Peoples Daily Newspaper, Saturday 23, March, 2013

www.peoplesdaily-online.com weekend.peoplesdailyng.com

VOL. 3 NO. 32

SATURDAY 23 — SUNDAY 24, MARCH, 2013

. . . putting the people first

JIMADAL ULA 11-12, 1434 AH

SPECIAL REPORT

Land Tussle: How Kokona communities are battling envoy in Nasarawa

>>Pages 14&15

N150

NEWS Suntai moved to US for medical attention >>Page 3

Army parades 14 suspected crude oil thieves

>>Page 17

Navy nabs Abuja fake recruitment syndicate

INTERVIEW

FCT: PDP purchased victory —Masari >>Pages 8&38

Sambo's convoy in fatal crash, 2 die COVER

>>Page 17

NYSC: A scheme in distress? >> Pages 14&15 WEEKEND.PEOPLESDAILYNG.COM

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PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND SATURDAY 23 — SUNDAY 24, MARCH, 2013

News Taraba PDP stakeholders petition exdeputy gov

STF urged to liaise with security operatives in Taraba, Nasarawa

From Yusha’u Alhassan Jalingo.

O

From Musa Pam, Jos

F

ollowing the outbreak of attacks in some parts of Wase Local government Area and its attendant consequences on the southern Zone of Plateau state, a crucial meeting of government officials and stakeholders was held yesterday at the conference Hall of the governors Lodge, Jishe in Jos. The meeting which focused on seeking solutions towards immediate cessation of hostilities has directed the Special Task Force (STF) in charge of internal security in Jos and environs to liaise with security agencies in Taraba and Nasarawa States to avert cross boarder infiltration of terrorists that lead to killings of innocent lives in Wase Local Government Area.

The directive is contained in a Communique signed by the Director of Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) Alh. Aliyu Mohammed, Chairman Jukun Development Association Wase LGA Musa Umar Mavo and Commissioner of Information and Communication Yiljap Abraham after a crucial meeting of Government, Special Task Force and Community leaders in Wase LGA. The Communique reads in parts "we condemn in strong terms the action that resulted in to the loss of lives in Wase and other neighbouring Local Government and agreed that the Stakeholders will appeal to their communities to end all hostilities with immediate effects.

"Urged Special Task Force to liaise with security counterpart in Taraba and Nasarawa State to avert cross boarder infiltration; called for close liaison and collaboration among Traditional and community leaders to enhance communal understanding and confidence building" The peace parley among various security chiefs and community leaders in the area also " Called for conduct of general disarmament of those on possession of illegal firearms and requested the Emir of Wase to use his good and fatherly position to appeal to all communities especially the Fulani to embrace the resolutions of the meeting to end the attacks and bring an immediate end to reprisals"

L-R: Outgoing Head of Service of the Federation, Alhaji Isa Bello handing over to InComing head of service , Alhaji Bukar Goni, during the Ceremony, on Friday in Abuja.

Photo.

Justin Imo-Owo

Alamieyeseigha: Group demands amendment of pardon clauses

By Umar Muhammad Puma

C

ivil society group, the coalition of youth organization yesterday demandedfor an amendment of Section 175 (1)(a) of the 1999 Constitution as amended to include, that the President shall in consultation with the Council of State forward the list of persons who have applied for pardon to the National Judicial Council and National Assembly for confirmation and approval, before powers of the President to grant pardon shall be exercised.

The group in a press conference in Abuja said, the recent announcement of a presidential pardon granted to the former governor Diepreye Alamieyeseigha of Bayelsa State, the former Managing Direcetor of Bank of the North, Alhaji Shettima Bulama, among others, is reckless and contrary to the spirit of the constitution.

National secretary of the group, Barr. Cynthia Mbamalu, said the youth join voices with millions of Nigeria in condemning the presidential pardon granted especially to a

former public officer; Diepreye Alamieyeseigha who was convicted for economic and financial crime while serving as the Governor of Bayelsa State, Alhaji Shettima Bulama and ex Major Bello Magaji .

"We call on all anti-corruption agencies and all well-meaning Nigerians, especially the youths not to relent in their advocacy against impunity and endemic corruption. In spite of the recent pardon, the fight against corruption in Nigeria can still be won if we remain committed", she said.

Kogi partners NDLEA on drug war

G

o v . Idris Wada of Kogi yesterday said the state would collaborate with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in the fight against drug abuse and trafficking.

Wada said this at the presentation of an award to Kogi Command of the NDLEA as the best in the North Central zone in Lokoja.

He commended the agency for excellent performance in combating illicit drug trafficking and abuse.

Wada, who was represented

by the Permanent Secretary Government House, Dr John Achigbogwu, said the State Government would also establish a rehabilitation centre for counselling drug addicts.

The Chief Judge of Kogi, Justice Nsair Ajanah, represented by the Chief Registrar, Mrs Comfort Toluwase, urged other security agencies in the state to rid itself of drug addicts.

The National Coordinator of the Profile Images Network, organisers of the event, Mr Daniel Idachaba, commended the

NDLEA for taking the drug menace seriously.

He added that the award was not based on sycophancy.

The state NDLEA Commander, Alhaji Mohammed Bello, who expressed gratitude for the award, said it would spur the command to do more.

Bello pointed out that the war against drug abuse was a collective responsibility.

He called on the State Government to assist the agency in the areas of logistics and a counselling centre to reintegrate the addicts. (NAN)

f f i c i a l s of the Peoples Democratic Party in Rimiuku one ward of Ibi local government of Taraba state have petitioned the State Secretariat of the Party against Saleh Usman Danboyi former deputy Governor of Taraba state for possession a fake PDP membership card.

In the petition signed by the chairman of the party in the ward, Lado Indo and Secretary, Adamu Mairiga accused Danboyi of parading himself as a member of the party while he was still a member of the Action Congress of the Nigeria ACN. According to the petition, Danboyi, a former deputy Governor of Taraba state decamped to the ACN since 2010 and had never returned to the PDP. It said that Saleh Danboyi had never contacted any of the party executives of his ward in Rimi-uku one Ibi to indicate his intention of returning to the PDP through legitimate means.

The petition noted that Danboyi was only using the fake PDP membership card and parading himself as a member of the party just to cause confusion and tarnish the good image of the party.

Reacting, the State chairman of the PDP, Victor Bala Kona confirmed receiving the petition and condemned the action of Danboyi.

INEC sets for bye election in Adamawa From Umar Dankano, Yola

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h e Independent National Electoral Commission , INEC, has set in motion modalities for the conduct of bye election into the Adamawa State Assembly.

The election is meant to fill in the vacuum created following the death of Ahmed Gangwaso who passed on early this year.

The Adamawa State Resident Electoral Commissioner, Barrister Kassim G Gaidam who announced this to stakeholders in Yola stated that the electoral body had invited all the recognised leadership of political parties fielding candidates in the state for the bye election.

The INEC Commissioner urged representatives of political parties at the meeting to play politics in accordance to the tenets of democracy during the bye- election.

"I would like to call on the leadership of all political parties to exercise caution in dealing with their internal affairs, so that their followers will not continue to suffer as a result of their actions", he advised.

He stressed that efforts must be made by leaders to deliver the dividend of democracy to our people, while hands should be on deckto restore the security situation to normalcy.

PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND SATURDAY 16 — SUNDAY 17, MARCH, 2013

PAGE 3

News

Suntai moved to the US for better medical attention N

Nigerians in Equatorial Guinea to get oil blocks ... Jonathan gets highest national honour

By Abdulrahman Abdulraheem

From Yusha’u Alhassan Jalingo

G

overnor Danbaba Suntai of Taraba state has been moved to the United States of America for better medical attention.

The Chief Medical Director of the specialist hospital Jalingo Zakari Aliyu stated this yesterday when he appeared before the House of Assembly adhoc committee investigating the motive behind the interview he granted the press on the health condition of the Governor.

Aliyu told the House committee that the motive behind the interview was to enable the authorities concerned improve on the health situation of the Governor.

He however regretted the caption of the interview by the Daily trust News paper adding that his intention was not to betray the Governor or the state, emphasizing that he has been a personal physician to the Governor for the past five years and also a friend.

Aliyu apologized the House, Government and the people of the state for his action.

Earlier, the Chairman of the

Gov. Danbaba Suntai committee Edward Baraya, said the aim of the committee was to investigate the motive behind the interview and recommend to the necessary measures to be taken against the chief medical director.

In another development, othe Taraba state Acting Governor Garba Umar, has been commended for his peace posture

Kwankaso: Religion, tribe not to blame for violence From Mustapha Adamu, Kano

K

a n o State Government has exonerated any religion or tribe as far as the recent destruction of lives and properties in the state are concerned.

This was stated by Kano State Governor, Dr. Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, while receiving the Federal Government Delegation, led by Minister of Interior, Patrick Abba Moro, who came to sympathise with the

government and people of Kano State over the recent attack at the Luxury Bus park, Sabon gari area in the Kano metropolis.

Kwankwaso noted that "it is pertinent not to politicise the issue as a particular religious or tribal affair."

In his remark, the Minister said " the Federal Government will not condone destruction of lives and properties in any part of the country.

We urged the people to cooperate with security agencies to unravel the perpetrators of the act."

since he assumed office.

National Chairman of the People’s Democratic Party PDP Bamanga Tukur made the commendation while addressing party members and officials in Bauchi during a reconciliation meeting of all aggrieved party members for stability in the party.

The National Chairman appealed to members to re-unite in the interest of peace and development adding that the decision to embark on a tour of the country is to reconcile, reform and to rebuild the party’s structures.

Tukur noted with dismay the security challenges facing some parts of the country and described the trend as a major factor responsible for the set back in economic and political development of the region.

In his contribution, the Acting Governor of Taraba state, Alhaji Garba Umar pledged the loyalty of the state to the party and pledge with the National chairman to use his good office to bring lasting peace to the region.

Jonathan mourns Prophet Obadare

By Abdulrahman Abdulraheem

P

resident Goodluck Jonathan has described the late Prophet Timothy Oluwole Obadare, the General Evangelist of Christ Apostolic Church (CAC) Worldwide and founder of the World Soul Winning Evangelical Ministry (WOSEM), as a gifted preacher and religious leader who overcame physical challenges, to carry on the work of evangelism with incredible vigour and enthusiasm.

President Jonathan extended his deep sympathies to members

of the Christ Apostolic Church Worldwide, the World Soul Winning Evangelical Ministry, as well as friends, followers and family of the late Prophet Obadare.

President Jonathan said the late octogenarian’s life was " an inspiring lesson in the virtues of faith, hardwork and determination. In the course of his many years of diligent service in the Lord’s vineyard, President Jonathan noted that the renowned Evangelist impacted positively on the spiritual lives of many, and gave hope through his

acclaimed gifts of prophetic healing.

The President further observed that Prophet Obadare will no doubt be remembered always for his pioneering role in promoting television evangelism, his uncommon mastery of the Scriptures, and his charismatic leadership on the pulpit.

President Jonathan prayed that God will reward the late Prophet Obadare for his spiritual exploits and service to humanity, by granting his soul peaceful rest.

i g e r i a n s interested in operating oil blocks in the oil-rich Equatorial Guinea now have a chance to do so as the President Obiang Nguema Mbasogo yesterday expressed his willingness to make the oil blocks available to them.

Speaking at a joint press conference with President Goodluck Jonathan in Malabo at the end of Jonathan's two-day official visit to the country, Mbasogo said his country would like to rely onthe vast experience of Nigerians in the business to develop his country's oil and gas sector.

Mbasogo said: "It is true that Nigeria has been in oil and gas business for the past 40 to 50 years whereas Equatorial Guinea was just started recently and the experience that you have is far larger than ours. That is why we place our trust and confidence in our Nigerian brothers to help and assist us to develop the sector.

"In the past, we have allocated oil concession to members of this sector from Nigeria but for one reason or the other, this did not actually yield the fruits expected.

But nevertheless, we are still willing to offer oil concessionary blocks to those business people from Nigeria who will be willing to try their luck again.

"You know there is a great deal of luck issue in oil prospecting in the oil industry. It is not easy. It involves a lot but we still have a great deal of confidence that the experience of Nigeria can always be beneficial to the people of Equatorial Guinea in the growth of our oil and gas sector," he said.

Fielding questions from reporters, President Jonathan praised the level of cordial relations between Nigeria and Equatorial Guinea which he observed have been maintained from pre-colonial and colonial times, saying that he was delighted to hear from President Mbasogo that Nigerians in the country were well behaved.

However, he stressed the need for the Nigerian-Guinea BiNational Commission to meet

regularly in order to address pending consular issues and those that may arise in future.

In a joint communique issued at the end of their bilateral talks, both leaders agreed to concretize cooperation in areas of mutual benefit including defence and security; trade, aviation, energy, culture and tourism; agriculture, telecommunications, shipping, environment, education, health and consular matters.

"In this context, the two heads of state instructed the Foreign Ministers of their two countries to ensure the completion of all draft agreements exchanged between the two countries before the sixth session of the Joint Commission of Cooperation,"' the communiques stated.

It noted that Mbasogo praised Jonathan "for his determination and firmness in the fight against terrorism and piracy, in accordance with the commitments made by all member states of the Gulf of Guinea Commission and the Peace and Security Council of the African Union."

The two heads of states reiterated their support for the efforts of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and the Economic Community of Central African States (ECCAS) in the search for lasting solutions to the conflicts plaguing the states of the Central African Republic, the Republic of Mali and the Republic of Guinea Bissau.

Meanwhile, President Jonathan has been conferred with the award of Grand Collar of the Order of Independence, the highest in Equatorial Guinea.

President Mbasosgo decorated Jonathan with the the medal at a state dinner organized in his honour at the Presidential Palace in Malabo on Thursday night.

It was in recognition of his contributions to peace, stability and development of the oil-rich country.

The honour, which is normally reserved for visiting heads of state, grants Jonathan the rights and privileges of an Equatorial Guinean citizen.

Gunmen attack Ganye Prison

R

e p o r t s from Adamawa State say gunmen have attacked a prison and police station in Ganye Town, Adamawa State.

According to online medium, PREMIUM TIMES, the attackers used explosives to bomb the prison and the main police station in the town.

Several inmates were reportedly freed.

A source said that exchange of gunfire was still going on at 7:30 p.m. and most residents have gone indoors.

The attackers also attacked a First Bank branch in the town.

Efforts to reach the spokesperson of the police in Adamawa has been unsuccessful.

At the time of going to press last night, the attack was still ongoing.

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PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND SATURDAY 23 — SUNDAY 24, MARCH, 2013

Photo News

L-R: Member, Representing Onitsha North/South Federal Constituency, Rep. Cyril Egwuatu; Gov Ibrahim Geidam of Yobe state; Minister of State for Foreign Affairs 2, Alhaji Nuruddeen Mohammed; President Goodluck Jonathan; Nigerian Ambassador to Equatorial Guinea, Amb, Sunday Bassey and Gov. Emmanuel Uduaghan of Delta, at a meeting of the President with Nigerians in Malabo on Thursday.

R-L: Vice President Namadi Sambo; Benue State Governor, Gabriel Suswan and Delta State Deputy Governor, Prof. Amos Utuama; during the National Integrated Power project 27th meeting of the board of directors held at presidential villa in Abuja on Friday

L-R: Minister of Education, Professor Ruqayyatu Ahmed Rufai, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Education, Dr. Macjohn Nwabiala and Executive Secretary, National Board for Technical Education (NBTE), Dr. Mas'ud Kazaure, during the stakeholders' public hearing on education sector, at the National Assembly in Abuja.

R-L: Governor Murtala Nyako of Adamawa state discussing with Governor Ibrahim Shema of Kastina state and Governor, Isa Yuguda of Bauchi state at the Nigeria Governors'Forum meeting, on best performing Immunization states, at Rivers Lodge Asokoro, Abuja.

Unemployment: People waiting to be screened at Peace Corps of Nigeria recruitment exercise in Bauchi on Friday

PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND SATURDAY 23 — SUNDAY 24, MARCH, 2013

PAGE 5

News Army seeks Kebbi's partnership to check aliens incursion

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he Brigade Commander,1 Brigade of the Nigerian Army, Brig.-Gen. Mohammed Tasi'u, has called on Gov. Saidu Dakingari to partner with the Army in preventing incursions of bad elements from neighbouring countries.

Tasi'u made the call in Birnin Kebbi on Thursday when he paid a visit to the governor.

He described the state as strategic, saying: ``I am here to rub minds with the government on aversion of common threats from across the borders.

"I commend the diplomatic approach by the State Government in preventing breach of peace with communities in neighbouring countries.

"The 1 Brigade of the Nigerian Army I am heading will partner with the state to protect the territorial integrity of Nigeria.

"The new security challenge facing the country was the exploitation of the peaceful nature

of Nigerians by bad elements to invade and cause havoc in society but we would counter such."

He called on the State Government to embark on enlightenment campaigns on the need for members of the public to remain alert.

Tasi'u said that this was particularly true for those “criminals pilling dangerous weapons to cause havoc.

Responding, Dakingari assured the brigade commander of maximum cooperation with the army in the protection of lives and property.

"The Kebbi Government had maintained and would sustain the good relationship with the Nigerian Army for peace and unity.

"The community policing policy of the state would be sustained in close relationship with the Nigerian Army and relevant security agencies," he added.

(NAN).

Group urges Nasarawa to beef-up security in Akun Developmet Area

T

he Nasarawa State Government has been called upon to beef-up security in Akun Development Area of the state, to ensure safety of lives and property in the area.

The call was made on Thursday in Akun by a group, Youth for Peace and Development, based in Akwanga.

Speaking in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), the leader of the group, Mr Yakubu Hussaini, called on people in the area to remain calm and shun rumour-mongering.

Hussaini expressed appreciation with security agencies and other stakeholders in the area for ensuring peace and unity among different inhabitants of the area.

“On Monday this week, there was a serious confusion in the area, following rumours that some Fulani were coming to attack Eggon people in the area. This was

the hand work of rumour mongers.”

He said that if not for the efforts of security men and the understanding shown by youths toward ensuring peace and unity, there would have been a breakdown of law and order in the area.

Hussaini called on the State Government and the security agencies to ensure that anyone caught violating the law was punished no matter his position in government.

The group leader advised residents of the area to be lawabiding, adding that youths who as future leaders should not allow themselves to be used by selfish persons to foment trouble in the society.

He also called on the general public to report any suspicious activity or movement to security agencies for necessary action.

(NAN)

LG spends N135m on infrastructure

T

he Chairman of Binji Local Government Area in Sokoto State, Alhaji Garba Danhabi, on Thursday said the council had spent N135 million on the provision of infrastructure in the past one year.

Danhabi told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Sokoto that the infrastructure include water, feeder roads, primary health centres, culverts, mosques and classrooms.

He said the facilities had been inaugurated, calling on residents

of the area to guard the facilities against vandalism.

The chairman said that a marshal plan had been designed for the execution of more projects to improve the living standard of the people, adding that the measure was aimed at providing the dividends of democracy to the populace.

Danhabi called on people of the area to report out-break of epidemics to the nearest health institution in the area for prompt action. (NAN)

R-L: Gov. Sule Lamido of Jigawa with the Registrar, Environmental Health Officers Registration Council of Nigeria, Mr Augustine Ebisike, during a courtesy visit to the governor in Dutse on Thursday.

Nigeria to get stable power supply by 2014 —Jonathan

By Abdulrahman Abdulraheem

P

resident Goodluck Jonathan on Thursday promised that there would be relatively stable electricity supply in the country by the middle of 2014.

Speaking to a cross section of Nigerians resident in Malabo, the capital of Equatorial Guinea, he also said that the present level of insecurity in the country as a result of the activities of the Boko Haram sect, would brought to an end as he was sure that the terrorists would be overcome.

He regretted that the impression had been created in the public domain which suggested that no achievement has been made by government whereas steady progress was being recorded in various aspects of the nation's life.

Jonathan said: "On our own part, we believe that as a government we will continue to do what is right. We are yet two years in government and from all indications, we are not going to praise ourselves but we are moving towards the right direction. There are indices even

though the Nigerian political environment is so heated up that if you read the papers you will even think that nothing is happening."

He noted that the country was peaceful while the food prices which were projected to rise as a result of the recent devastating flood in the country have remained stable, saying that what this mean was that "these are not the days when manna fall from heaven. That means people are planning and people are working in the country."

The President added: "I want to assure you that our power situation is improving and by the time we conclude our privatization process that is going on, we will conclude it this 2013, things will begin to improve and before the middle of 2014, things we get to a point where we will begin to enjoy relative stable power supply."

Jonathan remarked that government was also massively intervening in road infrastructure, the first time in the history of the country, adding that even though the administration may not be able to satisfy all, it would do its best to continue to improve on the economy and

create job for the unemployed youth.

On the the activities of Boko Haram, he conceded that it was a major challenge for government, noting that even though such terrorist activities were not peculiar to Nigeria, government would continue to confront it with a view to bringing it to an end adding, " we are not sleeping, we are woking very hard."

The President urged Nigerians in Equatorial Guinea not to be deterred by their negative experiences in the country as the Nigerian government intended to discuss with its Equatorial Guinean counterpart on ways to make their stay much more pleasant.

He revealed that President Teodore Mbasogo had confirmed to him that Nigerians in the country were better behaved than other foreigners and encouraged them to keep up with their good attitude.

Earlier, the Nigerian Ambassador in Equatorial Guinea, Sunday Bassey, had called for the strengthening of the Nigerian mission in the country in view of the country's strategic interest to Nigeria.

Group accuses Bauchi lawmakers of poor performance From Ahmed Kaigama, Bauchi

T

he Bauchi Alliance for Good Governance (BAGG) has accused the State House of Assembly of compromising its statutory functions.

The leader of BAGG, Comrade Chindo Abdulsalam, stated this while talking to newsmen in Bauchi yesterday, saying that the alliance is disturbed by the excesses of the executive which are not

being checked by the lawmakers.

He alleged that majority of the members were handpicked and imposed on the electorate in 2011 with the promise to sing the praises of the executive against laid down rules and regulations.

According him, despite glaring failure of the executive to address the plight of the State civil servants and teachers, the legislative arm of government has remained

silent.

“The State House of Assembly is now a mere rubber stamp of the executive. It has outlived its usefulness to the society and this should not be allowed to continue. Those aggrieved civil servants should liaise with their respective localities to start initiating the process of recalling those erring members of the State House of Assembly”, he said.

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PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND SATURDAY 23 — SUNDAY 24, MARCH, 2013

News

FG to inaugurate power projects in June

By Abdulrahman Abdulraheem

T

he Federal Government is set to inaugurate about ten plants constructed under the National Integrated Power Project (NIPP) .

Governor Gabriel Suswam of Benue state flanked by Permanent Secretary in the ministry of power, Godknows Igali and the Managing Director of Niger Delta Power Holding Company, James Olootu yesterday addressed State

House Correspondents after a meeting of the NIPP board at the Vice President's wing of the State House and announced that distribution, transmission and generation plants would be commissioned in phases from June this year.

The meeting was chaired by Vice President, Namadi Sambo.

Suswam added that the board also discussed the privatization process of power companies which will be marketed in a road show

across the globe before they are privatized .

"The power companies would be privatized but after a road show is undertaken to make sure the country gets the best form of businesses. A committee will be set up to Marshall the entire process of privatization and members of the committee will be unveiled at the next meeting, " Suswam said.

According to Suswam, some of the power plants which are mostly thermal plants have been

completed while some are at different stages of completion.

Fielding questions from reporters, James Olootu noted that the roadshow would involve as many countries as possible in order to have good international representation.

Godknows Igali also assured Nigerians that the current drop in power supply will soon be over while Suswam explained that the drop was due to the fact that Shiroro Dam was off for sometime but it's back now.

Nasarawa govt donates N10m to victims of Agbashi communal crisis

T L-R: Consultant, Mr Douglas Tweddle, Assistant Comptroller-General of Customs, Dr David Agbaje and Custom Area Comptroller, Mr Kuffi Dan at a Customs stakeholders meeting in Port Harcourt on Friday. Photo Mahmud Isa, Joe Oroye and NAN.

Nigeria needs N350bn annually to meet water, sanitation target —Ochekpe

T

he Minister of Water Resources, Mrs Sarah Ochekpe has said that Nigeria needs N350 billion yearly to meet water and sanitation target Ochekpe said this in Abuja yesterday at an event to mark the 2013 World Water Day. She said that available statistics had shown that only 60 per cent of the population had access to safe drinking water while 32 per cent had access to sanitation facilities.

According to her, this falls short of MDGs target of 75 per cent and 65 per cent for water and sanitation respectively.

Ochekpe stressed that water and sanitation services were platforms for inter-sector collaboration and partnership among relevant institutions.

The minister noted that sectors such as power, agriculture, environment, health and education needed water as an essential ingredient in the transformation agenda programme.

She, therefore, urged all

stakeholders to play their expected roles so that the water sector would be positioned effectively to achieve the MDGs target by 2015, the vision 20:2020 and the Africa water target.

The minister also underscored the fact that with the nation's growing population, access to quality drinking water and sanitation had become a challenge.

This challenge, she said, could not be tackled by the government alone, especially with the lean resources and competing needs, hence, the need for cooperation.

The minister further stressed the need to improve the sector's performance and to expand the water infrastructure to meet all demands.

“Nigeria is blessed with abundant water resources potential estimated at 267 billion cubic litres of surface water and 92 billion cubic litres of underground water,” Ochekpe said.

Earlier, the Country Representative of WaterAid, an

international NGO, Mr Michael Ojo said that his organisation would join the subscribers of `End Water Poverty' and `Keep Your Promises Alliance' to call on decision makers to stick to pledges they had made.

“Making access to water and sanitation a priority and ensuring improved access beyond the 2015 MDGs deadline is a key priority for WaterAid as I’m sure it is for everyone here.''

According to him, Liberia’s President Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf is launching a WaterAid report called `Everyone Everywhere’ at a UN event on water in The Hague, The Netherlands, as part of activities to commemorate the day.

Ojo, therefore, urged all present to sign a petition banner for the 'Keep Your Promises Campaign' as part of their cooperation on this year’s World Water Day celebration.

In her goodwill message, Ms Irina Bokova, the UNESCO Director-General advocated for a stronger water governance between and within states.

he Nasarawa State Government yesterday in Lafia donated N10 million to the victims of the recent communal clash in Agbashi, Ekye Development Area of the state The Executive Secretary, Nasarawa Emergency Management Agency, Dr Idris Abdullahi presented the money to the victims in Agbashi, the headquarters of the area yesterday.

Abdullahi was represented by Mallam Danladi Imam, the Agency's Director of Administration and Supplies.

He said the gesture was part of government efforts to reduce the effects of Jan.14, 2013 invasion by “suspected militants” which resulted to loss of lives and property Abdullahi also explained that it was to enable the people re-start their lives, adding that the amount would be shared among over 200 households affected by the incident.

He called on the people to make judicial use of the money for the purpose intended.

The executive secretary urged the people to tolerate one another for the overall development of the state and to complement the state government’s efforts to ensure peace and development.

Abdullahi reminded the people that peace would boost the effort of Gov. Al-makura led – administration to deliver more dividends of democracy.

Responding, Jonah Egye, one of the recipients, thanked Gov.AlMakura for the gesture and promised to make judicious use of the money for the purpose intended.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) observed that social and economic activities are gradually returning to normalcy, two months after the clash in the area.

(NAN)

NAWOJ wades into Bauchi industrial crisis From Ahmed Kaigama, Bauchi

T

he Nigeria Union of Women Journalists (NAWOJ) in Bauchi has pleaded with the state government and the striking Academic Staff Union of Secondary Schools (ASUSS) to reach a truce on the strike action embarked upon by the union members.

A communiqué issued after the Union’s Congress meeting yesterday in Bauchi noted that the strike was detrimental to the educational development of the state, hence the need for government and relevant stakeholders to find solution to the problem.

The communiqué signed by Polina Kefas and Beatrice Gondyi also called on the Bauchi state government to take proactive measure in ensuring that the prevalence of measles in neighboring states does not escalate into the state.

