TheGuardian Conscience, Nurtured by Truth
Friday, April 19, 2013
Vol. 29, No. 12,531
N150
www.ngrguardiannews.com
Nigerians want limited immunity for president, govs, say Reps From Adamu Abuh, Abuja F the collated results of the Iview public sessions on the reof the 1999 Constitution truly represent the views of Nigerians, then they would be happier if the enormous powers wielded by the 36 state governors of the federation are reduced drastically. In a 43-item template report yesterday unveiled by the Deputy Speaker and Chairman of the House of Repre-
• Okay council autonomy, scrapping of state polls’ bodies • Oppose state police, rotational presidency sentatives Ad-hoc Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution, Emeka Ihedioha, the majority of Nigerians across the 360 federal constituencies were unanimous in approving full autonomy for the 774 local councils in the federation. Specifically, in items 9, 10, 12,
13, 14 and 16 of the template, Nigerians expressed the desire that the local councils be granted financial autonomy, called for the abolishment of the joint state local council accounts so that allocations due to the local councils can be paid to them directly. They also suggested that the
local councils be accorded the status of a third tier of government, that the local councils be denied revenue allocation if unelected local council chairmen are at the helm and that the tenure of local councils chairmen and councillors be defined in the proposed amendment to the constitu-
tion. Of note is the call for the abolishment of the state independent electoral commission in order that all elections are conducted by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) as well as granting financial autonomy to the state Houses of Assembly as is the case with the National Assembly. On the issue of state police, the preponderance of views indicated that they are not on-
ly opposed to the idea of giving governors control over the commissioners of police in their respective states, they agreed that the current police structure and system as provided for in the constitution be retained. According to the template, Nigerians also rejected the insertion of rotation of the office of the president between the northern and southern parts of Nigeria as well as making CONTINUED ON PAGE 2
Jonathan warns state govts against tolling FG roads • Govt to release blueprint on road construction • Begins backward integration of steel industry By Femi Adekoya OR state governments that Fsionhave planned to concesor toll federal roads be-
Former Ogun State Governor Olusegun Osoba (left); former Congress for Progressive Change (CPC) presidential candidate, Muhammadu Buhari; Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) National Chairman, Bisi Akande; former Lagos State Governor Ahmed Tinubu and former ACN presidential candidate, Nuhu Ribadu, during the ACN national convention in Lagos… yesterday. PHOTO: AYODELE ADENIRAN
cause they have reconstructed them, a rethink may be necessary to avoid being on a collision course with the Federal Government. Indeed, President Goodluck Jonathan yesterday warned state governments not to concession federal roads for tolling. This was apparently a reaction to the Ogun State government’s resolve to toll federal roads leading to industrial estates reconstructed by the state, following the inability of the state and the Federal Ministry of Works to reach an agreement on some roads within its jurisdiction. Jonathan disclosed that a CONTINUED ON PAGE 2
ACN fuses into APC at convention in Lagos By Abiodun Fanoro, Dele Fanimo, Kamal Tayo-Oropo and Seye Olumide OVES to forge a formidable mega party in the country yesterday received a boost, as the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) at its national convention in Lagos okayed its fusion into the Alliance for Progressive Change (APC). Also at the convention, former Head of State and presidential candidate of the Congress for Progressive
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• Why PDP must go, by Buhari, Akande, Onu, Momoh, others Change (CPC) in 2011, Gen. Muhammadu Buhari, the party’s National Chairman, Prince Tony Momoh; the ACN National Chairman, Chief Bisi Akande; his All Nigeria Peoples Party (ANPP) counterpart, Dr. Ogbonnaya Onu and former Lagos State Governor, Bola Ahmed Tinubu; echoed the need to vote out what they called the ‘visionless ruling PDP’ in 2015.
Indeed, at exactly 1.36 p.m., the curtain was drawn on ACN through a motion moved by its National Organising Secretary, Alhaji Abubakar Kari and seconded by Mrs. Tonia Adon from Ebonyi State. Moving the motion for the dissolution of the party, Kari from Gombe State announced that the proposed merger with CPC, ANPP and
All Progressive Grand Alliance (APGA) has been resolved and is hereby approved by the National Executive Council (NEC). Kari said: “I hereby move that the proposed merger with ANPP, CPC and APGA is hereby accepted and adopted. Secondly, that the provision of section 84 of the Electoral Act 2010 as amended is hereby resolved that the proposed con-
gress of ACN with ANPP, CPC and APGA is hereby approved, that the name of the party APC as approved by NEC is hereby approved, that consequent upon the conclusion of the merger, the name of the party shall be called All Progressive Congress (APC) and lastly the manifesto, constitution, logo, programme and other insignia of the merger party APC as adopted by our NEC is hereby approved, I so moved.” On the ratification of expul-
Jonathan, Blair, others for Rock Cathedral opening - Page 5
sion of some members, Uche Onyagocha from Owerri, Imo State, moved the motion for the expulsion of Mohammed Soba from Kaduna State backing it with reference to Article 9.4 of ACN constitution and was seconded by the Lagos State chairman, Chief Henry Ajomale. The party’s National Legal Adviser, Dr. Muiz Banire, also announced the ratification of new 4,761 delegates into the forum, while he also moved the motion to ratify the merger. According to him, “the national convention of ACN held CONTINUED ON PAGE 2
THE GUARDIAN, Friday, April 19, 2013
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Why PDP must go, by Buhari, Akande, Onu, Momoh, others CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 on April 18, 2013 is in total realisation of the merger. All actions approved shall be regarded as the decision by the national leaders of the party.” The motion was seconded by Kenneth Kobani from Rivers State. In his speech, Akande described the merger as a bold step that would eventually
lead to the total transformation of the country. According to him: “The convention has set in motion one of the required steps that would bring together the process of positive change in Nigeria.” He added that the successful merger of the party with others and transformation to APC was the first bold step towards
wrestling power from the ruling party and turning it to an opposition party. He stressed: “There is no gainsaying, the fact, that the merger of leading opposition parties, which has reached an advanced stage, is already a fait accompli. The urgent need for change and the crushing desire to rescue our country from decay compelled us to act quickly to provide an alternative leadership for Nigeria. This endeavour has become necessary given the efforts of
the ruling party to stifle democracy and destroy its institutions. “We must not entertain any weariness or surrender to sentiments or blackmail in this enterprise, mindful that the merger is strange, new and unique in Nigeria and that the law did not envisage the ambush being placed on our ways. But we shall overcome. This merger has come to stay! “The leadership of our great party after deep deliberations and consultations and in view
of the current political reality is convinced that a merger is the way to go. We have threaded this path before. We are wiser, smarter and more prepared to make the sacrifices that this process requires for the sake of our country. “This is the kind of tradition I would urge us to re-establish in the new family, All Progressive Congress (APC). The next few changes of the merger are the final bold steps that will position us politically for
Govt to release blueprint on road construction CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 blueprint would be made available by the Ministry of Works to state governments on roads and other infrastructure to avoid conflict of interests between the states and the Federal Government. Besides, with a production capacity target of 12 million tonnes of liquid steel by 2020, Jonathan expressed the Federal Government’s readiness to address problems affecting key industries like the Ajaokuta Steel plant and other moribund plants in order to enhance the realisation of the country’s industrial plan. At the commissioning of WEMPCO Steel Mill Company Limited’s 5-stand Tandem Cold Rolled Steel Plant at the company’s plant in Magboro, Ogun State yesterday, Jonathan explained that as much as state governments may be interested in improving the Federal Government’s infrastructure within their jurisdictions, the due process in terms of consultation with the Federal Ministry of Works as well as the procurement process were conditions to which the state governments must adhere. In his address, the Ogun State Governor, Ibikunle Amosun, had said that following the inability of the state government to reach a compromise with the Federal Ministry of Works on some key roads in the state, it would reconstruct such roads
and toll them. While reacting, Jonathan said: “State governments are free to intervene on any road but there is a condition. If you intervene at a time that we are not ready, we need to put into consideration our budget, as the Federal Government cannot pay more than what it can afford. Nigerians do not care about who owns a road, what they want is good roads and infrastructure. “If the state government is capable of building its roads, we have no problem with that, but if the roads would be given out to a private investor for tolling, such an action would not be accepted. If you want us to refund some money, the Federal Ministry of Works must be carried along and the due process must be followed. The Federal Government cannot go outside its budget in the quest to drive investment in the state.” On Ajaokuta Steel Mill and other moribund industries, Jonathan expressed government’s readiness to intervene and examine how many of the industries could be revived. “Ogun State has been able to successfully make its environment attractive and conducive for investments. The WEMPCO issue is a success story and we hope to aid the country’s selfsufficiency in steel production as well as the sector’s drive to open its downstream sector”, Jonathan added. Amosun, however,
urged the Federal Government to resolve issues of road construction in the state and also involve the state in the LagosIbadan expressway construction plan, noting that it had continued to hamper the state’s investment drive. Amosun said: “We are being accused by agencies of the Federal Government of improving the standard of roads in our state. What is more painful is that these federal roads are very germane to our investment drive because they link most of our industrial sites. “Contractors have been mobilised in some cases while in others, the companies along the axis have already worked out the cost implication and sharing of that cost with the state government, only for the Federal Government to disrupt our arrangement under the disguise of encroachment on federal roads. We will support the Federal Government in its plan, but if Ogun State does not get the right support,
greater gains and deliver one of the most formidable political platforms in post independent Nigeria. “In over 13 years that the PDP has been in power, not only has it failed to deliver on its promises, it has infected all institutions of state with its moral infirmity, aversion to the rule of law and entrenched monumental corruption never seen in the history of this country. Today, our country has become a society where the safety of life CONTINUED ON PAGE 4
we will go ahead and develop key economic roads and toll them.” On his part, the Minister of Trade and Investment, Olusegun Aganga, noted that the ministry in collaboration with other ministries was working on developing a backward integration plan for the steel industry. According to him, it is time for Nigeria to begin to look at value-addition in the sector, especially as the local production capacity target for steel is becoming achievable. He added that his ministry was also collaborating with other ministries in order to drive the cluster system concept and replicate the system in various industrial areas. The Group Managing Director of the company, Lewis Tung, noted that the company was ready for backward integration and development of key products for both industrial and domestic use. He urged the government to be consistent in its policies in order to
Advert on Leadership publisher OLLOWING grave concern Fabout expressed in some quarters the advertisement titled Why Leadership Publisher is fixated on Yobe officials, published on Page 52 of The Guardian, Wednesday, April 17, 2013, we hereby inform the public that the publication is no other than an advertorial
in which The Guardian harbours no interest whatsoever. We have otherwise no relationship with the advertiser and no special interest in the subject of the advertisement. Any impression to the contrary, as a result of the publication, is regretted. -Editor
Reps okay council autonomy, scrapping of state polls’ bodies CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 the office of the president rotate among the six geo-political zones in the country. On the question, “should a provision be inserted in the constitution to make the office of the governor of a state rotate among the three senatorial districts in the state?” that was put before the constituencies, the verdict based on the template went thus: 175 voted in support, 181 voted against the idea while four constituencies remained undecided on the matter. The template further indicated that 225 as against 132 of the constituencies expressed support for the amendment of the constitution to make the immunity for the president, vice president, governor or deputy governor cover only civil proceedings while in office. Three constituencies remained undecided on the matter. Though Nigerians opposed the proposal to grant their compatriots in the Diaspora voting rights, they express preference for the retention of the present presidential system of government and bicameral legislature in the country. When the question “should the office of the President or governor of a state be filled purely on merit, instead of zoning” was put before Nigerians in the 360 constituencies, the total vote counts indicated
thus: 224 voted in support, 135 opposed it while one constituency remained undecided on the issue. Nigerians also expressed support for the two-term provisions for both the office of the governor and the president, independent candidacy in elections, creation of a role for traditional rulers in the constitution, the need for electoral reforms, reforms of the judicial institutions to ensure quicker dispensation of justice and separation of the office of the accountant-general of the federation by the creation of the office of the accountantgeneral of the states. Nigerians also expressed support for the amendment of the constitution to separate the office of the attorney-general of the federation from the position of minister of justice of the federation and for the Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission to send proposals for revenue allocation directly to the National Assembly in order to avoid undue delays in preparation of the revenue formulae. On the issue of fiscal federalism, votes from 236 constituencies outnumbered the views of 123 constituencies that opposed the proposal that Nigeria should implement the practice of federalism that allows states to control up to 50 percent of their resources and pay the reminder to the federation. Five
constituencies remained undecided on the issue. Similarly, 224 as against 125 constituencies voted against the proposal that the derivation component of revenue allocation be increased to at least 20 per cent. Eleven constituencies remained undecided on the issue. Though those clamouring for an amendment to address gender issues, including reserving certain percentage of elective offices for women failed to have their way, Nigerians supported the need for a specific provision in the constitution to take care of the interest of persons with disability. On the question “should section 315 (5) (a) and (d) be amended to remove the National Youth Service Corps Act, the Land Use Act, Public Complaints Commission Act, National Security Agencies Act from the constitution, 216 constituencies voted against the idea while 139 were in support. Five constituencies remained undecided on the issue. On the question “should indigeneship of an area be defined to include persons who have resided in an area for a continuous long period and therefore is entitled to accruing rights, duties and privileges,” 188 constituencies voted in support while 167 voted against it. Five constituencies remained undecided on the issue at the centre of bloody con-
flicts in Plateau State and other parts of the country. Earlier on, Ihedioha who reminded Nigerians that the process of amendment would not end with the people’s public sessions and the voting on the templates remarked that the results unveiled represented the collated views and decisions of Nigerians from across the country. He noted: “The collated results are not the views of the speaker, the deputy speaker or the leadership of the House of Representatives. It is also not the views of the House of Representatives as an institution. They are the collective response of Nigerians to the questions posed in the template. “The process may not be perfect, but I dare say, that it is the first time in the history of this country that Nigerians at the grassroots have been made part of the constitution review process in a practical and transparent manner.” Speaker Aminu Waziri Tambuwal who received the report amidst applause expressed gratitude for the successful conduct of the exercise, assuring Nigerians that all views offered at the public sessions as well as those forwarded through written memoranda would be carefully considered in fashioning the proposed amendment to the 1999 Constitution.
