevertheless he has turned a crisis into an opportunity for good

Appeal For Calm Over Fountain Varsity Land Dispute

he use of hired thugs over the parcel of land at Koba-Ope community in Oke-Osun area, Osogbo, where the Fountain University, established by Nasrulahi Fathi Society of Nigeria (NASFAT) is located, is very worrisome.

The land dispute between the university and land owners, popularly called ‘Omo Onile’ has been the circumstances behind the use of thugs.

It is unfortunate that the issue that ought to be settled amicably between the university and the community has started degenerating to the extent that the two parties were reported to be using thugs to deal with each other.

One would wonder why the two parties resorted to violence

governance and in the process turned round the fortunes of the state.

about the non composition of a cabinet now seems pretty hollow. For example, the free school meals has not stopped in spite of all the obstacles and the absence of a cabinet.

Imitation they say is the best form of flattery. This is why the free meals programme has been copied in Kaduna state and is now the model for a similar programme at the centre. Again the schools rebuilding programme has continued in spite of the absence of a cabinet. The commissioning of the school named after the Nobel Laureate Prof Wole Soyinka for example, has received great plaudits from near and far.

access to their houses.

While we commend the Ataoja of Osogbo, Oba Jimoh Olanipekun, and the leadership of Osogbo Progressive Union for their intervention so far, I want to appeal to them not to relent, at least for the sake of peace, which is most important at this period in time.

The state government should also wade into the issue and find a way of resolving it amicably before it degenerates, because to the people, the most important thing is peace, and nothing but peace.

• I B R A H I M

ABIMBOLA, Isale Osun, Osogbo

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feature

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Osun Defender Saturday, February 13, 2016

Education : The Aregbesola Landmark In By yomi obaditan

ducation from history has remained the instrument of change. It has been described as the legacy that mankind can bequeath to their children.

At the tail-end of colonial era, the struggle for political emancipation was fiercely fought along the compelling campaigns for education for all. The free education policy of Chief Obafemi Awolowo in the then Western Region and its success made that part a pacesetter till date. The State of Osun governor, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola can best be said to be the modern day Awolowo.

The pursuit of sound education is dear to Aregbesola’s’s heart.

He once stated: “Our dream is to make you (students) all renowned scholars in the future, so you can be a pride to the State of Osun and the entire country.” The dream of making the students renowned scholars could not be killed despite the dwindling revenue accruing to the state. At the commencement of the school project vis a vis the total turnaround in the educational sector, the Aregbesola’s administration set out to build 20 high schools, middle schools and Primary schools respectively. Eleven high schools have now been completed out of the twenty, while works are ongoing in the remaining nine.

Prior to the inauguration of this regime, like the general malady in the educational sector in Nigeria, public schools were rickety and in shambles and deserted even by the children of the common man. Some of the buildings were no more habitable or even comfortable for learning. While public schools that used to be the best structures in cities and villages in time past became mere poultry sheds. The loss in enrolment could not be imagined, but lamentable for those who could recall the past glory of how beautiful public schools were. The staff are no longer sufficient and even where they were available, the commitment to give their best to the development of the students had gone. Some core subjects like English language and Mathematics were short of teachers, and science students were poorly prepared for the final examinations by West African Examination Council (WAEC). The root cause of mass failure was put at the doorsteps of government and parents, perhaps, due to little or no laboratories for science students. Where there are laboratories, there may be no equipment.

School’s libraries were no more useful, as the books in them had become archaic or no more relevant to the syllabus. The reading culture among students and teachers has become history.

Essay writing and letter writing are no longer in practice. Today’s graduate can hardly write simple application for jobs, not to talk of E

How To Combat Terrorist Attacks In Nigeria

R

participating in sound academic debate. This poor condition, in which Aregbesola met the educational sector, led to the Education Submit of 2011, in which it was resolved that surgical operation should be carried out by the new administration in that sector. It was then resolved that education should be categorised as follows; elementary schools, the Middle School and the High schools. Initially, there was a misunderstanding over school merger, but was maturely resolved by the government with the stakeholders. The opposition in the state tried to catch on this initial hiccup, but vision by the visionary was not easily thwarted by a man who knows his mission and how to arrive at his destination.

The accusations of indebtedness was the song the opposition were singing, accusing the state helmsman of proliferation of the school projects, when the school structures began to adorn the landscape all over the state, instead of praising the visionary, they stirred up ember of religion.

But that weapon of religion also failed the opposition. Today, there is no route one takes to Osun that these schools will not welcome the new comer and the old visitors. It is indeed a portrait of a visionary.

A footmark that cannot be wiped

out from the history of the state.

If the whole exercise stopped only on the structure, then Aregbesola has yet to arrive at his destination. But the story is aimed at producing the total man, who will not only be literate, but be educated enough to effect a positive impact in the state and the nation as a whole. That is the reason the government has continued not only to provide good and well-equipped laboratories, libraries and wellventilated examination halls in all the new schools, but give them all necessary equipments that could make them excel.

CRITIQUE he critics were of the opinion T that some names of the merged schools could be forgotten; that the new schools must retain old names; that the governor intended to Islamize the state via the new schools.

However, this type of view could be due to ignorance or lack of exposure. Many schools abroad have been renamed. Even here in Nigeria, the late Afro beat maestro, Fela Anikulapo Kuti’s house was rebuilt by Lagos State Government and converted to Ransome Kuti Grammar school.

CMS Grammar School, Mushin was relocated to Broad Street, Lagos, while Ibadan Airport was

relocated from Sango to Alakia, also in Ibadan.

Opon Imo, the Tablet of Knowledge, an educational i-Pad-like was produced by Aregbesola’s administration and freely distributed to the pupils.

As usual, the opposition criticised the government for milking the state. The tablets, they claimed, could not be cost effective like textbooks. Negative newspaper editorials ignorantly condemned the educational pad. However, UNESCO and prominent tertiary Institutions in America and in Europe have eulogised the inventor. The Opon Imo was collectively described as educational revolution of the 21st Century.

What provoked the mentioning again was the continued provision of the tablets for the students use, despite the lean purse of Aregbesola’s administration.

Aregbesola’s efforts to make education a legacy not to be forgotten in the state will certainly outlive his administration. The generation yet unborn will one day benefit from the silent but noticeable revolution that the

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By David Leffler

ecently, a string of terrorist attacks have occurred as Nigeria struggled to build a functional and coherent response. Fortunately, there is a sciencebased approach to create societal coherence that can protect Nigeria from both internal and external threats. It is called Invincible Defense Technology (IDT) because it assures invincibility, peace, and even economic progress, to the nation and the military that employ it.

•Governor AREGBESOLA

OPINION

Osun Defender Saturday, February 13,

Invincible Defense Technology (IDT) Invincible Defense Technology (IDT) is a proven, state-of-the-art, non-violent military solution The IDT approach to defense has its basis in a radically new preventive model that has been thoroughly field-tested in numerous world battlegrounds. This approach results in rapid reduction of individual, societal and national collective stress. IDT is validated by 23 peerreviewed studies carried out in both developed and developing nations. Its coherence-creating effect has also been documented on a global scale in a study published in the Journal of Offender Rehabilitation. When large assemblies of civilian IDT experts gathered during the years 1983 – 1985, international conflict decreased 32%, terrorism-related casualties decreased 72%, and overall violence was reduced in nations without intrusion by other governments.