According to the communiqué, NAWOJ had during the meeting inaugurated a nine member committee to serve as advisory body to the union, as well as evolve ways for improved revenue generation for the association.

The Congress appreciated the cordial relationship existing between the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) and expressed optimism that it would be sustained.

Tambuwal urges Muslim scholars to correct misconception about Islam he Speaker, House of

T

Representatives, Aminu Tambuwal, has urged Muslim scholars to enlighten Nigerians on Islamic teachings and principles to correct misconceptions.

Tambuwal made the call during the opening of the 27th National Qu'ranic Recitation Competition in Gusau yesterday's He said there was need to create awareness on the Islamic teachings of peace. ''I want the Muslim scholars to make it widely known that Islam encourages peace and anybody that wants to spoil the religion will not succeed. `` ''No where is violence mentioned in the Qu'ran and the Holy Prophet never encouraged violence among Muslims. `` ''Ullamah should continue to teach the youth about peace and stability; without peace and stability, there cannot be unity and progress.''

Thirty states are participating in the competition.

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PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND SATURDAY 23 — SUNDAY 24, MARCH, 2013

Digest

Meet woman with longest hair in the world T

h e r e are a number of women (and men) who have some pretty long hair, but there is only one who currently holds the record for the longest hair in the world! According to Guinness World Records, the current world recorder holder for the longest hair is Xie Qiuping (China). Ms. Qiuping's hair measures 5.627 m (18 ft 5.54 in).

Xie, one of the photo shots before hair reached current length She officially set the record in May of 2004, and this picture is part of an amazing photo gallery featuring her famous locks. Her hair was measured to

be just short of an astounding 18 and half feet. She must use an entire bottle of shampoo every time she washes it.

She says she has grown her hair out since 1973, when she was 13-years-old.

Her record was set seven years ago, Xie started growing her hair when she was 13 (1973). She keeps her long hair clean and looking beautiful. Her hair is so long, she has an assistant to help carry it when she walks.

Do you have the patience and time to grow your hair out for over 30 years?

If so, you could be the next record holder for the world's longest hair.

...Not as smooth as Xien’s, Hay holds record for longest hair in men’s category

T

he record holder for the longest hair in the men's category is Tran Van Hay. Mr. Hay hasn't cut his hair for over 42 years and while his is not as silky and beautiful as Xie Quiping's, he definitely has an interesting style!

PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND SATURDAY 23 — SUNDAY 24, MARCH, 2013

PAGE 8

Interview

PDP purchased victory —Masari

Former Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Aminu Bello Masari, was Chairman of the Congress for Progressive Change (CPC), FCT Area Council Election Monitoring Committee for the just concluded elections, which PDP won all but one. In this interview with Jamila Nuhu Musa, he alleges that members of the National Assembly as well as government officials and the PDP openly purchased votes at N3000, N5000 per person to gain victory, lamenting it's a wrong signal for 2015.

Hon. Aminu Bello Masari

W

hat is your opinion about the just concluded FCT

election?

I think it will be wrong for anyone to look at the outcome of the election from the point of view of who won or who lost.

Fundamentally you should look at the situation where you have over 90000 registered voters but in total, those who came out to vote were not more than 40,000, below 4 percent number of registered voters had voted. This is of great concern to any responsible person that either people have lost faith in elections, and if they have lost faith in

election it means they have lost faith in the democratic experience. So our main concern is not that we lost election, rather the concern is that what happened last Saturday is more than an apathy because we had an election where local issues which really should be of importance to the electorates were seemingly insignificant, you are electing a council who will be responsible for primary education, water and sanitation, housing, agriculture but you do not show interest in those areas?. There were also polling stations where the return was zero, nobody came out to be accredited and nobody came out for election. So what should be

of importance to one, to the government, if the government is responsible enough and to INEC is that if this trend should continue it means that people have lost faith in the election process simply because they believe that whatever they had voted would not be what they would get. So if there is a loss of confidence of this magnitude then it should be a source of concern to each and every one of us.

Despite all of this, on the conduct in this part of Nigeria, my experience is that the local leadership, the traditional institution has great influence

in the outcome of elections and this traditional authority is under threat, harassment, intimidation and outright blackmail by the FCT leadership. So really you could see that this made the people to decide that since 'we are not going to be allowed to elect the people that we want, we may as well shun coming out completely'.

But whichever way you look at it, it is not good for the system. I think what we saw last Saturday is beyond partisan concern it should be a national concern.

In a nutshell you are saying it's a wrong signal for 2015?

Of course. In 2015 people may

not come out because of the reason that whatever they elect may not be what they would get. And we saw in this FCT election, even the few that came out, that some members of the National Assembly were procuring votes at N300, N5000 openly, per person and this is very dangerous. People thought that today's victory is the ultimate goal but we are looking at the future, the long term sustainability of the democratic system in Nigeria, if we were looking at just winning today rather than the future, and we know the kind of people who are Contd on Page 35

PAGE 38

PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND SATURDAY 23 — SUNDAY 24, MARCH, 2013

Interview

‘PDP purchased victory’ Contd from Page 8 in authority now we would not have participated but we believe that this is a process which every responsible person must be involved in so that at the end of the day we get a better system of governance but what transpired on Saturday with government officials busy buying votes openly was frightening.

So you do not agree with the reports that PDP crushed the opposition in the FCT? Those journalists or media that reported that were narrow minded in their thinking, for not looking at the statistics and making analysis on how people voted. Let me give you an example, in Wuse 2 where even CPC won, the CPC candidate won with only 500 votes. This is an area where we had 77,000 voters and what we had in combination of the winner, losers and those that came out to vote was 1,500 people in all, this should be of concern to journalists. it is not who won and who lost, but looking at the picture as a whole and raising an alarm that something is fundamentally wrong in Nigeria.

In any case, in any local elections in this country has the opposition ever won anything? The results were predetermined, so we are not surprised.

What is the role of INEC in all these?

Well, I think going back to Uwais report which says there should be election tribunal, maybe if we have something in place, that even government officials know that they will be prosecuted, INEC knows it can be prosecuted, and security agencies know that under that law they can also be prosecuted, then maybe the issue of intimidating traditional institution, the issue of harassment or blackmailing them may not arise. During the most recent elections concluded in Kenya, there was a case where somebody was caught giving money, he was apprehended there and then, taken to court and sentenced to 3 years imprisonment without option of fine. So in a situation like this

certainly the officials of government, INEC or political parties themselves, at the end of the day will be more responsible because they know that whoever commits an offence would be dealt with. There was a case during the FCT election when an INEC official saw how money was being distributed and they chased the people out, away from the scene but you cannot prosecute them under any law. So as much as INEC has not been fair or just to opposition parties, at the same time you have to look at the new trend of rigging by the PDP where they openly used public funds to purchase votes because any money used by an official of the government is not his own money, it is public money being used to defraud the public.

The issue of APC registration has been generating controversy and one wonders, with the calibre of people in the merger that this kind of thing should happen?

There isn't any registration problem what is most important is for the opposition to merge as a political party, name is not the main issue and I think what you should have said we did, which we did not do properly, is that we did not take into consideration that there are some people out there that are ready to be used by PDP to cause confusion. But the fact is, if you say you are no longer merging under name A, you can still merge under name B and infact since we came out with the name before anybody went to INEC, it is wrong of INEC to accept from any other person, that name.

It was also wrong of INEC to come and say someone had submitted a registration with this name. Why I say it was wrong of INEC to say this is because INEC is not supposed to be the spokesperson of either PDP or the person who is claiming to have a political association because if you make a public statement of claim on a certain thing then you have right over it beyond anybody who comes behind government to sabotage it. There are some

“

During the most recent elections concluded in Kenya, there was a case where somebody was caught giving money, he was apprehended there and then, taken to court and sentenced to 3 years imprisonment without option of fine.

decided cases even in Britain on issue of such case of identity and I think whatever PDP is doing or will do, we should make sure the merger takes place under whichever name because it is not the name that matters but the merger.

Are you saying then that the merging parties may decide to register under another name?

Well, supposing we look at it from the worst case scenario, for INEC to say it is not registering us under that name, which is the worst case scenario. It does not mean that we should not be registered under any other name that we may chose to register. Now that we are becoming wiser that the irresponsibility has reached this level, because we know that PDP and its agents will do whatever it takes, whatever is possible to frustrate the merger. If you can recall some of them, including the PDP national chairman were saying the merger was dead on arrival. The reality of our situation is that we know that they will be against our merger but they cannot stop it.

Talking about stopping it, don't you think that given the antecedents of the ruling PDP, the APC may still not win in 2015, as it may be rigged out?

We believe that if the merging parties are merging sincerely, and going to work sincerely we can counter if not all, more than 50% of what PDP is doing now to rig up part of the politics because now we have the strength in terms of national spread, in terms of human resources if you look at the human resources available within the merging parties certainly the opposition now has a better chance of defeating the PDP and balancing the polity in terms of building a strong opposition. Whichever way, if we win we cannot say the PDP will not be a strong opposition, if we lose, PDP cannot say APC is not a strong opposition. But at least there will be proper check of the system when you have two strong parties, one in power and the other in opposition. We know that there will be the fifth columnist within the merging partners, those who will work for PDP, those who will work for their personal agenda and say if it fails they will go to PDP, we all know that. And then when the merger comes there may be some people who, even in the merging partners will opt out as individuals or even as a group.

There are some who are disenchanted with what is going on in the PDP and now they have an opportunity of another political platform within which to challenge PDP and challenge those issues they are in total disagreement within PDP.

Hon. Aminu Bello Masari Whichever way you look at it it is a win win situation for the country, the polity and democracy.

There have been issues of sectional groups like the Ohanaze, Afenifere, clamouring for 2015 how do you think the APC would tackle that?

Apart from what they have been saying, have they really as a tribe, as a region except under the mighty force of PDP ever done anything as a united front? You see Imo is APGA, Anambra is APGA, so what states do they have under PDP? They have Ebonyi, Enugu. I think there is a section of APGA within the merging parties, a section being led by Rochas Okorocha. But it is not surprising because Okorocha started on opposition politics, he was in APP, ANPP before he crossed over to PDP, and then in PDP when he was not comfortable especially during the primaries of Imo state, he joined APGA and today he is governor of Imo. So he is carrying his own personal force in APGA and he is carrying the same personal force to APC, this was a force he established since his early days in APP and you know he has been in leadership opposition of one association or another if you could remember he was the leader of the AA and also he is a philanthropist, with hospitals and

schools all over the country. I think his own contributions will be very useful to the merging partners.

Finally, there have been insinuations in some quarters that given the security situation in the north, elections may not hold in 2015. Do you think this may happen?

It is a highly irresponsible statement to make. Even in Somalia, I was there and there was election in Somaliland. In Nigeria, people are still traveling to Borno and Yobe states where there is the highest level of insecurity, you cannot say election cannot hold in about 90% of the north but we are afraid that this a prelude to what the federal government may do to use the military to create insecurity and opportunity to impose curfews and then rig election because when you have curfews and limitation of movement, only government officials, that is security agencies and the people they put in their vehicles are allowed to move around. I personally am a victim of that during the past gubernatorial elections a curfew was imposed and only PDP and security agents were allowed to go to collating centres to write whatever they wanted to write. But we are prepared to make sure that whatever happened in 2011 does not happen in 2015.

PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND SATURDAY 23 — SUNDAY 24, MARCH, 2013

PAGE 9

Cover

How certificate craze drove part time graduates to illegal NYSC camps in Nasarawa

The fake corpers at the fake NYSC Camp in Tammah Nasarawa

By Ali Abare Abubakar

T

he significance Nigerians attach to certificates has become legendary, with everyone of school age chasing one form of certification or the other, to be used in seeking employment.

This craze for certificates however, took a turn for the worst recently, when operatives of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Nasarawa state, uncovered an illegal National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) camp in Tammah area of Nasarawa

local government area of the state.

This illegal camp, ran by one Mr. Chinedu, who has consistently escaped arrest, lure and conscript mostly part time graduates from universities across the country for a brief stint in the bush after which, ostensibly in collusion with officials of the NYSC, obtain and deliver authentic discharge certificates to these "corpers".

It is common knowledge that graduates from part time programmes ran by most universities across the country,

which has not been accredited by the National University Commission (NUC), do not participate in the mandatory one year national service.

But it is also generally agreed that the quest for certificates, has led many a Nigerian to throw caution to the winds and to go to any length in the search for a certificate that will enable the owner secure employment. This ugly trend has led many astray, with the NSCDC again, for the fourth time running, uncovering a

secretive, illegal camp in Nasarawa town, of Nasarawa state, for a set of part time graduates who knowing fully well they are not qualified to participate in the exercise, yet agreed to take part in a shoddy arrangement that will facilitate their getting NYSC discharge certificates.

62 fake corps members were arrested by officers of the NSCDC on routine surveillance, a kilometre away from Nasarawa Contd on Pages 10&11

PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND SATURDAY 23 — SUNDAY 24, MARCH, 2013

PAGE 10

Cover

How certificate craze drove part time graduates to illegal NYSC camps in Nasarawa Contd from Page 9

town, on a plot of land clinging to a flat rock, an open space with no building close by except for an uncompleted guard house leading to the farm. The coordinator of the illegal scheme, the same elusive Mr. Chinedu, took these youths on a while goose chase from Kubwa, after he made them pay as from N50,000 to N200, 000, to be part of the exercise. The "corpers" were expected to undergo orientation there which was to last for three days, starting on a Friday and ending on a Sunday.

Unfortunately for both the organisers and the beneficiaries, alert NSCDC officials, conscious of the security situation in the country, became curious when two loaded Coaster buses, suddenly veered of the road, at the GSS Tammah junction, to head to the bushes surrounding the area.

Investigations by our reporter who visited the scene, revealed that shortly after the buses conveying the fake NYSC members to their camping site, officials of the NSCDC appeared on the scene, following which the coordinator, sensing trouble, sped off in his Camry car but not before an officer shattered the windscreen of the car, with Mr. Chinedu said to have sustained a minor injury from glass shards.

An eyewitness to the ensuing commotion, when the NSCDC officials stormed the illegal camp, Hassan Bala, a resident of Marmara area of the town, narrated to our reporter, that he was working on his farm that day, when he saw two buses loaded with some people arrive at a stony enclave a little distance from his farm.

"Shortly after their arrival, someone came and directed them to move ahead, that they were at a wrong place. So they moved ahead and I saw them go ahead."

He went on to say that shortly after the buses left, a black vehicle conveying officials of the NSCDC zoomed towards the area the buses went and curiosity got the better part of him as he left to find out what was happening.

He added that what he saw as the officials arrived the illegal camp was confusion, with everyone running to save dear life. And he saw the Camry belonging to Mr. Chinedu, driven at reckless speed, sped away back to the town.

NYSC Director-General Brig-General Nnamdi Okore Affia

Parading the 62 fake corpers arrested at the state headquarters of the NSCDC, 44 females and 18 males, the state commandant, Mr. Andekin Amos Musa, while cautioning parents to monitor their children and wards very closely to curb their excess, disclosed that the suspects will be charged to court as soon as investigation is concluded.

In a chat with journalists shortly after parading the suspects, Mr. Andekin, in response to a question on whether the coordinators of the illegal camp, are working with collaborators who are employees of the NYSC, considering that all the suspects were issued with original NYSC uniform, said, "one can never tell, since the coordinators are still at large", adding that it is only through proper investigation that

it will come to light if they had insiders.

He disclosed that majority of the suspects claimed to be graduates of part time programmes from the university of Jos, who knowing they are not qualified to attend the service, agreed to participate in the illegal scheme, with many of them under interrogation, saying they joined in order to get discharge certificates that will enable them further their education, as well as secure employment.

Confirming that it is the third time fake corpers are being arrested in the state, the commandant, stated that the earlier batches arrested have all been prosecuted, and that the 62 paraded will be taken to court immediately, stressing that, the corps is doing all in its powers to checkmate the

activities of illegal NYSC camp operators in the state.

In his words, " you know crime, you may not combat it but you can reduce it, and by so doing and with the cooperation of the public, we will be able to eradicate it with time. It has to be a continued effort.

So now we know that whenever it is approaching the period to begin a service year, we have to intensify our surveillance."

One of the suspects, Miss Keziah Danjuma, claiming to be a graduate of part time Management Science from the University of Jos, told journalists how she came to be part of the illegal NYSC, saying, "I heard about it from a friend and he connected the coordinator with me and he started calling me."

Contd on Page 11

PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND SATURDAY 23 — SUNDAY 24, MARCH, 2013

PAGE 11

Cover

How certificate craze drove part time graduates to illegal NYSC camps in Nasarawa Contd from Page 13

She disclosed that she was asked to pay for the programme, in which she paid N50,000 to the coordinator.

On how she felt after the said Mr. Chinedu took her and the others to a remote enclave in Nasarawa, instead of the official NYSC camp in Keffi, Keziah allowed a smile to spread across her face, briefly dispersing the palpable fear in her eyes. " We were not aware and we were to meet him at a particular place and we were so happy when we entered the bus and started going."

She stated that the coordinator issued them with the NYSC uniforms they put on, adding that the intention was for them to snap pictures donning the uniforms and then they will vacate the camp.

Further investigations by our reporter revealed that after the fake corpers have their pictures taken, the coordinator will await the time for the Passing Out Parade of the genuine corps members in Keffi before sneaking in the fake corpers, who will be also billed to collect the NYSC discharge certificates.

One of the suspects who spoke under condition of anonymity, confided to Peoples Daily Weekend, that Mr. Chinedu is well connected and that the NYSC discharge certificate he will issue them will be as authentic as the uniforms he procured for them.

When our reporter sampled the views of the people on the matter, many are of the view that corruption has permeated every sector and that the coordinators of the illegal NYSC camp, operate in collusion with some staff of the NYSC. Many were of the view that arresting the graduates who have been lured and misled, may after all be a temporary relief so long as the coordinators of the scheme are free.

When our correspondent visited the state headquarters of the NSCDC, two days after the fake corpers were paraded, Mr. Oti Abubu, the command's spokesman, disclosed that the suspects have been taken to the Upper Area Court in Keffi, charged with a three count charge of criminal conspiracy, impersonation and illegal possession of NYSC uniform, following which six of the suspects said they were not guilty, with the judge sentencing the rest to a two

Mr. Andekin Amos Musa, Nasarawa Commandant, NSCDC

The site of the illegal NYSC camp on the outskirts of Nasarawa

PAGE 12

PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND SATURDAY 23 — SUNDAY 24, MARCH, 2013

Feature

Please release my discharge certificate, cries Saheed H

e was however abandoned by the NYSC officials while he was on admission at the hospital and was not given his discharge certificate after he completed his service year alongside other 2012 Batch A Corps Members in Osun State.

Narrating his ordeal Saheed, who described his survival as "divine" expressed worries over NYSC's inability to take his issue seriously.

"That very day we boarded the bus from Ido, Flight Transport Service, we were 12 corps members in number, most of us from MAPA, I don't really know what happened but I was told that the driver died immediately after the accident, we are up to 3 or 4 corps members that survived the accident with various degree of injuries, while the rest died as a result of the accident.

According to him, he received his Call Up letter on Match 3rd2012, with call up number "NYSC/MAPA/2012/ 062513 requesting me to report to Taraba State for my orientation, when I woke up in Wesley Hospital in Ilesha, where I was treated, I saw some parts of my body burnt , till today I can't explain how I survived it. I spent more than seven days at the hospital before going home because I could not afford to pay my hospital bill as it was running into hundreds of thousands.

"On getting home I continued to take care of myself using all prescribed drugs the doctor gave me, my parents became worried that nobody from NYSC came to visit me, they felt since the scheme sent me to Taraba, they should take responsibility of what happened to me on my way there rather than abandoning me to my fate".

Nobody from NYSC called to even sympathise with me, I felt very discouraged but willing to

Saheed Olaniyi Olarewaju, graduate of Moshood Abiola Polytechnic Abeokuta, Ogun State, met a cruel fate along IIesha-Akure expressway on his way to Taraba state, while travelling for his one year mandatory National Youth Service (NYSC). The vehicle he boarded was involved in a fatal accident which claimed the lives of about 12 prospective Corps Members who burnt beyond recognition. Olarewaju who was of the NYSC 2012 Batch A, was one of the survivors, but he is yet to receive his discharge certificate. Ayodele Samuel, reports.

Saheed on his hospital bed in 2012 after a ghastly motor accident serve and continue with my life, because I am the first son of my parents and I can't allow one accident to render me useless, so I went back to my school in Abeokuta with my call-up letter because it did not get destroyed in the accident to be deployed somewhere else with the Batch B, there I was asked to report to NYSC office in Oshogbo. On May 26th,

“

Nobody from NYSC called to even sympathise with me, I felt very discouraged but willing to serve and continue with my life, because I am the first son of my parents and I can't allow one accident to render me useless, so I went back to my school in Abeokuta with my call-up letter because it did not get destroyed in the accident to be deployed somewhere else with the Batch B

2012, I received a telephone call to come and have my call up letter at Osun state Oshogbo, when I got there I was given another call up letter attached with a letter that I had been redeployed to Osun to complete the service year, I completed the service year alongside my colleagues in Ayedade Local Government Secretariat because I was not fit to teach as the wound I sustained from the accident still bled. When I got to Ikire I was not paid my allowance for three months and I was not given accommodation and was later told to go back home and treat myself but should be reporting every month for clearance", he said.

When asked if he informed NYSC officials of the incident, he said, "I didn't take any step but the NYSC in Oshogbo called me to come and collect my second call up letter, that was the only time we communicated and when I got to the Secretariat in Oshogbo to

report the incident, I was told that they had been informed initially, so they did not have anything to say and I was congratulated for surviving the accident, he said.

He however lamented that the hospital bills were paid by his parents, "I was the one buying my drugs. I can't give the total amount spent on my medication because it was my parents that were paying the bills and we are still spending money on my medication and my mother told me that they spent almost N200,000 before I was taken to another hospital.

At the moment, money is not my problem because all I want is to be given my discharge certificate, so that I can start looking for a job. I can't continue to stay at home, I need to work and earn a living in fact, this is the area I need help because my parents struggled to give me education so that I can become somebody in life, they are aged now, why should I still remain a burden to them,

I have my younger ones to look after, even the job I was managing I was sacked recently after working for just 3 days.

My boss saw the injuries on my body and accused me of being a cultist, I tried to explain that I had a fatal accident that left me with the marks on my body but it fell on deaf ears.

Secondly, when I got to Lagos State University Teaching Hospital ( LAUTECH) the doctor said I needed surgery.

On his opinion on the Scheme, Saheed said the NYSC remains an important aspect of graduates' lives. I am not in support of the call for scraping of NYSC. The scheme remains a uniting force holding this country together, I am proud to have participated despite the ugly incident I experienced but some of its policies should be reviewed such as to make provision for transporting graduates from Schools to the orientation camps in the country by responsible drivers.

PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND SATURDAY 23 — SUNDAY 24, MARCH, 2013

PAGE 13

Cover

Memoir of an unfulfilled Corps member

By Ayodele Samuel Ayokunle Memoir of an unfulfilled Corps member

By Ayodele Samuel Ayokunle I was eager to obey the clarion call, no matter the state, I promised not to relocate.

I had these passion years before NYSC time.

My service year began on a very interesting note; I made good friends as we began the 23 hour- journey from Lagos to the Nature's gift to the Nation, Taraba state.

My friends are not well traveled, they are all 'aje butter' (pampered kids), our bond grew as we began the journey with heavy prayers from a pastor who found himself in our bus.

Some of us nearly weep as they bid their parents who escorted them to the park farewell. Thou I didn't allow my Daddy take me to the park, my mum was soaked with fear for the safety of her last born.

In my mind, I was scared, 'Taraba!

North East! Boko Haram! My mind was beating fast but I kept a smiling face while my co-travelers wore sad and hard faces, I sparked up various arguments to ensure we had an interesting trip.

We all slept off around Akure and woke up in Kogi state; we at this point had several rounds of discussions. Our trip was fun but the bad roads between Ajaokuta , Otukpo and Gboko almost marred the journey.

We at last arrived Government College Jalingo, NYSC temporary orientation camp to the warm arms of dedicated NYSC staff members who took us through the registration process.

It was a rigorous exercise, there, I learnt to be patient because all through the service year, one had to queue up for just everything.

My 21 regimented days at the orientation camp in Jalingo under a caring mother, Hajia Zainab Isah, then State Coordinator was fun filled, it was a very good way to begin a service year.

While in Camp, my commitment to the youth service became stronger. Unlike many other corps members who relocated due to the security situation in the country, it was not an option for me at all after listening to Hajiya Isah's long sermon about unity in the country.

“

As Amnesty could be said to be the last resort, it is no less important if it is applied, whilst, urging the President to eschew sentiment being insinuated in some quarters and apply the wisdom behind the amnesty option.

Many of us stayed back because of the confidence Hajiya Isah reposed in us, she presented herself as our mother in the 'no man's land' of Taraba, this she displayed at every given opportunity.

When the first bomb went off in Jalingo around April, she called almost all corps members posted to the area on phone, she ordered us to stay indoor for her to study the security situation in the area because our safety was close to her heart.

She took it upon herself to visit the remotest places she posted Corps members, checking on our welfare. Her visit to Bang 3 corner, somewhere around Cameroun border in the interior Sardauna Local Government, more than ten hour's drive from her Jalingo residence will always remain fresh in my memory.

All these excited me to feel secured in the Nature's gift to the Nation.

I oiled my contacts and began to talk to the people, learning little Hausa language and preparing for my Community Development (CDS) projects.

With help of my indigene friends, I located and visited Wurom Musa Village, a small community of about 200 dwellers but which suffers lack of good roads to Jalingo main town, nonfunctional health care center and lack of potable water.

After several meetings with the community heads and stakeholders using the skills I acquired during my orientation, we saw the need to open up the village for development.

The Jeroum (community head) was of the opinion that the road will open up the village for commerce, so we agreed to embark on grading the road leading to the village; we were putting machineries in place for my

dream project, after meetings upon meetings at the State Ministry of Works to release a grader for the project was concluded.

We had received serious commitment and support from stakeholders and other sponsors, something I never expected could happen.

A few days after Hajiya Isah was redeployed to NYSC headquarters, Abuja precisely on September 6th 2012, around 1 a.m, our lodge housing, with about 24 corps members located in the heart of Jalingo was attacked by gunmen.

The incident left many thoughts on my mind, why should a Christian corps member lodge be singled out for a mindless attack ?

I lay half dead on the floor when one of the gang members threatened to behead me, the Boko Haram sect came to my mind but I was quick to remember that, Tarabians I knew in the few months I spent were peace loving and hard working people.

Till date, it remains a sad experience for me, I had never felt that way in my life, the way I felt the 40 minutes the attack lasted. I lost many things money could not replace till date.

Attacking defenseless and armless corps members was the least of my imagination, my annoyance grew with the initial response of the new state coordinator who saw the incident as nothing and the Taraba state government 'we don't care attitude' until we told the world our story.

Unlike when some Corps members were assaulted in Zing Local Government during Hajiya Isah's tenure, she mobilized security agencies in the middle of the night, moved to Zing to rescue the victims, she went to court and ensured

the perpetrators bagged a year jail term for the assault.

Hajiya Isah didn't stop at that, she went ahead to blacklist the community in posting of corps members, just to serve as deterrent to any other community who joked with the safety of her corps members.

But in the case of the new coordinator, the reverse was the case. The outcome of the media cry I spearheaded was victimization and frustration.

In our own case, the new state coordinator was not interested in going after our attackers; all he did was to grant a press interview denying our attack, calling us names.

Till date, the state government neither commiserated with us on the incident nor condemned the attack while the police said the bandits were ' street boys who came with stick and cutlass.'

Yet till date, the police have not arrested the 'street boys'.

The state NYSC acted in its own volition because NYSC at the national level condemned the attack, collaborated and sympathized with us.

The state police Command saw the media reports on the attack as undermining them and would stop at nothing to punish its peddlers.

The last option was to relocate out of the state, abandon Wurom Musa, my CDS project. The community leader tried to appeal to us not to go since the arrangement for the project was 40 percent perfected but my mind was made up, all I was seeing was myself out of Taraba, my family members were singing relocation to my ears.