THE GUARDIAN, Friday, April 19, 2013
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THE PIB DEBATE Gains to IOCs, local operators, communities, by govt Stories by Roseline Okere OTWITHSTANDING the N controversy trailing it, the Petroleum Industry Bill (PIB) has been identified as a law that seeks to enhance exploration, exploitation and production of petroleum resources for the benefit of the Nigerians. From the PIB document obtained by The Guardian from the Ministry of Petroleum Resources, the Federal Government stated that the bill would create a conducive business environment for petroleum operations and establish a progressive fiscal framework that will encourage further investment in the sector while optimising accruable revenues to the government. According to the document, the PIB will also ensure the deregulation and liberalisation of the downstream petroleum sector; create an efficient and effective regulatory entity; promote transparency, simplicity and openness; promote the development of Nigerian content in the petroleum industry; protect health, safety and environment; and optimise domestic gas supplies, in particular for power generation. It stated that the bill hopes to pursue a vigorous domestic gas market and infrastructure development, adding: “It will establish a full-fledged limited liability company with private sector participation. It will develop the gas market and meet the challenges of power and other gas based industries. It will incorporate the existing Nigeria Gas Company. The 2012 PIB actually lowers government take to 70 per cent, which is lower than the 76 per cent government take on current Angolan fiscal terms”. The document further disclosed that marginal increase on per cent of government take in the Joint Venture operations from 87 per cent to 88 per cent is at $80/bbl crude oil price. At low crude oil price between $40 to $50/bbl, government take is marginally reduced to about 86 per cent. It added that a generous production allowance, lower royalty rates and tax holidays are incentives designed to attract investments in the gas sector. Government takes on gas projects marginally increased from 63 per cent to 71 per cent. Gas projects are still profitable and attractive under these gas terms. It noted that government take on Deepwater Production Sharing Contract (PSC)
Aliison-Madueke
range from 60 to 75 per cent with average of 72 per cent compared to 64 per cent of 1993 PSC terms. Government take is very completive and lowest among peer countries, such as Angola and Norway. It added: “The PIB seeks to reshape the regulation of the petroleum industry in Nigeria. In doing so it seeks to establish an institutional framework to oversee and govern the industry. “National Oil Company (NOC) will be established as a public company within three months of the PIB being passed through the National Assembly into law. From the date of its incorporation, the NOC would have transferred to it, all assets and liabilities held by the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation’s (NNPC) on behalf of the government, excluding the NNPC interests in existing unincorporated joint ventures.” It noted that the oil producing communities would benefit greatly from the PIB through the Host Community Fund, which mandates every upstream petroleum producing company to remit on a monthly basis ten per cent of its net profit. The document stated that 10 per cent of profit derived from upstream petroleum operations in onshore areas and in the offshore and shallow water areas, all of such remittance shall be made directly into the host community fund and profit derived from upstream petroleum operations in deepwater areas, all of the remittance directly in to the fund for the benefit of the petroleum producing littoral states. It added that at the end of
The Federal Government is expected to introduce and enforce integrated health, safety and environmental quality management systems with specific quality, effluent and emission targets for oil and gas related pollutants, without regard for fuel type such as gas, liquid or solid, in order to ensure compliance with international standards.
each fiscal year, each upstream petroleum company shall reconcile its remittance pursuant with its actual filed tax return to the service and settle any such difference. It added: “The contributions made by each upstream petroleum company, will constitute an immediate credit to its total fiscal rent obligations as defined in the PIB. Where an act of vandalism, sabotage or other civil unrest occurs that causes damage to any petroleum facilities within a host community, the cost of repair of such facility shall be paid from the fund entitlement unless it is established that no member of the community is responsible.” It hinted that the PIB would compel the Federal Government to the extent practicable, honour international environmental obligations and shall promote energy efficiency, the provision of reliable energy, and a taxation policy that encourages fuel efficiency by producers and consumers. “The Federal Government is expected to introduce and enforce integrated health, safety and environmental quality management systems with specific quality, effluent and emission targets for oil and gas related pollutants, without regard for fuel type such as gas, liquid or solid, in order to ensure compliance with international standards. “The government shall, in co-operation with the state and local governments and communities, encourage and ensure the peace and development of the petroleum producing areas of the federation through the implementation of specific projects aimed at ameliorating the negative impacts of petroleum activities. It shall at all times promote the involvement of indigenous companies and manpower and the use of locally produced goods and services in all areas of the petroleum industry in accordance with existing laws and policies”, it added.
Our concerns, by investors ESPITE the much touted bene- Companies (IOCs) and indigeD fits of the Petroleum Industry nous operators in the sector. Bill (PIB), oil producers in the
country, under the auspices Oil Producers Trade Section (OPTS), of Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry, (LCCI), have raised fears that the fiscal terms in the planned law could deter investments, The group said that the costs of doing business were already the highest in the world, in terms of multiple taxes, including hydrocarbon tax, company income tax, higher rents and royalties, and levies such as the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) levy, host community fund, and education and a host of others. Accordingly, they argued that the fiscal terms as contained in the bill were not favourable as it heightens uncertainty and endangers returns on investments. They expressed worries over the increase in the gas tax from 30 per cent to 80 per cent, increase in royalty payment on gas from seven per cent to 12.5 per cent. The LCCI group believed that the PIB gas fiscals would make Nigerian gas sector extremely uncompetitive. Citing example with Brazil, Algeria, Malaysia, Norway and other oil producing countries, the 91 per cent government’s share of Net Present Value (NPV) on gas production, will be the highest under the post-PIB. They stated: “Presently, Brazilian government takes 51 per cent; Algeria, 65 per cent; Malaysia, 81 per cent and Norway, 75 per cent. These countries are not operating under the types of challenges confronting the country’s oil and gas sector. “Also, comparing the global deepwater regimes, Angola investors currently pay zero per cent to the government, Brunei, eight per cent; Indonesia, 10 per cent, Malaysia, 10 per cent, Equatorial Guinea, 12 to 16 per cent, while Nigeria currently pays eight per cent and would be increased to 26 per cent when the PIB is passed into law. They said that the uncertainties surrounding the new PIB might change investors’ views on investing in Nigeria, depending on how the PIB is implemented. The group, during a recent courtesy visit to The Guardian newspapers in Lagos, maintained that the OPTS was not against the PIB, as this was absolutely necessary for the oil and gas sector, but that all stakeholders must be taken into consideration in the implementation of such reforms. The LCCI group wants government to engage independent consultant to review the PIB and come out with its findings in order not to jeopardise the huge investments by International Oil
Mutiu-Sunmonu
The OPTS, whose membership include Royal Dutch Shell, Total, Chevron, ExxonMobil, and Agip, said deepwater oil production had the potential to generate $66 billion by 2025. This investment, they said, was already being threatened with the terms in the new PIB. They said that $10 billion gas development projects are at risk, adding that Nigeria required between $50 and $60 billion to achieve 40 Giga watts by 2020, while about 16GW are currently available. They said that lack of infrastructure across the value chain, such as gas-transportation, power transmission and distribution, were major constraint, which the government needs to put into consideration before passing the PIB. The current gas pricing, they added, does not cover the cost of development in the sector. “Gas cannot be stored, infrastructure chain needs to be in place and customers need to be able to utilise the gas immediately. Power prices are still too low to make projects economically viable in order to raise the required funds to build the infrastructure chain.” The group therefore, called for a system that would incentivize investment in gas field and transportation infrastructure. They said that gas provisions in the PIB put an already challenged Nigeria’s gas potential further at risk. It stated: “Domestic Gas Supply Obligations (DGSOs) in the PIB are merely set on the basis of a company’s gas reserves and production, without consideration to the availability of gas pipeline infrastructure or the ability of customers such as power plants to take gas volume. “There is no adjustment to the DGSOs in case prices do not guarantee reasonable rates or return to allow upstream gas projects to be developed. Stopping gas exports could undermine Nigeria’s reputation as a reliable LNG supplier, result in loss of government revenue and would not increase domestic supply as it is not possible to re-route export gas to the domestic market without building major new pipelines”. They said that the government was gaining more from deepwater investments, as it receives a larger share of the proceeds under post PIB, which would be increased when the bill is passed into law. OPTS stated: “Deepwater projects are characterised by large upfront capital investment and significant technology challenges. Nigerian deepwater projects are covered under production sharing contracts and the Federal Government receives 65-70 per cent
Deepwater projects are characterised by large upfront capital investment and significant technology challenges. Nigerian deepwater projects are covered under production sharing contracts and the Federal Government receives 6570 per cent of net revenues from deepwater even though the PSCs require IOCs to make all upfront investments. of net revenues from deepwater even though the PSCs require IOCs to make all upfront investments. “Government’s take for PSCs in Nigeria post-PIB will be among the highest in the world. These terms make all planned deepwater projects non-viable and risk Nigeria’s deepwater growth potential. With PIB resulting in no new investment, deepwater production will quickly decline.” They noted that for the achievement of four million barrels per day crude oil production and 40 billion barrels in reserves by 2020, are not feasible under the new fiscal terms being proposed by the Federal Government in the PIB. According to them, it will take daily production of 200,000bpd from the deepwater fields before year 2020 for the country to achieve the targeted four million barrels per day. It said that slow pace of investments in the oil and gas sector due to the uncertainty of the PIB were negatively affecting the planned production increases. It noted that the investors were facing constraints under current fiscal terms, adding that this may result in decline in new oil fields investments. They argued that the PIB terms will not enable the investments needed to sustain Joint Venture (JV), oil production, due to bunkering and insecurity, adding that the new bill will make JV fiscals extremely uncompetitive. They further stressed that without new investments, production would decline by 40 per cent, while production with new investments will rise by 44 per cent. On investments in deepwater, the oil majors said it could attract $66 billion worth of investments up to 2025, and add 900,000bpd, which they argued, will impact on the economy in terms of Gross Domestic Product (GDP), growth and job creation. They also expressed worries over uncertainty surrounding renewal of current leases, nonprotection of investments, no deepwater gas terms and the absence of royalty from the PIB. According to them, some disputes are settled unilaterally by agencies, thereby preventing access to judicial or independent arbitration. The OPTS stated: “Globally competitive climate will help realise the potential of oil and gas for the benefit of the Nigerians. World class investment climate stimulates investment through emphasising taxes over royalties, incentivizes deepwater exploration to mitigate enormous capital, technological and exploratory risk, maximize reservoir, maximizes impact on broader economy through multiplier effect on employment supply chains and derives taxation and royalty on a fair basis rather than measured wellhead.”