IDT is totally unlike any other defense technology because it does not use violence in an attempt to quell violence. It is a more civilized approach, one especially worthy of nations that abhor violence as a means to power. IDT uniquely goes to the root cause of violence; the built-up stress in the individual and collective consciousness. Scientists have evidence that high levels of collective societal stress are the underlying cause of war, violence, crime and terrorism. When the IDT methodology is applied, stress levels throughout the population are rapidly reduced.

In an environment of lowered stress even staunch adversaries find ways to cooperate and overcome long-standing differences.

•Shekau sitting with his Boko Haram members

IDT REDUCES SOCIETAL STRESS IDT uniquely neutralizes the underlying power base of contending groups, which is the stress, frustration and civil dissatisfaction prevailing in the general population. By eliminating the root cause of insurgency, violent outbreaks are preempted and prevented. IDT is effective because it gets to the heart of the matter. Terrorism often thrives in nations in which decades or even centuries of under-employment, poverty, and hunger have created a huge societal weight of stress, frustration and endemic unhappiness. This inevitably finds expression in acts of terrorism, civil unrest, social violence, and a downward spiral of economic degradation.

A specially-trained military unit, an “IDT Prevention Wing of the Military,” uses IDT to reduce stress in the national collective consciousness. IDT could also be introduced into other large groups such as the police forces, or militias. As the stress and frustration ease, the population is more capable of finding orderly and constructive solutions to their problems.

Experience with IDT in other war-torn nations demonstrated increases in economic incentive and growth. Entrepreneurship and individual creativity also increased. With increased civic calm, people’s aspirations are raised and a more productive and balanced society emerges. Such a society abhors violence as a means for change or as an expression of discontent. With this, the ground for terrorism is eliminated. What is more fascinating, this change takes place within a few days or a week after IDT is introduced. The changes are measurable from such statistics as crime rates, accidents, hospital admissions, infant mortality, etc.

RAPID TRANSFORMATION THROUGH IDT he daily routine for the IDT military personnel includes the non-religious practice of the Transcendental Meditation programme along with its advanced form, the TM-Sidhi programme. As a societal coherencecreating military unit, they practice these programmes twice a day, seven days a week, preferably in a secure location near the targeted population Such coherence-creating groups have achieved positive benefits in society, shown statistically,

T

in a short time. Modern statistical methods used in this research show a low probability of any explanation other than a causal influence of the technology. The IDT approach has been used during wartime resulting in the reduction of fighting, a decreased number of deaths and casualties, and an improvement in progress toward resolving the conflict peacefully. The war in Lebanon in 1983 was dramatically impacted in a peaceful way by an IDT Intervention Group. A thoroughly documented study of this phenomenon was published in the Journal of Conflict Resolution, and summaries of follow-up studies were published in the Journal of Social Behavior and Personality and the Journal of Scientific Exploration.

Summary IDT works by utilizing our natural human brain mechanics, the most powerful natural resource possessed by every nation on earth.

The beneficial transformational effects of IDT have been statistically proven numerous times to decrease and prevent violence and terrorism, and boost the economy.

DT defense technology supersedes all other known defense technologies (which are based on electronic, chemical, and/or nuclear forces). These old, fear-based modalities are ultimately self-destructive for any nation, and for the human race as a whole, and must be replaced with IDT. So far, IDT is the only known, proven constructive approach.

The military that deploys this powerful, humanresource-based technology disallows negative trends and prevents enemies from arising, and as a result, it has no enemies. No enemies mean no war, terrorism and no insurgency.

I

TIME TO ACT IS NOW IDT is the twenty-first century’s leading-

8

phototalk

Osun Defender Saturday, February 13, 2016

Presentation Of The Design Of Road Network Within Kiriji War Site In Igbajo And Imesi-Ile To State Of Osun Governor, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, By The Nigeria Institution Of Civil Engineers (NICE), State Of Osun Chapter, Last Tuesday.

PHOTO BY: GBENGA ADENIYI

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phototalk

Osun Defender Saturday, February 13, 2016

State Of Osun Council Of Nigeria Union Of Journalists (NUJ) Election At NUJ State Secretariat, Osogbo, Last Thursday. Photo: GBENGA ADENIYI.

•State of Osun Governor, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola (3rd left); his deputy, Otunba (Mrs) Grace Titi Laoye-Tomori (2nd left); Secretary to the State Government, Alhaji Moshood Adeoti (left) in a group photograph with members of NICE during the visit.

•A cross section of journalists queuing to cast their votes.

•Managing Editor, OSUN DEFENDER Newspaper, Mr Kola Olabisi, casting his vote.

•(L-R) State of Osun Head of Service, Mr Sunday Owoeye; Alhaji Adeoti and Otunba Laoye-Tomori.

•Acros sectionofdignitariesat heprogram e.

• A cross section of Election Committee Members during the election.

•Osun Defender Editor, Mr Kayode Agbaje, casting his vote.

10

Osun Defender Saturday, February 13, 2016

Wanted Urgently

A male utility Staff with National Diploma in any discipline, wanted urgently to work in a Newspaper Organisation.

Computer Literacy is an essential requirement.

If you have the above-stated qualifications, apply in person to: The Managing Editor, Osun Defender Newspaper, (Promise Point Building), Opposite GTB, Gbongan Road, Osogbo.

Vacancies

ADVERT/SUPPLEMENT EXECUTIVE

Are you a goal getter?

Are you interested in working to earn a fat allowance for yourself?

Can you move mountains to achieve set-targets?

If the answer to all the questions above is yes, then you are the rightful candidate we are looking for.

Apply in person to: The Managing Editor, Osun Defender Newspaper, Gbongan Road,

Magazine Editor

Are you a prolific writer who can write for newspaper as a Magazine Editor?

Do you have a deep knowledge of the State of Osun?

Do you have passionate interest in the affairs of the State of Osun?

Apply for the available post if your answers to all there are positive.

Do so in person to: The Managing Editor, Osun Defender Newspaper,

opinion

11

Osun Defender Saturday, February

Unmasking Ibrahim Magu, The New EFCC

N

o matter how many times you google his name,

you are most unlikely to get any useful information or any high resolution photograph; that is if you get any photograph at all.

In fact, Ibrahim Magu has only one photograph in the public space, taken by James Wallace of NPR. The pixels are so small you will struggle to see his face.

Welcome to the world of Magu, a Deputy Commissioner of Police and the newly-appointed Acting Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

His little frame will easily deceive you, but he is one of the toughest interrogators the antigraft commission has had in its history; one that even former governors under investigation specifically begged not to be interrogated by. “Magu is the toughest interrogator you can ever think of. When he grills suspects, they sweat even in the coldest of rooms. He takes his time, does not rush his questions but he can question you for a whole day and wear you down,” a former governor told The Cable of his experience in 2006.

“We used to plead with Ribadu that he should not allow Magu to grill us, that we would rather be grilled by another officer.”

The Borno-born officer is a “tough cop”, a senior lawyer told The Cable, recalling the day Nuhu Ribadu, the former EFCC chairman, asked Magu to release someone from detention and ask him to come back. “Magu, while saluting Ribadu, said: ‘We shall release him, sir, after he has

•President BUHARI

answered our questions.’”That was how tough he was with suspects.