Amidst the disappointment, I left Taraba state to Osun state where I completed the mandatory service year barely two months to my passing out.

PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND SATURDAY 23 — SUNDAY 24, MARCH, 2013

PAGE 14

Special Report

Land tussle: How Kokona communities are battling former envoy in Nasarawa A

nother crisis looms in Nasarawa as people in Kokona communities are at daggers drawn with a former envoy, Alhaji Yahaya Abdullahi.

A c c o r d i n g to community leaders in the area, peace has eluded members of the community for the past 15 years, since when the former envoy and his company stormed the area, intimidating the people, arresting them and even remanding some of them in prison custody, all in a bid to drive them away from their ancestral homes, which the people have so far resisted.

Narrating their ordeal to Peoples Daily Weekend in Angwan Basso, a representative of the communities, Malam Suleiman Umar Babangida, said their travails began some thirty years ago when Alhaji Yahaya Abdullahi, then Nigeria's Ambassador to France, arrived the area in company of about 8 Europeans, informing the inhabitants that government was considering the area for possible solid mineral exploitations and that the foreigners were there to conduct feasibility studies.

He explained that the villagers then gladly accompanied the former envoy and his visitors to conduct on the spot assessment of the area spanning the six communities, after which both the Ambassador and the Europeans left.

Malam Suleiman however regretted that 6 years later, after Alhaji Yahaya Abdullahi, who was no longer an ambassador returned to the area, informing the people that government had taken over the land and that they must seek

Peace has so far eluded members of six communities in Kokona local government area of Nasarawa state, following the threat by a Keffi based company, Yabah General Enterprises Limited, owned by a former Ambassador to France, Alhaji Yahaya Abdullahi to forcefully reclaim their land spread across six communities, comprising Angwan Basso, Jamaa Alu, Angwan Abeshi, Angwan Maitakalmi, Matan Fada and Agwan Mairumbu. They spoke with our Correspondent, Ali Abubakar Abare in Lafia.

Parents picking school pupils from school in Jama’a Alu his permission before putting any part of the land into use, for which members of the communities refused to comply.

Nasarawa state Gov. Alhaji Umaru Tanko Al-makura

Then allegedly began series of threat, intimidation and use of force by Alhaji Abdullahi to try and eject the people from their homes.

Malam Suleiman narrated further that, "from that moment we knew no respite as he continued to arrest us, even those who were innocently working on their farms were arrested by policemen and we had to bail them from the Area Command in Keffi."

At a point, Alhaji Yahaya effected the arrest of six members of the communities, who were then detained at the Area Command in Keffi and were only released after their family members raised N20, 000 to secure their bail.

The community leader disclosed that at a point, when Alhaji Yahaya appeared in company of some persons, allegedly seeking to buy a portion of the land in the area, the villagers protested, with the former envoy and his visitors

chased away. He added that shortly afterwards, policemen came to the area and arrested some of the community leaders who were then detained.

Two weeks later, after those that were detained had been released, the Area Commander in Keffi, ordered for their re-arrest on the charge that they resisted access to the land when Alhaji Yahaya visited the area again.

After detaining them for 3 days, they were taken to the Magistrate Court in Keffi, from where they were remanded for three days at the Keffi prison.

While the case was on-going at the court, according to Suleiman, Alhaji Yahaya went back to the area in company of policemen but they again faced stern resistance from the inhabitants of the land, for which more community members were arrested and detained for four days before being remanded in prison custody for another two days.

Malam Suleiman narrated

that at a point, Alhaji Yahaya resorted to the courts to reclaim the land, with the case running for more than three months at the Magistrate Court in Keffi before the case was relocated to Garaku, headquarters of Kokona local government area.

He expressed his worry that Alhaji Yahaya is asking them to vacate their homes and farmlands, even when their parents who were born there had assured them that the land belonged to them and that not an inch was sold out.

"During this period, Alhaji Yahaya had come with four different prospective buyers for the land but we chased them away."

He disclosed further that at a point when Alhaji Yahaya was confronting total resistance, the former envoy resorted to using money to influence some prominent members of the communities to support him in his quest to seize the land. The former Contd on Page 15

PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND SATURDAY 23 — SUNDAY 24, MARCH, 2013

PAGE 15

Special Report Contd from Page 14 envoy was alleged to have distributed money, N100, 000 each to four community members while he also bought motorcycles for some.

Malam Suleiman showed to our reporter, the house of one of the beneficiaries, one Sarki, who had to relocate to Garaku after it became public knowledge that Alhaji Yahaya bought him a motorcycle and a handset, as inducement to support the former envoy's cause.

He stated that when Alhaji Yahaya had persecuted them beyond tolerance, members of the communities took their case before the authorities of Kokona local government area, who together with the paramount ruler of the area, the Abaga Toni, Dr. Sylvester Agi, after considering the matter asked them to go back to their homes, adding, "if Alhaji Yahaya is sure he owns the land let him go to court and claim it."

So far, he stated, the case which was instituted by the former envoy against members of the communities over the ownership of the land at a court in Keffi, has been struck out for the failure of the complainant to appear in court.

On his part, Shuaibu Odagi, a farmer of Aho origin residing in the area stated that farming brought him to the area over 40 years ago. He said for that period of time, he always paid royalties to the natives in Agwan Basso, who he said are the rightful owners of the land. He described the attempt

by Alhaji Yahaya to claim ownership of the land as "unrealistic", even as he restated that those people living in the area own the land.

Another community leader, Musa Odu, from Jamaa Alu, traced the history of their travails to 1981/82, when Alhaji Yahaya allegedly sought the cooperation of their parents based on the likely hood that solid minerals could result from the area and he was given the go ahead to review the prospect for the development of the people, given his influence in government but 10 years later, he came back to claim ownership of the land.

He disclosed that later on the former envoy attempted to collect tributes from those using the land for farming for which the people resisted; following which he resorted to all forms of threat and intimidation in a bid to reclaim the

Mr. Musa Odu flanked by community members in Jama’a Alu land.

He narrated that at one point Alhaji Yahaya arrested some community members and took them before the DPO in Garaku, who in the process of interrogation gathered that the Abaga Toni, was privy to the signing of a document claiming the sale of a certain portion of land. That when the DPO sought to confirm from the paramount ruler whether the said portion of land was the same being contested by the parties, the Abaga Toni failed to do so, after which the men were released.

Mr. Odu continued, he said that a son of the Ambassador had informed community leaders in the area that they will not continue with the cases still pending in court but that "he would try to reach out to the rightful owners of the land with a view to buying it."

Giving an insight into another attempt to sell the land, Odu said, "Alhaji Yahaya once brought some people from Lagos to buy the land

“

In the court summons issued to the parties on the 26th of February, 2013, a copy of which was made available to Peoples Daily Weekend, the complainants averred that they own the land at Jamaa Alu and Agwan Abeshi and appointed the accused persons in trust as caretakers over the land.

and the report got to us and we went to the area to ask them to leave. After heated arguments, we went before the Sarki Agwada, who took us before the then governor of the state, Alhaji Abdullahi Adamu, who concluded that as a son of the soil, if such a land had been sold, he would have known."

He disclosed that Alhaji Yahaya, had continued to go to court but had failed to appear, with the latest case instituted about six months ago struck out recently only for the former envoy to institute a fresh case at the Chief Magistrate Court in Garaku.

In the latest case involving Yabah General Enterprises Limited, Ambassador Yahaya Abdullahi and Alhaji Bashir Abdullahi, as complainants and Zakari Mai Kwara and Mai Angwa Danganga, as accused persons, in the court summons issued to the parties on the 26th of February, 2013, a copy of which was made available to Peoples Daily Weekend, the complainants averred that they own the land at Jamaa Alu and Agwan Abeshi and appointed the accused persons in trust as caretakers over the land. "That the accused persons collect tributes from farmers cultivating the land annually and transmit same to the complainants and that the complainants after purchasing the lands, they executed agreements evidencing the sale; they processed change of ownership and clearance and obtained Certificate of Occupancy over the land in 1986. For allegedly failing to remit tributes

for last year, having done so for the past 25 years, the complainants averred that the accused persons constitute the offences of criminal misappropriation, criminal breach of trust and mischief contrary to Section 309, 312 and 327 of the Penal Code respectively" stated the court summons.

When our reporter contacted the complainants for their view on the matter, a son of the former envoy, Alhaji Ahmed Yahaya Abdullahi said there was no need to speak on the matter as it is still pending before the court of law. He however maintained that since

the people are claiming ownership of the lands, it remains for Yabah General Enterprises to prove them wrong.

"Since they are claiming ownership, the courts will determine who actually owns the land", Alhaji Ahmed told our reporter in a phone chat.

Meanwhile, the people in the communities have cried out to the authorities to save them from the antics of a "rich and influential man" seeking to take away their inheritance, even as they told our reporter that they will soon send a petition to the Nasarawa State House of Assembly on the matter.

Malam Suleiman talking to our reporter at Angwan Basso

PAGE 16

PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND SATURDAY 23 — SUNDAY 24, MARCH, 2013

Online comments Foreign investors swoop on real estate opportunities in Nigeria This is the best information provided here.Logix Greens Senator Ita Enang's lies on oil blocs ownership The senator needs to be charge for perjury telling lies to the congress and NNPC should publish all the beneficiaries of the oil bloc and their states in order to neutralize the anti-north sentiment on the issue.

Abdullahi Umar Boko Haram is FG's business, el-Rufai alleges The issues of insecurity in our country should not be treated with levity or apportioning blames while the insurgents continue in their unholy acts. Notable personalities like el-Rufai and others need to be cautious in their contributions to a critical issues like this that involve human lives and capable of tearing our corporate existence apart.

Rather, the best thing at this time is on how to make the group see Girl snake charmer at Charanci market in Katsina reason to repent. Let us not allow the work of devil to destroy us.– FabMan Alex

Jonathan's plot to remove Amaechi fails again

My people please help us tell Amaechi to leave that office. Since the day the Supreme Court elected him as the governor of Rivers state, Amaechi will start a project that he will not completed.

Friday Ogbuigba 196 cadets take oath of allegiance in Makurdi Can you send me the wording of the 196 cadets' oath of allegiance in Makurdi? I need it for an academic comparative study of oaths of allegiance.Dr. Peter Schalk, professor emeritus, Uppsala, SwedenMy search for pure honey drove me to honey production Proprietress,

Children relaxing

'A and Shine Honey' Dear Sir,Kindly link me up with Mrs. Bukola Adesina, MD 'A and Shine

Honey'. I wish to start the Bee Keeping and Honey Production Business. – Bayo First lady's N4bn ego

trip How does Mrs. Jonathan's project become a project that the Nigerian people must pay for? Someone please

tell me. Is Nigeria not fast becoming a crazy nation?

– Efeturi Ojakaminor

PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND SATURDAY 23 — SUNDAY 24, MARCH, 2013

PAGE 17

News

Sambo's convoy in fatal crash, 2 die

By Agaju Madugba

T

ragedy struck yesterday as two supporters of the Vice President, Namadi Sambo were killed in an auto crash with many others injured on their way from Kaduna airport.

The accident occurred shortly after teaming supporters of the PDP had welcomed the VP at the airport, on his arrival to Kaduna for the North West PDP reconciliatory meeting.

The accident was said to have occurred at about 6 pm when his supporters were

driving to Kaduna town with enthusiasm.

Peoples Daily Weekend gathered that the Vice President arrived Kaduna for the PDP much touted reconciliation meeting with the stakeholders in the North West zone which was scheduled to take place today at the historical General Hassan Usman Katsina House, Kawo, Kaduna.

According to the Director General, Media and Publicity to Sambo, Umar Sani, both the dead and the injured persons have been taken to Army 44 Reference Hospital, Kaduna.

However, Sani said, "it was not

the VP's convoy that was directly involved in the accident, but one of the vehicles of his supporters, and in the process two persons were killed, and many others were injured who are now in the Army 44 Reference Hospital, Kaduna."

Also expected at today's meeting is the national chairman of the party, Alhaji Bamanga Tukur as well the Governors of the party from the zone.

As at the time of filling this report, no official statement from Kaduna State Government, while effort to get comments from the media aide to the Governor of Kaduna state proved futile.

Navy nabs Abuja fake recruitment syndicate

N

i g e r i a n Navy, in line with its zero tolerance for criminality both afloat and ashore said it has nabbed 3 members of a fake recruitment syndicate in Abuja.

Commander, Naval Unit, Mogadishu Cantonment Abuja Commodore Segun Adebari stated this yesterday in Abuja while addressing journalist at the cantonment.

Adebari said the fake syndicate fell for a bait of N45, 000.00 which they wanted to personally collect from one of their victim noting that they had previously collected N150, 000.00 from one Mr Bulus Doje who fell for their fraudulent antics.

The arrested members of the syndicate are; Paul Agade Manyep, AnthonyNgbe Monjack and Samuel Enoch Zamai.

He also said the ringleader of the suspected syndicate, who coordinates the fake training at Atu primary school Atimbo, Calabar, one Mr. Morris Okorobi Effiong also based in Calabar is still at large and is being trailed.

The Naval Commander further said that at the time of arrest, the 3 members of the syndicate had the following items on them; Fake Nigerian Navy Identity cards, photocopies of credentials belonging to several

individuals, mobile phones, Navy uniforms and accoutrement and a Mitsubishi Lancer with registration A2808LND. The suspects were later handed over to the police for further prosecution.

Army parades 14 suspected crude oil thieves

By Joy Baba

N

igerian Army 177 Guards Battalion Keffi Nassarawa State, yesterday paraded 14 suspected crude oil thieves, their tankers and five other men who claimed to be contractors with the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) Addressing press men before parading the suspects, Commander Guards Brigade Abuja, Brig. Gen Emmanuel Atewe said the 14 tankers were intercepted by their troops stationed at Toto check point in Toto Local Government of Nasarawa State, conveying substance suspected to be crude oil stolen from Abaji Area Council of FCT According to Atewe, "On 10th of March, 2013 at about 16000hrs, troops of 177 Guards Battalion stationed at Toto checkpoint intercepted 14 tankers conveying substance suspected to be crude oil on their way to Kano.

"However, the owner of the said tankers, one Mr. Joseph Amaechi attempted to bribe our troops which were out rightly rejected and the incidence promptly reported to appropriate authority and the tankers subsequently impounded.

The tankers were immediately

The suspects displaying fake ID card. Pix by Joy Baba

moved to 177 Guards Battalion in Keffi while the owner and 15 others were arrested".

The Guards Brigade Commander also said Amaechi admitted that he and other members of his syndicate broke and siphoned crude oil from NNPC pipeline along Abaji FCT adding that 1AK 47 riffle and a magazine were recovered from one of the suspects.

Atewe further said with preliminary investigations into the theft concluded by the Nigerian Army Corps of Military Police, the tankers as well as the suspects will be handed over to the Economic and Financial Crime Commission (EFCC) for further investigation and prosecution.

Speaking with the principal suspect, Mr. Joseph Amaechi, an indigene of Amanachi village of Orlu Local Government Area of Imo State said he was introduced to the "business" by one Mohammed Tanko whom he met in Warri some years back.

According to him "I was a trader selling cloths before Mohammed introduced me to the business" Amaechi further added that the said Mohammed also linked him to a tanker driver in Tafa LGA of Niger State who in turn got other drivers to help him lift the stolen oil.

He also said he get to know location of vandalized pipeline through the Mohammed in question.

"After loading, we will take it to the buyers who will trans- load between 2 to 4am and they in turn will sell it to those that will refine them" Amaechi also added.

He said he makes as much as 1.8 million per trip.

Speaking with journalists after the suspects were handed over to them, the Head of counter terrorism and general investigation of EFCC Abuja, Baba Mohammed described oil theft as a national embarrassment noting that the commission will do its investigation thoroughly with a view to charge them to court where they will know their fate.

Baba further said the commission will do all it can to ensure the suspects are brought to book.

Maina commends NASS for passing violence, rape laws

By Maryam Garba Hassan

M

i n i s t e r of Women Affairs and Social Development, Hajiya Zainab Maina, has commended the National Assembly for passing into law the Violence Against Persons and the Rape and Child Molestation Bills.

A statement signed by Director Press, at the ministry, Saghir el Mohammed stated that the Minister gave the commendation whilereceiving the Project Coordinator of Flying Broom Women's Communication and Research Association, an International Organisation based in Turkey, advocating for end of Child Marriages in the World.

Hajiya Zainab said Nigerian women and africa are grateful to the National Assembly for what she considers a Centenary gift, coming at a time when Nigeria is preparing to celebrate 100 years as a Nation.

"I wish to strongly commend the resolve of our National Assembly for this giant stride.

"Nigerian women and indeed women of Africa are in deep appreciation of this 'Centenary gift' to us from our National Assembly," she stated.

The statement further explained that the minister stressed that the Nigerian government under President Jonathan was committed to the protection and welfare of the girl-

child and women in the country.

She pointed out that the domestication of the Child Rights' Act, the establishment of a National Task Force on the GirlChild and the ministry's mandate of coordinating the ECOWAS Gender Development Centre Programme to sponsor indigent girls to schools were indicative of addressing the issue of child marriages, hawking, trafficking and child labour in Nigeria, the statement added.

According to her, early marriage of girls is a harmful traditional practice which has become extremely worrisome.

"Beside the risk associated with it during pregnancy, there is also the issue of complications during

delivery which often result in Vesico Vaginal Fistula (VVF) and the consequent disruption of education,"she pointed out.

The Minister regretted that despite extensive policy intervention to address child abuse and violence against women, the unhealthy practices still abound. She however expressed optimism that the visit of the Turkish delegation to Nigeria will establish workable strategies to further tackle the practices.

The Project Coordinator of Flying Broom, Seun Somuncuoglu, said the foundation is one of the 61 Civil Society Organisations in Turkey that is working closely with girls not brides Project, which is a global

partnership of NonGovernmental Organizations (NGOs) around the world to end Child Marriages.

She said they were in Nigeria to learn from its good practices of addressing the issues of child marriage, rape, trafficking and child labour, to enable them develop a workable national action plan to address the menace.

The Permanent Secretary in the Ministry, Dr. Habiba Muda Lawal, assured that the Ministry will continue to work with various stakeholders and especially nongovernmental organizations, to actualize the agenda of the present Administration of transforming Nigeria in all aspects of National development.

PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND SATURDAY 23 — SUNDAY 24, MARCH, 2013

PAGE 18

Relationship If you have any relationship story you want to share with our readers, please send to the above address.

Let's share your love story.

Six ways to deal with difficult in-laws

A

common issue in marriages is how to deal with in-laws. When you marry someone you marry their families too. Well, what about if your mother in-law is controlling, overbearing, and a downright nuisance! Meddling in-laws can be very detrimental to a relationship. No matter how much you wish, there is no way to avoid your in-laws forever, so it's very important to maintain peace and harmony with them.

Here are some tips to dealing with your in-laws.

1. It is good to respect your inlaws and listen to their opinions,

but what do you do if you don't agree with them? Be assertive enough to let them know how you feel, but say so in a nice way.

It is much better to let them know your honest feelings instead of saying what they want to hear in an effort to please them.

2. Keep your relationship with your husband private. It's very easy to unintentionally involve your in-laws in your private matters. You could just be talking to your mother in-law, and it'll slip that you're having financial problems, or you're not getting along with someone. Involving them in your problems will only

“

result in getting unwarranted advice. So, if you don't want her meddling in your relationship, be aware of what you say. If your inlaws do give you some unwanted advice, be respectful and listen, but you don't necessarily have to do what they say.

3. Set appointments with your in-laws. If you schedule time to see your in-laws, they'll be less likely to pop over unannounced. This can help with in-laws that tend to intrude whenever they feel like it.

4. It is necessary to set boundaries with in-laws. When you do so, speak to them in a respectful way so they don't feel like they are being rejected or scolded. If your mother in-law gives your child way too much sweet, and you don't like it, you should let her know how you feel.

Let her know that you appreciate her, but you don't agree with what she is doing. Respectfully, let her know of your needs.

5. Your spouse needs to know how you feel. Sure your in-laws are a pain, but remember, they're still your spouse's parents.

The two of you need to agree on how to deal with them and remember to stay consistent.

6. Be polite without being fake.

It's good to say things like "please" and "thank you" and offer to help when you can. Be cordial, but don't go overboard with flattery.

Show some interest in them, or other family members. Ask questions and show that you care.

Relationships are full of challenges, and while most people wish in-laws didn't exist, we must take responsibility for our relationship and learn how to best handle them. Don't let your in-laws ruin your life. See it as an opportunity to turn them around, and maybe in the end, you might even get along.

It is necessary to set boundaries with in-laws. When you do so, speak to them in a respectful way so they don't feel like they are being rejected or scolded. If your mother in-law gives your child way too much candy, and you don't like it, you should let her know how you feel.

Heart Matterz With A'isha Biola Raji E-mail: rajia39ishabiola@yahoo.com Phone: 08082071393 (Text only)

My in-laws have turned my husband against me

I

am married to a man who really loves me but my problem is that, my in-laws don't support the marriage especially his Mum. On his part, he listens to everything she (him Mum) tells him. She is now pestering him to marry another woman from their family (auren zumunci) because she thinks I'm also from a rich background and may one day, take over her child and even his wealth. My sister and brother in-laws now hate me so much and my hubby has also changed negatively towards me. He consults them before giving me even a dime and whatever they say is final. What should I do?

—Anonymous

Re: Sorry sweetheart that I am going to be a little harsh with you but the truth must be told, perhaps others will learn from your mistake.

I want to believe that you saw the hand writing on the wall right from the world go when you and your hubby started dating but you waved aside the red flag as if it didn't matter.

You guy (now your husband) must have exude this 'mama's boy' tendencies from the very time you started dating him so you should have expected that after marriage, it would get out of hand.

You don't need a prophet to sound it to you that your husband is a weakling, as in "tata", he is not man enough since at his age, he is still under full control of his Mum, siblings and relations who decide for him.

If you had considered the implication of this tendency of your husband, you shouldn't have married him in the first place at all because it is a serious issue. Your husband gave them the opportunity to do all they are doing.

At this point, I don't want to say it is too late but the only option now is to pray sincerely to God to help you cope with the situation.

I do not know what faith you belong but the scripture says "With God, all things are possible." God can change the heart of your husband and his relations who are meddling in your family affair and all these issues would die down and you and your husband can live happily again.

—Mrs. Ejeh Re: I think you should sit your husband and trash the issue out with him. You are already married to him; let your husband understand that the marriage is between the two of you not with his relations or in-laws.

Remember though; if your husband had resolved to take another wife, there is little you can do to change his mind. You should be satisfied with being the first wife and learn to live with it.

—Mr. Agaju Re: You should not be depressed, be happy. While you are looking happy, your husband and in-laws will be wondering what you are up to. You should also dialogue with your husband, let him know your feelings for him is genuine, cite examples of successful and failed marriages you both are aware of, let him know how it affects their children.

—Austine Aminu

PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND SATURDAY 23 — SUNDAY 24, MARCH, 2013

PAGE 19

Beauty Tips Makosi is 2013 'Face of Makeup and Beads' – Her beauty secrets

M

akosi Musambasi, twotime Big Brother UK housemate, is the new face of Makeup and Beads by GeeBalo exclusively for the Wed Expo taking place from the 21st to the 24th of March 2013.

Currently shooting her Current Affairs/Lifestyle show, "Makosi Today", the Zimbabwean reality star who gained popularity in Europe during her seasons of the reality show (in 2005 and also in the Ultimate Big Brother UK in 2010) shares her top beauty picks and secrets with BN! Lip gloss I love the luscious feel of lip gloss. I find it very handy; I love the gloss it gives and the sexy appeal. I go for fruity flavours and the ones that moisturize because they maintain the quality of my lips, giving it that healthy and dazzling effect. Lip gloss leaves my lips fuller thereby drawing attention to my face.

Oil Mattifier I like the effects of oil mattifiers, how it absorbs unnecessary shine on the face. It allows my makeup stay a little longer and adds to the perfect finish.

Shaped Brows I love well-shaped brows. It's amazing the instant polished look it gives! When the eye pencil is applied it gives such perfect definition that I love. I believe eyebrow shaping can do more to improve your appearance than anything else.

It's one of the best beauty secrets I have discovered. It is always worth the while.

My Cropped Hair After years of weaves and lace-wigs that ate up my hair line, I felt it was a time for change! Also having relocated to scorching Africa, wearing Brazilian weaves here would be like wearing ugg boots in the summer! So I chopped off my hair, and I think it has been one of my best beauty decisions. I can concentrate on loving my natural hair and watch my hairline regain its confidence. It has been a liberating experience!

Check out Makosi's photos for the Makeup and Beads by GeeBalo campaign.

Source:GeeBalo

PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND SATURDAY 23 — SUNDAY 24, MARCH, 2013

PAGE 20

Learning

With Emmanuel Eko 08165618872 junioremma419@gmail.com

Did you know that?

Travel

Kebbi: A trip to the 'Sahara'

By Maimuna Garba

L

ike any other prospective youth corps member, the suspense of where fate will see one posted for the mandatory one-year national service all but engulfed my dear sister, who impatiently waited for the release of NYSC posting.

Amidst the uncertainty came the Dday - a day everybody had been eagerly anticipating. And the surprises of that day could better be imagined than experienced.

Though we were filled with anticipation, we were no less shocked when it turned out to be Kebbi state. The name of the state governor and the abundance of onions, however, rang a bell to most of us.

My sister was visibly sad: she cried her eyes out; and at one point she threatened a boycott damning all repercussions.

I encouraged her by making her see this as Allah's will. Knowing full well that going to Kebbi was imminent; I began to look for a way forward.

Luckily for me, I had made an acquaintance of a friend on twitter earlier and also remembered he told me he was living in Kebbi state.

Without wasting time I got in touch with him and briefed him about my sister's posting to Kebbi, where she had never been before. The ensuing efforts of my Kebbi friend made me realise the importance of social media that transcends chatting. He simplified what would have been a gargantuan journey and made available all the necessary information on how to get to Kebbi. This renewed our confidence to hit the road head on.

Excited, we left Jos and in no time, were in Zaria city. Zaria is familiar because my sister schooled there.

From Zaria our driver once again engaged the gear and before we knew it we had hit Funtua in Katsina state. A beautiful place; we passed through Funtua admiring the well tarred roads. The sight of cows, camels, farmland, donkeys, and guinea fowls was enough for us to know most things about

the people of the area.

We navigated the vast arable land of Zamfara then I noticed how tired my sister was, this forced me to glance at my watch only to discover that we had travelled for almost seven hours. Despite the driver's appreciable speed the road kept getting longer.

Eventually we were in Sokoto, the Seat of the Caliphate. For two hours we traveled within Sokoto and passing through Shagari town I remembered that the place is the home of former president Shehu Shagari. At that point we were all tired and looked quite haggard with my sister getting into that familiar mood again while complaining for the umpteenth time that Kebbi was too far. 'What kind of place do you travel to for hours on end?' she queried. I kept telling her to calm down. We sped through Sokoto without a single car coming from the opposite direction. It was easy to see that the driver was apprehensive about this even as we wondered whether we had missed the road at some point.

My grandmother who was also on the journey with us fearfully asked "are you people sure we are still in Nigeria?"

Everybody in the car broke into laughter. I never knew that the North had so much vast land begging to be cultivated or utilized for developmental purposes.

Despite the tensed

atmosphere I was enjoying every bit of the journey; because I was seeing things about the North that I only read in books (like the camel train).

By 6:30 pm, we were finally on the road to Birnin-Kebbi.

We thought our travail had ended but we were far from it. We traveled through Aliero and then Jega, by this time my sister was on the verge of tears when we saw the sign post that read: "Way To NYSC Orientation Camp Dakingari". We breathed sighs of relief.

Little did we know that we were about 100km away from the camp. Even the driver was understandably tired, yes, very tired. Amina (my sister) just screamed and suggested that we went back to BirninKebbi.

It was unbelievable that there were no houses, no human beings in sight (this was about 7:30pm).

Then I sighted a flicker of light and called her attention to it and she smiled, for the first time since we embarked on the journey.