THE GUARDIAN, Friday, April 19, 2013
4 NEWS
Poly teachers serve warning strike notice
ACN fuses into APC at convention in Lagos
By Isa Abdulsalami-Ahovi, Jos
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 2 and property is at its lowest ebb and poverty level at its highest. Nigerians are waiting patiently but with bated breath, to see the successful outcome of the merger talks. We must never let them down. We must rise above pettiness and personal ambitions and put the greater interest of this nation over any other thing else, for this is the only guarantee, to salvaging Nigeria from the precipice”, Akande further stressed. In the same vein, the former Governor of Lagos State, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, commended the leaders of the merging parties over their commitment to seeing that Nigeria does not end up as a failed state. He particularly applauded their determination to make great sacrifice to surrender their individual parties, their identities to form a larger party just for the masses from the poor administration of the ruling PDP. According to him, “if we fail to move fast now and form a larger party that would be strong enough to oust PDP or put it on its toes, history will not forgive us.” Buhari said the most topical issue in the country today was the merger. In his goodwill message, National Chairman, CPC, Prince Tony Momoh, urged party chieftains and supporters to shelve their differences and come together to work for the party in the next general elections. He said rather than forcefully impose itself on the electorate through election rigging, APC would work with the toiling masses, mobilise them towards reversing the current situation typified by poverty, corruption, high crime rate, among others in the polity. Onu said that unlike previous mergers, which did not work, the current one would turn things around for Nigerians. According to him, the ruling party should begin to disengage from power in 2015 and prepare for its imminent role as opposition party. Onu stated that with the merger, the country would experience monumental change never witnessed in the country. Lagos State Governor Babatunde Fashola, who was obviously elated playing host to the gathering, also stressed: “This gathering is a historical decision to provide a political alternative. I am proud to be a delegate at this historic convention and for Lagos being the venue of this history.” However, while reiterating the need for the merger, he said: “Proscription of other political parties is not necessarily the only condition for one-party state, but the absence of strong alternative choice is a major ingredient. The APC is an alternative choice, which would be put to test in the coming Anambra State election”. Making a snide remark on the alleged effort by the PDP merging with the INEC, while other parties were merging, Fashola said it was in the interest of the electoral commission and the country at large for INEC to remain impartial. Fashola faulted the PDP’s boast of winning at least 32 states of the federation in the next election, saying that “the most successful football team in the world cannot be so specific on the number of goals it is going to score against its opponent, except if it is so sure
HE Academic Staff Union of Polytechnics (ASUP) has declared a seven-day nationwide warning strike beginning from April 22, 2013, which will thereafter be followed by an indefinite strike if the government refused to address the union’s grievances. In a statement issued at the end of an emergency National Executive Council (NEC) meeting of ASUP in Abuja yesterday and signed by the union’s National Publicity Secretary, Clement Chirman, ASUP listed its unresolved issues to include nonconstitution of governing councils for Polytechnics, Monotechnics and Colleges of Technology, non-release of government white paper of the visitation panels to the federal polytechnics; and non-commencement of the NEED Assessments of the Nigerian polytechnics. Other grievances are the worrisome states of the state governments-owned polytechnics, monotechnics, and colleges of technology, continued appointment of unqualified persons as Rectors and Provosts by some state governments in their polytechnics, monotechnics and colleges of technology and the failure of most state governments to implement the approved salary package (CONPCASS) and 65 years retirement age in their polytechnics. The union said it is also worried by the continued appointment of principals on acting positions in some polytechnics, monotechnics and colleges of technology beyond the approved periods, insistence of the office of the accountant-general of the federation on the implementation of the IPPIS module in the polytechnic sector, continued delay in the amendment of the Polytechnics’ Act, review of the polytechnics’ scheme of service, and the non-commencement of the re-negotiation of the Federal Government/ASUP agreement as contained in the signed agreement.
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President Goodluck Jonathan (second right); Ogun State Governor Ibikunle Amosun (left); Group Managing Director (GMD), WEMPCO Steel Mill Ltd.; Lewis Tung and Minister of Trade and Investments, Olusegun Aganga (right), during the commissioning of the 5-Stand Tandem Cold Rolled Steel Plant at Magboro, Ogun State… yesterday. PHOTO: STATE HOUSE
Creation of more states will address political imbalance, says Mark From Bridget Onochie, Abuja RESIDENT of the Senate, P David Mark, has canvassed creation of additional states as one of the measures to address imbalances in the country. Addressing members of Anioma Congress, Delta State, yesterday in Abuja, Mark assured that the on-going constitution amendment will take into cognisance the anxieties, fears, agitations and future of minority groups in order to provide the needed
elixir for peace, unity and security in the country. He said: “I strongly believe that we truly need to create more states to meet the needs of agitators, bring a sense of belonging to the people, promote healthy competition among the federating states as well as guarantee peace and security in the land.” Mark however admonished that should the issue of state creation be undermined in the Constitution amendment, then, means of zoning top political offices should be
adequately spelt out. Such step, he contended, would douse tension, agitations or feelings of marginalisation by some minority groups in the country. He pointed out that a situation where some sections of a state are permanently confined to playing a second fiddle role is not good for harmonious co-existence among the people. For peace, security and development to thrive, Mark said justice, fairness and equity must be the yardstick for re-
police are grossly under-funded and this committee is trying to help them to raise money, because you cannot have a situation where a country cannot foot up to 10 per cent of the capital requirement of the police. Security is the most important issue for us today, you can’t talk about anything without security and if it is the most important issue, we should fund it at least reasonably,” the goversaid. nor Asked if the security votes for state chief executives could be reduced, he said it is not just about security votes, “we discussed various ways in which we are going to get money. The states, the federal governments, though they are supporting the police now, we believe that the support is inadequate.” grossly The Police Affairs Minister, Captain Caleb Olubolade (rtd)
said the priority of the current leadership of the ministry is to ensure that young mobile and competent professionally personnel are produced to conform with the 21st century requirements. police His words: “Part of the tasks is how we can train the existing manpower to be more professional, we want to ensure that the Police Academy in Wudil, Kano, takes off so that we can have officers who are well trained to redirect and professionalise the police. Our priority is to commence the degree-awarding institution in Kano, to start training officers who will be more versatile, young blood who can inject professionalism in the Force, and so all our attention is drawn to that. This meeting is to look at how we can give police adequate support so that the police can do their work.”
Govt moves for better funding of police From Mohammed Abubakar, Abuja suggestions came in to see ETERMINED to curtail the rising insurgency and other criminal activities in the country, the Federal Government has set up a special committee to raise funds to assist the Nigeria Police in meeting its constitutional responsibility of adequately policing the nation. The committee, which is being chaired by the Vice President, Namadi Sambo, with Governors Peter Obi of Anambra State, his Kwara counterpart, Alhaji Abdulfatah Ahmed and the Finance Minister of State, Yerima Ngama, has the mandate to raise funds from even outside the statutory government allocations to assist in funding the capital projects of the police. At the inaugural meeting of the committee held yesterday, with Sambo presiding, members reviewed the capital allocations to the Force in the current budgetary allocation and also determined what should be the ideal funding pattern for effective policing of the country. Speaking with State House correspondents after the meeting, which lasted for more than two hours, Obi and Ahmed, in their separate comments, agreed that the police as currently constituted, require huge financial outlay to enable them perform optimally. According to Ahmed, “the committee is about raising funds for support for the transformation of the police. It is something that dabbles seriously on the current security situation in the country. A lot of
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how funds are going to be made available to transform the Nigeria Police to be properly positioned to support Nigerians in the current security situation we have found ourselves. “It is a complete transformation, it covers every aspect of the Nigeria Police, ranging from operational to administrative and logistics. It is indeed holistic, we want to give Nigeria and Nigerians a reformed police, a transformed security organisation that would be professionally positioned to face the current and potential security challenges facing the country. It is going to address the people, the process and the technology.” Obi described the funding level of the police as very pathetic, saying the reform programme would make it better. “The issue is that the
lating between and among the cohabiting groups. He hinted that the Senate Constitution Review Committee would next week meet in Lagos State to put finishing touches to the compilation of the requests, findings and recommendations for the constitution amendment before submitting the document for consideration. He assured that the Senate will be fair, honest and just in consideration of the report and would reflect the wishes and aspirations of Nigerians in a manner that would promote peace, unity and development of the nation. Leader of the delegation and traditional ruler of Asaba, the Asagba of Asaba, Obi Chike Edozien, had earlier enumerated efforts by the Anioma people of Delta State to have a state of their own since 1983 without much success. He noted that the proposed Anioma state is endowed with enough human and material resources that would make the state viable. The monarch, who led other traditional rulers from Delta North Senatorial District to the parley, also demanded that the zone should be allowed to produce the governor of the state in 2015. He urged that other zones, which had got the opportunity, should co-operate with Delta North to have a shot at the governorship sit in the spirit of fairness and equity.
NSA interrogates Rivers commissioner over helicopters’ purchase From Kelvin Ebiri, Port Harcourt HE National Security AdT viser (NSA) yesterday invited the Rivers State Commissioner for Information and Communications, Mrs. Ibim Semenitari, for interrogation for providing details on two security helicopters jointly procured by the state and the Federal Government. The Guardian gathered that the Special Investigations Unit in the office of the NSA had on Tuesday written to the
commissioner and she appeared before the NSA yesterday. Semenitari had on Monday refuted allegation that Rivers State government defrauded the Federal Government to the sum of $15.6 million in a deal to purchase two BELL 412 EP helicopters valued at $28,414,640.00 A newspaper, not The Guardian, had alleged that the cost of the helicopters was actually $6.7 million which, when multiplied by two, is $13.4 million and not $29 mil-
lion as claimed by the state government. Semenitari told journalists in Port Harcourt that the allegation that the state might have defrauded the Federal Government the sum of $15 million, which was paid through the Office of the National Security Adviser, smacked of mischief. The commissioner, who availed journalists the helicopter purchase agreement and invoice of $28,414,640.00, explained that the Federal Government remitted its
counterpart funding of $15 million directly to Bell Helicopter, likewise the Rivers government. According to her, “the money for the purchase of the helicopters did not pass through the Rivers State government. The Federal Government through the office of the National Security Adviser paid directly to the company. The State government also did same. It is easy to find out if there was fraud in the purchase of the helicopters”, she said.