He was not easily moved by emotions,” he said. Magu was feared more than Ribadu, who was removed as the anti-graft czar in controversial circumstances in 2007 by the late President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua. Ribadu was understood to be a victim of power play as Yar’Adua political associates, led by James Ibori, former governor of Delta State, sought to castrate the agency.

Ibori is currently serving a jail sentence in the UK. Not only was Ribadu removed from the commission through a controversial re-posting and an order to proceed to the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS), his core team was effectively dismantled. Ibrahim Lamorde, who was removed by President Muhammadu Buhari as EFCC chairman on Monday, was posted to Ningi, Bauchi State, while Magu was sent to Delta State, Ibori’s territory.

“When he was posted to Delta, he was so surprised that he said: ‘Why don’t you just tie me up and shoot me, rather than post me to Ibori’s domain?’ It was a cynical posting and there were fears that it was a deliberate plot to get rid of him,” an EFCC insider told TheCable. This needs to be put in its proper context.

Magu was one of the officers who investigated Ibori and came up with the indictment that was used against him in court. The eventual weakening of EFCC was linked to this particular case, and posting Mangu to Delta was bound to be seen as not just

•magu

humiliation but also an indirect sentence to live in fear. He eventually spent only three weeks in Delta before he was given another posting, and at some points, attempts were made to retire him from the police, so that he does not raise his head again. ibadu, his erstwhile boss, R was dismissed from the force at the height of his struggles, as he engaged the powers that be in a public spat.

The federal might ended his career abruptly, although former President Goodluck Jonathan converted his dismissal to retirement in 2010, after Ribadu won a court case.

Magu, meanwhile, was in the wilderness of his life, unable to fit into the proper Police Force, as his talent and training were being wasted in routine police duties.

For a long time, he remained an Assistant Commissioner of Police without any hopes of being promoted. But some bit of fortune smiled on him, when Lamorde was appointed EFCC Chairman

by Jonathan in 2011.

Lamorde brought Magu back into the EFCC, and the Borno-born officer began to find fulfilment again. Top investigator Magu, apart from the Ibori, was also involved in big investigations, including the Halliburton bribery scandal.

No government has acted on the report, which indicted top government officials.

The corruption allegations were related to the Natural Liquefied Gas Project, which came under intense international scrutiny, with the US government handing

out indictments and heavy fines.

Recently, Magu was appointed by the government of Buhari to investigate the purchase of arms by the Armed Forces under the previous administration. The 14man panel is investigating how some of the retired military chiefs spent the votes for arms while they were in office.

The panel, inaugurated by Babagana Monguno, the National Security Adviser (NSA), was asked to investigate, among others, $466.5 million contract to weaponise six Puma helicopters

by Jonathan administration; N3 billion contract for the supply of six units of K-38 patrol boats to the disbanded Presidential Implementation Committee on Maritime Security (PICOMSS) and theft of over €200 million

by PICOMMS, including the purchase of two private jets.

Other allegations were: the $9.3 million cash-for-arms deal seized

by South Africa; whereabouts of $1billion loan approved by the 7th Senate for arms purchase to fight Boko Haram; what became of unaccessed N7 billion budget for the military and the contract for the rehabilitation of the Military Reference Hospital in Kaduna.

Little did Magu know that he was only preparing to become the country’s anti-corruption czar.

HEALTH

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Osun Defender Saturday, February

Oranges: Health Benefits, Risks And Nutrition

By Jessie Szalay ranges and clementines — the juicy citrus fruits that are in season during wintertime — are vitamin goldmines. They contain vitamin C and the pigment beta-cryptoxanthin, both of which may act as antioxidants, according to 2005 study.

Researchers from the United Kingdom found that even a modest increase in fruit and vegetables containing betacryptoxanthin and vitamin C, such as one glass of freshly squeezed orange juice each day, may protect against inflammatory joint diseases.

Sweet, juicy oranges make a delicious and healthy snack or addition to a meal. A whole orange contains only about 85 calories and has no fat, cholesterol or sodium.

And, of course, “oranges are well known for their vitamin C content,” said Laura Flores, a San Diego-based nutritionist.

Oranges may boost your immune system and improve your skin; they also aid with heart health, cholesterol levels and other issues. Oranges may additionally help reduce the risk of respiratory diseases, certain cancers, rheumatoid arthritis, ulcers and kidney stones.

Orange juice is also packed with nutrients but does not contain the fiber of a whole orange. Orange pith, the white substance between the peel and the flesh, is high in fiber. Furthermore, it is easy to consume more calories when drinking orange juice than when eating an orange, warns the Centers for Disease Control.

Health Benefits of Oranges Immune system Most citrus fruits have a good deal of vitamin C, and oranges have high levels even compared to their tangy brethren. Vitamin C protects cells by scavenging and neutralizing free radicals, explains a 2010 article in the medical journal Pharmacognosy Reviews. Free radicals may lead to chronic conditions such as cancer and heart disease. Not only may oranges help reduce the risk of chronic conditions, but they may also boost a person’s immunity when dealing with everyday viruses and infections like the common cold.

Skin Vitamin C also helps keep skin looking beautiful, by helping fight against skin damage caused by the sun and pollution. It is vital to collagen production and may help reduce wrinkles and improve the skin’s overall texture, according to the Cleveland Clinic.

Cholesterol All the fiber in oranges may help lower cholesterol levels, because it picks up excess cholesterol compounds in the gut and pushes them out in the elimination process.

A 2010 study published in the journal Nutrition Research found that drinking orange juice for 60 days decreased low-density lipoprotein (LDL cholesterol or “bad cholesterol”) in people with high cholesterol.

Heart Oranges contain vitamin C, fiber, potassium and choline, which are all good for your heart, so the fruits may give your ticker a big boost. Potassium, an electrolyte mineral, is vital for allowing electricity to flow through your body, which keeps your heart beating. Lack of potassium can lead to arrhythmia, an irregular heartbeat. According to one 2012 study, people who consumed 4,069 mg of potassium each day had a 49 percent lower risk of death from heart disease compared with those who consumed only about 1,000 mg of potassium per day. According to Flores, “the potassium found in oranges helps to lower blood pressure, protecting against stroke.” She noted another heart-related benefit, pointing out that oranges are “high in folate, which is beneficial in lowering levels of homocysteine, a cardiovascular risk factor.”

Diabetes Oranges are high in fiber, which can help lower blood sugar levels in people with type 1 diabetes and improve blood sugar, lipids and insulin levels in people with type 2 diabetes. The American Diabetes Association lists oranges, along with other citrus fruits, as a superfood for people with diabetes.

Digestion And Weight Loss Oranges are high in fiber, which aids in digestion by keeping you regular. It is also good for weight loss.

“Oranges are a low-fat, nutrient-rich food with a low glycemic index, which make it an ideal food to consume to protect against obesity, which can lead to other diseases such as heart disease, cancer, diabetes, high blood pressure and stroke,” Flores told Live Science. The glycemic index is a measure of how food affects a person’s blood sugar levels: Foods with a high glycemic index (such as white bread) cause glucose levels to spike quickly after they are eaten, while foods with a low glycemic index (such as vegetables and legumes) cause blood sugar levels to rise more slowly and remain more constant over time.