We arrived at the camp and we all came down to stretch our legs after almost 11 hours. My feet felt like they had bags of cement on them.

Amina got into the camp, registered (the process was a drag) and settled in, as now a bona-fide youth "Otondo". Then it was time for us to leave and head back to BirninKebbi to get a place to lay our tired bodies. The

journey from Dakingari back to Birnin-Kebbi was a smooth one (that's because I slept off immediately we left the NYSC Camp).

At about mid-night we arrived in BirninKebbi, unlike Jos which is like a ghost town at 10 pm, Birnin-Kebbi was still alive and bubbling.

The 'suya' spots were doing what they knew how to do best. Shops were still open and business was booming as if it was noon.

Jameel my twitter friend got us hotel accommodation and dinner. My grandma slept off immediately her body touched the bed. I told Jameel that the journey to Kebbi could be likened to travelling to another continent, and he said "welcome to the Sahara". Truly, Kebbi state is a Sahara state.

We had planned to head back to Jos very early in the morning but sleep overpowered us as we did not wake up till about 8am. Surprisingly though, my good friend Jameel had gotten ready a meal of hot 'masa' for us.

We prepared and in no time we were on the road again after saying good bye to friendly but unforgettable Jameel, to face the long trip back to Plateau state, 'The Home of Peace and Tourism', where a busy night market, reminiscent of Kebbi's, is all but history now!

Maimuna sent this piece from Jos

"City of Memories"

By Bokoru Julius City of memories follows the ill-timed love affair of the children of two rivalling political colossus, Eunice Pam and Ibrahim Dibarama, in the northcentral state (Plateau).

The book is set in an alternate reality where there is a junta in present day Nigeria The feud, spanning for decades, between these titans would catch up with their hapless children- the conservative Faruk, son of Ibrahim Dibarama; and the idealistic Rahila, daughter of the powerful Eunice Pam- consequently leading to the subtle, yet explosive scheme of things

that made City of memories.

In this book, the first of its kind in Nigerian literature, Richard Ali mirrors how religion has become a weapon for people with a lust for contemporary relevance and political power. The warring sides in this book are armed in one hand by a sword and a holy book (Bible or Quran), and in the other hand by love.

Against a backdrop of ethno-religious sentiments and political skirmishes, Richard Ali makes love the central theme in this book.

Beautiful: the love between Eunice Pam and her daughter Rahila,

between Ibrahim Dibarama and Faruk, between Rahila and Faruk, then, a different type of love is introduced by a virtuous Bolewa maiden, Maryam Bazaar, a love more fated than Romeo and Juliet's.

But, that is not all that there is to love in City of memories, our story begins from the little town of Bolewa, a town which has somehow managed to discard a history which otherwise should be haunting.

Richard Ali painted this little northern town so dreamily that I find myself these days punching 'Bolewa' into a search engine.

•The father of modern Olympic won one gold medal (In Literature) for writing a poem about sport •The song can you feel the love tonight was almost cut from the Lion King. Elton John had to campaign for it to be left in . It went on to win the Oscar or best original song.

•A group of prostitutes in Nairobi have become resistant to AIDS •In 2004

200 Indian

women took law in their own hands and came to the court armed with vegetable knives and chilli powder and murdered on the court floor a serial rapist.

•Bear companies have started moving to curved glasses as people drink heavily and report drinking problem.

•The more educated a woman is, the more likely she is to drink heavily and report drinking problem.

PAGE 21

PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND SATURDAY 23 — SUNDAY 24, MARCH, 2012

Healthy Living

Keeping fit can't stop muscles from ageing M

i l l i o n s of people spend hours sweating and straining in the gym hoping to keep looking younger than their years, but when it comes to slowing down the ageing process, you might as well stay on the couch.

According to scientists, regular exercise will not stop our muscles losing their tone and shape. The findings challenge the long-held belief that inactivity is largely responsible for muscle wastage in our older years.

Professor Jamie Timmons, from Loughborough University, said the research shows "a simple link between muscle ageing and lack of exercise is not plausible."

He added, "When it comes to tackling ageing, experts are advising the Government that muscle ageing is caused by factors such as inactivity. "However, we looked at the changes in human muscle with age. "We did not observe physical activity altering the age-related biological changes.

"So for some people exercise might produce some good functional effects, but for others it will not stop the loss of muscle."

Professor Timmons said a quarter of people just cannot grow muscle tissue even when they make an effort to be physically active.

And he stressed that a 'one-sizefits-all' approach will not be effective when it comes to stopping muscles from withering away.

The researchers found specific chemical markers, or fingerprints, for muscle ageing. Once they identified the chemical signatures, the scientists were able to see how they reacted to endurance training.

They were looking for improvements in the patients who were exercising but they soon realised that the volunteers' hard work in the gym did not stop their muscles from deteriorating.

Professor Timmons, who specialises in systems biology at Loughborough's Sport, Exercise and Health Sciences department said, "We found there is absolutely no connection, the major problem with ageing is loss of muscle but 25 per cent of people don't respond to exercise and grow muscle."

He warned that repetitive exercise could cause more than one

in ten people to suffer high blood pressure and place 9 per cent at higher risk of diabetes. He said, "Our public health strategy is to focus on physical activity, which in many cases doesn't work. "For some people, the focus may be better spent on looking at their diet or sleep."

The findings will come as bad news to exercise-obsessed stars who have attempted to maintain their youthful looks.

Despite her rigorous fitness regime, it is often pointed out that Madonna's hands and the veins on her arms make her look every one of her 54 years.

Last year Meg Ryan, 51, turned heads for all the wrong reasons after being spotted with blood vessels protruding from her arms.

The City star Sarah Jessica Parker, now 47, has been forced to reduce her daily workout after her designer gowns revealed her

bulging veins and sinewy biceps.

Prominent veins are usually a sign of over-exercising, and they become more evident as the body ages.

But Jane Fonda, 75, motivated a generation of women to exercise and still puts stars half her age in the shade.

However, although she looks younger than her years, her workouts won't have stopped her muscles from ageing.

City star Sarah Jessica Parker, now 47, has been forced to reduce her daily workout after her designer gowns revealed her bulging veins and sinewy biceps

“

Prominent veins are usually a sign of over-exercising, and they become more evident as the body ages.

Scientists say new research shows when it comes to slowing down the ageing process, you might as well stay on the couch

PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND SATURDAY 23 — SUNDAY 24, MARCH, 2013

With Aunty A'isha

Sights and sounds Have you heard of pure white tigers?

PAGE 23

rajia39ishabiola@yahoo.com 08082071393.

SHOR T ST OR Y SHORT STOR ORY

William wobbles McGreet and his ten bowls of wheat

W

T

h e only way to produce a tiger with a white coat is through inbreeding brother to sister or father to daughter; generation after generation after generation.

For Royal White Bengal Tiger, it was invented to attract people to performances and exhibitions.

In 1951 in India, a white tiger cub was captured after his mother and three orange siblings were killed. He was named Mohan and the Maharajah. They began breeding to create more white tigers.

In 1958 Mohan was bred to one of his daughters and the first litter of white tigers (4) was born in captivity. In 1960 one of those cubs was delivered to the National Zoo in Washington D.C. where she was bred to her uncle. The inbreeding continued into the 1970s and it expanded into Ohio, Nebraska, Wisconsin and Illinois.

In 1983 Siegfried and Roy purchased 3 white cubs including the first pure white (without stripes) cub for their Las Vegas act. This and other tiger acts drove the demand for more white tigers. Breeders began the quest for not only white cubs but pure white cubs for their market value.

This inbreeding which has been going on for 50 years continues today with their offspring because of the demand for white tiger cubs. White tigers mean big money.

Because the white gene is so recessive, when two white tigers are bred, most of the offspring are unwanted golden tigers, and cubs with birth defects.

All white tigers have crossed eyes, whether it shows or not, because the gene that causes the white coat always causes the optic nerve to be wired to the wrong side of the brain.

That is one reason white tigers are such a favorite in tiger acts.

They are far more dependent on their masters because they can't see clearly and their reaction time is reduced due to their genetic impairments.

So the next time you see a tiger perform, keep in mind that hundreds of tiger cubs were discarded or died to make that one performing white tiger possible.

In 2003 Roy almost died after one of his tigers bit him in the neck during a performance.

illiam Wobbles McGreet measured 3.4 feet and yet he felt strong and tall and not at all small, his confidence you could not beat. Young William McGreet would every day eat ten bowlfuls of shredded, dry wheat without milk and he felt that this habit was the reason, for his confident view of himself.

At breakfast table, three bowls of wheat were expertly arranged and clearly arranged every day. Though his father would muse, Will ate fast with his hands, no spoon till the bowls were as clean as shined shoes.

His sister Rebecca, who lived in Tribeca, would visit from school every now and again and she'd watch open-mouthed as her dear younger brother consumes one bowl after another of dry wheat.

Will continue like this for months until one day, his Mummy had to stop him from over feeding. William's Mommie had read in Mommie Magazine that abnormal behavior that goes on too long should be looked at and stopped.

So, one day when Will was playing, his Mommie said, "Now Willy McGreet, I don't think it's sweet to eat dry wheat without milk." She threw all the wheat out and, there Will was, pouting as he stomped his feet hard on

the ground.

"Fine, that is it," was all Will could say, "If milk's what you think I should drink then I'll

drink ten bowls of it until I'm fat and my skin turns as white.

From that day, Will drinks milk and eats not too much wheat.

HIS AND HERS CORNER

Simple play wears for the season

PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND SATURDAY 23 — SUNDAY 24, MARCH, 2013

PAGE 22

With Aunty A'isha

rajia39ishabiola@yahoo.com 08082071393.

AFRICAN TALES

MODEL OF THE WEEK

Laughter of a fish (II)

T

h e n they reached a graveyard where some people were distributing roasted meat and bread to the people who were present there, in the memory of their ancestor.

Hussain said, "Oh! What a good village it is!" Rehman murmured, "What a mad man he is! He is speaking like a fool. It appears he has become totally mad."

Soon, they both reached the outskirts of the village of Rehman.

Rehman was a kind man so he invited Hussain to stay at his home. "Now you seem quite tired, why don't you stay at my house for some time and take rest."

Hussain said, "Thank you for the invitation, I will stay here till the evening but please tell me one thing; are the walls of your house strong enough?"

Rehman started laughing at the words of Hussain, he said goodbye to him and came to his house. On reaching home, Rehman told his daughter Johra about Hussain. He also told her that he had invited him to say at his house but Hussain put a foolish question about the walls of the house.

Johra was an intelligent girl, she said, "Dear father, I think the man is very intelligent." Her father replied, "How can you say that the man is intelligent? He has only talked foolishly."

Johra clarified the meaning intended by Hussain, "By the question of strong walls, he meant whether the invitation was real or just a formality."

Hearing his daughter, Rehman was very much pleased and said, "If this questions had a deep meaning, his other sentences must have had wise meanings as well. Now I will repeat his sentences. At first, he said that we should go together talking to each other alternately." Johra said, "By this he meant that both of you should tell stories alternately so that you could complete your long journey easily."

Rehman repeated Hussain's other sentence, "Why did he ask whether the maize can be eaten or not?" Johra said, "Father, you are a farmer and you must know that one should not eat from a field in the absence of its owner. This is what he wanted to convey to you."

Her father again said, "Tell me, why he called the village a graveyard and graveyard a village?"

Johra clarified, "The villagers did not entertain you well, that is why the village was similar to a graveyard but the people in the graveyard distributed food so the graveyard was like a village."

Hearing these explanations, Rehman realized that Hussain was very intelligent as there laid a deep and wise meaning in each

Redollah Muhammed Lawal

ACTIVITIES of his sentences.

Johra was excited and was very much eager to meet Hussain taking rest under a banyan tree outside the village. He brought him home. Johra was pleased to see him. She asked, "Please tell me what made you take such a long journey? May I help you? I hope there is something I can do for you."

Hussain told her about the fish and the king's resolution to know the secret of the laughter of the fish. He also disclosed that his failure would cost his life.

Johra said, "It is quite a simple puzzle. It means that someone was planning to kill the king." Hussain agreed to Johra's explanation of the incident. He decided to go back to the king along with Johra and Rehman.

On reaching there, Hussain introduced Johra and Rehman to the king and said to the king, "I have found out the secret of the laughter of the fish.

Johra will tell you this secret in detail." Johra said, "Sir, the fish was a foreteller who could see future. The fish was laughing on seeing your future.

"She wanted to make you cautious against a person who in disguise of a woman wants to kill you."

The king asked Johra, "Will you be able to prove this?" At this, Hussain said, "Yes! I want to test all your maid servants." The queen allowed him to do so.

All the maids were called for a test, based on Hussain's instructions, a large and deep pit was dug and all the maids were asked to jump across the pit. No one was able to cross the pit except one. Thus, the maid was identified as a male among the maids. The king got him arrested immediately. He was a spy of a neighbouring state. The king gave rewards to Johra and later Hussain married her.

The End

Using different colours of your choice, paint the picture below. Name and describe their action. Show your work to your teacher for correction. Cheers!

CREA TIVITY CREATIVITY

How to make a sock doll

L

i n e up a few of these dolls on a windowsill or mantel, and you're guaranteed to spread cheer to family and guests alike.

What you need: Cotton socks Pieces of foam A Red and black paint Scissors few rubber bands What to do: Fill a cotton sock three quarters of the way with the foam pieces. Secure it by tying a rubber band at the end of the filling.

Cut the remaining part of the sock with a scissors into long strips and turn these inside out.

Now for the doll's nose, with your fingertips, grasp a small amount of foam halfway down from the top of the sock. Wrap a rubber band around the base to secure it. The doll has a long nose now.

Make the eyes and mouth with black and red paint.

For a family of dolls, use baby socks to make children and adult socks for parents. So are you ready to show off your dolls to your friends?

PAGE 24

PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND SATURDAY 23 — SUNDAY 24, MARCH, 2013

Kannywood

With Stanley Onyekwere 08138559513, sunnixman@gmail.com

My film has been nominated for Kwankwasiyya Award, says Maryam Maryam Baba Lawan, also known as Maryam Alanta, is a budding actress in Kannywood Movie Industry. The 25year-old diploma holder shares her experiences in the acting career in this interview with Mustapha Adamu.

How long have you been in the film industry?

I have being in Kannywood for about two years now,precisely since year 2011.

What motivated you to go into acting?

You know everything is destined by God and whatever he destined will inevitably happen.

So, God has destined that I will become an actress.

That motivated me to seek permission from my parents.

When I approached my father and told him that I want to become an actress, he found it strange and took a bit long time to respond before he accepted later on. He granted me the permission and prayed for success and blessings on my career. He also prayed that it would be the best in my life and asked me to go to my mother to bless me. She too prayed for my success and protection throughout my life.

How many films have you featured in so far?

Although I can't say precisely, I guess they are about 30. Some have been released while some are yet to be released. Among those that are already released include; "Dan marayan zaki", "Wata hudu", "Kona gari", "Ana haka", "Wani hanin ga Allah" among others.

Among those that are not released include; "Haske maganin duhu", "Ma'idatu", "Birnin masoya" etc. There are quite many of my films that are yet to be released.

As an upcoming actress, are you facing any challenge in quest to get to the peak of your career?

Sincerely speaking, I haven't faced any problem so far. I live peacefully with everybody in the industry. I respect those that deserve respect from me and vice versa. I don't have any problem, I am rather progressing well and am happy.

Have you won an award?

I have never won an award so far, but my film titled "Wani hanin ga Allah" has been nominated in the yet-to-be organised "Kwankwasiyya award". I hope my film will emerge a winner.

Among the films you featured in, which is your most favourite?

All the films that I featured in

are my favourite, even if I featured in only one scene. All my films, even those that I didn't feature in but their scripts are with me, are my favourites and I love them all. I have all the disks and scripts of my films for record purpose.

Which

is

the

film

you

PAGE 25

performed best?

My best performance, to me, is in a film titled "Birnin masoya".

I was impressed by my performance, not only mine, all the artists that featured in the film- Sani Danja, Ali Nuhu, Adam A. Zango, etc, directors, the crew, everybody performed wonderfully in the film.

How do you cope with fans, especially male fans?

I receive a lot of calls from men; some will wish me well while some will tell me rubbish.

The fact that there are many artists in the industry that have the same name with me, soe mistakenly call me, I will later realize that the caller was for me or the other Maryam. If it is me I will respond politely and exchange greetings, but if the caller starts telling me rubbish, I simply terminate the call. The same encounter I face outside, around the city.

Who is your favourite Director and producer?

My favourite director is Aminu Seira, while my favourite producer is Usman Mu'azu.

What about your favourite actor?

My favourite actors are Ali Nuhu, Adam A Zango, Sadiq Sani Sadiq and Zaharaddin Sani. I enjoy working with them and I like them all, they always encourage me on my career because they are more experienced than me and they have been in the industry far before me.

Who is your favourite actress?

Before I joined Kannywood, I was a fan of Jamila Nagudu, even now I am her fan. Then Rahma Hassan and Nafisa (sai wata rana). They are all my favourites and I like them.

Why are you nicknamed Alanta?

The fact that I featured in films titled "Kona gari" and "Alanta", make people call me with name of the films as "Maryam kona gari" and "Maryam Alanta".

Emeka Ike denies supporting gay marriage

Entertainment

'Eko Hotel Hall it's too hot for my Skin' – Omotola N

ollywood actress, OmotolaJaladeEkeinde has condemned the Convention Centre of Eko Hotel and Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos, where the Maiden edition of the Africa Magic Viewer's Choice Awards was held recently, saying it it's too hot for her skin, nigeriafilms.com has said.

Omosexy, as she is fondly called,in a recent interview, said she was meant to change her dressing like three times but because of the hotness from the heat in the convention centre, she had to change earlier so as to be fit.

"The first dress by Iconic was so tailored to me that I couldn't sit comfortably in it. So, the idea was just to arrive in it and wear Ejiro's outfit to present the Best Actor Award as it would be at the end of the show but the hall was too hot.

"The sweat caused by the hotness from the hall spoilt my hair and make-up so I had no choice but to change earlier than planned and carried the easier bombshell look which was more forgiving," Omotola explained.

Furthermore, Omotola noted that she had planned to change her dress after the red carpet for another one to present an award but the place was hot and couldn't afford her the luxury of time, thus, her reason for changing into the most comfortable of the dresses and look at the event.

A

ctor and former president, Actors Guild of Nigeria(AGN), Emeka Ike, has denied categorically that he does not support any plan to legalise gay marriage in Nigeria, as it is against God's will.

Nigeriafilms.com learnt that the Nollywood actor, who is on a self-imposed sabbatical from the movie industry, had while responding to questions at Vchannel Celebrity Night Out at Troy Lounge in Lagos recently where he was said to have made an utterance in support of the gay marriage.

"Knowing our penchant for 'copying' others I want to plead with Nigerians not to encourage same sex marriage. I don't hate gay but I don't support gay marriage either. God does not want it, our culture forbids it.

This is about defending whatever is left of our culture. I want our legislators to stick to their guns and not legalise what will be eroding our culture and make us godless people," Ike stressed.

I Will Resume For Asonto Dance Classes Soon-Sen. Ita Giwa

S

ome people really don't want to grow old. One of those is the ageless wife of the late Journalist, Dele Giwa, Senator

Florence Ita-Giwa popularly called Mma Bakassi.

Nigeriafilms.com learnt that this woman of essence and one of

the Nigeria's most glamorous personalities, in a recent interview, confessed that her looking good is based on her constant dance lessons she has been taken.

Davido's 'HKN Gang' signs new Artist

Apart from acting, what do you do in the industry?

I produced a film titled "Jalabi".

It is my own film, I produced it myself.

Who is your favourite musician in the industry?

Nazifi Asnanic and Nura M. Inuwa.

What message do you have for other upcoming artists in the industry?

I want us to unite and love one another. We should encourage one another, rather than envying ourselves. This will surely develop our industry to reach international standard.

Similarly, let me use this opportunity to congratulate Sadiq Sani Sadiq, Ali Gumzak and other Kannywood artists that married recently which I was unable to attend due to an unavoidable circumstance. May God bless their marriages, ameen.

D

avido's record label, HKN Gang, has signed a new artiste named Danagod onto it.

Reports have it that Danagod recently returned from the United States of America where he has been working on his debut

album. He will soon be officially unveiled as an artiste of HKN Gang.

According to Nigeriafilms.com, Danagod has shot a video for one of his songs 'Bobo Ti Bobo' in the US and Nigeria. He has been in the music

industry for some time now but has not had the big break.

Danagod featured alongside Igho and Orezi in DJ Debby's track 'Emoti'.

Some believe he can break into Nigeria's mainstream music industry just like other A-listers.

PAGE 26

PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND SATURDAY 23 — SUNDAY 24, MARCH, 2013

Hollywood/Bollywood 'Will never kiss or don a bikini on screen' – Tamanna

R

ecent revelations have it that Tamanna as an actress made her Bollywood screen debut in the year 2005 with Chand SaRoshanChehra, before she headed southwards because she did not find any Bollywood script that came her way interesting.

The 23-year-old actor will soon be seen opposite Ajay Devgn in the remake of the 1980s hit flick, Himmatwala.

She will be playing Sridevi's part in the film.

Tamanna had one principle that she follows. "I don't kiss on screen and nor will I ever don a bikini. I have followed it so far and continued to do so," she insists.

Meanwhile, the 23-year-old actress has bagged yet another Bollywood project, a comedy flick opposite Akshay Kumar.

Again, Katy Perry, John Mayer Split

A

nother break up hits Hollywood as Katy Perry and John Mayer's onagain/off-again relationship is, once again, off.

According to media reports, the music superstars Katy, 28, and John, 35, have split after a second stint of dating - this time around, they lasted for seven months; having previously dated during summer of 2012, before splitting (for the first time) in August 2012. They first began dating after her divorce from Russell Brand, which was finalized in February 2012.

Access Hollywood.com learnt that the news of the breakup comes just a few weeks

after the often-outspoken John opened up to "CBS Sunday Morning" about his relationship with the "Firework" pop star.

Also the report has it that sources confirmed the news of Katy and John's split to People and Us Weekly.

"For the first time in my life I don't feel like I'm in a celebrity relationship. I really don't," John said in February. "For me it feels like something that's very human."

During their second go-around, the couple made no attempts to hide their love for each other, often spotted out and about together in public and posting photos of themselves in numerous online shots.

'IshkqIn Paris' topsPreityZinta's priority list

B

ollywood actress, PreityZinta has not cut herself away from her debut production 'IshkqIn Paris' as she is still committed to the film, and has denied all rumors pointing otherwise, and shunning away all rumors, the film's postproduction work is almost over.

It all started when the film came to a halt when its director, PremRaj fell seriously ill and had to leave for London for remedial surgery, but only for him to return to Mumbai recently and was shocked on hearing stories about Preity being faced with interrogation by the Enforcement Directorate.

An emotional Prem said: "That is so painful, mean and damaging; 'IshkqIn Paris' is as much Preity's baby as mine. She is very much in touch with me. We've no problems with one another at all. This story is very saddening.

"I am now in Mumbai. Preity seems to be working on the film's release date. I think most probably it's going to release in May." Bollywoodcellebden.com however reports that it seems like all is well now, with the director completely healed from his sickness, the Parisian love story which was initially to hit theaters on the same day as that of GauriShinde's English Vinglish, in September 2012, is slated for May release this year.

Katy Perry and John Mayer are seen at the 55th Annual GRAMMY Awards PreGRAMMY Gala and Salute to Industry Icons honoring L.A. Reid held at The Beverly Hilton on February 9, 2013 in Los Angeles

HBO ends 'Enlightened' after two seasons

A

fter two seasons, HBOa television pay cabler has said it is not moving forward with 'Enlightened' the half-hour dramedy cocreated by Mike White and Laura Dern, who also starred in it.

HBO in a statement said: "It was a very difficult decision for us that we've decided not to continue Enlightened for a third season. We're proud of the show, and we look forward to working with Mike White and Laura Dern in the future."

According to an online news portal The Hollywood Reporter, Enlightened centered on Amy Jellicoe (Dern), a selfdestructive executive, who, after her professional life implodes and an awakening in rehab, attempts to get her life together. Dern won a Golden Globe for the role in 2012.

Enlightened did see a ratings spike in its second season, opening in January to 300,000 viewers. That was up from the 210,000 it debuted to in its late 2011 Monday slot. But like its Girls lead-in, Enlightened dipped as its short order went on. It bottomed out with just 130,000 viewers the week before its 200,000-strong finale.

Also, The Hollywood Reporter reports that the news comes as HBO is prepping to bowChristopher Guest's comedy Family Tree in May. The premium cabler also has four comedy pilots in the works: People in New Jersey from EPLorne Michaels; Mike Judge's Silicon Valley; the Duplass brothers' Togetherness; and the Jonathan Groff-led comedy about a group of gay friends in San Francisco.

PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND SATURDAY 23 — SUNDAY 24, MARCH, 2013

PAGE 27

Homes

Big ideas for small bedroom spaces D D

e s i g n i n g a small bedroom could be quite challenging. Aside from the space, you also have to think of a good decor and design for it so that it will look relaxing. You wouldn't want to sleep in a room that seems boxy. You would always want to have a bedroom that will seemingly whisper lullabies to you merely through its mood and ambience.

You can create an illusion of space in the bedroom by following the simple things below.

Start by choosing the right furniture. When you purchase furniture, keep in mind the dimensions of the room. You also have to choose the right paint for the room and accessories, too. To help you, here are big yet simple ideas to make your small bedroom look large.

Use a simple color scheme The simpler the colors you choose, the bigger your room will look. Colors should be bright. Paint the ceiling with white for it gives a sense of height and space. Do not use dark and bold paint for the ceiling for it will make the room look boxed-in. For the walls, use neutral tones for it will give an illusion of added space. Do not crowd your wall with wall hangings. Leave at least one wall without it to have an impression of space.

Choose space saving furniture Your choice of furniture is very important for it can greatly affect the traffic inside your bedroom. A small bedroom can be furnished using the Asian and Swedish designs. One way is by using a futon which can be converted into a sofa from a bed. It can give more space for you to move around your room. It can also be economical. You may also opt to use a loft bed where there is space under it to move around. Others place a table or a cabinet under it. For a bedside table, you can use a small desk or a convertible work station paired with an acrylic chair to save space.

Use a design theme that will make room look big There are different themes that you can use for your bedroom. Choose a theme that would fit well to your small room. You can make it look like a car with built in cabinets or a houseboat with colors of white and blue. You can make a room for kids look great even if it is small by making it look like a tent. You may also want to make your room look like a small cottage. Just choose a theme that suits your room shape.

Arrange furniture to allow good traffic Since you have a small space, place your bed on one side of the wall instead of putting it

in the center. You can place your cabinet or table at the corner. Another option in arranging it is to place it in the corner of your room to give more space. Depending on the shape of your room, it is still advisable to keep your furniture close to the wall in order to have more space for you to move around.

Use creative storage Your room is already small and having much clutter will make it look even smaller.

Use creative storage spaces by installing a good closet system. Instead of standard dressers and armoires, make use of modular and built in furniture. Extend storage furniture to the ceiling so that you won't waste any space.

Hanging cabinets are also good for saving spaces.

Place a huge mirror Mirrors can contribute a lot in making your room look bigger. You can also place paintings or framed pictures on your wall where your mirror can get a good reflection.

A window in your room will do the job. Natural light comes in and light will bounce around the room. This is effective in lighting up your room and in making it look wider.

Use beds with headboards only Avoid beds with a foot board so that you can still use the space under it for keeping storage bins. But it is okay to use a headboard.

You can even decorate you headboard or have an accent wall above it. Others extend their headboards for added beauty. Your headboards can play a vital role in making your room look appealing despite its small size.

Use simple fabrics For your bed linens, choose a neat and simple fabric. Choose bright and warm colors.

Plain colored fabrics for your bed linens and curtains would work well for your small room.

Do not use fabric with large patterns and bold colors for it looks bulky and heavy to the eyes.

Mount lights to the wall For more free spaces, place reading lights on the wall. That way, you wouldn't need a bedside table. Place other lights on the wall near your bed, too. Use pinlights and recessed lighting for a more relaxing mood in your room.