THE GUARDIAN, Friday, April 19, 2013
U.S. spends $3b to fight HIV spread From Itunu Ajayi, Abuja HE United States AmbassaT dor to Nigeria, Terence McCulley, has revealed that the United States (U.S.) government has committed about $3b in nearly 10 years to the prevention of mother-to-child transmission of HIV/AIDS. McCulley disclosed this in Abuja yesterday during his facility tour of the Primary Health Care in Masaka, Nasarawa State, rehabilitated by the U.S.-funded Institute of Human Virology, Nigeria and Nasarawa State government. The facility, with about 200 patient-capacity has the facility to counsel, administer antiretroviral therapy, care and provide psycho-social support and most importantly, care for and prevent pediatric transmission of HIV. McCulley said 65,000 HIVpositive pregnant women across Nigeria have benefited from the programme initiated by the U.S. government through the Prevention of Mother-to-Child Transmission of HIV (PMTCT) through the U.S. President’s Emergency Plan for Aids Relief (PEPFAR) for prevention, treatment and care programme and to build the capacity of the Nigerian health system.
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Govt denies plan to scrap NECO, JAMB From Azimazi Momoh Jimoh (Abuja) and Hendrix Oliomogbe (Asaba) HE Senate Committee on T Education yesterday subjected the Minister of State for Education, Nyesom Wike, to a series of interrogation over the planned scrap of the National Examination Council (NECO) and the Joint Admissions and Matriculations Board (JAMB). Wike, however, explained that the Federal Government had not arrived at a decision
NUT cautions against policy to scrap the two examination bodies. At a meeting, presided over by Chairman of the Senate Committee on Education, Senator Uche Chukwumerije, the minister blamed mischief-makers for media reports that NECO and JAMB had been scrapped. Chukwumerije had expressed worries that the Federal Government could so
suddenly scrap the two agencies even when the laws that set them up were still very much in place. The uncertainty over the fate of JAMB and NECO yesterday in Asaba, Delta State capital, also drew the ire of the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT). National President of NUT, Michael Alogba Olukoya, told reporters after a meeting of the National Executive Coun-
cil (NEC) in Asaba that teachers in states yet to commence full implementation of the 27.5 per cent Teachers’ Enhance Allowance (TEA), as well as states that have refused to pay the N18,000 minimum wage to teachers have been ordered to commence strike with effect from June 1 this year. Chukwumerije said: “The Senate is very interested in what happens to the education of our people and education generally because these two institutions monitor
NSCDC discovers 23 illegal refineries in Anambra From Uzoma Nzeagwu, Awka HE Nigerian Security and T Civil Defense Corps (NSCDC) yesterday disclosed that about 23 illegal petroleum refineries were discovered at Atani in Ogbaru Council Area of Anambra State by security operatives in the state. The state Commandant, NSCDC, Mr. Michael Ochogwu, in an interview in Awka, the state capital, said the discoveries were made in an operation carried out by a combined team of NSCDC, Nigerian Army and Nigerian Navy. Ochogwu, however, stated that no arrest was made at the site, as operators of the facilities took to their heels when they saw the Army and Naval officers. Narrating how the operation was executed, Ochogwu said the Nigerian Naval officers earlier discovered the illegal refineries and later invited the NSCDC to inspect and evacuate the tanks and products found at the site.
Ebonyi Assembly refutes impeachment story BONYI State House of E Assembly has refuted the report that it had reviewed a planned impeachment of the state governor and his deputy. The House described as inaccurate the story, captioned: “Drama as Ebonyi Assembly rethinks impeachment of governor and deputy,” and published in The Guardian of April 9, 2013. A letter by the Clerk of the House, Mrs. Rose Nwokporo, said the Legislature did not give a thought to or debate impeachment of the governor and his deputy, as shown in the House Official Report, Order Paper and Votes and Proceedings (V&P). She added that the House of Assembly “remains one of the most peaceful Houses of Assembly” in the country. According to the Clerk, the House expressed its dismay via a resolution on April 10, 2013.
Senate President, David Mark (second right), Mr. Segun Awolowo (right) and Dr. Tokunbo Awolowo-Dosunmu, at the commendation service for Chief Oluwole Awolowo in Ibadan… yesterday
Moslem leaders seek action on MEND’s threat From Saxone Akhaine (Northern Bureau Chief) and Bashir Bello (Kaduna) ITING the antecedents of C the Movement for Emancipation of Niger Delta (MEND), the Supreme Council for Shari’ah in Nigeria and the Council for Imams and Ulamas yesterday cautioned the Federal Government not to take lightly the May 31 threat issued by the Niger Delta group to bomb mosques and other Islamic institutions in the country. A communique jointly signed by the Kaduna State Chairman of SCSN, Sheikh Zubairu Siraj and Chairman Council for Imams, Sheikh Abubakar Babantune, however, said MEND, in the event of religious war, would definitely be the loser. President of the Supreme Council for Sharia in Nigeria (SCSN), Dr. Ibrahim Datti Ahmed, has rejected his membership of the Federal Government’s Committee on Amnesty, linking the rejection to what he termed his bitter experience with the government when he voluntarily tried to mediate between the authorities and members of the Boko Haram sect under previous dialogue plans. He said in an interview with the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) Hausa Service, monitored in Kaduna yesterday, that it was the alleged insincerity on the part of the government that led to the breakdown of peace talks with the insurgents about a year and half ago when he initiated dialogue with the aggrieved sect members. According to SCSN and Ulama Council, “This threat should not be taken lightly because of their past
Datti Ahmed rejects amnesty committee’s membership antecedents whereby they actually carried out their threats. The most recent was the killing of 12 police officers,” it stated. The council, which said it had been for negotiated resolution of the dispute (Boko Haram amnesty) and had made several attempts to mediate, frowned at the proposed amnesty rejection by President of Christian associations and minority groups,
describing it as unfortunate and disheartening. Datti, who faulted the composition of the amnesty committee, alleged that the chairman of the amnesty committee, who is a government minister and the secretary, also a government official, would not feed the government with the correct information but would always tell the government what it wanted to hear.
According to him, “previously, I made such moves twice and it wasn’t the government that asked me to do that and we had reached a stage where, had the government agreed with what we got, what we resolved with the sect members called Boko Haram, by now we would have forgotten everything and Nigeria would have witnessed peace.”
access and quality of education in the country. We are particularly interested because there are implications for the people should the two institutions be scrapped. There will be the issue of unemployment and there will be the issue of cost.” In his submissions, Wike said although the Stephen Orosanye committee that was set up to look into the cases of overlap of agencies had recommended the scrap of NECO and JAMB, government was still in the process of decision taking. He said the white paper committee set up to review the recommendations was still working. Olukoya, who read out the association’s statement, which was jointly signed by himself; the Secretary General, Obong I.J. Obong; and National Publicity Secretary, Suleiman Gambari, explained that the move was for fiscal expediency and so cannot be in the best interest of stakeholders in the education sector. The NUT president regretted that the recommendation of the Oronsaye panel to scrap NECO in particular amounted to subjugating national interest of the country to sub-regional or global slavery. He said that NECO does not only represent a national heritage but also the patriotic interest of teachers, pupils and parents under the exclusive control of the Nigerian government. According to him, it was wrong to subject the primary interest of Nigerians to the sub-regional interest of the West African Examination Council (WAEC) as a result of the expediency of fiscal consideration. He added that NECO should remain as an alternative and competing examination body in Nigeria, subject however, to possible re-organisation as to its efficiency and effectiveness to carry out its mandate. Olukoya said: “This also applies to the JAMB and its UMTE, which is established to promote egalitarian admission policy in our universities.
Jonathan, Blair, others for Rock Cathedral opening By Chris Irekamba and Sereba Agiobu-Kemmer RESIDENT Goodluck P Jonathan and former British Prime Minister, Tony Blair, are among eminent personalities expected to attend the inauguration, opening and dedication of the House on the Rock Cathedral at the church’s new state-of-the-art facility tomorrow and Sunday, April 21, 2013, on LekkiAjah Expressway, Lekki, Lagos from 9 am. The edifice bears testimony to the ideology of the founder, Pastor Paul Adefarasin, who advocates that the church should not only be for worship but also serve as a home for all to celebrate diversity and foster cultural and national unity and to be a bridge across nations, to transform the world. At tomorrow’s programme, the Cathedral will be dedicated as a social justice and community centre, the headquarters of its administrative operations: as an institute for good governance, transformation and leadership train-
ing, the Rock Foundation for community development, education, healthcare, social rehabilitation, sports and recreation. This will be followed by its dedication as an Ecclesiastical Centre on Sunday. The significance of the dedication of ‘The Rock Cathedral’ as it is popularly called, is not in its magnificence as a stateof-the art 32,000 square metre fully air conditioned multi-purpose facility that can seat up to 14,000 people at once, nor that it cost over N3 billion and took almost 10 years to build. The significance lies in the fact that the church is going to move faster and with greater impact in not only changing Christianity but also in the transformation of this nation and the world. The significance of the project is that it will serve Presiding Metropolitan Senior Pastor Adefarasin as a permanent and purpose built headquarters for all activities of his church and foundation. Fondly called ‘Pastor Paul’, Adefarasin is seen by his
swelling number of members as a leader who is not just a critic of the ills besetting the nation but an activist, passionate and deeply involved to contribute to the healing and reformation of the nation. As a social justice institution, The Rock Cathedral will serve as the centre not only for worship service, but also to fulfill the vision of empowering with specialised training in leadership and relevant skills for good governance and in the market place. It will be a place to run the separate educational training projects, the scholastic, which includes rehabilitation and equipping of primary and secondary schools with computer laboratories, adult vocational skills and Bible College. It will have a healthcare delivery centre for providing free medicare and the outreach mobile clinics to reach the urban and rural poor communities. It is also providing facilities for youth development and social rehabilitation centre for the
disadvantaged to re-integrate into society. It will also be a centre not only for recreation but also to promote artistic and creative projects providing recording and arts studios. Notable among these are her prisons ministry outreach, computer science laboratories scheme for public schools in the Lagos area and the ‘Area Boys’ Rehabilitation programme. The Ecclesiastical ceremony on Sunday will feature prelates from the various Christian denominations, among them the Prelate of the Methodist Church Nigeria, Dr. Sunday Ola Makinde; Presiding Bishop of The Redeemed Evangelical Mission (TREM), Dr. Mike Okonkwo; President of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria, Rev. (Dr.) Felix Omobude; Bishop Tudor Bismarck of the Jabula New Life Ministries, Zimbabwe; Bishop John Francis of the Ruach Ministries, United Kingdom, and Bishop Wayne Malcolm of iCan Ministries also in the United Kingdom .