Vision Oranges are vitamin A rich. This nutrient contains carotenoid compounds like lutein, beta-carotene and zeaxanthin, which can help prevent age-related macular degeneration, an incurable condition that blurs central vision. Vitamin A also helps your eyes absorb light, and

13

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it improves night vision. Furthermore, the American Optometric Association reports that vitamin C can help reduce the risk of cataracts and may slow the progression of macular degeneration.

Cancer “The vitamin C in oranges is associated with a reduced risk of colon cancer due to preventing DNA mutations from taking place,” Flores said. Studies have shown that about 10 to 15 percent of colon cancers have a mutation in a gene called BRAF. A 2004 study published in the American Journal of Epidemiology showed that consuming bananas, oranges and orange juice in the first two years of life may reduce the risk of childhood leukemia.

Health Risks ranges are great for you, but you should enjoy them in moderation, Flores warned. “Eating too many oranges has some uncomfortable side effects,” she said. “When eaten in excess, the greater fiber content can effect digestion, causing abdominal cramps and could also lead to diarrhea.”

Though oranges are relatively low in calories, eating several of the fruits in a day can add up and may lead to weight gain. It is also possible to have too much vitamin C (more than 2,000 mg a day). An excess of this nutrient may lead to diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, heartburn, bloating or cramps, headaches, insomnia, or kidney stones.

“Because they are a high-acid food, [oranges] can contribute to heartburn, especially for those who already suffer [from heartburn] regularly,” said Flores. People with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD, also called acid reflux disease) may experience heartburn or regurgitation if they eat too many oranges.

People who are taking beta-blockers should be careful not to consume too many oranges. These medicines increase potassium levels and, if mixed with too many potassium-rich foods like oranges and bananas, can lead to an excess of potassium in the body. This is a significant concern for people whose kidneys are not fully functional, as the additional potassium will not be effectively removed from the body.

Orange Peels: Edible or Poisonous?

Orange peels are not poisonous and, as many cooks know, orange zest can pack a big flavor punch. While orange peels are edible, they are not nearly as sweet or juicy as the pulp. They can also be difficult to digest and, unless you’re eating an organic orange peel, covered in chemicals.

If you do eat the peel, you’ll get a good amount of nutrients. “Orange peel actually has more fiber then the fruit inside contains,” Flores said. “It also has flavonoids in it that contain nutritious benefits.” Flavonoids are compounds found in many foods. They are known to have antihypertensive and anti-inflammatory effects, which relieve pressures on the heart.

Additionally, orange peels contain vitamins A, C, B6 and B5; calcium; riboflavin; thiamin; niacin; and folate. One way to get some of the nutrients is by eating the inner part of the peel and leaving the tough outer part. “The pith of the orange — the white part between the skin and fruit — can be sour or bitter but actually contains just as much vitamin C as the fruit itself, with a good deal of fiber,” Flores said.

Orange facts Some fun facts about oranges include: Oranges originated around 4000 B.C. in Southeast Asia, from which they spread to India.

Oranges are unknown in the wild. They are a hybrid of the pomelo, or “Chinese grapefruit” (which is pale green

O

or yellow), and the tangerine.

The orange tree is a small tropical to semitropical, evergreen, flowering plant. It grows up to 16 to 26 feet (5 to 8 meters).

Oranges are actually modified berries.

The fruit came before the color. The word “orange” derives from the Arabic ”naranj” and arrived in English as “narange” in the 14th century, gradually losing the initial “n.”

“Orange” was first used as the name for a color in 1542.

Oranges are classified into two general categories: sweet and bitter. The sweet varieties are the most commonly consumed. Popular varieties of the sweet orange (Citrus sinensis) include Valencia, navel and Jaffa oranges, as well as the blood orange, a hybrid species that is smaller in size, more aromatic in flavor and marked by red hues running throughout its flesh.

Bitter oranges (Citrus aurantium) are often used to make jam or marmalade, and their zest is used as the flavoring for liqueurs such as Grand Marnier and Cointreau.

The name “navel orange” comes from the belly-button formation opposite the fruit’s stem end. The bigger the navel, the sweeter the orange.

Moorish, Portuguese and Italian traders and explorers introduced sweet oranges into Europe around the 15th century, after finding the fruits on voyages to Asia and the Middle East.

Renaissance paintings that display oranges on the table during “The Last Supper” are wrong. Oranges were not cultivated in the Middle East until sometime around the ninth century.

Christopher Columbus planted the first orange trees in the Caribbean islands in the late 15th century after he brought the seeds there on his second voyage to the New World. panish explorer Ponce de Leon brought oranges to Florida in the 16th century, and Spanish missionaries brought them to California in the 18th century, Commercial oranges are often bright orange because an artificial dye, Citrus Red Number 2, is injected into their skins at the level of 2 parts per million.

Oranges can be stored at room temperature or in the refrigerator. They will generally last the same amount of time, two weeks, with either method, and will retain nearly the same level of vitamin content.

The best way to store oranges is loose rather than wrapped in a plastic bag, because they can easily develop mold if exposed to moisture.

In 2008, the top five orange-producing countries, by millions of tons produced, were Brazil (18.3), the United States (9.1), Mexico (4.3), India (4.2) and China (3.4).

In Spanish, “anaranjear” means, literally, to “orangicate” — to pelt something with oranges.

About 85 percent of all oranges produced are used for juice.

There are over 600 varieties of oranges worldwide.

A typical orange has 10 segments.

Orange peel sprinkled over a vegetable garden is an effective slug repellent.

The white orange blossom is the state flower of Florida.

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inancial illiteracy is a growing economic and social concern gathering greater attention from consumer advocates, scholars, governmental agencies and policymakers. Despite the rapidly changing, increasingly sophisticated array of financial decisions confronting Nigerians today, there still exists widespread levels of financial illiteracy, especially among lowincome and minority population. This divergence between more complex consumer decisions and financial illiteracy has led to a rising trend of sub-optimal, often unsustainable consumer behaviours, resulting in record-high levels of debt and record low-levels of economic security for individuals, families and communities throughout the nation.

Studies of consumer knowledge have revealed that many Nigerians lack an understanding of the most rudimentary financial concepts, principles and practices. This widespread lack of financial understanding has made millions of consumers susceptible to misleading and fraudulent business practices and because of this financial literacy and improved c o n s u m e r b e h a v i o u r, policymakers have focused on mandating financial education and consumer economics curricula in primary and secondary schools, but inconclusive or null results in financial literacy tests have led some to reconsider this approach.

Valid concerns remain that students do not pay attention to or retain these lessons because many of them are not financially independent and do not make key financial decisions at that point in their lives.

Historically, Nigerians colleges and universities have had an undefined role in financial education.

Financial literacy has often been seen as a “life skill” that remains a distant priority for administrators and faculty members. For some, it is not even a suitable topic for discussion in the contemporary college environment.

Yet, rising tuition costs, changing demographics, and an uncertain job market combined with the complexity of decisions faced by students both during and after university, have led some to reconsider the role of financial education at state colleges and universities.

State colleges and universities have a unique opportunity to provide leadership on this critical topic by weaving financial education into the fabric of their campus communities.