Keep your things hidden Learn how to keep things well for it will greatly help to make the room look big.

Clutter will only make the room look crowded.

Hide your magazines, books and others by having a skirted bedside table. You can also place storage bins under your bed and hide them with a bed skirt. A neat room looks small, too.

PAGE 28

PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND SATURDAY 23 — SUNDAY 24, MARCH, 2013

Cuisine

Pots & Pans

With Hajiya Ramatu Usman Dorayi

How to make Pasta with spiced chicken and vegetables cashew nut milk P asta is made with semolina and flour, similar to Italian quadrettini and Greek hilopites.

It is traditionally served with either fish or chicken and can also be spiced with lamb. There are many complex versions of this spice blend throughout Nigeria and generally eaten by both old and young alike.

Ingredients: 100ml olive oil 2 onions, finely chopped 2 x 1kg whole chickens, each jointed into 8 pieces 3 carrots, cut in half lengthwise and halved again 2 potatoes, peeled, halved 60ml (¼ cup) tomato purée 200g (1 cup) yellow split peas 400g can chickpeas, rinsed, drained

450g fresh pepper Method: To make the spice mix, using a mortar and pestle, grind onions and chilli flakes until ground.

Transfer to a small bowl and stir.

Set aside.

Heat two tablespoons of oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add onions and cook, stirring occasionally, for five minutes or until soft. Add half the spice mix and cook, stirring, for two minutes or until fragrant. Transfer to a bowl.

Add one tablespoon of oil to the pan, then increase heat to high.

Working in two batches, cook chicken pieces, turning occasionally, for at least seven minutes or until browned all over. Transfer to a plate and refrigerate until needed.

Reduce heat to medium, and then add onion mixture to the pan. Add carrots and potatoes and cook for three minutes to coat with onion mixture. Stir in tomato purée, one and a half litres of water and split peas and bring to the boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 40 minutes or until peas are tender. Stir in chickpeas. Season with salt and pepper. Remove from heat.

Preheat oven to 180°C. Toss pasta with remaining two tablespoon oil in a greased 4litre capacity deep baking dish. Ladle over the sauce to cover. Arrange chicken on top and scatter over remaining spice mix. Bake for 35 minutes or until pasta and chicken is cooked through.

Stand for five minutes, and then serve.

Y

o u can make and enjoy delicious, creamy nondairy nut milk from roasted cashew seeds. They can be added directly to smoothies to make them creamier, or you can create this nut milk and use them in smoothies, or other dishes.

Cashews are quite soft and will blend well without soaking, but if you have problems digesting nuts you may want to pre-soak them for 6-12 hours and throw away the soak water before you proceed.

Ingredients: 1 cup roasted cashews 3 cups of water 1-2 raw honey, or other sweetener 1 teaspoon natural vanilla extract or 1/2 vanilla bean

2 pinches Celtic sea salt Instructions: Blend cashew nuts, water, salt and sweetener on high until creamy.

You might want to use soaked cashews and/or add only half the water to start, and when the cashews are well blended add the rest. If you have a powerful blender, just add all the ingredients and blend.

Depending on what you want to use the cashew milk for it may be fine as-is, but you can also strain it through a fine sieve or nut milk bag or piece of muslin to remove the fiber. Be sure to save the nut fiber to use in cookies and other recipes.

Cashew milk can be substituted as nut milks in most of other recipes.

PAGE 29

PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND SATURDAY 23 — SUNDAY 24, MARCH, 2013

Womanhood amStory of woman trapped in abusive relationship (1)

A

maka Munonye was a bright young medical student at the University of Nigeria Nsukka when she had to leave her university because she was being harassed by a cult member who wanted "to marry her". The cultists were arrested and she was advised not to attend any other university in Nigeria due to the fear of retaliatory attacks by fellow cultists.

She moved back to Lagos where her loving family began making arrangements for her to relocate to Canada. During this time, she had a job at a hospital.

She met a Ghanaian "pastor" who claimed he had visited her house to see her brother. They became friends and one day after night vigil, she ended up at his house because her estate gate was locked.

He raped her that morning.

After that, she was traumatized and stopped talking to him.

He kept stalking her to "forgive" him and convinced her that if she did not, she would be cursed. After years of waiting, her Canadian Immigration Application moved to the next stage when she forgave him. This convinced her that he was a powerful man of God and had some sort of supernatural influence over her.

Before she left for Canada, he assaulted her again - he then cut her and himself. At that time, he joined their open wounds and claimed they had a blood oath. He scared her by telling her that she or anyone she slept with would die.

When Amaka got to Canada, Chris continued to stalk her with incessant phone calls. At a point, she met up with an old crush, they made out (kissed) and kept in touch via the phone when he got back to Nigeria. She didn't hear from him for a few weeks and then found out that he died. This traumatized her further and gave credibility to Chris' claims about their blood oath.

For a reason she cannot explain, Amaka went to Ghana to marry Chris, she filed for Canadian Residency for him and also dropped out of school in Canada to move to Ghana to stay with him. Her parents did not know about her marriage or her movement to Ghana. Chris used and abused her in Ghana including stripping her in public, beating her up and more, but still she stayed as if glued to him.

She tried to leave a few times but always went back to Chris. Here is the true life story of an abused woman and mother of two.

My ordeal started when I met their father, Chris, in Nigeria in 1997. I was a third year medical student at the University of Nigeria Enugu, and I had been forced to withdraw from school because some members of one of the many cults they had there wanted me to marry their leader. After many attempts to make me do their bidding by offering money and all kinds of enticements failed, it became by force. When I still refused they tried to kill me. My father had a few of them arrested but I left the city for my birth state of Lagos, and even

Amaka and her two children in a swimming pool in Canada now I am not sure what happened to them.

I was unable to go to any other university in Nigeria, because shortly after I started to make arrangements to enroll at the University of Lagos. A friend, came to let my family know that if I attended the University of Lagos or anywhere else in the country, the cult members would have their revenge on me by killing me. Now in retrospect, I wonder if I shouldn't have just let them kill me then, because that would have been better than the suffering I have had to endure for so many years after.

My Father and I started to make arrangements for me to come to Canada. I had worked at a hospital for about three years transcribing all their paper records onto the computer, (floppy disks for storage as I recall), and the Canadian High Commission accepted three years of medical school and another three years of work experience, among all the other requirements that I needed as enough to qualify as a skilled immigrant.

Chris came to my father's house, according to him, to look for my younger brother and sister. He said he was a Pastor. Now I will tell you something about the "Pastors" in Nigeria and in so many parts of Africa. The huge majority of them are not Seminary graduates like we see in North America where a pastor has to undergo four years of training after high school and then make their way up through the ministry before being ordained as pastors. No, in the vast majority of cases in Africa a "pastor" is somebody who wakes up one day and decides that they have "heard the voice of God", and that

they have received a calling.

Therefore they gather two or three people and start a "church." I asked him where his church was, and he said he did not have one at the time, that he used to have one, but closed it and that he "gave the congregation to another pastor". I was always baffled by that, as I couldn't understand how you could give a bunch of people to another person.

The day he came to my house the first time, I was at home with my youngest sister. The two people that he said he'd wanted to see were not home. He wanted to wait for them, so he sat outside to wait. I offered him some cold water and after he had drank it, he started to ask if I know about God and Christianity and all of that, and I said I grew up Catholic etc. and that we'd gone to church.

I said we had also gone to church a little after my immediate younger sister had suddenly died, but that was about it. From then on, he would come every single day and spend time with whichever one of us he happened to meet, teaching us "bible study." My father actually ran inVto him a couple of times, and threw him out on both occasions, saying that a man who has no job has too much time on his hands, and that nothing good ever comes of it. My father said to him both times he saw him "what kind of a charlatan are you? If you are a pastor, go and pastor somewhere. My home is not a church; don't even let me catch you here again. Go and get a job, lazy fool." Chris always replied "God bless you sir" I kept on with my job and my arrangements to relocate to Canada. I also started to be

interested in becoming a Christian, so I would not only go to Church with Chris along with my sisters, but I started to go to another church on my own. I liked the thought of this big and powerful God who was also a very loving God. I became a Christian and started to go to Church. My real problems began about a year after I had started to go to Church. When I would attend church with Chris, it would be to a Church called Firebrand Assembly and when I went by myself or with my sister we would attend The Redeemed Christian Church of God. I was a brand new Christian, and knew next to nothing about it, but I wanted to learn. I continued at the same time to await the results of my application for my Canadian papers.

One night I attended a night vigil prayer with Chris. A night vigil in Nigeria, and a lot of Africa, is when people go to a church usually on a Friday night, and spend the entire night singing and praying until about 6am the next morning. It is a very common thing and at the Redeemed Church when we went that night there had to have been at least 50,000 people. It was my first time at the place we went to. It was called the Redemption Camp and it belonged to the Redeemed Christian Church of God. They had the all night program once a month. We got there at almost 8pm, to beat the crowds I was told, and before the prayer service ended, at about 4:00am, he said we had to leave, or else we would get caught up in the throngs of people trying to leave after 6am. I pointed out to him

that my father's compound would still be locked and that I would be unable to get in. He said it would take at least an hour to get back to my home, and that we could wait outside until about 7 am when I could be let in. I agreed as I didn't see why not and we left. However, it was 4am and it took us only about thirty minutes to get to the front of the estate where my family home was. What I had not thought about was that the estate where we lived was gated and the gateman was prone to wandering away to sleep somewhere else. I came in to the car and yelled towards the gatehouse where I was hoping that the gateman would be "Al Hassan, it's me Amaka, please let me in" for over 15 minutes. He was nowhere to be found.

“

For a reason she cannot explain, Amaka went to Ghana to marry Chris, she filed for Canadian Residency for him and also dropped out of school in Canada to move to Ghana to stay with him. Her parents did not know about her marriage or her movement to Ghana.

Chris used and abused her in Ghana including stripping her in public, beating her up and more

PAGE 30

Archives

PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND SATURDAY 9 — SUNDAY 10, MARCH, 2013 Do you have old pictures for memories?

Send them to junioremma419@gmail.com

The men of Bomber Command were witness to events in 1939

On the anniversary of ceremonial Nazi book burnings in Germany in 1933

Promoting Nigerian nationalism through arts and cratf in the 60s

Plaque: Warrior Chief Flanked by Warriors and Attendants

A scene along the ceremonial route in Toronto during the 1939 royal tour

PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND SATURDAY 23 — SUNDAY 24, MARCH, 2013

PAGE 31

Leisure WORD SEARCH

Photo of the day

Find the Muslim qualities which are listed at the right side of this page in the Muslim Word Search grid. The words can be forwards, backwards, up, down, or diagonal. Circle each letter separately and keep in mind that the letters in each Muslim word may be used in more than one Muslim name.

Muslim children Word Search

TRUTHFUL RESPECTFUL PUNCTUAL GENEROUS JUST HELPFUL

HONEST HUMBLE RELIABLE PIOUS KIND MODEST OBEDIENT POLITE

Quotes Character is like a tree and reputation like a shadow. The shadow is what we think of it; the tree is the real thing.

– Abraham Lincoln The things I want to know are in books; my best friend is the man who'll get me a book I ain't read.

The best thing about the future is that it comes one day at a time.

– Abraham Lincoln

Major events and dates in Nigeria 1851 (December 26-27): Royal Navy warship bombards Lagos. Oba of Lagos (Oba Kosoko) is wounded and flees to Epe. On board the ship was Lt. Labulo Davies, probably the first Nigerian to be commisioned in a naval force.

1862 (January 1): Lagos Island is annexed as a colony of Britain 1862 (January 22): Mr H.S Freeman is appointed as the first Governor of Lagos Colony.

1877: George Taubman Goldie arrived in the Niger Delta in 1877 1885: Oil Rivers Protectorate proclaimed by the British after they had defeated of King Jaja of Opobo, the Oba of Benin and subdued all prominent oil merchants of the Niger Delta.

1892 (19 May): At the Battle of the (sacred) Yemoja River the British wreaks havoc amongst the Ijebu infantry with a British Maxim (capable of firing 2000 rounds in three minutes).

1893: Oil Rivers Protectorate renamed Niger Coast Protectorate with its capital at Calabar.

1890's: British Journalist Flora Shaw, later wife of Lord Frederick Lugard, suggests the name "Nigeria" after the great Niger River.

1897: The British overthrow Oba Ovonramwen

of Benin. One of the last independent West African kings.

1900: Niger Coast Protectorate was merged with the colony and protectorate of Lagos and renamed Protectorate of Southern Nigeria 1914: Formation of Nigeria under Governor Frederick Lugard 1929 (October): (Aba Women's Riot). Women in Aba demonstrate against high taxes and low prices of Nigerian exports.

1954: The position of Governor was created in each region after the Federal System of Government is adopted.

1958: Nigerian Armed Forces came under Federal control. The Nigerian Navy is created.

1959: The new Nigerian currency is introduced 1959: Northern Peoples Congress(NPC)and Niger Delta Congress(NDC) go into alliance to contest parliamentary elections.

The alliance earned the Brass Division a seat in the Federal Parliament for the first time.

1960(July): Sir Adesoji Aderemi becomes 1st Nigerian and 1st African to be appointed Governor in the Commonwealth. He became Governor before Nigeria got independence.

1960 (October 1): Nigeria's Independence Day: Nnamdi Azikiwe ("Zik") becomes 1st indigenous Governor General.

At independence, the Nigerian government consisted of three ethnic states united in a federation.

Each state was controlled by a single dominant ethnic-based party.

Forgive your enemies, but never forget their names.

Those who make peaceful revolution impossible will make violent revolution inevitable.

A nation that is afraid to let its people judge the truth and falsehood in an open market is a nation that is afraid of its people.

– John F. Kennedy ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○

CARTOON

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PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND, SATURDAY 23 — SUNDAY 24, MARCH, 2013

F

Compiled by Miriam Humbe

Tips for corporate dressing

A

smart business suit is a must in every working man’s wardrobe. There is a number of various suits available. Opt for one with a suitable length.

While many prefer suits in black, creams and beiges also make for an interesting option and can be paired with a coloured shirt.

When it comes to corporate dressing men need to follow certain rules. Men go easy on your accessories to the minimal. Ensure your shoes are not too fancy either.

Men should ensure their tie compliments the shirt. Avoid any loud colours or cartoon printed ones. Black or brown brogues work well with most outfits.

Sam Orga

CBN governor, Sanusi Lamido Sanusi

Dbanj Wande Coal

Frank Edoho

PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND SATURDAY 23 — SUNDAY 24, MARCH, 2013

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PAGE 34

PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND SATURDAY 23 — SUNDAY 24, MARCH, 2013

Business News Microsoft brings Office 2013 to Nigeria market

T

NCC releases new interconnect rates

N

igerian Communications Commission, NCC, has released a new interconnect rate that would guide telecom operators in the country on terminating calls for one another.

The new rate apparently became necessary after the expiration date of December 2012 for the old interconnect rate regime, which came into operation in 2009.

The new rate, which will begin from April 1, 2013 according to

NCC, will see major operators terminating calls on new entrants/ smaller operators' networks at N6.40, while the smaller operators do same on major operators' network at N4.90.

It also reviewed the respective rates further downwards for the next three years ending 2015.

NCC said it took the step to enable small operators and new entrants remain in business. It described a new entrant as newly-

licensed operator entering an existing or new market within 0 to 3 years.

It also said that for the purpose of determination, small operator could be defined as an existing operator with a market share of 0 7.5% in terms of subscriber base.

The current rate, which has attracted several hues and cries from smaller operators since it came into operation, was fixed at a uniform N8.20 per minute.

Interconnect rate represents the cost of terminating a call on another network. In other words, it is the rate that a network operator that originates a call pays to the operator on whose network the call is terminated.

The interconnect rate is important in telecommunications because it helps in defining tariffs for calls that involve at least two networks.

Ban on rice importation by 2016 is achievable – Expert

I

n line with President Goodluck Jonathan's announcement on Wednesday on the ban of rice importation, the Managing Director of Upper Niger River Basin Development Authority, Professor Paul Marley has said that the proposed ban by 2016 is achievable and assured that there is no cause for alarm over the policy.

Speaking in an interview with

newsmen in Minna, Niger state on Thursday, the Managing Director said with what is on the ground across the country today, the proposal has not only come as a cheering news but should be seen as a laudable policy which should be embraced by all Nigerians especially the rice farmers.

According to him "Most of the River Basins today are going through revitalization and part of that

revitalization is the opening up of new land for irrigation activities which will increase rice production in the nearest future".

"In our own particular case, (Upper Niger River Basin) we have opened up the Tungan Kawo Irrigation scheme in Wushishi from 400 to 600 hectres last year and this year, we hope to complete the remaining 200 to make up the 800

hectres targeted."

Professor Marley said besides this expansion, the Doko and the Jebba Irrigation schemes have started adding that that of Jebba has even been upgraded to a project office with a project officer resident there as an act of more commitment to actualize the dream pointing out that another irrigation project located in Likarbu, Kaduna state has taken off last year and work has advanced to about 45%, all towards boosting rice production.

The Managing Director revealed that another 200 hectres of irrigation scheme is to take off in Jere along Kaduna this year adding that those ongoing in Kurudu and Gada Biu are almost ready too.

He said "these are projects we can see aimed at accelerating rice production and so, I believe that we are poised more than ever before to produce rice in this country and with other River Basins which are even larger schemes than us like the Hadeija Jamare among others, we should be able to increase food production in the country generally through irrigation".

Marley however advised that state governments and even individuals should focus more attention on setting up of rice mills especially where rice is being produced massively in order to improve the quality of the local production.

he global software giant, Microsoft has announced t h e availability of Office 2013 in Nigeria, the next iteration of the company's flagship Office product line for consumers.

The new product allows new consumer cloud service works across devices to help busy people simplify their lives and get more done.

The new product, according to Microsoft was designed to work with both touch and a mouse, and works seamlessly in the cloud giving the user an unmatched onand offline experience.

"Office 2013 makes the end user more productive in both a work and home environment," Marc Israel, Office Division Group Lead for Microsoft West, East and Central Africa and Indian Ocean Islands, said, adding that, "With Office you can continue working offline, while the integration with cloud technologies allows you to sync your documents seamlessly allowing you to be far more productive."

Cloud technologies, he explained are fast becoming part of everyday life, which is why Microsoft's Office 365 Home Premium makes sense for the African market.

Office 20113 is cloud service: Office 365 Home Premium, one of the offerings within Office 2013, Microsoft said is a cloud service designed for busy households and people juggling ever-increasing work and family responsibilities. The new offering includes the latest and most complete set of Office applications; works across up to five devices, including Windows tablets, PCs and Macs; and comes with extra SkyDrive storage and Skype calling all for =N=12,800 for an annual subscription, the equivalent of less than =N=1,120 per month.

"This is a major leap forward.

We know that people's needs are changing rapidly, particularly on the African continent. This new iteration of Microsoft Office allows them to adopt technology that changes with them, meeting their everyday requirements."

Israel said.

It would be recalled that the CEO of Microsoft, Steve Ballmer who spoke earlier during the worldwide launch of Office 365 Home Premium on January 29 this year had highlighted that this marks the next big step in Microsoft's transformation to a devices and services business.

"This is so much more than just another release of Office.

This is Office reinvented as a consumer cloud service with all the full-featured Office applications people know and love, together with impressive new cloud and social benefits," he said.

Customers believe that the new iteration of Microsoft Office allows them to focus on growing their businesses, rather than IT functions.

PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND SATURDAY 23 — SUNDAY 24, MARCH, 2013

PAGE 35

Crime Cycle

How NSCDC, DPR raided petroleum products 'black marketers' in FCT

By Stanley Onyekwere

Worried by the recent upsurge in activities of illegal petroleum products marketers commonly referred to as black marketers in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), the Department of Petroleum Resources (DPR) in collaboration with the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) on Tuesday raided some notorious spots of the operators of the trade located within the central area of Abuja.

Those affected by the exercise were a group of black marketers (most of whom deals in diesel retailing), operating in an open market inside Danyial Plaza located beside AP petrol station, and opposite NNPC Mega station in the Central area of the nation’s capital.

The exercise which led to the uncovering of over 100 hundred drums, Jeri cans and seizure of a tanker used for the storage, supply and sell of petroleum products, began with a surprised coordinated hunt by the civil defence armed squad also led to the arrest and detention of twelve persons allegedly involved in the illegal business.

During the operation, Head of Downstream, DPR Abuja office, Yerima Kollomi, decried that the black marketers are involved in petroleum products adulteration, storage and sales in open places without license, which has become a menace in the territory.

According to him, apart from the damaging effect products from these operators are having on high capacity power generators and other machineries, there is a lot of environmental pollution emanating from their activities.

“It has been a menace in the FCT especially the Abuja city center. We tried to carry out the raid before, but we didn’t have the capacity, so we invited the Civil Defence to give us the well backing to do so, but these people must know what they are doing is illegal, because there is the need to sanitize the system.”

“As far as the DPR is concerned, these operators do not have approval to do what they are doing in the first place because they are not registered with the body, and there is no record with us to that effect, therefore we will continue the raid until sanity is restored in the sector”, he stressed.

Furthermore, rebuking the argument that the operators have been in the area for almost a decade, Kollomi insists that length with which the marketers had operated in the area does not justify the illegality of the

… 12 suspects in detention …'We are registered with CAC'- suspect

operation.

On his part, the commandant, NSCDC FCT command, Aminu Abdullahi Kofarsoro, labeled as ‘saboteur’ anybody who engages in storage and sales of petroleum products in the territory without appropriate license, because the person is deemed to be sabotaging the government’s programmes and policies in the area of distribution of petroleum products in the country.

Kofarsoro, who made this point while parading the suspects, warned that the Corps would not hesitate to arrest and prosecute those involved in the menace.

He however, assured that the corps would ensure that due process is followed to ensure that the suspects face the warrant of the law after full investigation into the alleged crime.

He however, warned that the Corps would not hesitate to arrest and prosecute anybody who engages in storage and sales of petroleum products in the territory without appropriate license, because the person is deemed to be sabotaging the government’s programmes and policies in the area of distribution of petroleum products in the country.

One of the suspects, Umar Musa kutar, who deals in diesel and the Vice chairman of Petroleum marketers in the area, did not deny having knowledge of the requirement for license from the DPR before operating in the industry, but however argued that they registered businesses with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC).

He said they supply and sell their products to some ministries, agencies, hotels, homes and big offices in the Territory, mostly in drums and big Jeri cans, noting that prior to the raid and arrest, they have been operating in the area for the past ten years without any notice that their operation in the industry were illegal from any relevant authority.

“We are not certified by the DPR to do what we are doing but we are working gradually towards getting an approval from them; we weren’t able to do so because we are trying to meet the standard requirements for grant of such license”, he said.

Narrating how he and others were caught, Kutar said: “As I saw the Civil Defence officers conducting search and arrests in

Suspected black marketers paraded by the NSCDC after the raid

Some of the black marketers caught in the act with drums filled with petroleum products the area, then I went and asked why they were arresting our members, at that point they replied: what you are doing here is illegal business because you don’t have the approval to do so.

“If they don’t want us to be there, at least they should have notified us to leave and stop our business or relocate to another place before raiding and arresting our members; that was when I got arrested.”

The suspect who condemned how the DPR and NSCDC raid team stormed the area and caught them unaware, also denied the allegation that the operators engage in adulteration of the products, he said for supply, they go direct to the depots to get their products.

“Although some of the NSCDC officials had visited the area once since our over a decade operation in the industry, but at no

occasion had any relevant government authority asked us to stop the business or leave the place until the surprised raid exercise.

“What we do is to pull together our resources, with which we then go to the depots and buy our products: the ratio is between four to five members per truck; also we have storage facilities where we store our products”, he insisted.

PAGE 36

PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND SATURDAY 23 — SUNDAY 24, MARCH, 2013

OUR MISSION “To be the market place of ideas and the leading player in the industry by putting the people first, upholding the truth, maintaining the highest professional and ethical standards while delivering value to our stakeholders”

OUR PEOPLE

OUR VISION

CHAIRMAN MALAM WADA MAIDA, OON, FNGE DIRECTOR/ EDITOR-IN-CHIEF RUFA’I IBRAHIM ACTING EDITOR, DAILY HAMEED M. BELLO

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER ALI M. ALI

HEAD, ADVERT/MARKETING HUSSAINI ABDULRAHMAN, CNA

ACTING EDITOR, WEEKEND JAMILA NUHU MUSA

MANAGER, ADMINISTRATION HASSAN HAMMANYAJI

HEAD, LAGOS BUREAU ADESOJI OYINLOLA

“To be a reputable, profitable, innovative and technologically reliant media company offering world class services and products”

Re: Sovereign wealth fund Why accountability is important

A

ccountability is an important factor in sustaining just about anything you do. It is important because it holds each and every one accountability for his or her actions. Being willing to accept responsibility or blame for something you have done or failed to do.

Accountability is important to help achieve goals. If you are not accountable for your actions, then you will not succeed, and the businesses will not either.

In health care, accountability is used to give the procedure and process by which someone has to take responsibilities for their activities. Competence, ethical and legal conducts, are some forms of domain accountability.

Public accountability would refer to elected or appointed public officers to be accountable to the masses on which they govern. That is, we expect a village head to be accountable to his subjects and not the other way around, as used to be traditionally. Similarly Local Government Area, LGA, States and Federal Government officers should be accountable in their various offices and be competent in all their ethical and legal conducts publicly and privately. They are public officers and everyone must have access to them and be able to assess them as upright and above board.

Any officers not ready to be subject to public accountability or not willing to subject himself to public accountability and should not be worth the offices he or she holds.

For example, consider a young couple desiring to be successful on a firm foundation. We would advise them to be accountable to each other in their union. We would encourage them to live and eat together and when they return from work every evening to exchange the stories of their daily encounters for mutual encouragement and prayer. They would be doing this every day and for several years and remain accountable to each other daily.

The reasons why they need such a

WRITE TO US Peoples Daily Weekend welcomes your letters, opinion articles, text messages and ‘pictures of yesteryears.’ All written contributions should be concise. Word limits: Letters - 150 words, Articles - 750 words. Please include your name and a valid location. Letters to the Editor should be addressed to: The Editor, Peoples Daily, 1st Floor Peace Plaza, 35 Ajose Adeogun Street, Utako, Abuja.

Email: opinion@peoplesdailyng.com routine include the desire for personal encouragement and to build a deeper and more meaningful friendship and love, giving no excuse to hang out. Such a lifestyle model could build real friendship and the benefits would be endless and life-changing.

The point behind accountability isn't just to share our ups and downs of each day and hear the hard words of rebuke where necessary. Though the wounds of a friend are a sign of his or her faithfulness, accountability should also be a time to build each other up and encourage each other towards goodness and correct living and general relationship building. It is also to remember each other who they are, what they plan to achieve together and accept completely their oneness. Accountability would give them the opportunity to express a genuine love for one another, to praise and correct each other, to encourage life of honesty, to learn to forgive each other and to truly bear each other's burdens in prayer and encouragements.

This type of open living has all the benefits we can think of. It builds a life of trusting each other such that it is possible for the young man to love his wife and the young lady to respect her husband.

Where this is the life style, the children would find an excellent environment to grow and learn in an atmosphere of love and open life. It could be providing a faster method of family economic and social development than any other models.

At the national level where, in many

cases, accountability is in doubt or totally lacking. In such cases officers behave very irresponsibly. Such national life can only grow deeper into recession and anarchy whereas the obligations of public enterprises and agencies, who are entrusted with public resources, are to be answerable for fiscal and social responsibilities, to those who have assigned such responsibilities to them.

Accountability is one of those golden concepts that no one should be against. It is increasingly used in political discourse and policy documents because it conveys an image of transparency and trustworthiness. However, its evocative powers make it also a very elusive concept because it can mean many different things to different people.

In contemporary administration accountability and accountable no longer convey an image of bookkeeping and financial administration, but they hold

strong promises of fair, due process and equitable governance. Moreover, the accounting relationship has almost completely reversed. Accountability does not refer to sovereigns holding their subjects to account, but to the reverse, it is the authorities themselves who are being held accountable by their citizens. In particular, the citizens are deeply in doubt that the authorities are less accountable to them.