THE GUARDIAN, Friday, April 19, 2013
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Why we won’t use corps members in council election, by EDSIEC From Alemma-Ozioruva Aliu, Benin City PPARENTLY reacting to complaints in some quarters that the decision by the Edo State Independent Electoral Commission (EDSIEC) not to use members of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) for tomorrow’s council election was part of plans to rig the exercise, the commission stated yesterday that it does not have any Memorandum of Understanding with the NYSC. Speaking on its preparedness for the election after a stakeholders’ meeting, EDSIEC Chairman, Solomon Ogor, said that no state in the country has used corps members for elections because the two bodies have no such agreement. “We wrote to the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) and they replied that they do not have MoU with us, that they only have MoU with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC),” he said. On complaints of alleged partisanship of some of its officials in some councils, Ogor said the commission has made amends where necessary by sanctioning four electoral officers in Uhunmwonde, Ovia North East and Esan Central councils for alleged partisanship. He further disclosed that logistics for election observers excluded non-governmental organisations, some of which “have turned themselves to professional observers anywhere there is election in the country.” Meanwhile, the Network of Civil Society Organisations yesterday tasked the EDSIEC on aggressive voter-mobilisation and sensitisation to discourage
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Akure court strikes out PDP’s suit against extension of time
South-East PDP denies bribe-for-impeachment allegation From Lawrence Njoku, Enugu OLLOWING the allegations FHouse by the Speaker of Imo of Assembly, Benjamin Uwajumogu, that he was offered bribe to impeach Governor Rochas Okorocha to enable his former deputy to take over, the South-East People’s Democratic Party (PDP) has washed its hands off the claim. Uwajumogu was quoted to have alleged that the PDP National Vice Chairman, South East Zone, Col. Austin Akobundu (rtd.), alongside other persons, offered him N3 billion to facilitate the impeachment Okorocha.
would offer a whopping N3 billion to impeach a governor who has outlived his usefulness and who is facing definite impeachment by Imo people come 2015. “If Mr. Uwajumogu’s intention in fabricating these lies and misleading innocent journalists into publishing them as news was to blackmail the PDP, it has failed miserably. His worst nightmare scenario is playing out in Imo State. PDP is waxing stronger each day while the megalomaniac, anti-people APGA leadership now relies on fabricated lies to hold on to power.” The statement added: “It is
also time for Speaker Uwajumogu to realise that he is ultimately the fall guy in the recent impeachment project against Mr. Jude Agbaso, and that those who imperiously reneged on the agreement to nominate him as deputy governor basically do not trust him. “If the alleged meeting took place in August 2012 as he claimed, why is he just revealing it? Is he under pressure to prove his loyalty? Who will trust a political associate who holds back such a sensitive secret for so long? “Has he now realised that he is invariably submerged in the same murky waters of the
First Lady, Dame Patience Jonathan (left); wife of the Vice President, Hajiya Namadi Sambo; Minister of Aviation, Stella Oduah; Minister of Petroleum, Diezani Alison-Madueke and Minister of Water Resources, Sarah Ochekpe, at the centenary celebration for women in Lagos yesterday.
First Lady advocates law for girl-child education
From Niyi Bello, Akure
By Nike Sotade, Metro Editor
SUIT instituted at the Court of Appeal sitting in Akure, Ondo State, by the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) candidate in last October guber poll, Olusola Oke, challenging a ruling of the Ondo State Election Petition Tribunal was yesterday struck out for lack of diligent prosecution. The suit challenged the decision of the Justice Andovar Ka’kan-led tribunal to grant extension of time to respondents to file some briefs, and sought the appellate court’s declaration that it was an aberration. Incumbent Governor Olusegun Mimiko, who was declared the winner of the poll, his Labour Party (LP) platform and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) are respondents in the case. When the matter came up in court, there was no sign of the presence of the appellant and his counsel, so Mimiko’s counsel, Ricky Tarfa (SAN), told the court that since the appellant was absent in court and had filed only the Notice of Appeal, he must have abandoned the appeal. Tarfa, therefore, urged the court to dismiss the case for want of diligent prosecution, a position that was adopted by INEC counsel, Mr. Wale Balogun. In his ruling, Justice Tijani Abdullahi said he struck out the case because the petitioner had abandoned his case, since neither he nor his lawyer was in court.
IRST Lady, Dame Patience Jonathan, has called on the National Assembly to enact legislation that would guarantee the education of the girl-child. According to her, Nigerian women ought to be grateful to the administration of President Goodluck Jonathan for giving them their place of pride in governance of the country. The president’s wife spoke while declaring open a two-day national conference to celebrate 100 Years of the Nigerian Woman, which held at the Eko Hotel and Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos yesterday. The theme is “Achieving 50/50 by 2020s.” The First Lady said it has become pertinent for the Na-
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But in a statement in Enugu yesterday, Akobundu dismissed the allegation as “infantile, irresponsible and disingenuous,” stressing that it portrayed a picture of emerging politics in the state based on dishonourable propaganda and flagrant disregard for the truth, which began since April 2011. Akobundu added in the statement by his Special Adviser, Osita Igbe, that it was another cock and bull tale from “a discredited government of confidence tricksters, who are clutching at any straw for survival.” According to him, “it begs the question that anyone
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tional Assembly to facilitate the legislation of laws that would further give fillip to the rights of women in the country. According to her, the education of the girl-child and the promotion of gender equality are crucial to the development of every society. Pouring encomiums on the administration of Jonathan for breaking record by placing women in positions crucial to Nigeria’s development, the First Lady said: “Nigerian women must continue to show appreciation to the administration of President Jonathan because, for the first time in the history of Nigeria since independence, women are being brought into the limelight. “The success or failure of this
administration rests on the shoulders of Nigerian women, based on the kind of portfolio women hold in the present administration. Women should know that this is their administration and they must work for it to succeed.” She further noted that Nigeria has achieved 31 per cent of women participation in governance as the present Federal Executive Council (FEC) has 13 female ministers out of 42, while there are six women special advisers out of the 18 special advisers the president has, a record 33.3 per cent. She encouraged Nigerian women to follow the lead of past heroines who had contributed immensely to the freedom and growth of the country, stressing that despite
the progress recorded, Nigerian women must continue the fight against “poverty, gender based violence, discrimination against the girl-child as well as negative traditional practices,” which, according to her, may undermine the gains so far achieved. Acknowledging the achievements of the heroines past, such as Moremi, Queen Amina, Madam Tinubu and the likes, Dame Jonathan said: “We could not have achieved development in Nigeria without these women. But no one gets anything without asking for it. We must work hard to achieve greatness for Nigeria, because despite the successes that we have made, we cannot say we have arrived.”
Senators explain delay in passing NAFDAC’s anti-counterfeiting bill By Joseph Okoghenun HE Senate Committee on T Health has blamed the current rigmarole and delay being experienced in the handling of Counterfeit Medical Products, Fake Drugs and Unwholesome Processed Foods (Prohibition and Control) Bill by the Executive as one reason the bill might not be passed during the fourth assembly. Chairman, Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, who gave the hint in Lagos yesterday during the committee’s oversight visit to the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), said the National Assembly was eagerly waiting the bill.
However, he regretted that by the time the bill, which was originated by NAFDAC and introduced over a year ago, would leave the Federal Executive Council (FEC) to the National Assembly, it would have delayed so much that the assembly might not have enough time to debate, amend and pass it into law before 2015. The bill intends to make fakers of pharmaceutical products in Nigeria liable to life imprisonment, have their assets confiscated to compensate the victims of adulterated drugs and make drug adulteration a non-bailable offence, as is done in India. Okowa, who was accompa-
nied by four members of the committee, however, congratulated NAFDAC for introducing various anti-counterfeiting technologies, including Truscan and Message Authentication Service (MAS), and for enlisting Nigerian pharmaceutical companies into the World Health Organisation (WHO)-Pre-qualification Programme, which currently involves eight Nigerian companies. Reacting, the NAFDAC Director-General, Dr. Paul Orhii, said the importance of the anticounterfeiting bill could not be over-emphasised as drugs counterfeiting remained one of the agency’s major challenges.
Orhii listed the factors encouraging counterfeiting in the country to include large population, porous borders, heavy disease burden, low local production capacity, and the country’s good buying power. He further listed the most counterfeited drugs to include anti-malaria, anti-hypertensive, antibiotics, anti-diabetes and lifestyles drugs. Orhii called for increased budgeting for the agency to enable it do its work, stating that it has achieved much in fighting anti-counterfeiting with various technologies, which has placed it among the best 20 drug regulatory agencies in the world.
contract scam that consumed the former deputy governor, and that the shoddy, hatchet ‘investigative’ job he did to remove Agbaso will form the template by which his own downfall will be plotted and executed?”
Aviation minister, others to testify in Dana crash inquest By Bertram Nwannekanma LAGOS State coroner, Mr. A Oyetade Komolafe, yesterday directed that witness summon be issued on the Minister of Aviation, Princess Stella Oduah, and a pathologist, Prof. Adekunbi Banjo, to testify before the ongoing inquest into the June 3, 2012 DANA plane crash. No fewer than 153 passengers and some residents of IjuIshaga area of Lagos State lost their lives in the crash. Addressing the inquest yesterday, Komolafe said that Oduah’s appearance was necessary before the conclusion of the hearing, as she would see what was being done would also answer some questions. Komolafe added that Banjo’s testimony was in the interest of fair hearing. Banjo, a consultant pathologist with the Accident Investigation Bureau (AIB), is to appear before the inquest on May 22, but no specific date was fixed for Oduah’s appearance, the coroner granting her freedom to choose from the May 20 to 24 dates fixed by the court for further hearing on the matter. Earlier, the AIB counsel, Mr. Babatunde Irukera, had urged the court to allow Banjo testify at the inquest, noting that the testimony of the pathologist, who had worked previously with AIB on other crashes, would assist the coroner come to a just and meaningful conclusion of the inquest.
Oyo to address irregularities in teachers’ pay From Iyabo Lawal, Ibadan HE Oyo State Government T has begun moves to find a lasting solution to the perennial irregularities in the payment of teachers’ salaries and other issues affecting the education sector in the state. This follows the agreements reached at the end of a meeting between the government and the leadership of the state’s wing of the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) at the Ministry of Education Secretariat, Ibadan, on Monday. Presided over by the Commissioner for Education, Mrs. Adetokunbo Fayokun, the meeting also had in attendance the Commissioner for Finance, Mr. Zacheaus Adelabu, officials of the State Teaching Service Commission (TESCOM), State Universal Education Board (SUBEB) and Management Information Centre (MIC). Part of the issues addressed at the meeting, according to a statement by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Education, Dr. Festus Adedayo, was the non-payment, underpayment, over-payment and wrong crediting of teachers’ accounts. The meeting directed TESCOM and MIC to begin immediate review and reconciliation of all operations regarding the payment of teachers’ salaries in order to correct all the irregularities.
THe GUARdiAN, Friday, April 19, 2013
Kwara’s farm initiative wins global award
WARA State’s Shonga Farm k Project has won a major global award, a Grand Prix at the international Festival of corporate Film and TV on ecology and Sustainable development, held in deauville, France on Thursday. A Farm for Africa,’ a film on the kwara initiative, which was commissioned by former Governor Bukola Saraki, who also initiated the Shonga Farms Project during his tenure, beat off tough competition from seven other entries from european, American and Asian producers to win the Grand Prix Award in the Agriculture and Green economics category. The deauville Green Awards ceremony, attended by film makers from across the world and senior French government officials, was the climax of the three-day festival during which 200 entries, including ‘A Farm For Africa’, were screened. Receiving the award, dr. Muyideen Akorede, Senior Special Assistant on Media and communication to Governor Abdulfatah Ahmed, said itwas further validation of Senator Saraki’s unparalleled vision for agro-reform which saw him inviting the 13 Zimbabwean Farmers to pioneer commercial farming in kwara State and of his determination to bring the Shonga success story to a wideraudience.
Abia begins work on N3.7b shopping mall From Gordi Udeajah, Umuahia He Abia State government T yesterday began the construction of the N3.7 billion digital Abia Shopping Mall, which has 13 months’ delivery target. Located at the former cattle Market in Umuahia and established under the Public-Private Partnership (PPP), the mall is owned by Abia Retail company (85 per cent equity) and the state (15 per cent) equity, and will be operated by Shoprite. When operational, it is estimated to employ 500 direct and 5,000 indirect personnel. Governor Theodore Orji, who laid the foundation, said the project was conceived to provide residents of Umuahia with “a one-stop shop.” While the commissioner for commerce and industry, dr. Sampson Orji, described the project as a cutting-edge concept in the supply of all human daily needs, the Managing director of New Technics construction company, which is handling the project, Mr. enyinnaya emelogu, asked indigenes to expect the best shopping complex that will compare with what obtains in other states of the country and beyond.