By delivering value-added financial literacy programmes and services, the students will understand how to finance themselves throughout school if need be and encourage prudent financial habits. Financial education programmes can also contribute to the community-based, publicpurpose mission of state colleges and

finance

Osun Defender Saturday, February 13,

Financial Literacy Programmes: Solution To A Non-growing Econo-

universities and facilitate the integration of a new generation of informed citizens into the Nigerian

strong consumer protections, make the financial marketplace “effective and efficient” and assists consumers in making better choices Financial illiteracy is an economic and social challenge with substantial long-term repercussions for individuals, families and communities.

The widening gap between illiterate consumers and greater individual responsibilities has contributed to riskier consumer trends. Students, in particular, face daunting financial challenges before, during and after their post-secondary education experience.

Public colleges and universities can use their “public purpose” mission to implement meaningful, value-added financial education services and programmes, not only to students, but other individuals, both on-and off-campus. Through the delivery and evaluation of these programmes, state colleges and universities can equip individuals with the skills needed to be effective participants in the economy, advance the institution, and fulfill their role as meaningful contributors to the health and vitality of their communities, their state and the nation at large. t is important to stress the financial I literacy programme is not designed

create savings plans, manage debt and formulate strategic investment decisions for themselves and their families. It also provides more opportunities to save and invest, helps people obtain goods and services at lower costs and helps develop better consumers. Conversely, low levels of financial literacy may lead to poor health and decreased quality of life.

The cost of poor financial decisionmaking and planning often gets shifted on to other members of the community, state and nation through higher prices for financial products and the diversion of economic resources.

Market efficiency is also dependent on financially literate consumers.

Educated consumers are better able to demand products that meet their short and long-term financial needs, with providers competing to create products, which characteristics best respond to those demands. Financial literacy and consumer education, coupled with

to make people financial experts, rather, the aim is to empower individuals with sufficient skills and knowledge to form financial decisions and allow them to be more in control of their circumstances. Financial literacy can help these consumers to understand their financial options, make the most of these new opportunities, and manage traditional relationships with money lenders, as well as other financial obligations. inancial literacy is first and F foremost about empowering and enlightening consumers, so that they are knowledgeable about finance in a way that is relevant to their lives and enables them to use this knowledge to evaluate products and make informed decisions. As a consequence of the changing structure of an economy, financial knowledge has become not just a convenience but an essential survival tool. A lack of financial knowledge

economy.

Given the overarching ramifications that financial literacy plays in the modern economy, I propose that a renewed emphasis on financial literacy is central to individual, family and communal economic security. New responsibilities and opportunities given to consumers, such as retirement planning, have increased the need for more sophisticated consumer financial knowledge. State colleges and universities can fulfill a meaningful role by offering financial education programmes and services to students, faculty, staff and members of their communities.

Financial literacy is associated with the health and well-being of individuals, families, communities and markets. Financial education can help individuals plan for their future and contribute to a sustainable, vibrant lifestyle during work years and retirement. Effective financial education can help individuals develop efficient household budgets,

can contribute to the making of poor financial choices that can be harmful to both individuals and communities.

Mounting evidence shows that those who are less financially literate are more likely to have problems with debt, are less likely to save, are more likely to engage in high-cost expenses, and are less likely to plan for retirement. Without a certain level of financial literacy, consumers might not purchase the financial products and services they need and might be ill-equipped to fully appreciate their rights and responsibilities as financial consumers, and to understand and appropriately manage the variety of risks. inancial literacy is a broad F concept that includes both information and behaviour; it is relevant for all consumers, regardless of their wealth or income. Developing countries must promote financial literacy to their customers, because of the positive direct impact this can have on access to finance and savings, which in turn support livelihoods, economic growth, sound financial systems, and poverty reduction. Financial education programmes cover topics such as budgeting, saving, managing credit, and learning to negotiate.

Each of these is effective in communicating information, but the most effective financial literacy programmes is to empower individuals so that they are able to evaluate their options in the financial marketplace and then take appropriate actions in their own selfinterest. Billions of people in the world, particularly in the developing or emerging economy, don’t have the ability to obtain credit and build a credit history, to get insurance products, or to save their money safely, which could have a tremendous impact on their economic future.

Financial literacy can help these consumers to understand their financial options, make the most of these new opportunities, and manage traditional relationships with money lenders, as well as other financial obligations.

Financial literacy helps build the capacity of the poor to gain control, become proactive, and use information and resources to enhance their economic security. It also enables them more effectively use financial services and reduces their vulnerability to over-zealous retailers or fraudulent schemes. Poor consumers need to have the opportunity to be educated and informed about the product choices becoming available to them, and for regulators of financial services, helping people make informed financial decisions is central to protecting consumers, promoting public awareness and maintaining market confidence. If financial service providers have not a significant information advantage

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Osun Defender Saturday, February 13, 2016

Job Vacancies In Nigeria 2016 Nigerian Airforce Airmen / Airwomen Recruitment Company: Nigerian Airforce Location(s): • Plateau • Enugu • Kwara • Lagos • Rivers • Kaduna • Kano • Borno • Sokoto • Adamawa • Benue • Edo Towns: “Yola “Markudi “Ilorin “Enugu “Ikeja “Port Harcourt “Benin City “Kaduna “Kano “Maiduguri “Sokoto “Jos Specialization: • Graduate / Freshers • Security / Intelligence • Military / Para-Military / Security Industry: • Government • Security Agencies Application Deadline: 25 March, 2016 Job Type Fulltime Share Login to Apply JOB DETAILS The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) is the air arm of the Nigerian Armed Forces. It is one of the largest in Africa, consisting of about 10,000 personnel and aircraft including 12 Chinese Chengdu F-7s, and 11 Dassault-Dornier Alpha Jets, armed helicopters, and military transport aircraft.

APPLICATION GUIDELINES FOR THE NAF AIRMEN/AIRWOMEN RECRUITMENT EXERCISE BMTC 2016 PLEASE READ THE INSTRUCTIONS CAREFULLY Online Registration starts on 8th February 2016 and closes on 25th March 2016.

QUALIFYING RECRUITMENT TESTS Qualifying Recruitment Tests will hold in the following Centers: Makurdi: Nigerian Air Force Base, Markudi.

Ilorin: 227 Wing, Nigerian Air Force, Ilorin.

Lagos: Sam Ethnan Air Force Base, Ikeja - Lagos.

Enugu: 305 Flying Training School, Enugu.

Port Harcourt: 97 Special Operations Group, Nigerian Air Force, Port Harcourt.

Benin: 81 Air Maritime Group, Nigerian Air Force Benin.

Kaduna: Nigerian Air Force Base, Kawo - Kaduna.

Kano: 303 Flying Training School, Kano.

Maiduguri: 204 Wing, Nigerian Air Force Base, Maiduguri.

Ipetu-Ijesha: Nigerian Air Force Institute of Safety, Ipetu-Ijesha.

Sokoto: 55 Forward Operation Base Mabera, Sokoto.

Yola: 75 Strike Group, Nigerian Air Force, Yola.