It is necessary to introduce reforms on a range of private sector management styles and instruments into the public sector, including contract management both within and outside the public sector, the use of performance indicators and benchmarks to evaluate and compare the effectiveness and efficiency of public agencies, and so on. Most of these instruments require extensive auditing to be effective. In Nigeria, government found it appealing to run a show of real accountability by instituting one police agency after another, like ICPC or EFCC and the others, to possibly arrest an alleged offender, which is government putting more emphasis or administrative laws.

What would interest the citizens are achievements on the ground rather than more bureaucracy that has never worked. People want results rather than bookkeeping accountability.

Prof. R.A. Ipinyomi ipinyomira@yahoo.co.uk and/or raipinyomi@unilorin.edu.g

“

Accountability is one of those golden concepts that no one should be against. It is increasingly used in political discourse and policy documents because it conveys an image of transparency and trustworthiness. However, its evocative powers make it also a very elusive concept because it can mean many different things to different people.

PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND SATURDAY 23 — SUNDAY 24, MARCH, 2013

PAGE 37

Opinion On question of pardon or clemency

By Prince Adolphus Olotu

In the political history of nations, it is an accepted practice that "pardon" , "clemency" or "reprieve" are from time to time, granted to persons who have fallen short of the law, for a number of reasons. These related concepts are self-explanatory but they simply encapsulate a number of producers and actions which technically lead to forgiveness or commutation and remission for offenses that are believed to have been committed.

In nearly all jurisdictions granting of pardon is done by the appropriate political authority, often Heads of State or in some cases

by Acts of Parliament and depending on the nature of the offence, by Heads of Sub-national authorities such as Governors. A pardon in general is often granted to men and women who are mostly regarded to have"fulfilled their debt to society" through various forms of services before and after the infraction in question. They have often, also being granted on the basis of equity or in other situations deemed to be in public interest. In most countries the Head of State is the "sole judge" of this measure and it is his complete prerogative.

Under the Nigerian Construction, the power of pardon for all offences, particularly of weighty "federal" nature, resides in the person of the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. However, this follows a number of intricate procedures, including formal advice from the respective departments of government, especially the Honourable Minister of Justice and Attorney General of the Federation and Secretary to Government of the Federation. Thereafter, the president's recommendations are brought before the council of state which, as it were is the highest constitutional body in the country comprising former Heads of state, Vice Presidents, Heads of the three arms of government and their predecessors and heads of some other

By Paul T. Liam

T

here can never be better time to effect change in any circumstance, therefore recognising one's inadequacies at whatever time in life does not deter the positive intention behind such a discovery because, unless such late realizations are made, one would remain in perpetual obscenity. The conception of the idea of a national discourse on corruption couldn't have come at a better time than now when it dawned on all that the only escape is a dialogue which would canvass for a collective and national action that would trigger a debate of openness amongst the populace. The appropriateness of an action is not determined by the time of action but by the yardstick upon which it rests its focus.

Obviously, the most significant attempt at deviating from the norms that has held no good for all over several decades is by applying precautionary measures and affording a palatable environment for the activation of a definitive foundation of action central to the realization, rehabilitation and restructuring of a failed system which requires the doggedness and wit of fearless individuals and leaders to attain a determined resolve to prepare the ground for developmental opportunities. This was the ambience at the recently held Minna national discourse on corruption, with the theme: Confronting Trends of Indiscipline, Corruption and Disregard for Rules and Regulations in Nigeria.

The discourse was organised to re-awaken the populace to the need for all to be accountable and conscious of the on-going trends in the leadership structure of the country, and be more proactive in attempting to proffer possible solutions to the menace dwindling the fortunes of the nation amidst surplus wealth. There is still high level of poverty amongst the people despite the abundance of natural and human resources. The question which therefore arises

government departments.

Furthermore in Nigeria, there is a rigourous process and at every stage a case by case analysis of the circumstances are examined, scrutinized and agreed upon. It should be mentioned that in many countries such elaborate process is not applied or resorted to. Often, this is considered the prerogative of the Heads of State and normally handled solely at that level. It is also important to underline that in the exercise of this power by the Nigerian Presidency, a lot of tact; caution and conservative outlook have been demonstrated over the years. Accordingly, it is a known fact and to the credit of past and present Nigerian leaders, that such grants of pardons have been few and far apart over the years.

It is therefore of great concern that governments of some countries which the international community consider as relatively generous and perhaps less transparent in the granting of pardons would lead the campaign against Nigeria. Without dwelling on any historical account, it is known that most controversial and internationally disturbing acts of pardon are known to have been granted by the government of countries in the more advanced democracies whom Nigeria look up to as bastions of best political practices.

For brevity, some examples from the United States of America, one of Nigeria's strongest allies and friends will suffice. In its most recent political history, President Bill Clinton issued a total of 459 pardons, while President Jimmy Carter issued 74 pardons in his last month in office.

Similarly, President Ronald Reagan issued 32 and George Bush Snr, issued 36 in their last days in power. On assumption of office, one of the first functions of General Ford was to grant amnesty to his former boss, President Richard Nixon on 8th September, 1974, over his implication and impeachment over the Watergate scandal. In the same vein, President

Ronald Reagan granted 78 pardons to key officials in respect of the Iran Contra affairs.

Coming back to one of our contemporary leading Statesmen and a great friend of Africa, President Bill Clinton, on his very last day in office, granted amnesty to 140 persons including the billionaire fugitive, Mark Rich.

Clinton also granted pardon to other persons including his own half brother, Roger Clinton Jnr over cocaine charges. This was along with several other known felons with serious offences such as money laundering, drug trafficking, tax evasion and mail fraud. Others granted clemency by Clinton on the day he was leaving the White House include Congressman, Dan Rostencowsail over congressional post office fraud, former Republican Arizona Governor Fife Symington III, the notorious drug kingpins carlos Anibal Vignali and Jon Burton over cocaine trafficking and former speaker of Missouri House of Representatives Bob Griffin over bribery.

For the completeness of records, even the current President Barack Obama, has granted several pardons including some for drug related offences. However to his credit, President Obama, like Nigerian Heads of State, appears to have shown greater reticence in granting pardons. Since being in power, he has granted pardons to only about 40 persons (as recent as 1 March 2013 to about 10 other persons for various offences).

It is significant to note that no credible voice has questioned the powers of these and other sovereign Nations around the world in granting pardons since these are based on the public interest of the countries involved. On our part in Nigeria, all these have not in any way affected the great respect, love and admiration which we have for these American leaders, it is therefore strange and indeed repugnant that this process which has been very scrupulously undertaken in Nigeria with greater demonstration of discretion and sense of

responsibility should be sanctioned so loudly.

Indeed, it is more disappointing and worrisome this is being used by countries with which we share great conviviality and mutual respect, to spearhead the lead in fanning the embers of acrimony within Nigeria.

The members of the Nigerian Civil Society groups have in their usual show of patriotism followed the spiral from abroad over the reprieve granted to these fellow Nigerians. It is not amiss because the frontal role of our civil society has helped contribute in bringing us thus far in our process of development. Their stated concerns are therefore understandable.

However, it is also important, in the overall interest of the nation, to advice the leadership of these groups to take time to ponder on the great presence of mind which informed the framers of our constitution to adopt such a rigorous, open and transparent process.

The persons who were granted the pardon such as General Shehu Yar'Adua, General Oladip Dipa, Late Gen. Abdulkareem Adisa, Major Bello Magaji, Mohammed Bin, Major Segun Fadile, Chief DSP Alamieyeseigha and former MD, Bank of the North, Shettima Bulama are all unarguably people that in the past and for those alive, still playing very important roles in fostering unity, peace and stability in our country. Many of them have played roles and acted as stabilizing factors in their various regions. Just to recall the contributions and sacrifices of Generals Yar'Adua and Diya in returning Nigeria to democracy or the invaluable contributions of Chief Alamieyeseigha to peace and stability in the Niger Delta and the Gulf of Guinea, the region where our national wealth is stacked.

These men are bridge builders, national icons and leaders whose patriotism and contributions are indelible.

Prince Adolphus Olotu, PhD is Coordinator North-SouthAllianceforTransparencyand Democracy

is what and who is, or are responsible for this irregularity that has ensured the retrogression of a presumably giant nation like Nigeria? These were the issues and questions tackled at the discourse. The event which was organised by the Niger State Government in corroboration with the National Planning Commission and held on the 14thof March, 2013 at the Justice Idris Legbo Kutigi International conference centre, paraded some of the best political intellectuals of the millennium.

Dr Shamsudeen Usman, Minister and vicechairman National Planning Commission who was also the co-host of the event delivered the keynote address and in doing so acknowledged the destructive nature of corruption occasioned most often by the absence of discipline, lack of respect and regard for constituted authority and greed. He said that though Nigeria is blessed with huge human and mineral resources, it is still underdeveloped and fears that it would continue to remain so unless practical steps are taken to avert the overwhelming impact of corruption on the economy. He enumerated some of the contributing factors of underdevelopment to include Corruption, Indiscipline and the lack of respect for the Rule of Law and Regulations. He then highlighted Exemplary leadership, Quality leadership and service delivery from the top and ensuring due process and respect for the Rule of Law as practical ways of combating the menace. He also informed that the administration of President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan has vowed to tackle corruption. While elucidating that exemplary leadership is the bane of economic development, he equally observed that reward for excellence would enhance growth and development.

Professor Bolaji Akinyeyemi, a one-time

Minister of Foreign Affairs was the lead speaker at the event. Professor Akinyemi delivered a lecture titled, CORRUPTION: Danger of national unity'', were he sampled in very grave details analysis that raised eye brows on the devastating effect of corruption and its averred consequences for the nation, he cited figures and Nigeria's ranking in the international scene which he regrettably said was uncomplimentary, he said that no administration, past or present since independence is immune to corruption.

According to him, the various forms of corruption include, ''bribery, cronyism, nepotism, patronage, graft and embezzlement'', he also assumes thus ''I assume that there is general agreement that Nigeria is afflicted with the corruption virus in its most invidious and insidious variety, or else we would not be here.

Yet, I am not sure that we actually appreciate what constitute corruption''. What appears as a warning from Professor Akinyemi's lecture is his concern on the national issue which he explains thus, ''the accumulative effect of corruption, manifesting in crass poverty, may make the prophecy about the break-up of Nigeria, a reality'' The Central Bank Governor and chairman of the occasion Mallam Sanusi Lamido Sanusi in his brief but exigent remark said that ''the worst type of corruption is one that is not tied to productivity'' he, like all the other speakers denounced the counterproductive effect of corruption on the economy. The event had Dr Hakeem Baba Ahmad, Professor Kabiru Mato of the University of Abuja, Mr Segun Adeniyi, Prof Sheikh Abdallah and Prof Chidi Anselm Odinkalu who was represented at the event as discussants. There were also a team of contributors which constituted renowned

activists such as Barrister Shehu Sani, Honourable Dino Malaye, Prof Ishaq Oloyede and Mr Isah Aremu, Secretary of the Nigerian Labour Congress.

All of the discussants, contributors and speakers agreed that corruption is an enemy of the state which must be fought and defeated by whatever ways and means possible. The Sultan of Sokoto who was represented at the event by the Etsu Nupe Alhaji (DR) Yahaya Abubakar said that ''the fight against corruption is a strategic national agenda'' the Sultan also submitted that ''the fight against corruption is the fight for the heart and soul of Nigeria'', ''that when a gift finds its way to the man in authority, honesty and integrity finds its way out'' The Chief Servant of Niger State, Dr Mu'azu Babangida Aliyu who was in very calm spirit through the various sessions of the programme took on the defensive while at the same time acknowledging the common hatred for corruption, he refuted some of the issues raised by the some of the speakers, for example, he wondered if there is any party in Nigeria that could have done better than what the PDP has done since 1999, he also argued that the problem is not with the parties but rather with Nigerians.

The Chief Servant equally opined that if a minister is accused of stealing two million naira, if well checked, the Permanent Secretary has stolen four million naira; he said that there are more monies than the capacity to use the money. He was happy with the frankness exhibited by discussants at the programme and postulated that corruption is prevalent in all parts of the society and requires the involvement of everyone to combat it.

Liam wrote from Minna, Niger state

Corruption as a national issue

PAGE 36

PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND SATURDAY 23 — SUNDAY 24, MARCH, 2013

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Re: Sovereign wealth fund Why accountability is important

A

ccountability is an important factor in sustaining just about anything you do. It is important because it holds each and every one accountability for his or her actions. Being willing to accept responsibility or blame for something you have done or failed to do.

Accountability is important to help achieve goals. If you are not accountable for your actions, then you will not succeed, and the businesses will not either.

In health care, accountability is used to give the procedure and process by which someone has to take responsibilities for their activities. Competence, ethical and legal conducts, are some forms of domain accountability.

Public accountability would refer to elected or appointed public officers to be accountable to the masses on which they govern. That is, we expect a village head to be accountable to his subjects and not the other way around, as used to be traditionally. Similarly Local Government Area, LGA, States and Federal Government officers should be accountable in their various offices and be competent in all their ethical and legal conducts publicly and privately. They are public officers and everyone must have access to them and be able to assess them as upright and above board.

Any officers not ready to be subject to public accountability or not willing to subject himself to public accountability and should not be worth the offices he or she holds.

For example, consider a young couple desiring to be successful on a firm foundation. We would advise them to be accountable to each other in their union. We would encourage them to live and eat together and when they return from work every evening to exchange the stories of their daily encounters for mutual encouragement and prayer. They would be doing this every day and for several years and remain accountable to each other daily.

The reasons why they need such a

WRITE TO US Peoples Daily Weekend welcomes your letters, opinion articles, text messages and ‘pictures of yesteryears.’ All written contributions should be concise. Word limits: Letters - 150 words, Articles - 750 words. Please include your name and a valid location. Letters to the Editor should be addressed to: The Editor, Peoples Daily, 1st Floor Peace Plaza, 35 Ajose Adeogun Street, Utako, Abuja.

Email: opinion@peoplesdailyng.com routine include the desire for personal encouragement and to build a deeper and more meaningful friendship and love, giving no excuse to hang out. Such a lifestyle model could build real friendship and the benefits would be endless and life-changing.

The point behind accountability isn't just to share our ups and downs of each day and hear the hard words of rebuke where necessary. Though the wounds of a friend are a sign of his or her faithfulness, accountability should also be a time to build each other up and encourage each other towards goodness and correct living and general relationship building. It is also to remember each other who they are, what they plan to achieve together and accept completely their oneness. Accountability would give them the opportunity to express a genuine love for one another, to praise and correct each other, to encourage life of honesty, to learn to forgive each other and to truly bear each other's burdens in prayer and encouragements.

This type of open living has all the benefits we can think of. It builds a life of trusting each other such that it is possible for the young man to love his wife and the young lady to respect her husband.

Where this is the life style, the children would find an excellent environment to grow and learn in an atmosphere of love and open life. It could be providing a faster method of family economic and social development than any other models.

At the national level where, in many

cases, accountability is in doubt or totally lacking. In such cases officers behave very irresponsibly. Such national life can only grow deeper into recession and anarchy whereas the obligations of public enterprises and agencies, who are entrusted with public resources, are to be answerable for fiscal and social responsibilities, to those who have assigned such responsibilities to them.

Accountability is one of those golden concepts that no one should be against. It is increasingly used in political discourse and policy documents because it conveys an image of transparency and trustworthiness. However, its evocative powers make it also a very elusive concept because it can mean many different things to different people.

In contemporary administration accountability and accountable no longer convey an image of bookkeeping and financial administration, but they hold

strong promises of fair, due process and equitable governance. Moreover, the accounting relationship has almost completely reversed. Accountability does not refer to sovereigns holding their subjects to account, but to the reverse, it is the authorities themselves who are being held accountable by their citizens. In particular, the citizens are deeply in doubt that the authorities are less accountable to them.

It is necessary to introduce reforms on a range of private sector management styles and instruments into the public sector, including contract management both within and outside the public sector, the use of performance indicators and benchmarks to evaluate and compare the effectiveness and efficiency of public agencies, and so on. Most of these instruments require extensive auditing to be effective. In Nigeria, government found it appealing to run a show of real accountability by instituting one police agency after another, like ICPC or EFCC and the others, to possibly arrest an alleged offender, which is government putting more emphasis or administrative laws.

What would interest the citizens are achievements on the ground rather than more bureaucracy that has never worked. People want results rather than bookkeeping accountability.

Prof. R.A. Ipinyomi ipinyomira@yahoo.co.uk and/or raipinyomi@unilorin.edu.g

“

Accountability is one of those golden concepts that no one should be against. It is increasingly used in political discourse and policy documents because it conveys an image of transparency and trustworthiness. However, its evocative powers make it also a very elusive concept because it can mean many different things to different people.

PAGE 39

PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND SATURDAY 23 — SUNDAY 24, MARCH, 2013

International Bashar Assad vows to flushextremist 'forces of darkness fromSyria

T

he Syrian president vowed on Friday to rid the country of Muslim extremists whom he blamed for a suicide blast the previous evening that killed dozens of people, including a top Sunni preacher who was a staunch supporter of Bashar Assad.

And in a warning to rebels battling to topple his regime, the Syrian leader pledged that his troops will "wipe out" and clean the country of the "forces of darkness."

The Associated Press reports that Assad's statement came as the Syrian Health Ministry raised the death toll from the Thursday night bombing in Damascus to 49, after seven of the wounded died overnight in hospital.

In the attack, a suicide bomber blew himself up inside a mosque in the heart of the Syrian capital, killing Sheikh Mohammad Said Ramadan alButi as he was giving a sermon.

The blast also wounded 84

people.

It was one of the most stunning assassinations of the two-year civil war and marked a new low in the conflict: while suicide bombings blamed on Islamic extremists fighting with the rebels have become common, the latest attack was the first time a suicide bomber detonated his explosives inside a mosque. The grandson of the 84year-old al-Buti was among those killed in the attack.

According to the statement carried by Syria's state SUNA news agency, Assad said al-Buti represented true Islam in facing "the forces of darkness and extremist" ideology.

"Your blood and your grandson's, as well as that of all the nation's martyrs will not go in vain because we will continue to follow your thinking to wipe out their darkness and clear our country of them," said Assad.

Syria's crisis started in March 2011 as peaceful protests against Assad's authoritarian rule. The

A pro-Syrian regime protester waves a Syrian flag as he stands in front of portrait of Syrian President Bashar Assad, during a protest against sanctions, Damascus, Syria, Friday Dec. 2, 2011. Photo: AP revolt turned into a civil war as some opposition supporters took up arms the fight a harsh government crackdown on dissent. The UN says more than 70,000 people have been killed

since.

It was not immediately clear when al-Buti's funeral would take place. The government declared Saturday as a day of mourning and state-run Syrian

TV halted its regular programs on Friday to air readings from the Muslim holy book, the Quran, as well as speeches of the late cleric.

'I will build bridges with Islam, China'- Pope Francis tells Ambassadors DR Congo's

'Terminator' in ICC custody

A

ccording to The Associated Press, Francis met Friday with ambassadors from the 180 countries that have diplomatic relations with the Holy See and told them he wanted to work for peace, the poor and to "build bridges" between peoples.

He noted that even his title "pontiff" means bridge-builder.

Francis said it was important to intensify dialogue among different religions "particularly dialogue with Islam" and to deepen the church's outreach to atheists. He said he wanted to begin a "journey" with countries that don't yet have diplomatic relations.

His predecessor, Pope Benedict XVI, had made improving relations with China a priority, but tensions remain.

E

Photo of Pope Francis gestures as he delivers his Angelus prayer from the window of his studio overlooking St. Peter's Square, at the Vatican. (AP) Pope Francis has called for more dialogue with Islam and offered an olive branch to China and other countries that don't have diplomatic relations with the Holy See.

Israel PM apologies for Gaza flotilla deaths

I

srael's Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu has tendered apologies to Turkey over any mistakes that could have resulted in nine deaths during the 2010 raid on a flotilla that tried to breach the blockade of Gaza.

Netanyahu in a telephone conversation with his Turkish c o u n t e r p a r t RecepTayyipErdogan, agreed to compensate the families of the victims.

Although Netanyahu had previously only expressed regret for the nine deaths, however, the stance significantly damaged relations between the two US allies.

BBC reports that the telephone conversation took place at the end of a visit to

Israel and the West Bank by US President Barack Obama.

According to the report, Obama before departing Tel Aviv airport for Jordan on Friday afternoon revealed that Netanyahu and Erdogan had spoken.

"The United States deeply values our close partnerships with both Turkey and Israel, and we attach great importance to the restoration of positive relations between them in order to advance regional peace and security," he said in a statement.

Also, US officials told reporters that Mr Netanyahu had apologised for the flotilla incident and acknowledged "operational mistakes", the report said.

The Turkish ship Mavi Marmara led a six-vessel aid convoy which tried to breach the Gaza blockade

mbattled Congolese war crimes suspect, General BoscoNtaganda has left Rwanda and is on the way to The Hague in the custody of the International Criminal Court (ICC) after he surrendered to the US embassy in Kigali on Monday.

Known as "The Terminator", Gen Ntaganda has fought for a number of rebel groups as well as the Congolese army. He is accused of seven counts of war crimes and three counts of crimes against humanity allegedly committed in Ituri, DR Congo, between 2002-2003.

The ICC has charged GenNtaganda, a key figure in the conflict in eastern DR Congo, with 10 counts of war crimes and crimes against humanity, which he denied. The charges include enlisting child soldiers, murder, rape and sexual slavery.

However, a date for his first appearance before judges is expected to be set soon.

The DR Congo government has said that Gen Ntaganda, who comes from the Tutsi ethnic group, crossed into Rwanda on Saturday after he and some of his followers were defeated by a rival faction of the M23 group.

BBC reports that a statement from the ICC thanked the US, Rwanda and DR Congo for helping secure the transfer of Gen Ntaganda to The Hague.

But it also urged urged them to "renew and refocus their efforts" to secure the arrests of other suspects who remain at large, including Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR) commander SylvestreMudacumura, and the top commanders of the Lord's Resistance Army.

PAGE 40

PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND SATURDAY 23 — SUNDAY 24, MARCH, 2013

Feature

When Al-Adabiyyah Islamic society remembered Saraki From Olanrewaju Lawal, Ilorin

T

he International Association of AlAdabiyyah Institutes, the Islamic group founded by late Sheikh Muhammad Kamaluddeen Al-Adabiyy, the pioneer Mufti of Ilorin and founder of Ansarul Islamic Society of Nigeria gathered to remember their late leader, and late Dr. Olusola Saraki, the Waziri of Ilorin. The institutes delved into the history of both icons and came out with a book entitled "The Blessed Student: Saraki". The book exposes the fact that Saraki, irrespective of how Nigerians viewed him, was an obedient student under Sheikh Al-Adabiyy.

Late Al-Adabiyy (19052005), had produced a lot of scholars and Islamic clerics across the world. Saraki, the Kwara political godfather on the other hand had also produced many politicians, lawmakers, governors and political groups among others. It was on this views that Adabiyyah Institute recalled the parallel relationship between their founder and Waziri of Ilorin.

In their book, Adabiyy noted that the two personalities were very close and well connected for most parts of their lives".

Justice M. A. Ambali, the Chairman of Muhammad Kamalud-deen Education Foundation (MUKEF), who presented the book, noted that it captured the cordial and impressive relationship between Dr. Abubakar Olusola Saraki, the Waziri of Ilorin and his late teacher, Sheikh Muhammad AlAdabiyy. He described the late scholar as a pious, reputed and distinguished scholar who commanded the respect of the high and low members of his

Late Dr Abubakar Olushola Saraki

Sheikh Muhammad Kamalud-deen Al-Adabiyy

society and had pupils and followers spread over and beyond the length and breadth of Yoruba land. He likened the late scholar's wide spread followers and long life to that of Imam Malik bin Anas, who reigned between 93 AH and 179AH. The former Grand Khadi also described the late political icon, Dr. Olusola Saraki, one of Sheikh Al-Adabiyy students as a man with charisma, generosity and a politician with dexterity which put him above his colleagues in the political arena in Nigeria.

To Justice Ambali, both AlAdabiyy and Saraki rendered selfless service to the common people in Nigeria and used their wealth and knowledge for the betterment of their people.

The Adabiyy Institutes also recalled that in the 1940s and 50s, few parents enrolled their

several occasions, he took his children to the Sheikh for prayers seeking for Allah's blessing and guidance."

Though the institutes could not produce any document to ascertain the date late Saraki enrolled in the school, his contemporary, Alhaji Shehu Babaita, a retired judge confirmed that Late Olusola Saraki met him in the school around 1946.

The institute quoted Babaita as saying that "students of the late Sheikh included: Alhaji Olukade and Jamiu Gold (both of blessed memory), who were directly in charge of teaching the Qur'an and other Islamic books such as "lalari (al-Akhdari), a popular elementary book on Islamic jurisprudence. Babaita also recalled that he was in the same class with late Saraki when the May 1947 eclipse of the sun occurred.

children in Ma'had al-Ulum alArabiyyah al Kamaliyyah which later transformed to Al-Zumrah al-Adabiyyah al -Kamaliyyah in 1964. The few children who were enrolled then included: late FRA Williams (former Chief Justice of Nigeria), Folarin Williams, Mulikat Williams, Mutiu Askindar (Alexander), Mutiu Cold, Ganiyu Olowu, Abdullateef Olowu, Sidijat Oluwole, Hanatu Oluwole, Morili Ganiyu, among others.

According to the institutes, Alhaji Mukhtari Mustapha Saraki, a popular merchant from Agoro family in Agbaji, Ilorin, personally handed over his child, Abubakar Olusola Saraki to late Sheikh Al-Adabiyy. Then, Alhaji Mukhtar, was a local scholar and kola nut merchant and "greatly admired Sheikh Kamalud-deen.

"He normally attended the Sheikh's sermons at Ojo Giwa whenever he was around. On

Also according to the institute's records during his lifetime, late Saraki had always referred to the late Sheikh AlAdabiyy as "Baba mi, Alfa mi (my father and my teacher). One of such occasion, was the thankyou visit he paid to the Ansarul Islam Primary School Okekere, when now Senator Bukola Saraki was first elected as the governor of Kwara state in 2003.

The institute quoted Saraki as saying: "when we were at Ilekewu (Islamic school) under Baba, (bending down a little bit to touch Sheikh with his two hands), he used to pray for us to attain greatness in life and to have children that would also be great.

Then, I could recall, it was Alhaji Ali Olukade and others who used to teach us. I thank Allah that He has accepted those prayers.

Today, your son, Bukola (referring to the audience) is the governor of Kwara state".

First Lady bags ‘Global Woman Leader for Peace’ award

By Ibrahim Kabiru Sule

T

h e Africa Youths and Women Network (AYWN) has crowned the Nigerian First Lady, Dame Patience Jonathan with the “Global Women Leader for Peace Award” for the year 2013.

This, according to a statement by the Consultant of the African First Ladies Peace Mission (AFLPM), Rhoda Sika is in recognition of her immense contributions and humanitarian service to women, youth and children in Africa.

Sika said the award ceremony, which took place in Paris, France, wass to acknowledge Dame Patience’s determined efforts towards assisting and alleviating the plights of the less privileged women and children in the

society.

The organisers were particular about the Nigeria’s First lady’s transformation of the office of African first ladies ever since her assumption to the office, and appreciated her “exemplary leadership skills coupled with her numerous achievements which are worthy of note.

“The appointment of women in the Executive, Legislature and Judiciary arms of government including the appointment of 13 women federal ministers in the federal cabinet and the 35% Affirmative Action Policy of the present administration of President Goodluck Jonathan and others too numerous to mention,” underscored her poise in assisting womenfolk, the statement noted.

On her part, the celebrant, Patience Jonathan, who is also the Chairperson of the African First Ladies Peace Mission, thanked the organisers for the award and pledged her commitment for the upliftment of women across Africa.

While informing the gathering of her intention of assisting the flood victims in Sierra Leone and the advanced construction of children with heart diseases hospital in Abuja, the First Lady equally expressed optimism that Africa will surely be a great continent to be proud of in the future.