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EFCC arrests Imo commissioner, accountant general, legislators From Abosede Musari (Abuja) and Charles Ogugbuaja (Owerri)
Customs, Copyrights Commission impound N6b goods
He recent sordid drama in T imo State that culminated in the impeachment of the
and Financial crimes commission (eFcc), which arrested them over the contract allegedly awarded to JPROS international Limited. The anti-corruption operatives also quizzed about three members of the imo State House of Assembly over the crisis rocking the yet-to be-disclosed alleged disappearance of about N600 million. According to sources, those being interrogated are Simeon iwunze, the chairman of
former deputy governor, Jude Agbaso, is taking a fresh turn, with the arrest yesterday of the commissioner for Finance, Okafor chike John, and the Accountant General, eche ezenna George, in connection with the same N1 billion construction contract scam. Both officials are currently being interrogated at the Abuja office of the economic
African journalists’ union deplores harassment of media NUJ urges release of abducted council chief He Federation of African T Journalists (FAJ) condemned what it referred to as “the increasing cases” of arrests and detention of media personnel, as well as attacks on their organisations and destruction of their property across the continent. “We are disturbed by this development and how journalists take great personal and professional risks to collect process and disseminate news and information to over one billion African citizens in 54 states, unfortunately have continued to be victims of various acts of impunity by various governments and their agents,” according to a statement by FAJ’s President, Mohammed Garba. He added: “FAJ is equally worried with the rearrest, detention and subsequent arraignment in court on 10-count charge of forgery against Tony Amokoedo and chibuzor Ukaibe, editors of the Leadership Newspapers, in Abuja Nigeria, and we cautioned against their continued detention and harassment. They were to be prosecuted for allegedly forging the document which formed the basis of the newspaper’s April 3, 2013, frontpage story. They appeared in court and were released conditionally, to appear on April 23, 2013. “Attacks against journalists and media equipment are illegal under the international humanitarian law, and
such attacks from all intents and purposes pose serious threats to the media. FAJ is, therefore, committed to paying particular attention to the safety of all journalists in members unions and the respect for freedom of expression and press freedom, which are of paramount importance to assuring freedom of the press, freedom of expression and democratic governance. “Recent developments in the continent have further heightened concerns for the safety of journalists and there are clear signals that all may not be well for these media professionals who mostly are without any insurance cover. “We urge the Nigerian authorities to respect the professional independence and rights of journalists, media staff and associated personnel, to properly investigate all violations of their rights, and to promote their safety, security and freedom of movement in accordance with the law.” Meanwhile, the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Lagos State council, has called for the unconditional release of the chairman of ejigbo Local council development Area (LcdA), kehinde Bamgbetan, by those who kidnapped him since last Monday night. The union’s chairman, deji elumoye and secretary, Sylva Okereke, in a statement described Bamigbetan as a “seasoned journalist and con-
Benue, Taraba set up joint peace panel Suswam urges security agencies to protect citizens From Joseph Wantu (Makurdi) and Charles Akpeji (Jalingo) N their search for lasting iBenue peace among their people, and Taraba states on Wednesday set up a 14-member joint committee to ensure the immediate return of peace to their warring border communities. This followed the call by the Acting Governor of Taraba State, Garba Umar, for the formation of peace and security committee comprising members drawn from the two states to enhance lasting peace at the border areas. Umar assured that the people of Taraba State would support and abide by every resolution the joint committee would
the recent probe panel that “investigated” JPROS international Limited on road contracts award, ikenna eme and Samuel Anyanwu. They are to explain what they know about the scandal. Also invited was an in-law to Governor Rochas Okorocha and his Special Adviser on Project Monitoring committee, Macdonald Akano. He is being held for his alleged role in the shares of JPROS. in another development, the Nigeria customs Service
arrive at. The committee, which has seven members each from both states, has Atoza ihindan from Benue as chairman while Asetan irimiaya is secretary. it has three weeks to submit its report to both states. Meanwhile, Governor Gabriel Suswam of Benue State has urged security agencies in both states to always protect the citizens rather than intimidate them. He spoke at the joint peace and security meeting between both states at Gawa, a border town in katsina-Ala council of Benue State against the backdrop of the incessant harassment of neighbouring border villages by alleged security operatives and crimi-
nals. While challenging security agents from the two states to jointly fish out the criminals terrorising the people, he advised them to always share intelligence information on matters of security breach to enhance easy collaboration. He further urged those who deserted their places to go back to their farms and respect their boundaries. in his remark, the Ter katsinaAla, chief Fezaanga Wombo, lamented the absence of Ekwe Tarkum, (chief of Tarkum), whose absence, he believed, had made amicable resolution of issues affecting the two tribes difficult. He called for the restoration of the traditional stool.
summate politician and expressed concern about the level of insecurity in Lagos metropolis. it said: “We are bothered about the safety of an average citizen in Lagos if a local council chairman who is supposed to be the chief security officer of his council can be kidnapped on his way home after a hard day’s work.” The union, therefore, called on the state government, through its Security Trust Fund, to be alive to its responsibility and ensure that lives and property are safe especially with the Babatunde Fashola administration’s plan to turn Lagos into a mega-city.
(NcS) and the Nigerian copyrights commission (Ncc) have impounded 16 containers of pirated goods worth about N6 billion. This was disclosed yesterday in Abuja by the Ncc director General, Afam ezekweli, at the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the eFcc. The MoU is meant to foster greater relationship with the anti-graft agency and to formally enlist its cooperation in the fight against piracy in Nigeria. On the imo officials’ arrest, a top official of the eFcc informed that due process was not followed in the award of the contract, adding that “the contract value was paid to the contractor before commencement of work.” According to the eFcc official, more persons involved in the scam would be invited for questioning as investigations progress. The commission’s spokesperson, Wilson Uwujaren, confirmed the arrest. Meanwhile, ezekweli said the Ncc “has a focus for strategic partnership with other agencies through collaborations,” adding: “We want to stop the inflow of pirated items into the country and we want a robust rela-
tionship with eFcc”. eFcc chairman, ibrahim Lamorde, said the signing of the MoU was to formalise the relationship between both agencies even though they had been working together. He pledged the commission’s support to stamp out piracy in the country, stating that “no agency or enforcement outfit can get it right by working alone, so this interagency cooperation is very important to achieve results. “The ultimate thing in what we do is to make sure that we stop these pirated items coming into Nigeria. Most people don’t seem to appreciate the magnitude of the crime that is being committed. Pirating materials that people have created is one of the worst crimes that all of us should try to address in this country.” To the Ncc, he said: “i think you are doing a wonderful job from the various reports that we are getting. These arrests and interrogations being made have greatly reduced the number of pirated materials coming into the country and even the ones that are locally produced. “it is a shame that some people take pleasure in just stealing the works of others and making money out of it while the original owners of such intellectual property end up in abject poverty.”
The-
SUNDAY, APRIL 21, 2013
Frederick Fasehun, A Mole Or His Own Man? RedRick Fasehun, Founder of Oodua Peoples congress (OPc) Rattles Southwest With His Plan To Resurrect The defunct Unity Party of Nigeria (UPN). is he a joker or should he be taken seriously? Hear what he has to say and what other notable Southwest leaders say about him and his plan. PLUS
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“We Need Family Planning In The North.”
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THE GUARDIAN, Friday, April 19, 2013
AfricanNews UN missions in Africa make govts lazy, says Museveni
Chad seeks more aid after influx of Sudanese refugees
HADIAN government has RESIDENT Yoweri MusevP eni of Uganda has declared Curged friendly countries that United Nations (UN) and partners to give more aid
peacekeeping missions make African governments lazy to focus on internal reconciliation to end deadly conflicts. Museveni, according to a State House statement made available to Xinhua yesterday, expressed his position while meeting India’s Foreign Minister Salman Khurshi, who paid a courtesy call on him on Wednesday at Entebbe State House, 40 kilometres south of the capital, Kampala. He criticised the UN system of maintaining peacekeeping as opposed to building internal capacity. “External support by the UN makes governments lazy and they don’ t focus on internal reconciliation! The mistake is internal actors with no correct vision and the UN, which does not focus on internal capacity-building but instead focusing on peace keeping all the time. Without the internal solutions, you can’t have peace, “ Museveni said. Museveni was responding to concerns by the minister over the situation in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Sudan, where India lost three of its peacekeeping staff in the conflicts in the respective countries.
to thousands of internally displaced persons and Sudanese refugees fleeing from the Darfur clashes, Xinhua reported yesterday. The new refugees arrived at the Tissi sub-region in the eastern part of Sila near the border with Sudan. “This situation has been caused by an inter-ethnic conflict between Sudanese tribes in Darfur,” Chadian Foreign Minister Moussa Faki told diplomats and international organisations accredited to his country on Wednesday. The minister said the clashes occurred between February and April and affected a large section of the population, forcing many of them to flee into the Chadian territory. The resident representative of the UNHCR in Chad, Aminata Gueye, told Xinhua that the organisation had decided, together with the Chadian authorities, to relocate the refugees from Tissi to Goz Amir and Djabal camps, where they will be safer and the humanitarian organisations will easily access them. Since 2006, the Goz Amir camp has received 26,000 Sudanese refugees. The UNHCR and its partners have also reinforced the existing infrastruc-
ture to create more space for new refugees. Regarding the fresh outbreak of violence in Darfur, Moussa Faki said about 30,000 refugees have fled to the Tissi camp in Chad, while about 20,000 Chadian nationals have returned to the country and are living in the camps. “The refugees as well as those who have returned include children who have been separated from their parents as well as people with special needs such as women, the disabled and the elderly persons,” the minister said after a mission to the camp. The mission carried food and other materials to refugees in early April. “It should however be noted that the assistance was way below the real needs of the victims who have been affected by the inter- ethnic conflict,” the Chad’s chief diplomat said.
Madagascar’s former president Didier Ratsiraka (right) and transitional leader, Andry Rajoelina, at a national reconciliation conference in Antananarivo after Ratsiraka returned home from France yesterday, ending an 11-year exile that followed a bitter election dispute. PHOTO: AFP
Court remands Senegalese ex-president’s son in jail over corruption ARIM Wade, the son of K Senegal’s former leader Abdoulaye Wade, was sent to jail
yesterday after being charged with corruption over the amassing of a fortune valued at more than $1 billion, a ministry of justice source said. The junior Wade, who held a number of cabinet posts during his father’s presidency, was sent to Dakar’s main prison under heavy police escort just before midnight, witnesses said, after he was charged with “illicit enrichment”. Seven alleged accomplices also placed on remand include a Senegalese businessman, a former head of airport operator, Aeroports du Senegal and two officials from airport ground handling company, Aviation Handling Services (AHS), the ministry source told
Agence France Presse (AFP). Xinhua also wrote that the special prosecutor of the AntiCorruption Court (CREI) decided to forward the charge file on Wednesday to CREI’s investigation commission led by a judge. The commission decided on the same day that Wade be incarcerated. According to the CREI, the decision cannot be appealed. Wade and others have been charged with “complicity in illicit enrichment”, along with his former communications adviser and two other men. Wade is alleged to have acquired companies and real estate by corrupt means, including land across Dakar,
the local subsidiary of Dubai Ports World, which runs the port container terminal in Senegal’s capital, and a fleet of luxury cars. He is also said to be the owner of AHS and seven subsidiaries operating mainly in west and central Africa, one of which runs Equatorial Guinea’s Malabo airport, as well as a number of media and finance firms. The 44-year-old’s arrest on Monday came just hours after his legal team filed documents in response to an order by Senegal’s anti-corruption court to explain the provenance of assets allegedly worth over $1.4 billion (1.07 billion euros).