Jos: 330 Nigerian Air Force Station, Jos. ADDITIONAL INSTRUCTIONS Applicants will be required to submit for scrutiny, the original copies of the documents at the recruitment centers and during the final selection interview. Applicants will be required to present following documents if selected for the zonal recruitment test: Two recent passport size photographs to be stamped and countersigned by officer of appropriate rank specified, Local Government Chairmen/Secretaries and other specified officers in Paragraph 8.

Photocopies of: Birth Certificate/Declaration of Age (Any age declaration done later than 4 years to this exercise will not be acceptable).

Educational/Trade Certificates.

Indigenship certificate from applicant’s State of Origin.

Any applicant suspected to have impersonated or submitted false document(s) shall be disqualified from the selection exercise. Also, any false declaration detected later may lead to withdrawal from training. Such applicants may be handed over to the Police for prosecution.

The Nigerian Air Force will not entertain any enquiries in respect of applicants whose applications have been rejected. Interested applicants are to note that the online registration is free of charge. Applicants are required to fill valid email addresses and Telephone numbers in the appropriate spaces provided in the application form.

On completion of the application forms, applicants must print out the Acknowledgment Slip.

Technical Support: For Technical Support, please call: 08104577415, 09-8704817, 09-8708475, 08078406568, 09054795502 or Email: airforce.support@swglobal.com Note: All phone lines are available between 8:30AM and 5:30PM NOTE APPLICATION IS FREE JOB REQUIREMENTS MIN REQUIRED EXPERIENCE: 0 year(s) DESIRED COURSES: Not Specified OTHER REQUIREMENTS: GENERAL INSTRUCTIONS Nationality: Applicant must be of Nigerian origin.

Age: Applicants must be between the ages of 17 and 22 years for non-tradesmen/women, 17 and 24 years for tradesmen/women by 31 December 2016. Those applying as drivers must be between the ages of 18 and 28 years by 31 December 2016 Marital Status: All applicants must be single.

Height: Minimum height is 1.68 meters or 5.5ft for males and 1.65m or 5.4ft for females.

Medical Fitness: All applicants must be medically fit and meet the Nigerian Air Force medical and employment standards.

ACADEMIC/PROFESSIONAL QUALIFICATION Non-Tradesmen/women: Applicants must possess a minimum of 3 credits including Mathematics and English Language in SSCE/NECO/GCE obtained not later than 6 years to this exercise. In addition, applicants are also required to possess their school’s testimonials.

Tradesmen/women: Applicants must possess OND, NABTEB, RN/RM or City & Guild Certificate. Candidate with only Trade Test Certificate are required to also have a minimum of 3 passes in GCE/ SSCE/NECO including English. In addition, applicants applying as tradesmen/tradeswomen must possess ND (with minimum of Lower Credit) or other relevant trade qualification from government-approved institutions. Note that applicants with HND or First Degrees/PostGraduate Certificates, University Diplomas and Grade II Teacher’s certificates will not be considered for recruitment as airmen/airwomen into the Nigerian Air Force and should not apply.

Attestation Forms: Applicant’s attestation form must be signed by a military officer from the same state as the applicant and not below the rank of Squadron Leader or equivalent in the Nigerian Army and the Nigerian Navy, and Police Officer of the rank of Assistant CP and above. Local Governments Chairmen/Secretaries, magistrates and principals of government Secondary Schools from applicants’ state of origin can also sign the attestation forms. The signees passport photograph and either photocopy of drivers licence or international passport must be attached. In addition, applicants are to bring with them a letter of attestation of good character from any of the officers above to the Zonal Recruitment Centers and final selection interview.

Requirements: Applicants are advised to carefully read the requirements below before filling the form: Medical Records: ND Medical Records.

Nursing: RN/RM Lab Technician: ND Medical Lab Science.

X-Ray Technician: ND X-ray Technology.

Dental Technician: ND Dental Technology/Dental Therapy Pharmacy Technician: ND Pharmacy Technology.

Environmental Technician: ND Environmental Technology.

Biomed Technician: ND Biomed Technology.

Optometry Technician: ND Optometry Technology.

Statistics: ND Stats.

Assistant Chaplain: ND Christian Religious Study.

Assistant Imam: ND Arabic/Islamic Studies.

Engineering Technicians: ND Mechanical Engr./Electrical Electronics Engr/Air Engineering Technology.

Meteorologist: WMO Class III Meteorology Assistant Certificate.

Domestic Electricians: ND Electrical Electronics, ND/Trade Test Cert 1,2,3 Domestic Elect,

Work.

Building Technology: ND Building tech/QS/Land Surveying/Civil Engineering.

Public Relations/Info: ND Mass Comm. Cert/Trade Test Cert in Videography/Photography.

Secretarial Assistants: ND Office Technology Management.

Library Assistants: ND/NCE Library Science.

Music: ND Music. In addition, playing experience in any recognised Band will be an advantage.

Driver/Mechanic: Trade Test and current driver’s license with practical experience.

Works: Trade Test Cert in Welding/Carpentry/Painting/Sign Writing/Plumbing/Mason/ domestic Electrician/Refrigeration and Air Conditioning.

Computer Tech: ND/Computer Hardware Engr/Software Engr. Possession of recognized certifications will be an advantage.

ND Physiotherapy ND Medical Supply ND Printing Technology PE/Sports: ND/NCE Physical Education, Certificate of participation/Medals in National and International sporting competitions will be an added advantage.

Catering: ND in Catering Services.

Education: NCE Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Mathematics, English, Home Economics, Nigerian Languages, French, Business Management, Fine Art. ..........

Deputy Head Operations Company: Bemil Nigeria limited Location(s): • Abuja Towns: “Wuse Specialization: • Security / Intelligence Industry: • Security Agencies Application Deadline: 29 February, 2016 Job Type Fulltime Salary ¦ 1,400,000 - ¦ 1,400,000 Share Login to Apply JOB DETAILS 1. Ensures new assignments are properly surveyed, weaknesses identified and customers advised accordingly.

2. Ensures incidents are properly investigated and the necessary action taken.

3. Ensures the Department and the guard force comply with the Guarding Service Quality Policy.

4. Enforces discipline within the guard force and recommends disciplinary action in line with the Human Resource Policy.

5. Ensure proper Guards turnout (that they are smart, neat, ID Card Visible & Adhering to dress code).

6. Develops and updates post orders for all locations.

7. Establishes/maintains robust customer relationship to ensure complete understanding of customer processes to enable the delivery of viable security responses.

9. Performs incident analysis and investigation relative to all incidents with advice and closure to all responsible functional management.

10. Ensures strict compliance with the Company’s Policies & Procedures.

11.Other duties as required in line with your skills, experience and role JOB REQUIREMENTS MIN REQUIRED EXPERIENCE: 3 year(s) DESIRED COURSES: • Business Administration • Economics • Accounting DESIRED SKILLS: • ); Resource kit • • A strong team player • • Ability to Communicate and listen to the views of others • A quick learner and ability to work wi • • Ability to work on own initiative and self starter • Good negotiation skill • Ability to work effe • • Good interpersonal skills. • Able to work and adjust to new challenging situations quickly.

• Enth • • Good oral and written communication skills • Good organizational • • Problem solving • • Proficiency on the use of Microsoft office (Microsoft word OTHER REQUIREMENTS: Minimum qualification - BSc/HND 2-3 years experience in a security company is an added advantage, Must be able to work with a team of diverse background, Must be an early starter, Able to multi-task and solve problems, Excellent communication skills, Must possess people management skills Visit: www.ngcareers.com .............