She then enjoined leaders across the globe to rally round in support of women empowerment initiatives, saying that “educating a woman is educating a nation.”

Dame Patience Jonathan

PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND, SATURDAY 23 — SUNDAY 24, MARCH, 2013

PAGE 41

Weekend Super Eagles, Harambee Stars rekindle quest for 2014 World Cup ticket Eldderson Echiejile to build watertight defence wall.

Fit again Mikel Obi should marshal the midfield along Ogenyi Onazi or Fegor Ogunde to inspire the offensive that may see Obafemi Martins in the fray.

Of course, like Amrouche said beating the Kenyans won't be a stroll in the park and hastily writing off the East Africans could only be done to one's peril.

A win for Nigeria will keep them top of Group F in the World Cup qualification and leave the Kenyans rooted to bottom spot behind Namibia and Malawi. In spite of this permutation, Keshi is not expecting the Kenyans to roll up in Calabar.

"It's good past results favour us but we are not dwelling on that. If past results really count then we wouldn't even be playing Kenya.

Remember they have a new coach and every coach comes with a different approach, mentality, team ethics and style of play. So we have respect for them and we will play this game with our best players," Keshi said.

In the same vein, Amrouche said, "Both teams will sweat. I can assure you. This presents us with a big opportunity to play the African champions. We came here to play football," said Amrouche, who looks forward to the clash.

By Patrick Andrew

B

u b b l i n g with the renewed spirit, the Super Eagles of Nigeria will tackle the Harambee Stars of Kenya not as uncertain quantity but the African kings. The Eagles under Stephen Keshi have suddenly shaded off the 'Super Chickens' toga to adorn the beauty of the continent in a manner reminiscent of their pre-1994 World Cup. They are not there yet but their depth, flair and focus are pointers of what quality they could be when the incubation period finally elapses.

Today against the Harambee Stars, the Eagles are unarguably the favourites to claim the maximum points and boost their 2014 World Cup points. They have the bragging rights as African champions and are ranked 33 places above the Harambee Stars and have never lost at home to the East Africans.

In fact, every member of the team is upbeat. The Eagles are reasonably prepared and look set to re-enact the depth and flair with which they trounced the Elephants of Ivory and the Malian Eagles to herald new chapter in Nigeria's dominance of African football.

Albeit, the Eagles defeated the Harambee Stars 3-0 in March 2011 in a friendly game, the last competitive game between them ended 3-2 in Nigeria's favour in a World Cup qualifying game in Nairobi in 2009.

The game handed the Eagles their 2010 World Cup ticket.

Only four Super Eagles' players from that team of 2009 are in line for selection in this weekend's clash.

They are John Obi Mikel, Vincent Enyeama, Elderson Echiejile and Obafemi Martins, who scored twice in that game.

One of Kenya's goalscorers in that World Cup qualifying in Nairobi in 2009, Dennis Oliech, will

Obafemi Martins captain Adel Amrouche's men.

Others in that team available are Arnold Origi, Peter Opiyo, George Owino, Mulinge Ndeto and Victor Wanyama.

The African champions are without Celtic defender, Efe Ambrose, who is suspended but Keshi could select Sunshine Stars' Solomon Kwambe to fill in at the right-back.

Like Nigeria, Kenya are rerbuilding and have opted for a new coach in the person of Adel Amrouche and some crop of fresh legs to rejig their football.

But they retain the services of Dennis Oliech and few of his peers and hope to blend them with youth with with warmest and talents and zeal like Victor Wanyama.

Nigeria practically breath talent as evident by the emergence on the scene in son short a time the likes of Victor Moses, Sunday Mba, Godfrey Oboabana, Kenneth Omeruo and Ahmed Musa.

In today's match, deputy skipper Vincent Enyeama likely to man the post while Oboabana and Azubuike Egwueke combine along with Solomon Kwame and

New Tigress to emerge from Zenith basketball league, says NBBF

T

h e Nigeria Basketball Federation (NBBF) says it is planning to use the ninth edition of the Zenith Bank Women's Basketball League which begins today in Abuja to scout for new players for the national team, D' Tigress.

The federation's president, Malam Tijani Umar, said yesterday in Abuja while unveiling the teams for the league competition's first phase, said the national team has aged. ``The 2012/2013 Zenith League will be a great opportunity to see and monitor new talents for national team assignments. ``Now that this year's African

basketball women championship will hold in Maputo, Mozambique in November, preparations must start soon and getting the right players is important. ``I believe Nigeria will participate, but we don't want to participate only. We are trying to re-mould the team because our team has aged. The team now needs young and fresh players, and we can always get them from the league once it commences,'' Umar said.

Sixteen teams, comprising of 10 regular teams and six new entrants, are competing in the competition which comes to an end on March 31.

Defending champions First Deepwater of Lagos, FCT Angels, Sunshine Angels of Akure, Delta Babes, Dolphins of Lagos and First Bank from Akure as well as Nigeria Immigration Service, Plateau Rocks, Ahip Queens of Kano and Nigeria Customs, are taking part.

Coal City Queens of Enugu, Benue Princess, Taraba Hurricanes, GT-2000 of Kaduna, IGP Queens of Lagos and Oluyole Babes of Ibadan are the league's new entrants.

The NBBF president said Nigeria is presently fourth in Africa, based on its position at the last African championship.

Eagles under pressure, Keshi admits

S

tephen Keshi has admitted that the Super eagles are pressure of African champions to deliver to expectation in today's World Cup qualifiers cracker against Kenya.

He also admitted in a cryptic comment that he is under pressure. "(The) pressure (as African champions) is always there. We just have to handle the pressure.

The only person who does not experience pressure is a dead person," Keshi said.

Being champions has added to the pressure and urged the players to forget that Nigeria are champions.

"Yes, we were champions at the last Nations Cup in South Africa, that is gone and gone forever. We want to play at the

Brazil 2014 World Cup, with the semi-finals as our target and who says we cannot win the World Cup," he said.

The African champions were involved in a closed-door training session yesterday as they intensified preparations for today's 2014 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Kenya.

The session, which lasted two hours, kicked off at 7:30 am local time. Tactics and strategic preparations were finalised during the exercise.

Nigeria's Super Eagles have not played a competitive game since winning the 2013 AFCON title in February but head coach, Stephen Keshi is certain his charges can comfortably handle the toga of African champions.

AYC: Flying Eagles gun W/C ticket

T

h e Flying Eagles will decide their fate for the FIFA U-20 World Cup in Turkey this afternoon in Algeria when they play their last group game against DR Congo. A win guarantees semi-final ticket and by extension a place at the cadet World Cup.

PAGE 42

PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND, SATURDAY 23 — SUNDAY 24, MARCH, 2013

2014 World Cup qualifiers

Five slots 40 teams as the battle resumes in Africa

By Patrick Andrew

E

ven before the 29th AFCON finals sweat dries from their brows, African teams are back on the pitch to trade tackles for the five 2014 World Cup slots available for the continent. This weekend, 40 teams will slug it out in the third round of matches in their respective groups. Aware that only the 10 group toppers will advance to the final stage of qualifiers, teams will be desperate to gain advantage by maximizing points.

Yes, there are favourites as are minnows. But if recent experiences in the AFCON tournament are anything to go by, then expect surprises. Recall that the Elephants of Ivory Coast were top favourites along with Ghana, defending champions Zambia and hosts South Africa. Neither Mali nor Burkina Faso were hardly mentioned. Even Nigeria, on account of missing out in the last edition, were barely mentioned.

Yet Nigeria emerged deserved champions while the Stallions of Burkina Faso stunned the form book pundits by getting to the final and even had one of its players Jonathan Pitroipa awarded the best player of the fiesta.

Thus, across the continent, soccer enthusiasts will anticipate shocks reminiscent of the Nations Cup finals and will therefore follow proceedings with keen interest.

Group A Ethiopia are the surprise leaders with three points in arguably one of the tightest qualification groups.

However, the AFCON performance leaves no one in doubt that the team is replete with fledgling talents who require a crafty manager to mold into shape. They face the group’s bottom team, Botswana, who managed a sterling draw with neighbours South Africa back in June. The Antelopes can’t afford to let the maximum points slip off their finagers.

The Bafana Bafana crashed out in the quarter-finals of the Nations Cup to Mali, who were trounced 4-0 and sent packing by Nigeria. The South Africans tackle the Central African Republic in Cape Town.

Of course, coach Gordon Igesund will be wary of the hitherto minnows knowing that they dumped Egpyt out of the AFCON qualifiers, though they later conceded the qualification to the Stallions of Burkina Faso.

Nothing but a win will boost Igesund re-organisation efforts.

Group B Their fierce rivals Tunisia are in

Demba Ba of Senegal pole position in Group B, where two wins out of two has shoved them firmly into the driving seat. A home game against Sierra Leone on Saturday is not a foregone conclusion, but the Eagles of Carthage will be confident of getting clear daylight between them and their opponents. Elsewhere, AFCON revelation, Cape Verde Islands face elimination on Sunday if they failed to beat Equatorial Guinea, having lost their two opening fixtures. Tunisia, the leaders of the group, will contend against the Leone Stars of Sierra Leone conscious of the fact a win will edge further to the destination: final qualification.

Group C The Elephants of Ivory Coast have been top favourites for three editions of the AFCON, but ended up with the prestigious trophy.

They were full of promise at the 2010 World Cup but again went home disappointed. In the race to Brazil, they lead the pack but may

Mohamed Aboutrika of Egypt be bereft of the spark the likes of Didier Drogba, Emmanuel Eboué, Siaka Tiéné and Romaric N’Dri bring to the team.

Coach Sabri Lamouchi has opted to drop them for the game against the Scorpions of Gambia who will hope for a miracle in Abidjan today.

Morocco will be hoping to secure their first win of the campaign away to second-placed Tanzania over in Dar Es Salam. The North Africans’ dire start to the series has handed the initiative to the CIV, and a win is imperative if they are to make up for lost ground.

Group D Ghana narrowly missed being the first African country to hit the World Cup semi-finals when Gyan Gyan failed to convert a penalty that should have handed them the ticket after Liuz Suarez scooped the ball with his hands to give Uruguay a breather.

Today in Accra, the Black Stars face tricky Falcons of Jediane, Sudan, who were docked three points for

fielding an ineligible player. That gave the advantage to Zambia, the dethroned AFCON champions, as they take on Lesotho confident of increasing its points haul and establishing clear lead over her group rivals. Neither the Black Stars nor the Chipolopolo are likely to lower the guards before their opponents.

Group E If The Stallions of Burkina Faso rekindle their AFCON form, they are likely to lift themselves off the bottom the group as they tackle the Menas of Niger Republic in a mustwin encounter. They need inspiration and that’s possible if only they muster every ounce of their AFCON zest and focus.

Congo currently top the group, with two wins out of two, and would take a giant step towards progress if they can beat Gabon in Pointe-Noir.

Group F The Super Eagles are unarguably the rave of the moment.

They have depth, the on-going

rebuilding process they are currently undergoing, notwithstanding. Coach Stephen Keshi has a mission: take the Eagles to Brazil and he seems quite capable of accomplishing just that. Any doubt about that vanished in South Africa when his collection of rookies won the continental diadem.

Against the Harambee Stars of Kenya, it’s expected that the Eagles will in the least pocket the maximum points to extend their lead of the group to seven points. Whacking the East African team is definitely not out of question.

Namibia and Malawi are the other contestants in the group and will slug it out in what obviously is purely for pride as it would seem the ticket for the last 10 qualifications is out of their reach, unless the Eagles totter at the UJ Esuene Stadium Calabar.

Group G Egypt, seven times winners of AFCON are in search of redemption after failing twice to play the finals of the fiesta. Like Nigeria’s Eagles, the Pharaohs are rebuilding and have drawn heavily from the Olympics and U-20 teams. They are the clear favourites against Zimbabwe in Alexandria, while Mozambique and Guinea will likely play out a tighter clash in Maputo.

Group H Benin are one of the unbeaten sides and top the group. They confront Algeria in North Africa hoping to sustain the lead. It seems an uphill task though as they Desert Warriors are in scintillating form.

Rwanda, with their predominantly domestic-based squad, welcome Mali to Kigali—the defeated Afcon semifinalists are looking to compensate for a shock opening defeat to Benin.

Group I The Senegalese Lions have been disappointing. They failed to berth at the 29th AFCON won by Nigeria after being disqualified by CAF because their conflict with the Elephants of Ivory Coast. In 2012 in spite having a collection of stars, they failed to twinkle and sparkled and were bundled out in quarterfinals.

However, Senegal, who reached the FIFA World Cup quarter-finals in 2002, can take a giant step towards the next round if they beat Angola, and Liberia do them a favour by beating Uganda in Group J. This seems to be the sentiment of Demba Ba and co who believes that the time has come for the Lions to roar again.

PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND, SATURDAY 23 — SUNDAY 24, MARCH, 2013

PAGE 43

2014 World Cup qualifiers

Super Eagles will sweat against Harambee Stars, says Amrouche After all initial hiccup suffered by the Kenyan team upon their arrival in Lagos supersport.com was able to secure Coach Adel Amrouche with supersports.com in Calabar,.

Here are excerpts.

How have you settled in after the initial hiccup?

Thank you very much. Calabar is an absolutely gorgeous city and the people here have been nothing but gracious hosts and though there were slight snags here as well, we have settled in quite well.

More snags? How come?

Well for instance we were not provided enough Hotel rooms and they tried to bunk two players in one bed which is against all rules specified by both Caf and Fifa and that was very disappointing. Only the quick thinking of the Hotel manger prevented the unfolding of another horrible situation.

Do you take any solace from the fact that no Afcon champion has won her first game after lifting the trophy?

Like today’s weather it’s an inconsequential stat. All we are happy about is that we are being tested by the African champion. I could not ask for a better start.

Before you grabbed the whistle in Kenya you have also coached in the Congo and Burundi. How different if at all, is the relationship between you and the KFF? Well we have just started but I must say it has been good. Nevertheless in Africa it's not so much the Federation that pulls the strings it’s the Government and it's their involvement that we really need. With the elections in Kenya now over we are hoping that the new political managers will buy into our dream and support it. We need a chemistry like Nigeria has.

Collins Mbesuma You have inherited a team you virtually don’t know. Nevertheless based on what you have seen so far do you have athletes that can take Kenya to the next level?

Victor Wanyama Yes. I just need time. Like Keshi I am rebuilding and now realize what an amazing feat he just accomplished by wining Afcon with his 'work in progress'. In Kenya we are blessed with great weather that produces

A shaky pride of Lions hosts Togo

T

he Indomitable Lions of Cameroon Cameroon host Togo today in Yaoundé for the third round of World Cup 2014 qualifiers.

After being absent from the last two Africa Cup of Nations and consumed by internal quarrels since the South African World Cup, the Indomitable Lions are set on restoring themselves to their former glory by qualifying for their seventh World Cup finals.

Cameroun have been under the technical guidance of Jean-Paul Akono since last September and the dismissal of Denis Lavagne, following the defeat in Praia against Cape Verde in the first leg of the final round of Afcon 2013 qualifiers, but have just suffered another disappointment in their friendly against Tanzania.

The Lions were outclassed 1-0 in Dar Es Salam early February with a majority of local players, following a massive defection of their star players, who will however now be present for the clash against the Sparrowhawks.

The coach will also see the return of

Stéphane Mbia and Sébastien Bassong, as well as Eric Choupo-Moting who suffered a serious injury, for this very important tie.

Cameroon are currently lying third in their Group I following a home win against the DR Congo and a defeat against Libya, so must therefore ensure an imperative win at home at the Stade Amadou Ahidjo to ensure their chances.

This will not be easy against the Togolese national team who were quarter finalists in the last Afcon, although they themselves have also suffered some internal upsets.

National coach Didier Six was heavily criticized by his captain Emmanuel Adebayor and goalkeeper Kossi Agassa following their elimination from the Africa Cup at the hands of Burkina Faso, but was forced by his federation to include the two troublemakers in his list in place of the strikers he had selected, namely Atakora Lalawélé and Fessou Placca.

The Sparrowhawks are lying last in this group with just one point, so will also be obliged to secure a result today in Yaoundé.

Jonathan Pitroipa

just as great athletes. All we need is time and that people buy into our philosophy.

Could you give us a prediction on what will occur tomorrow?

Both teams will sweat.

WEEKEND MATCHES Congo Cameroon Nigeria CIV Namibia Senegal B/Faso Tunisia S/Africa

vs vs vs vs vs vs vs vs vs

Gabon Togo Kenya Gambia Malawi Angola Niger Rep. Sierra Leone CAR

24 March Tanzania Lesotho Mozambique Rwanda Congo DR Ethiopia Ghana Liberia E/Guinea

vs vs vs vs vs vs vs vs vs

Morocco Zambia Guinea Mali Libya Botswana Sudan Uganda Cape Verde

PAGE 44

PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND, SATURDAY 23 — SUNDAY 24, MARCH, 2013

AFN to test technical officials at All Nigeria Relays Challenge T

e c h n i c a l officials of the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN), who only yesterday completed a three-day refresher course, would today be given the chance to demonstrate how much they had acquired during the course.

The refresher course was aimed at updating their knowledge on the use of electronic equipment at competitions had started midweek.

And today's exercise is the All Nigeria Relays Challenge in Warri, Delta state.

According to the AFN technical director, Navy Commodore Omatseye Nesiama, the course,

would be followed by the relays today to determine those that would officiate at the maiden Africa Youth Athletics Championships (AYAC), scheduled to be held from March 27 to April 1 in the same town.

“The national relay on Saturday will be used to test the technical officials to determine those that will officiate at the AYAC. “The reason we want to test what they have learnt at the course is to ensure that our officials know the nitty-gritty of the Electronic Measuring Devices we just acquired,'' he said.

Nesiama said he was happy with

the turnout of the technical officials for the course, saying the knowledge acquired should be put into practise.

“I am happy at the turnout because we have 120 technical officials participating in the refresher course and I believe that they will put into practise whatever they have gained.

“We want the AYAC to run smoothly and that is why we need to test their knowledge,'' he said.

Nesiama also said that facilities for the championships were ready, adding: ``We are just waiting for people to come and participate and enjoy the championships,''.

state.

STF Commander, Maj.-Gen. Henry Ayoola, made the promise at the closing ceremony of UNAPSCTIPS saying STF was committed to every programme gearedtowardmovingforwardthepeace process on the plateau.

He urged the people of the state to promote peace and do everything within their powers to shun tendencies that wouldderailpeaceeffortsthatwerebeing pursued by STF along with the other security agencies.

Prof Hayward Mafuyai, Unijos Vice-Chancellor said in his remarks that there was no victor and no vanquish in the two weeks championship, noting that its goals were successfully achieved.

Mafuyai said that friendship was established among the participating institutions and urged the students not to allow those that were not interested in peace to break their ranks.

TheVCcommendedindividualsand organisations that supported the University toward the success and urged them to continue to work for peace.

Gov. Jonah Jang of Plateau who was represented by Mrs Julie Ampe, PermanentSecretary, MinistryofSports

at the closing ceremony said: `` sports unifies the people as it shows no segregation along ethnic, religious or political lines''.

According to him, the state government would continue to provide the sporting facilities for its athletes that participate in local, national and international competitions. ``local governments chairmen have been directed to build mini stadia in their areas to help in the discovery and developmenttalentsatthegrassroots,''he said.

The Unijos emerged as the overall best as it carted away 23 gold, 12 silver andfivebronzemedalsincludingthegold medal in men's football.

The Federal College Veterinary Medical Laboratory Technology (FCVMLT), Vom was placed second with nine gold, 20 silver and 11 bronze medals, while the Federal College of Forestry, Jos, emerged as third best with four gold, six silver and eleven bronze medals.

National Open University Nigeria, Jos Study Centre, Jos Ecwa Theological Seminary and Theological College of NorthernNigeria,alsoparticipatedinthe games.

NCS were drawn in Group A, alongside the Certified Institute of Shipping (CIS) and SDV/Bollore Group,`` it said.

The statement added that other teams in the competition are: Micura, LADOL, the National Association of Government Approved Freight Forwarding NAGAFF and APM Terminals in Group B. Others are the Nigerian Shippers' Council, Nigerian Navy, Association of RegisteredFreightForwarders(AREFF) and Blue Ocean, in Group C. Sifax Group, ENL Consortium, OceanStarandMediterraneanShipping Company (MSC) are in Group D. According to the statement, the Cup is sponsored by Micura Stevedoring

Services, in memory of Pa John Okunloye,thelatefatheroftheChairman, Seaport Terminal Operators Association of Nigeria (STOAN), Princess Vicky Haastrup.

It added that winners of the competition would get N500, 000; runners-up N300, 000 and third place winners, N200, 000.

The statement quotes Akinola as saying that he decided to organise the competition annually, to promote the spirit of sportsmanship in the Nigerian maritime industry.

Past winners of the competition are the Nigeria Customs Service (2011 and 2012); Micura (2010) and the Nigerian Navy (2009).

Don wants scholarship for tertiary games athletes

P

rof RotgakGofen,hasappealed to corporate organisations, federal and state governments to award scholarships to successful athletes to help them to pursue their academic and sports careers.

Gofen, who was chairman of the Local Organising Committee (LOC) for the maiden Unijos Annual Peace Sports Championship for Tertiary Institutions in Plateau (UNAPSCTIPS), said such gesture will boost excellence.

Gofen, who is also the Dean of Students Affairs of the university, said such scholarship would help athlete to advance their education. ``This is what is done in advanced countries so that the less privileged ones that are gifted can succeed both in academics and sports,'' he said.

He described the games as a `huge success'astheturnoutfromparticipating institutions were massive.

The chairman also said that the games also helped to foster interaction among the institutions that took part in the games.

Meanwhile, the Special Task Force (STF) maintaining peace in Plateau also promised to support all initiatives that would restore permanent peace in the

16 teams for 2013 Maritime Cup

S

i x t e e n teamswillfeatureinthe 2013 5th Maritime Cup, billed to startonMarch26attheAstroTurf of the Legacy Pitch, National Stadium, Lagos.

This was contained in a statement signed by Mr Bolaji Akinola, the Chief Executive of Ships & Ports CommunicationCompany,organisersof the competition, on Thursday in Lagos.

The statement said that the defending champions of the cup, Nigeria CustomsService(NCS),wouldlockhorns with the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), in the opening match. ``At draws for the competition held in Apapa on Wednesday, NIMASA and

Blessing Okagbare

NTTF upbeat about Nigeria's chances at Tunisia Open tournament The Head Coach of the Nigeria Table Tennis Federation (NTTF), Nasiru Bello, has expressed optimism over the country's chances of excelling at the upcoming Tunisia Open tournament scheduled for Hammanet, Tunisia.

TheTunisiaJuniorandCadetOpen Challenge, scheduled for March 28 to April 7, will serve as qualifiers for the World Cadet Table Tennis Championships, the World Junior Championship and the Junior Table tennis Olympics.

Bello said in Lagos that the country would build on its recent successes at theZone3WestAfricaOpenAgeGroup Championships in Cote d'Ivoire. ``I believe that with the dynamic skills exhibited by my players in Cote d'Ivoire, I know we will come back to Nigeria smiling,'' he said.

It would be recalled that in spite of Nigeria's late arrival at the Zone 3 West Africa Age Group Championships in Cote d'Ivoire, two U-13 players won the

International Table Tennis Federation (ITTF) scholarship.

The championship which held from Feb. 21 to Feb. 24 in Cote d'Ivoire, saw Tosin Oribamise winning the female category scholarship, while Ahmed Osibanjo won that of the male category.

Bello added that his optimism was based on the zeal displayed by the country's budding talents in their training sessions and their adherence to instructions from their coaches. ``Theseyoungplayershaveshown exceptional skills and we have been working on them since they were discovered at the Secondary Schools festivalandtheNationalSportsFestival. ``I know they will not disappoint the country because they are eager to make the country proud,'' he said.

Bellosaidthat15playerswillfeature at the championships, adding that Nigeria had never featured 15 players in any international table tennis championships.

Tribute

PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND, SATURDAY 23 — SUNDAY 24, MARCH, 2013

PAGE 45

Legacy of the literary legend, Achebe

By Ayodele Samuel,Lagos

N

igeria's literary icon and elder statesman, Professor Albert Chinualumogu Achebe passed on Thursday night in a hospital in Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America at aged 82, after a brief illness.

The David and Marianna Fisher University Professor and Professor of Africana Studies at Brown University in Providence, Rhode Island, USA, until his death, was reported to have taken ill and was hospitalised at an undisclosed hospital in Boston where he passed on.

Born on November 16, 1930, in Eastern Nigeria, in the Igbo town of Ogidi, Chinua Achebe attended the University of Ibadan.

In 1958, his groundbreaking novel, Things Fall Apart was published.It has since sold more than 12 million copies and has been translated into more than 50 languages.

Achebe authored or co-authored at least 17 books, among which are five standout novels, Things Fall Apart, 1958, No Longer At Ease, 1960, Arrow of God, 1964, Man of The People, 1966 and Anthills of the Savannah, 1987.

He edited several anthologies and the essay collections including Morning Yet on Creation Day and Hopes And Impediments as well as the collection of poetry, Beware Soul Brother.

He went to local schools and was one of the first students to graduate from Nigeria's premier university, the University of Ibadan.

He was the founding editor of Heinemann African Writers Series and was often described as the father of modern African literature because his novels were primarily directed at an African audience.

Things Fall Apart remains his most famous work. The book was translated into over 50 languages across the world and sold about 12 million copies.

The 1960s proved to be a creatively fertile period for Achebe and he wrote the novels No Longer at Ease (1960), Arrow of God (1964) and A Man of the People (1966), all of which address the issue of traditional ways of life coming into conflict with new, often colonial, points of view.

(Anthills of the Savannah [1987] took on a similar theme.) In a related endeavor, in 1967, Chinua Achebe and Christopher Okigbo, a renowned poet, cofounded a publishing company, the Citadel Press, which they intended to run as an outlet for a new kind of Africanoriented children's books.

Okigbo was soon killed, however, in the Nigerian civil war.

Two years later, Achebe toured the United States with Gabriel Okara and Cyprian Ekwensi, fellow writers, giving lectures at various universities.

The 1960s also marked Achebe's wedding to Christie Chinwe Okoli in 1961, which later produced four children.

When he returned to Nigeria from the United States, Achebe became a research fellow and later a professor of English (1976-1981) at the University of Nigeria. During this time he also served as director of two Nigerian publishing houses, Heinemann Educational Books Limited and Nwankwo-Ifejika Limited.

On the writing front, the 1970s proved equally productive as he published several collections of short stories and a children's book, How the Leopard Got His Claws (1973). Also

coming out at this time were Beware, SoulBrother (1971) and Christmas in Biafra (1973), both poetry collections and Achebe's first book of essays, Morning Yet on Creation Day (1975).

While back in the United States in 1975, at the University of Massachusetts at Amherst, Achebe gave a lecture called "An Image of Africa: Racism in Conrad's Heart of Darkness," in which he asserted that Conrad's famous novel dehumanizes Africans, the work referred to Conrad as a "thorough going racist," and, when published in essay form, it went on to become a seminal post colonial African work.

His last book, 'There Was A Country', was his personal memoir on the 30-month Biafra war during which Nigeria split up. The book continues to generate acriomonious debate largely on account of Achebe's excessive tribalism and inaccuracies that in the view of his critics, diminish his high standing.

During the civil war, he worked in the Biafra Ministry of Information as a special envoy and chairman of a committee charged with writing a constitution for the new country.

He played the role of a propagandist for the secessionist regime of Emeka Odimegwu Ojukwu.

When Chief Obafemi Awolowo died in 1987, he described the state burial accorded Awolowo as a national swindle.

Prominent among his works are: Things Fall Apart, 1958, No Longer at Ease, 1960, The Sacrifical Egg and Other Short Stories, 1962, Arrow of God, 1964, A Man of the People, 1966- Kansan mies (suom. Eila Pennanen,

1969)? Chike and the River, 1966 (with drawings

by Prue Theobalds)? Beware, Soul Brother: Poems, 1971 (US title: Christmas in Biafra and Other Poems, 1973)? The Insider: Stories of War and Peace from Nigeria, 1971 (editor)? Girls at War, Other Stories, 1972, Christmas in Biafra and Other Poems, 1973?