Regional leaders meet on Central African Republic crisis Djotodia was last Saturday CONOMIC Community of E elected interim president by a Central African States’ The CAR is like a wound national transitional council (ECCAS) leaders yesterday met in Chad to discuss ways to end the crisis in the Central African Republic, where violence has been endemic since rebels seized power last month. “The principal question to be dealt with during the course of this summit is that of security in the Central African Republic (CAR),” Chad’s President Idriss Deby said after proceedings opened yesterday. “The CAR is like a wound in the heart of central Africa. We have to mobilise to put an end to this recurrent situation,” Deby told fellow ECCAS leaders. “Armed bands loot, hold to ransom and racketeer the population,” he added, stating that the Seleka rebel alliance which ousted president Francois Bozize “is an organisation that lacks unity and the initiative of a command (structure)”. Deby also pointed that an international ECCAS military force deployed in the Central African Republic, the 500-
in the heart of central Africa. We have to mobilise to put an end to this recurrent situation.
strong FOMAC, was “insufficient to do the job”. The ECCAS leaders were joined by President Jacob Zuma of South Africa, which had troops in the troubled country aiding Bozize. About 13 of these men were killed and 27 wounded in a clash with rebels on March 23 as Seleka fighters neared the capital Bangui. The summit should “draw up an assessment of the evolution of the situation in Central Africa” since decisions taken by a previous ECCAS summit on April 3, according to a Chadian diplomatic source. The source said the earlier summit had made it possible to find “institutional means” to legitimise the seizure of power by Seleka leader, Michel Djotodia, who swiftly proclaimed himself head of state.
of 105 members, which is acting as a constituent assembly in line with regional demands. The Seleka chief must rule for no more than 18 months. While these developments have clarified the political situation, the overall state of one of the world’s poorest countries has deteriorated since the last ECCAS summit. Looting has been ceaseless and clashes have taken place between Seleka forces and residents angry at the lack of security, while militias who supported the Bozize regime remain active. About 20 people were killed in weekend violence. A diplomatic source even expressed fear of “a civil war” if the unrest persists. On Tuesday, Djotodia announced police reinforcements of 500 men, with 500 others to the paramilitary gendarmerie police. He also pledged to put Seleka fighters in camps and to clear them off the streets.
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THE GUARDIAN, Friday, April 19, 2013
WorldReport Firefighters, others missing after deadly Texas’ fertiliser plant’s blast U.S. investigators will find Boston bombers, Obama vows ITH the number of the W dead still remained unclear, rescue teams launched a door-to-door search yesterday for victims after a massive explosion at a fertiliser factory, which also levelled much of West town, Texas, United States (U.S.). Police yesterday said the number of those killed could be between five and 15, according to reports by Cable News Network (CNN) and Agence France Presse (AFP). However, officials said more than 160 people were injured and “three to four” firefighters were missing or unaccounted for. In a country already on edge from Boston Marathon attacks, the factory blew up in a huge fireball late Wednesday, destroying scores of nearby homes. But the U.S. President Barack Obama vowed yesterday that investigators would find the bombers who attacked the Boston marathon
and make them “accountable”. “Yes, we will find you, and yes, you will face justice,” Obama told a special interfaith service in the city, three days after the attacks which killed three people and injured about 180. Obama also stood in solidarity with China, mourning the loss of a Chinese student who was among three people killed in the terror attack on the city’s marathon. Boston University graduate student, Lu Lingzi, was named as one of those who died when two deadly bombs exploded near the finish line during Monday’s race, injuring another 180 people. “Our prayers are with the Lu family of China who sent their daughter Lingzi here to she could experience all the city had to offer. A 23year-old student far from home,” Obama told a special
inter-faith service at Boston’s Cathedral of the Holy Cross. “And in the heartache of her family and friends on both sides of the great ocean, we’re reminded of the humanity that we all share.” Also yesterday, Obama, in a statement, offered the prayers of the nation to the people of West Town. “A tight-knit community has been shaken, and good, hard-working people have lost their lives,” he said. Obama offered aid through the Federal Emergency Management Administration and promised “to make sure there are no unmet needs as search and rescue and response operations continue.” Meanwhile, authorities said they feared they would find a lot more bodies in the rubble of homes and businesses levelled by the force of the blast.
Sergeant Patrick Swanton of the nearby Waco, Texas police department said that officials don’t yet know what caused the explosion, but are treating the site as a crime scene. “We are not indicating that it is a crime, but we don’t know,” Swanton told U.S. media overnight. “What that means to us is that until we know that it is an industrial accident, we will work it as a crime scene,” he said. The main investigation was being led by the Federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Swanton said the death toll is “anywhere from five to 15 at this point” but expected to rise. Hospitals have treated more than 160 people with varying injuries. He said law enforcement and rescue officials were conducting a massive search for survivors.
Musharraf under house arrest over court’s order By Kayla Grage, with agency report OLLOWING an announceFment ment by Pakistani governit would obey the order
of an Islamabad’s High Court, former President Pervez Musharraf was reportedly put under house arrest yesterday. Pakistan’s interim Minister of Information, Arif Nizami, said yesterday that the court order was legally binding and the government would enforce it. Local television stations later showed police entering Musharraf’s villa, where he went after he reportedly fled the courtroom moments before the Islamabad High Court ordered his arrest. He is facing charges over illegally arresting top judges in 2007 as well as over accusation that he conspired to murder former Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto in his efforts to cling to power. His lawyers had secured prearrest bail last month, allowing him to fly to Karachi without fear of arrest. The court ruled against an extension of the bail and ordered his arrest yesterday. Several attempts were made to arrest Musharraf during his return from his four-year exile in Dubai and London but no
police dared stop him while he marched out of the courtroom with a phalanx of bodyguards into one of his fleet of cars. Pakistan ‘s electoral commission recently declined Musharraf’s bid to contest in next month’s general election in four constituencies. Meanwhile, in a reaction yesterday, Ahmed Raza Qasuri, senior vice president of All Pakistan Muslim League, said: “This is a bailable offence and against any surety, bail could be granted. This is the first time in the history of Pakistan that the bail of a person has been rejected in a bailable offence. “By such rulings, the courts are exposing themselves, sending wrong signals to the world. It gives an impression that justice is not being done but personal scores are being settled. Musharraf did not escape from the court. Around 100 Range personnel brought him to court and took him back. How can the media call it an escape?” Also, Musharraf’s office called the Islamabad court’s decision “unwarranted judicial activism” that was “seemingly motivated by personal vendettas,” and said it would appeal against it at the Supreme Court.
Venezuela’s Maduro for inauguration today as tension subsides FTER days of flaring tenA sions over opposition demands for a recount in elections to replace the late Hugo Chavez, Nicolas Maduro is steamrolling toward inauguration as Venezuela’s president today. The late Chavez’s political heir, Maduro, appeared to have regained control of the situation after post-election protests turned violent in parts of the country, leaving eight people dead and more than 60 injured. “We have defeated the coup d’etat,” the mass media quoted Maduro as declaring, while accusing his rival Henrique Capriles of “sowing violence.” Caracas rang with the sounds of pots and pans banging for a second consecutive night Wednesday in frustration over the election results, United States (U.S.) President Barack Obama (left), First Lady Michelle Obama, Massachusetts Governor Deval Patrick and his wife Diane Patrick attend the “Healing Our City: An Interfaith Service” dedicated to those who were gravely wounded or killed in the Boston Marathon bombing, at the Cathedral of the Holy Cross in Boston, Massachusetts…yesterday. PHOTO: AFP.
Italy’s bickering parties split on presidential vote HE parliament in Italy T began a second round of voting yesterday to elect a new president after a first round failed to secure a victor in a ballot many hope will herald the end of a twomonth impasse over a new government but which threatens fresh political divisions. According to agency reports, whoever is elected will face the unenviable task of trying to bring the bickering parties together to break a deadlock that has raised fears of instability in the eurozone’s third-largest economy.
In a last-minute agreement on Wednesday, Italy’s two main political blocs had agreed to back Franco Marini, a pipe-smoking 80-year-old seen as having formidable political skills. But the deal was seen as highly controversial by many across the political spectrum, with rebel voters preferring Stefano Rodota, a widely respected 79-year-old human rights advocate, Agence France Presse (AFP) reported. None of the candidates managed to win the necessary two-thirds support in the first round of voting, after leftist
Whoever is elected will face the unenviable task of trying to bring the bickering parties together to break a deadlock that has raised fears of instability in the eurozone’s third-largest economy. leader Pier Luigi Bersani’s bid to clinch a deal with his rival, Silvio Berlusconi, over Marini infuriated many within the centre-left bloc. He was slammed as having neither public support nor international standing and experts said it was unclear whether he could win critics over. Winning consensus from
Italy’s bickering political parties “appears more difficult than squaring the circle,” political commentator Massimo Franco said in the Corriere della Sera daily. Current frontrunner, Marini, is a former Christian Democrat and ex-leader of the Catholic CISL trade union, who was speaker of the Senate between 2006 and 2008.
but they were overlaid with explosions from rockets set off by Maduro’s supporters in response. With order seemingly restored for now, Maduro was expected to receive the backing of the Union of South American Nations, UNASUR, whose leaders were holding a special meeting in Lima, Peru devoted to the political crisis in the oil-rich Caribbean country. N early all Latin American countries have recognised Maduro’s election and several leaders were taking advantage of the summit to travel together to Caracas for his inauguration. Presidents Dilma Roussef of Brazil, Cristina Kirchner of Argentina, Jose Mujica of Uruguay and Evo Morales of Bolivia have confirmed their attendance.