Head Of Primary School Company: The Christhill Schools Location(s): • Lagos Towns: “Festac Specialization: • Teaching / Education Services Industry: • Education Services Application Deadline: 29 February, 2016 Job Type Fulltime Salary ¦ 720,000 - ¦ 780,000 JOB DETAILS develop action plan for effective teaching and learning at nursery/primary school in line with the vision of the school.oversee the activities of teachers, appraise content delivery and performance of teachers and curriculum implementation. introduce new ideas and skills for 21st century teaching and learning JOB REQUIREMENTS MIN REQUIRED EXPERIENCE: 6 year(s) DESIRED COURSES: • Education/Mathematics DESIRED SKILLS: • • Ability to work with Minimum Supervision • Good Interpersonal Skills • Ability to work effectively OTHER REQUIREMENTS: competence in teaching all subjects at upper primary level, have ability to supervise effectively teaching and learning process in primary classes.

ICT literate. very innovative, introduce programs to keep the kids abreast of modern ideas and concepts in teaching must be capable of leading subordinates and train them. must have worked in that position in a reputable school for minimum of 4 years.

Visit: www.ngcareers.com ........

15

sport

Osun Defender Saturday, February 13, 2016

Chelsea Captain John Terry To Be Honoured At London Football

C

helsea captain John Terry will be

recognised for his “outstanding contribution” to London football at a prestigious awards ceremony next month.

Te r r y h a s b e e n professional career that selected as this year’s has seen him become recipient of the leading the most decorated honour handed out at captain in Chelsea’s the London Football history and also wear Awards, to be held at the England armband.

Earlier this month Battersea Evolution, marking an 18-year Terry told reporters that he expects to leave

Stamford Bridge at the end of the season after Chelsea declined to offer him a contract extension, though the Premier League champions insist that “channels of dialogue” will remain open with the 35-year-old over his future.

Terry is a divisive

•John-Terry

figure among football supporters due to a string of on and offfield controversies throughout his career b u t B o b Wi l s o n , founder of Willow Foundation, the organising charity behind the awards, believes the Chelsea captain’s longevity and achievements nevertheless merit special recognition.

“People only read the bad publicity about him,” Wilson told the Evening Standard.

“I’m sure it concerns him but the John Terry I know loves football, is desperate to get everything he can out of it and has inspired his teammates as one of game’s finest leaders, comparable with Tony Adams.

“He has always been very humble and gracious with me and he is a hugely deserving winner. Sometimes we get clouded by offfield activities but his

Barcelona Leave Messi, Neymar And Suarez Out For Valencia Trip

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arcelona coach Luis Enrique has named a much-changed squad for Wednesday’s Copa del Rey semi-final second leg at Valencia — with Lionel Messi, Neymar and Luis Suarez among 10 regular starters left behind.

Barca won last week’s Andres Iniesta, Gerard first leg 7-0 at the Camp Pique, Jordi Alba, Javier Nou, with Suarez scoring Mascherano, Dani Alves four times, and Messi and Claudio Bravo. grabbing a hat-trick.

The 18-man squad Messi was expected to announced on Wednesday miss the return game after morning includes Barca reportedly undergoing a B y o u n g s t e r s Wi l f r i d minor procedure to deal Kaptoum, Sergi Samper, with a kidney issue on Dani Romera, Juan Camara Tuesday morning. Those and Gerard Gumbau, as also rested include senior well as players Sergio Busquets, Spanish federation

rules limit the number of youngsters which teams can play in the Copa del Rey to just three — so it is more likely that squad players such as Marc Bartra, Sandro Ramirez and Douglas will get rare first team starts.

At his prematch news conference on Tuesday Luis Enrique had said he would face the game like any other, although he also admitted that the 0-7 score from the first leg meant his players would face a “different challenge” at Mestalla.

Neville said he would

R

ignominy for a footballer: the loan move halfway through a loan move. But if Anderlecht are good enough for Old Trafford legend Alex Buttner, he of the “14 man of the match performances” fame, it should be considered good enough for Silva.

Brazilian football fans have even changed their tune. It wasn’t too long ago that they were comparing Silva’s pass completion rate favourably against the rest of the Real squad. Yet more recently, it was noted that Silva was booed from the pitch in a Ligue 1 match, deadpanning: “He has been disappointing at club level this season.”

But Silva’s predicament is merely another feather in the cap of Real’s transfer policy, the same one that led to Silva being drafted in

Payet (West Ham), Willian (Chelsea), Odion Ighalo (Watford), Mesut Ozil (Arsenal).

L o n d o n Yo u n g Player of the Year (Under 23): Dele Alli, Eric Dier (both Tottenham), Hector Bellerin (Arsenal), Ademola Lookman (Charlton), Moussa Dembele (Fulham).

London Manager o f t h e Ye a r : Mauricio Pochettino (Tottenham), Arsene Wenger (Arsenal), Quique Sanchez Flores (Watford), Slaven Bilic (West Ham).

London Goalkeeper of the Year: Adrian (West Ham), Petr Cech (Arsenal), Hugo Lloris (Tottenham), Heurelho Gomes (Watford).

Football League Player of the Year: Dembele, Ross McCormack (both Fulham), Alan Judge (Brentford), Jay Simpson (Leyton Orient), Matt Phillips (QPR).

London Women’s Player of the Year: Eni Aluko, Katie Chapman, Fran Kirby (all Chelsea), Casey Stoney, Leah

be prioritising Saturday’s La Liga game at home to Espanyol, with the former Manchester United defender still searching for a first league win, although Neville denied he felt he was now in a relegation battle.

“FC Barcelona have a date tonight in the Copa he former Chelsea boss is reportedly set del Rey,” Barcelona’s club to take over at Old Trafford in the summer statement said. “Despite the 7-0 in the first leg, and has already identified the Real Madrid there are still 90 minutes centre-back as his top priority. between the Blaugrana and Jose Mourinho wants for stardom. the Copa final. Between this Speaking in 2014, to make Raphael Vara Valencia side which is only

Mourinho Eyes Varane As First Man United Sign-

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Real Madrid’s Poor Player Decisions Raise Castilla Questions

eal Madrid’s signing of Lucas Silva in January 2015 was heralded as something of a coup. The defensive midfielder had recently been named the best in his position in the Brazilian top flight as Cruzeiro claimed the 2014 Brasileiro title and the 21-year-old apparently had the world at his feet.

Silva was drafted into of Real’s final 11 La Liga the side quickly enough, matches and never graced playing 16 minutes against the Champions League Deportivo before being again under the Italian.

A loan spell was inevitable handed a full 90 in the Champions League last-16 and Marseille boss Michel first leg against Schalke, fancied he could mould a 2-0 away victory. The Silva into precious metal return fixture, for which at the Velodrome. But all Silva was absent, made that glitters is not gold. the Brazilian look good in The Brazilian’s career has absentis as Real were beaten nosedived at Marseille to 4-3 at the Bernabeu with the extent that he has been Sami Khedira labouring omitted from the Europa in midfield. Unfortunately League squad and was for Silva, he did look better reportedly ordered off the off the pitch than on it. His team bus for the Ligue 1 appearances gradually dried trip to Montpellier last week up as former manager Carlo after he refused to accept Ancelotti realized just what a move to Anderlecht in he had been lumbered with. January.