They include: How the Leopard Got His Claws, 1973 (with John Iroaganachi), Morning Yet on Creation Day: Essays, 1975, The Drum: A Children's Story, 1977 (ill. by John Roper; also illustrated by Anne Nwoloye), The Flute: A Children's Story, 1977 (ill. by Tayo Adenaike), Don't Let Him Die, 1978 (ed. with Dubem Okafor), Literature and Society, 1980, Aka weta: egwu aguluagu egwu edeluede, 1982 (ed. with Obiora Udechukwu)? The Trouble with Nigeria, 1983, Afrocan Short Stories, 1985 (ed. with C.L. Innes), The World of Ogbanje, 1986, Anthills of the Savannah, 1987 (short listed for the Booker Prize), The University and the Leadership Factor in Nigerian Politics, 1988, Hopes and Impediments: Selected Essays, 1965-1987, 1989?

Others are Nigerian Topics, 1989, Beyond Hunger in Africa: Conventional Wisdom and an African Vision, 1990 (editor), The Heinemann Book of Contemporary African Short Stories, 1992 (ed. with C.L. Innes), Another Africa, 1997 (with photographs by Robert Lyons), Echi di ime: taa bu gboo, 1999, Home and Exile, 2000?

Collected Poems, 2004, The Education of a British-Protected Child: Essays, 2009, The African Trilogy: Things Fall Apart; No Longer at Ease; Arrow of God, 2010 (with an introduction by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie) and There Was a Country: A Personal History of Biafra, 2012.

PAGE 46

PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND SATURDAY 23 — SUNDAY 24, MARCH, 2013

Tribute

Achebe's immense patriotism'll be missed – Jonathan

By Abdulrahman Abdulraheem

P

resident Goodluck has received with immense sadness, news of the passing away of Nigeria's globally acclaimed writer, scholar, tutor, cultural icon, nationalist and artist of the very first rank, Professor Albert Chinualumogu Achebe.

President Jonathan yesterday joined Prof. Achebe's family, his friends, colleagues, past and present students, admirers and all who have learnt indelible lessons of human existence from his award winning works of literature in mourning the legendary author.

A statement signed by Presidential spokesman, Dr Reuben Abati said:" As he mourns however, the President is consoled by the knowledge that Prof.

Achebe will live forever in the hearts and minds of present and future generations through his great works which brought him enduring international fame and countless honours.

The President believes that Prof. Achebe's frank, truthful and fearless interventions in national affairs will be greatly missed at home in Nigeria because while others may have disagreed with his views, most Nigerians never doubted his immense patriotism and sincere commitment to the building of a greater, more united and prosperous nation that all Africans and the entire black race could be proud of.

He recalls that with maturity and global stature, Prof. Achebe fearlessly spoke the truth as he saw it and became, as he advanced in age, a much revered national icon and conscience of the nation who will be eternally honoured for his contributions to national discourse as well as the immense fame and glory he

brought to his fatherland.

On behalf of himself, his family, the Federal Government and all Nigerians, President Jonathan extends heartfelt condolences to Prof Achebe's

family.

He prays that God Almighty will receive Prof. Achebe's great soul and grant him eternal rest from his outstanding earthly labours"

Literary Icon: MASSOB, Afenifere mourn

By Ayodele Samuel, Lagos

T

he Yoruba socio-cultural group, Afenifere, also paid tribute to Achebe, describing him as a great man in the literary world.

Its National Publicity Secretary, Yinka Odumakin said "an iroko has fallen, the master story teller has gone at a ripe age. We pray his soul rests in peace. We pray for great people like him to continue to emerge."

MASSOB leader, Ralph Uwazuruike said Achebe's death was a sad development and a sad news, saying he was a Biafra man who would not be forgotten. "It is a sad news. He was a man worthy of emulation.

We pray God grants Ndigbo the fortitude to bear the loss," he said.

Constitutional lawyer, Prof Itse Sagay described Achebe's death as sad, saying that "one has a deep sense of loss because he was an enormous figure in the literary world and has given Nigeria a good image." Sagay wished Achebe had not made very controversial remarks in his book, 'There Was A Country', which tended to create ethnic disharmony, but added that "he was a great man and a great loss to Nigeria."

ACHEBE, NIGERIA'S LITERARY GIANT, PATRIOT, SAYS GOV UDUAGHAN Delta State Governor, Dr Emmanuel Eweta Uduaghan,

has described the late essayist, poet and celebrated novelist, Professor Chinua Achebe who died early on Friday as a true patriot whose love and passion for Nigeria can not be doubted.

In a statement by his press secretary, Felix Ofou, the governor said though there were moments when the late teacher of African Literature's views were at variance with the authorities, he left no one in doubt as to his depth of love for Nigeria.

Governor Uduaghan also noted that Achebe was unmistakably Nigeria's foremost ambassador to the world through his craft as a novelist, poet, essayist, teacher, public affairs analyst and renowned speaker at the world stage.

"It is noteworthy that most of Professor Chinua Achebe's books were about Nigeria. For this, he won so many awards. I can say he was Nigeria's foremost ambassador. He was a true patriot who put his country first where he went and in whatever he did", he noted.

Uduaghan further described Achebe's death as a big blow to Nigeria, the academia particularly African literature as well as to all lovers of democracy and good governance all over the world.

The Governor prayed God to grant the nation, the deceased family, associates and admirers the fortitude to bear the loss.

Jonathan

Critical thinker: Nwabueze, Maitama Sule

By Ayodele Samuel,Lagos

P

roject Nigeria; a national consensus group of eminent Nigerian leaders has expressed grief over the passing away of one of its associates and supporters; Prof Chinua Achebe; Nigeria's literary icon and publisher of several novels.

The deceased, 82, was reported to have died Thursday night in a hospital in Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America where he was said to have been receiving treatment.

Commiserating with the family of the icon and the entire nation, the group of eminent persons, jointly led by elder statesmen, Prof Ben Nwabueze and Alhaji Maitama Sule, in a statement issued in Lagos by its National Scribe, Veteran Olawale Okunniyi, said Achebe will be ever remembered for his

Prof. Chinua Achebe, an icon of unmatched integrity, says Atiku

F

ormer Vice President Atiku Abubakar has described late Prof. Chinua Achebe as an icon of "unmatched integrity and conviction''.

In a press statement signed by Mr. Paul Ibe, the Media Officer, Atiku Media Office, and issued on Friday in Abuja, the former vice president paid glowing tribute to Achebe's unquantifiable contributions to African literature.

According to him, Things Fall Apart, Achebe's international award winning literary work would remain his everlasting legacy to literature.

"The translation of Things Fall Apart into more than 100 languages of the world had put not only Nigeria but also Africa on the map, thanks to Achebe's literary prowess'', Abubakar said.

He also praised the lucidity of Achebe's writing style which, he said, made him one of the most readable and popular authors of the world.

He recalled how Achebe forcefully rejected and condemned the July 2004 political crisis in Anambra during which thugs attempted to remove a democratically elected governor on the orders of a godfather.

He said the late professor rejected a national honours conferred on him by former President Olusegun Obasanjo and President Goodluck Jonathan administrations based on his convictions and principle.

He said that few Nigerians would have followed the courage of their conviction and rejected national honours because of the

fear of losing favour from those in power.

Also reacting, the Primate, Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion), Archbishop Nicholas Okoh, said: ``He directed attention to early Christianity in Nigeria through his book, Things Fall Apart''.

"For Nigerians and Africans we are greatly indebted to him for his great contribution to African Literature. He was a great Nigerian. May his soul rest in perfect peace'', Okoh said.

Also in a tribute, Kenyan Prime Minister Raila Odinga tweeted: "I send my condolences to the people of Nigeria and the family of Chinua Achebe.

"We have lost a great son and the `Father of African Literature'.''

Gov. Adams Oshiomhole said

Nigeria had lost a literary giant with the death of Achebe.

"On behalf of the people and government of Edo State, I wish to commiserate with the Governor and the good people of Anambra State on the death of the literary giant, Prof. Chinua Achebe,'' he said.

"With Achebe's death, Anambra and indeed Nigeria has lost a major personality, who played a unique role in its modern history.

"Even as an intellectual giant, his voice resonated with clarity and authoritative distinction on matters of national interest. ``He was a remarkable personality, and will always be remembered for his forthrightness and incisive contributions to national issues.

consistent loyalty to the course and welfare of the down trodden all over the world.

"We wish to state as we mourn this irreparable loss to the peoples' movement, that Achebe at different times has demonstrated exemplary courage as a general of the peoples' army and a literary icon of the progressive movement, whose interventions were dreaded by oppressive governments.

"He is also respected, the world over for having played a seminal role in the founding and development of African literature," Okunniyi said "Achebe's global significance lies not only in his talent and recognition as a writer, but also as a critical thinker and essayist who has written extensively on questions of the role of culture in Africa and the critique of the post colonial state in Africa.

His master piece "Things Fall Apart" published in 1958 is considered the most widely read book in modern African Literature as the book sold over 12 million copies and has been translated to over 50 languages worldwide," Project Nigeria stated.

The group also noted that Achebe played a major role during the Nigeria Civil War where he joined the Biafran Government as an ambassador and wrote recently his latest book, There Was a Country, an autobiography on his experiences and views of the civil war.

"We also wish to celebrate Achebe for his consistent criticism of various military dictators that ruled Nigeria and his a loud voice in denouncing the failure of governance in the country, which made him to reject twice offers by the Nigerian government to confer on him a national honour; citing the deplorable political situations in the country and the non committal of the powers that be to restructuring the country via the national conference of the Nigerian peoples," it added.

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By Uche Nnorom, Makurdi

T

he Minister of Interior, Comrade Abba Moro, has challenged Christians in the country to emulate the virtues of the Lord Jesus

Christ, as they observe the Lenten period.

Comrade Moro urged the Christian community world over to use the period as one for sincere penance, repentance, alms giving and self denial.

The minister also

stressed the need for special prayers for those in authority especially for President Jonathan that the Almighty should grant him good health and a sound mind for effective, dynamic and purposeful leadership.

PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND SATURDAY 23 — SUNDAY 24, MARCH, 2013

PAGE 47

From the Pulpit Managing your weaknesses (III)

P

r a i s e the Lord! Today, I want to bring you the concluding part of this series.

In previous editions, I talked about some things you need to do to manage your weaknesses. They are: recognize and admit your weaknesses and improve on your weaknesses, get rid of moral weaknesses, don't neglect your strength while concentrating too much attention on eliminating your weaknesses and depend on the power of the Holy and Spirit.

As I have already said, everybody has an area of his life where he is weak and we all have both strengths and weaknesses - assets and liabilities.

There are some weaknesses that you can work on and improve on yourself but there are also weaknesses that you will not be able to remove or improve on not even by prayers - you must learn how to live with t such weaknesses and manage them properly with the help of God. Let me quickly talk more on other things you need to do to manage your weaknesses. Be blessed as you read on in Jesus' name.

-Receive the grace of God for your weaknesses. Heb. 4:16 says, "Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need." (NKJV) God's grace makes you succeed despite your weaknesses. God told Paul, "My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness." (2 Cor. 12:9 NKJV) Therefore Paul could say in verse 10 of 2 Cor. 12, "For when I am weak, then I am strong." (NLT)

I

am talking about the God of all grace. Grace is God’s blessing poured upon undeserving people beyond all request and expectation. Many go to church but they do not know upon what basis they receive blessing from God. You receive blessing from God on the basis of grace. The blessing of salvation, healing, deliverance and miracles are received on the basis of grace. There are examples in the bible that shows that when God heals, it is on the basis of grace.

In Acts 3:1-10 now Peter and John went up together into the temple at the hour of prayer, being the ninth hour. And a certain man lame from his mother's womb was carried, whom they laid daily at the gate of the temple which is called Beautiful, to ask alms of them that entered into the temple; Who seeing Peter and John about to go into the temple asked an alms. And Peter, fastening his eyes upon him with John, said, Look on us. And he gave heed unto them, expecting to receive something of them. Then Peter said, Silver and gold have I none; but such as I have give I thee: In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth rise up and walk.

And he took him by the right hand, and lifted him up: and immediately his feet and ankle bones received strength. And he leaping up stood, and walked, and entered with them into the temple, walking, and leaping, and praising God. And all the people saw him walking and praising God. Peter and John were going to the temple at the hour of prayer to pray at about 3pm. Answers to prayer does not depend on what time, it is all by grace, it doesn’t depend on your tiredness, it is all by grace. In verse two, the man who was lame from

By weakness, Paul wasn't talking about sin. God's strength is not made perfect in sin. We cannot continue in sin that grace may abound. (Rom 6:1-2) -Remember that Jesus carried your weaknesses on the cross when he died. "Yet it was our weaknesses he carried…" (Isa 53:4 NLT) You can sometimes fail in the area of your strength but you can never fail when you receive His grace in the area of your weakness. The grace of God makes your weakness insignificance.

-Have faith in God. With faith in God, your weaknesses cannot stop you from fulfilling God's purpose for your life. The Book of Hebrews talks about the exploits of faith by men in the Bible. Heb. 11:34 says through their faith, these men "out of weakness were made strong."

(NKJV) Did you see that? Though they were weak, God made them strong. That will be your testimony too if you have faith in God. God determines how He will respond to your faith not necessarily by removing your weaknesses. God may make you strong by sending help to you through someone who has strength where you are weak.

-Partner with someone whose strength can offset your weakness. A wise person surrounds himself with the strengths of others; these strengths counterbalance his weaknesses. Use other people's strengths where you're weak. If the strength is in someone else you have a relationship with already, delegate to him. Where you're strong, somebody is weak, and verse versa. birth was laid at the gate of the temple not expecting any miracle. When you get to church without expecting a miracle, will you get a miracle? Yes. This man was not expecting healing, he was expecting money but God gave him more than money because He is a God of grace. Think of a man who was not praying, they people praying were inside the temple, he sat outside.

He didn’t want anything, he wanted only money but God gave him healing. God doesn’t deal with you on the basis of merit it is on the basis of grace.

The lame man sighting Peter and John asked for money, not for prayer, not for healing. He didn’t know the difference between a saint and a sinner as all were going into the temple. Peter and John fastened their eyes on him and said, “Look on us”, and the man was expecting something from them. Peter spoke the word of grace to the lame man, “silver and gold have I none; but such as I have gave I thee”. Since the man had never seeing the lame walking by prayer he felt discouraged and disappointed. Can a discouraged and disappointed man get a miracle? Yes. In spite of your discouragement and disappointment, you will get your miracle today. Your inability to pray cannot be a hindrance to receiving your miracle because the lame man did not pray not even could he recite the Lord ’s Prayer, yet he was healed.

He was not healed because of his holiness, not because he read the Bible from Genesis to Revelation, not because he was a great man of faith, not even because he prayed, it was because of God’s grace. It is grace only grace. Depend only on the grace of God, not on what you have done, it’s because God is the God love and

That is why we need each other and one another. No amount of prayer will make you all-round strong. It is not wisdom to refuse to benefit from the strength of others where you're weak. That is why people go into partnership. It is a weak partnership when partners are strong in essentially the same area. That means they don't need each other or one another. "Two people can accomplish more than twice as much as one; they get a better return for their labor. If one person falls, the other can reach out and help. But people who are alone when they fall are in real trouble." (Eccl 4:9-10 NLT) -Assign the task you have weakness for to someone who has strength for it.

This is similar to the previous point I have just discussed. Rom 12:6 says, "God has given each of us the ability to do certain things well." (NLT) That means that there are certain things God has not given you the ability to do well.

You can always get competent people to do something you don't have strength for. If you don't have ability to do something, and you cannot acquire the ability or no one on your team can do it, get a competent person to do it you may have to pay for it sometimes but you don't have to keep lamenting your lack of ability to accomplish something. Life operates on the principle of exchange. You exchange what you have for what you don't have.

Others will require your own ability also where they're weak. Delegate or outsource what you have no strength for to someone whose strength is in that area. There is nothing to be ashamed of about that. "Now there are different

GREEN PASTURES

By Pastor T.O. Banso cedarministryintl@yahoo.com GSM: 08033113523 kinds of spiritual gifts, but it is the same Holy Spirit who is the source of them all. There are different kinds of service in the church, but it is the same Lord we are serving. There are different ways God works in our lives, but it is the same God who does the work through all of us. A spiritual gift is given to each of us as a means of helping the entire church." (1 Cor. 12:4-7 NLT) -Use a method or strategy that will require your strength to do a task rather than an approach that will expose your weakness. Sometimes there may be more than one way to approach a task.

Since you already know your weaknesses, adopt the method that will require your strength and your weakness won't be exposed.

Conclusion: The fulfillment of the purpose of God for your life will be determined, among other things, by how you're able to develop and maximize your strength on one hand and manage your weaknesses on the other hand. The Lord will help you in Jesus' name.

TAKE ACTION! If you are not born again, I urge you to take the following steps:*Admit you're a sinner and you can't save yourself and repent of your sins. *Confess Jesus as your Lord and Saviour. *Renounce your past way of

life - your relationship with the devil and his works. *Invite Jesus into your life. *As a mark of seriousness to mature in the faith, start to attend a Bible-believing, Bible-teaching church. There you will be taught how to grow in the Kingdom of God. Kindly say this prayer now: "0 Lord God, I come unto you today. I know I am a sinner and I cannot save myself. I believe that Jesus is the Son of God who died on the cross to save me and resurrected the third day. I confess Jesus as my Lord and Saviour and surrender my life to him today.

I invite Jesus into my heart today. By this prayer, I know I am saved. Thank you Jesus for saving me and making me a child of God" I believe you have said this prayer from your heart. Congratulations!

You will need to join a Bible believing, Bible teaching church in your area where you will be taught how to live your new life in Christ Jesus. I pray that you flourish like the palm tree and grow like the cedar of Lebanon.

May the Lord make you a Cedar Christian. May you grow into Christ in all things becoming all God wants you to be.

The God of all grace FAITH DISCOURSE WITH

Pastor W. F. Kumuyi kindness.

In Mark 2:3 – 5, Consider the action of these men who brought the sick man of palsy to Jesus. The destroyed the roof of the building in order to get at Jesus, instead of rebuking them for destroying the building, or sending them away, the God of grace ministered to them beyond their expectation and request.

All is by grace. Think of a man who gets to church and disobey the instruction of the ushers and sit where he likes, can he get a miracle from God? Oh yes he can, not because he was disobedient but by grace. If God can heal these people that broke somebody else house that after the healing they didn’t even think of repairing the building but went rejoicing is by grace and not by merit.

Grace that is greater than all our sins and problems. Jesus saw the hole in the roof but he saw their faith, he heard the noise of the hammer on the roof but he saw their faith. That is Jesus. He is not looking for your downfall, he is not watching for your tears, he is not watching for your sorrow, he is not watching for your

unbelief but for your faith. When you defy all barriers to come to the place of the meeting of God’s people, that is a step of faith and Jesus sees that faith. That attitude of not giving up no matter the difficulties is an attitude of faith. When Jesus saw their faith he said, “Son thy sin be forgiving thee”. What’s that? That is salvation.

Jesus, but they are not asking for salvation, they are asking for healing.

Oh yes, he gave them salvation not because they ask for it but because of grace. The first man in Acts was asking for money he got healing; this second man was asking for healing he got salvation first. Think about these, the God of all grace; asking for something temporarily and he got something permanent; asking for something earthly, he got something heavenly; he was asking for the cleansing of the body, he got the cleansing of the soul, a gift of eternal life; he ask for a change in his body, God gave him a change in his soul and spirit because He is the God of all grace. And you know today that grace is going to be showed to you in Jesus name. May be you are only asking for

money and God is going to give you more than money; maybe you are asking only for healing and God is going to give you more than you are asking for because he is the God of all grace. You may ask, what do I do to merit it? You don’t need to do anything to merit it that is the beauty of Christianity. You don’t need to pay money, you don’t need to roll on the ground, and you don’t need to pray for twenty times, you don’t need to do anything. You just look on him and he will deliver you as he is going to deliver you now.

Come with me to Luke 7:11-16 as I show you the compassion of grace.

And it came to pass the day after, that he went into a city called Nain; and many of his disciples went with him, and much people. Now when he came nigh to the gate of the city, behold, there was a dead man carried out, the only son of his mother, and she was a widow: and much people of the city was with her. And when the Lord saw her, he had compassion on her, and said unto her, Weep not.

And he came and touched the bier: and they that bare him stood still. And he said, Young man, I say unto thee, Arise. And he that was dead sat up, and began to speak. And he delivered him to his mother. Jesus met a widow weeping. The bread winner of the family had died and the only hope left, of her son had died. Weak, weeping, a widow and now her son is dead. She never hoped for any miracle, she was going to the grave paying the last honour to the dead child and she looked at the dead child and said, I will never have again.

BIG PUNCH “We have a problem, if boys and girls are coming out of the universities without hope of employment, we are sitting on a keg of gunpowder.”

– Former President Olusegun Obasanjo lamenting the state of the nation in a lecture he delivered in Ilorin

SATURDAY 23 — SUNDAY 24, MARCH, 2013

The price of bondage 'And so We let loose on them the flood, locusts, lice, frogs, blood - all clear signs. They were arrogant, wicked people.'

Quran 7:134

T

h e reference in the verse of the Quran quoted above is about the people of Egypt in the time of the Pharaoh whom Moses confronted in the epic struggle for freedom. Faith and freedom are two sides of the same coin.

The singular demand of Moses to Pharaoh is simple and clear: 'Hand the servants of God over to me!' The liberation struggle of Moses divided Egypt into two: those who desired to serve God alone and be free from all forms of bondage and those who felt they deserved to be in bondage.

For debasing the very essence of human existence, which is freedom, God visited the entire country with a variety of punishments, some of which the Quran listed. There is nothing extraordinary about those punishments, they are the natural consequences of bondage, the invariable fate of people and nations who don't want to be free, who don't want to realize their full potential as human beings.

Maulana Muhammad Ali suggests, quoting authorities, that tufaan, which is generally translated as flood has a much wider meaning: 'originally, [it means] every accident that besets men on all sides and hence it is also applied to flood or deluge; it also means death, or quick and widespread death; or death prevailing generally; hence it might mean either plague causing excessive death or flood.'

Maulana Maududi suggests that qummal, translated as lice, encompasses fleas, small locusts, mosquitoes and weevil. We have here a picture of a nation traumatized and subdued by tyranny to the extent it is unable set its house in order or solve even the most elementary problems. Egypt could not fight the scourge of mosquito, the invasion of frogs or the ravages of weevil. Egypt could not see the warning which nature usually gives and so was ill-equipped to prepare and protect itself. In fact quite a lot of the calamities that befall nations - think of the flood of last year in Nigeria - result from either negligence or stupidity. Tyranny has driven

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the most intelligent people underground or into exile, dispersed and decimated people of conscience and deprived the nation of the services of its best elements, those who have vision, initiative and competence as a result of which the nation, left in the hands charlatans and megalomaniacs, could not progress to the higher phases of human development.

When people are not free - when the most intelligent and conscientious are terrorized and stigmatized, the nation perishes.

The people of Egypt suffered those humiliating punishment for the simple reason that they refused to resist tyranny, they reached the stage in which their nation, abused and ravaged by Pharaoh and his power elite, was no longer viable, and ultimately it drowned. But those who resisted oppression, who raised their heads high as human beings, as free men and women, or as Moses calls them, servants of God, were liberated; what is more: 'We made those who had been oppressed succeed to both the east and the west of the land that We had blessed,' God states the final, decisive outcome, 'We destroyed what Pharaoh and his people were making and what they were building.' [Quran 7:137] Such is the enviable reward of freedom.

Now Sub-Saharan Africa and indeed most of Africa is the part of the world least inclined to resist bondage or pursue vigorously the difficult but inevitable path to real freedom and sovereignty. And so it is undoubtedly the poorest member of the human race, and the most prone to the most deadly diseases and disasters.

Here you see tufaan in its extreme forms: senseless conflicts which often culminate into mass deaths, ethnic cleansing and genocides. Here you see voluntary bondage in its most extreme form, as in Niger Republic and Nigeria. Niger's uranium feeds the fifty nine nuclear reactors that generate about eighty percent of France's electricity. Yet even the two communities in Niger from which the uranium is mined have no electricity! And Niger has been selling uranium for over forty years bur it remains at the bottom of the poorest nations on earth. The giant,

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WEEKEND with

Ibraheem Sulaiman sa427420@gmail.com

President Goodluck Jonathan Nigeria, depends mostly on oil.

But who owns Nigeria's oil? In a statement published by Nigerian newspapers on 11, March 2013, Femi Falana, a lawyer and human right activist, made the startling revelation that foreign companies, the Oil Majors, own 80 per cent of Nigeria's oil blocks and as such they are completely in charge of the oil and gas industry. 'They produce the oil and gas and declare the figures they like. They smile to the banks daily while Nigerians fight over the crumbs from the Master's Table,' Falana said. 'In spite of the indictment by the National Extractive Industry Transparency Initiative (NEITI), some of the companies have continued to withhold billions of dollars from the Federation Account. The joint venture agreements between some oil producing countries and oil companies are in the ratio of 80/20 percent in favor of the owners of the oil. But in Nigeria it is 60/40 per cent in favor of

the Federal Government of whatever is declared by the oil companies.' These oil companies are owned by all manner of interests, some of whom are ruthless but faceless predators 'ghosts', if you like - and yet they are in control of 60, 80, even more percent of the Nigeria's oil, or whatever they are kind enough to declare as the country's share.

But how do you know if a country is free or not? Check the value it attaches to the life of each and every one of its citizens, check how far it cares for the welfare of its people, check how much it respects the opinion and wishes and aspirations of its people. And then examine critically the choices and decisions it makes in matters critical to the well being of the people. Let's take an example of a decision or choice in the health sector. Every Nigerian perhaps knows by now that the nation's utmost priority is the eradication of polio, which it is determined to achieve by next

year or so. That in itself is commendable, for polio is an embarrassment, because it is avoidable. However, let's probe a little bit deeper into the matter. This year, there are about four new cases of polio in Nigeria, a nation of 170 million people. Unfortunately these four will be paralyzed, along with a few thousand who are already afflicted nationwide over the years. Fortunately, however, none of them will die.

But take the case of Malaria.

It is indeed the qummal the Quran refers to as one of the plagues God unleashes on people who want to wallow forever in bondage, who have no initiatives, who have no desire to succeed. Look at the statistics: Malaria accounts for 30% of all deaths in children, 11% of all maternal deaths, 70% of all morbidity in pregnant women, 63% of all clinical attendances, 30% of hospitalization among children under five years. Malaria is a risk to 97% of Nigerians, there are 100 million cases of malaria annually. Above all, malaria kills about 300,000 Nigerians every year. In Africa, a child dies from malaria every 45 seconds, and it is almost certain that a good percentage of that comes from Nigeria. This is how mosquito commits genocide on Nigeria every year, this is how malaria commits infanticide and endangers the future of Nigeria, this is how malaria subjects Nigeria to slow death and perpetuates poverty and underdevelopment! The more ominous aspect, however, is the fact that there appears to be no end in sight. The Minister of Health, Professor Onyebuchi Chukwu, confirmed [Tribune 22/3/13] that Nigeria has the highest malaria cases in the world, and that the country alone contributes 23 per cent, which is almost a quarter of the global malaria cases. The only logical answer to malaria is to eliminate the mosquito, but is the nation in bondage willing?

Several nations have eradicated malaria completely and have saved their people from mass deaths, decimation and poverty. Free from the mosquito, they can grow and enjoy unfettered health.

Published by Peoples Media Limited, 35, Ajose Adeogun Street, 1st Floor Peace Park Plaza, Utako, Abuja. Kano office: Plot 3, Zaria Road, Opposite Kano State House of Assembly. Lagos Office: No.8 Oliyide Street, off Unity Road, Ikeja, Lagos. Tel: +234-09-8734478. Cell: +234 803 606 3308. e-mail: contact@peoplesdaily-online.com; pmlnewsdesk@gmail.com ISSN: 2141– 6141