It is the ultimate Silva played 54 minutes

commitment to one club for so long is a rare thing in an age when so many footballers fail to show that kind of loyalty.

“His contract expires at the end of the season and it would be a mistake not to give him an extension.”

There are seven awards to be handed out in total, headlined by the London Premier League Player of the Year that will be contested by Harry Kane, Dimitri Payet, Willian, Odion Ighalo and Mesut Ozil. Dele Alli is th e o v e r w h e lm in g favourite to claim the London Young Player of the Year gong ahead of teammate Eric Dier and Hector Bellerin.

Jose Mourinho has been overlooked for the London Manager of the Year shortlist after leaving Chelsea for the second time in December, while Mauricio Pochettino, A r s e n e We n g e r , Quique Sanchez Flores and Slaven Bilic have made the cut.

Aw a r d s a n d Nominees in full Premier League Player of the Year: Harry Kane (Tottenham), Dimitri

when Casemiro was at Porto on loan: Two Brazilian defensive midfielders, one with experience in Europe at Real Madrid Castilla (Casemiro), and one without. If there was no early release clause in Casemiro’s loan contract at the Dragao, it really makes Real’s negotiations appear amateurish at best. It cost the Bernabeu €7.5 million to help Porto out for the season in the first place. Added to the €13m it cost to bring Silva to Madrid, you have roughly double the annual budget of Levante. Or four times that of Eibar. Which begs the broader question: what exactly is the point of Real Madrid Castilla?

ane his first signing as Manchester United manager, according to the report.

The ex-Chelsea boss reportedly believes he will replace Louis van Gaal at Old Trafford this summer and has informed the United hierarchy that he is keen to acquire the 22-year-old.

Mourinho signed Varane from RC Lens when he was in charge at Real and has tipped the France international

the Portuguese said: “I think he is the best young central defender in the world. Already I think he’s the best.”

•MORINHO

PREMIER LEAGUE FEATURES Sunday, February 14, 2016 Arsenal VS Leicester City Aston Villa VS Liverpool

Manchester City VS Tottenham

CHAMPIONS LEAGUE FEATURES Tuesday, February 16, 2016

Benfica VS Zenit St Petersburg Paris Saint Germain VS

www.osundefender.org Saturday, FEBRUARY 13, 2016

T

he beauty of democracy is that it embodies the principles of checks and balances to ensure there is no arbitrariness.

In parliamentary democracy, members of the parliament constitute the cabinet, hence, unless it becomes so unpopular with policies, it enjoys the privilege of being in government for the period it was elected. This simply means that there is fusion of power.

In the presidential system of government, which Nigeria practices, members of legislature are different from the executive. The parliament in the presidential democracy acts as a check on the executive to ensure that power is not arbitrarily used.

The Constitution guarantees that before certain actions of the executive are carried out, the consent of the parliament must be sought.

The judiciary can also act as a check on the executive by declaring their acts unconstitutional and null and void, if they contradict the Constitution. It must, however, be added that these happen after the acts has been committed.

To show how powerful the legislature is in the current system we practice, presidential nominees for ministers, ambassadors, and other sensitive public offices are not deemed appointed, until approval is sought and got from the parliament.

The oversight functions of the parliament are also wholesome to the extent that it can investigate any action of the executive. Committees are established in the parliament to oversee different areas of government to ensure the right thing is done.

Annual budgets are presented by the executive in a form of money or appropriation bill to the parliament and only becomes law, which authorizes the executive to spend money after the parliament has thoroughly scrutinized and passed it.

By the principle of checks and balances, the interest of the masses is protected. The power of modern executives is so overwhelming that if not checked, it can be utterly misused. The parliament therefore needs to be up and doing to check the executive.

The expose going on currently, better dubbed Dasukigate has raised certain fundamental issues? All the dramatis personae involved are still innocent until proven guilty.

However, the revelation is not only startling but mind-boggling. In some instances, some individuals alleged to have shared in the Dasuki booty have returned money and promised to pay the balance later.

The Chairman of Newspaper Proprietors Association of Nigeria (NPAN), Mr Nduka Obaigbena, was

THE

5TH

Audacious Exploit with Murtala Agboola Tel: 0806-119-7897 E-mail: murtalamuag@yahoo.com

Who Can Rescue The Mass-

•saraki

alleged to have made refunds with the promise to pay the balance later.

Another close ally of President Muhammed Buhari is also alleged to have returned part of his loot. All these are in the public domain.

How come that the parliament did not feature at all in all these drama?

Was it that it was in the know but acquiesced because its members or some of them were beneficiaries?

Or worse still, they were ignorant?

If the answer to the later poser is yes, then there is danger. How can this gargantuan money be disbursed without the parliament having an inkling?

Some people have dubbed it the conspiracy against the masses.

Some have equally said members of the National Assembly are so comfortable that they hardly feel what the people are going through.

Head or tail, the masses lose.

This is aptly so, because when the opposition dominates the parliament, the executive finds it difficult to get

its campaign promises passed in the hallowed chambers because of politics. This means that the laudable and lofty policies intended for the masses would not be realized. n the other hand, if the O executive and the parliament belong to the same party, it is even worse, because the executive pockets the legislature.

So, who protects the interest of the masses? Some critical minds have concluded that those that must be ready to do the bidding of the masses are human rights activists, non-governmental organizations and professional bodies. If these people fail to come to the rescue of the masses, then the present condition would remain the same for long.

Our parliament, especially at the federal level, considers itself the most vilified of all the arms of government. This is even against the background of the fact that they consider themselves as not enjoying the perquisite of office as members

M O ST - V I S I T E D

NEWS-

of the executive. Some reasons may suffice for people’s attitude towards them.

By requirement, they are supposed to have constituency offices, which most of them do not have, yet, they draw money for it. Having constituency offices means they will engage some people to man these offices.

Some have also questioned the thoroughness involved in their job.

For instance, in the last dispensation, the National Assembly committees on Electoral Commission were considered not to have done enough good jobs. The card reader ought to have been tested well before the presidential election, which later caused hitches in some areas such that the then President, Dr Goodluck Jonathan, experienced some delays before he could vote. ow the National Assembly N insists it has to procure vehicles for its oversight functions against the outcry of the public.

The estimate for the procurement of vehicles runs into billions of naira at a time when the economy is in a bad shape. Some Nigerians have argued that they would save the economy some money, if they could make use of their personal vehicles, since their privileges have been monetized. They are saying that they should be ready to make sacrifice and desist from asking only the masses to make sacrifice. Again, one would have thought that with the merger of some ministries, the parliamentary standing committees to oversight such ministries would have been streamlined to that effect. For instance, the Ministry of Power, Works and Housing is now one instead of three, yet there are three committees in both houses of the National Assembly. Members of the public reason that this is maintained to allow members to become committee heads to draw extra allowances.

Members of the parliament must have the feelings of the public. They are elected to serve the interest of the people and not their personal interest.

From most Nigerians, the issue of experience, which members of parliament hammer on, for quality legislation, is not really a matter.

They question why some people should make it their birthright to be the only representative of their

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.