Xi expresses concern for Chinese victims in Boston bombings HINESE President Xi JinC ping has expressed great concern for the Chinese students who were casualties in the Boston Marathon bombings. It was confirmed that a Chinese student studying in the United States (U.S.) died in Monday’s Boston Marathon bombings and another student was severely injured. Xi expressed sorrow for the dead student and offered condolences to the injured student and the victims’ families through relevant departments, Xinhua stated yesterday. The president has also instructed the Chinese Foreign Ministry, the Chinese Embassy in the United States and the Chinese Consulate Gen-
eral in New York to handle the aftermath of the bombing and arrange treatment for the injured student. He also asked them to maintain close contact with the U.S. side to properly handle other related issues. Meanwhile, the new Chinese Ambassador to the United States, Cui Tiankai, on Wednesday strongly condemned the Boston bombings, while stressing the need for the two countries to enhance cooperation in dealing with global challenges, including the threat of terrorism. Addressing a welcome party held for him by the Chinese embassy, Cui expressed deep sorrow and condolences to the victims of the bombings
THE GUARDIAN, Friday, April 19, 2013
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Politics Between Ndigbo and Southeast governors From Lawrence Njoku, Enugu
HE over-five hour meeting of Governors of T the Southeast zone in Enugu on Sunday, April 7, declared that it had accepted reports of the 10-man committee it set up to look into the remote causes of the post-election crisis rocking apex Igbo socio-cultural organisation, Ohanaeze Ndigbo. Anambra State Governor and Chairman of the Southeast Governors Forum, Mr. Peter Obi, who briefed reporters at the end of the meeting, said the governors would take a critical look at the report with a view to ensuring that peace returned to the organisation. However, Ndigbo, who had looked forward to the meeting, to resolve the impasse in Ohanaeze, had their hopes and aspirations dashed. On February 10, at a meeting at the Government House, Enugu, the governors had announced the setting up of the committee, chaired by Senator Ben Obi, to look into the post-election crisis in Ohanaeze. The committee, partly made up of representatives of religious organisations, members of the Senate and House of Representatives, and traditional rulers, was given two weeks to submit its report to the governors. The constitution of the committee followed the national election of the apex Igbo organisation held at its secretariat on January 12, this year. Chief Gary Igariwey from Ebonyi State and Dr. Joe Nworgu from Imo State emerged President General and Secretary General, respectively, among others officers, in line with the rotational principle of the organisation. Nonetheless, there was sustained disagreement that arose before the conduct of the election among members of the Chief Chris Asoluka-led electoral committee. The led to the replacement of the secretary to the committee, Chief Richard Ozobu, with Mrs. Grace Ene. As a basis for his replacement few days before the election, Ozobu was not only accused of trying to use his office to circumvent the overall interests of the organisation, but unilaterally postponed the date fixed for the election from January 12 to January 19 without recourse to the leadership of the organisation or committee, which he served as secretary. But Ozobu, who did not deny postponing the election, said he did so based on the need to conduct an acceptable process as well as tackle “logistics problems.” He stressed that two days to the election, majority of the aspirants, who purchased nomination forms, had not returned them. He also stated that funds had not been made available for the secretariat to produce ballot papers, ballot boxes, adding that the timeframe was similarly not suitable for the committee to screen candidates participating in the election. Ozobu also produced copies of protest letters from two state chapters of the organisation, to indicate they were not prepared to participate in the election as scheduled for January 12. One of such letters came from the chairman of Ebonyi State Council of Traditional Rulers, Elder Agom Eze. The letter urged for a shift in the date, as the timeframe was “too prompt to allow stakeholders to be mobilised for election.” The letter also said that Ebonyi, whose turn it was to produce the President General, had not screened its candidates in line with section 11 of the Ohanaeze’s constitution, which provides for three candidates. Elder Eze said he received notice of the election by a text message, and appealed that the election be moved to January 19. Ozobu produced another letter from the Imo State chairman, Traditional Rulers’ Council, Eze Samuel Agunwa Ohiri, who complained of the timeframe, noting that it would not allow the state to present candidates for the position of secretary allocated
Obi
to it. Although the Imeobi (highest decision-making organ) said it noted the complaints, it ruled that the national election should go on as planned, on the ground that it intended to make do with the little resources at its disposal to prosecute the election. The Imeobi added that other state chapters of the organisation in the country and Diaspora had been sensitised and mobilised for the national election, and indicated that it could be a calamity should the election be postponed after the efforts. It urged the committee to use the available timeframe and ensure the process pulled through. This was not acceptable to Ozobu, who insisted on the January 19 date. However, while the well-attended election went on with the rest of the committee members superintending and produced new leaders, those in support of the shift in date protested. Stressing that the letter they got from the secretary of the committee had put the election for January 19 and not 12th. One of such was Ebonyi state government. Infact, Ebonyi government and others were mobilizing to conduct another election in Abakaliki, on January 19, when members of the Ohanaeze electoral committee went to court and obtained an injunction preventing them from doing so. Piqued by the development and different sound beats from the organization, the governors had on February 10 intervened, setting up the 10-man committee to look into the crisis as well as urged those with matters concerning the organization in court to withdraw same. The meeting also urged the committee to recommend ways of ensuring a stronger Ohanaeze Ndigbo that would function as the pride of the Igbo person. Although, many welcomed the intervention of the governors as worthwhile, however, what is now worrisome is the perceived delay in the stance of the governors over the organization. The fear is that if it had taken eight weeks for the governors to receive a report of a committee it gave two weeks, then it could be imagined how long it would take them [governors] to review the report and take decisions. There are also allegations that pecuniary interests of the individual governors may have come into play, as some of them is said to have seen the problem as opportunity to get their hold of the organization. This school of thought is being expressed by the fact that the committee which look into
Igariwey
the crisis had recommended that those who emerged from the election should be allowed to function, while their tenure should be tied to two years only against the four years done by the immediate past administration of Ambassador Ralph Uwaechue. This is to give room for another election after two years, in which Ebonyi would still be asked to produce the President General. Another source said the delay in deciding on Ohanaeze was part of the strategy by the governors’ to pacify all those aggrieved with the election process. Guardian reliably gathered that Ebonyi state government had stoutly opposed the election, allegedly on the ground that the candidate [Igariwey] that emerged from it did not receive her blessing. This was why the state wanted its facilities to be used for a repeat election before it was halted by the court. The state government has also protested before the governor’s forum as well as tabled the said letter from the deposed secretary of the electoral committee communicating the shift in date of election to back up her claims. But concerns are being expressed that the said “review” of the committee report by the governors might mean their being on their way to incapacitating the Igbo apexorganization, which stands today as the only credible voice for the people of the South- East. “ They may move to take unpopular decision which may not good for Ndigbo, otherwise, what stops them from adopting the recommendation of the committee they set up? The vibe is not good at the national level especially now that topical issues are being discussed. This is the time we should have a strong Ohanaeze voice that could contribute for the development of Nigeria because anything can happen. The governors are not the spokespersons for Ndigbo but they can speak for their political parties. I have a serious suspicion that the governors may be on the way to destroy Ohanaeze ndigbo, because, I do not see why the same set of people [governors] who make out time to attend to frivolities, parties and what have you, could not make out time to discuss an issue as important as Ohanaeze. It shows the regard they have for their people”, a notable Igbo politician told the Guardian on anonymity. Immediate Past Secretary General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Chief Nduka Eya, while reacting to the stance of the governors, said it was “Ohanaeze Ndigbo does not owe any
obligations to them”, adding that Ndigbo had through the election of January 12, spoken of their choice of leadership. He wondered how they should intervene in an organization that had survived without their support, stressing that governors of the zone had contributed “nothing to the running of the organization”. He said, “I want to tell you that from 2010 till last year, Ohanaeze Ndigbo had survived by the monthly imprest given to it for running of the secretariat and payment of salaries by the President General. Our governors are supposed to contribute financially to the organization, but none of them did so. So why should they adjudicate for the organization? They have always wanted to use the organization as a political tool and we have always told them that Ohanaeze is not a political body. That is why they cannot support it. What is that they want to say about the election – is it that it did not hold, is it that the constitution was not followed, is it that Ndigbo did not massively vote during the process both those drawn from state chapters in Nigeria and Disapora? I think they are on a political mission, apparently to satisfy one of their own, but we are watching”. It is not three months after the national election was conducted, yet those who emerged from it have not settled down to work following the ‘clampdown’ by the governors. A similar scenario had played out in 2009, when the immediate past leadership of the organization could not be allowed to function following the controversy that trailed the position of secretary general zoned to Enugu. Two candidates, Nduka Eya and Richard Ozobu had emerged. But Eya was elected from the election held in the state to stand for the position at the national level. But government authorities in the state who showed preference for Ozobu rejected him and vowed not to allow Ohanaeze sit at its secretariat in Enugu. Procuring the services of security agents, government ensured that it kept the secretariat under lock and key for several months, while it took the insistence of notable Igbos that the outcome of the election should be upheld for government to unlock the place and allowed Eya to function as Secretary General. Even with this, Enugu’s financial support was restricted from the organization all through the period. What the unfolding development will leave in Ohanaeze Ndigbo will be known in the days ahead.
THE GUARDIAN, Friday, April 19, 2013
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THE GUARDIAN, Friday, April 19, 2013
TheMetroSection From shelter to refuse dumpsite... • Enugu residents turn newly-constructed bus stop shelters into refuse dumpsites
Briefs Free surgery in Ondo HE third edition of free T medical service tagged Ijare Rural Surgical Festival (IRSF) holds today and tomorrow at the Comprehensive Health Centre, Ijare, near Akure in Ondo State. A statement by the initiator and Chief co-ordinator of the festival, Dr. Kay A. Adesola, surgeries for hernia, prostate, goitres, lumps,prolapse etc will be carried out at no cost to the patients. IRSF is one of the major centres of activities of the Association of Rural Surgical Practitioners of Nigeria (ARSPON), which is an affiliate of the International Federation of Rural Surgery, a body of surgical experts giving surgical succour to the neglected and unreached poor rural dwellers.
Breakfast seminar for seminar holds tomorrow OMEN'S Breakfast semiW nar tagged Raising Godly Seed holds tomorrow at the Redeemed Christian Church of God, The Lifespring, Plot 9, Etal Avenue (by Etal Hotel ), off Kudirat Abiola Way, Oregun Lagos from 9.00a.m.-11.00a.m. Mrs. Oreoluwa Olurin will minister. Another newly constructed bus stop...also an eyesore
Heap of refuse at Meniru Bus Stop, Agbani Road, Enugu
From Lawrence Njoku, Enugu
Some of the women who sweep the streets contribute to the ugly trend. They pack whatever they generate in the bag and dump them there HEY were meant to shield Enugu T residents from the scorching sun or rain while waiting for bus to convey them to their destinations. But they have been turned into an eyesore. This aptly describes the newly- con-
structed bus stop shelters built by the administration of Sullivan Chime during the construction and rehabilitation of roads. These new roads came with facilities such as bus stop shelters, drainage systems, street-lights and walk-ways for pedestrians, among others. However, the joy of the newly rehabilitated roads is fast giving way to despair as residents now turn these bus stop shelters purposely built to provide shelters into either refuse dumpsites or mini shops. The situation has become more worrisome with the foul odour
that oozes out of these heaps of refuse, making it difficult for people to wait around the areas to board commercial buses or taxi cabs. What is more perturbing is the fact that officials of the Enugu State Waste Management Authority (ESWAMA), who are supposed to cart away these heaps of refuse daily, ignore some of the bus stops with the garbage heaps, looking the other way. Agbani Road and Abakpa bus-stop shelters reveal these ugly sights. At the Meniru Bus Stop on Agbani Road last Wednesday, The Guardian saw bags of refuse dotting the area. Martin Uche, a welder operating
Old students meet
behind the bus stop told, The Guardian that the refuse had mounted over time. He accused ESWAMA officials of neglecting the place. He said: “Some of the women who sweep the streets contribute to the ugly trend. They pack whatever they generate in the bag and dump them here. You can perceive the foul smell emanating from here”. When The Guardian contacted the Managing Director of ESWAMA, Mr. Dom Okonkwo, on this unhealthy situation, he declined comments on the development, even after he was briefed on the areas that had been turned into dumpsites.
Deeper Life Bible Church holds miracle service tomorrow HE fourth edition of the Deeper Life Bible T Church’s special monthly programme holds tomorrow and Sunday at the Deeper Life Conference Centre (DLCC), Kilometre 42, Lagos-Ibadan Expressway. Tagged “Night of Supernatural Deliverance”, the event will feature life-transforming messages, testimonies of God’s wonders, special prayers and min-
istrations. The Church Secretary, Pastor Jerry Asemota, said over 150,000 people are expected to attend the programme in Lagos. According to him, the events would be transmitted through the Internet to worshippers and participants in all the state and regional headquarters of the church across the country, and in countries
within Africa and beyond. The Church Secretary recalled that since the programme began in January, many hopeless lives have been turned around through the ministrations of the General Superintendent, Pastor William F. Kumuyi. He also expressed optimism that the weekend programme would open the door of freedom for all participants.
Court reserves judgment in NDLEA’s appeal against Baba Suwe’scompensation By Joseph Onyekwere
HE Lagos Division of the Court of Appeal yesterday reserved judgment in the appeal filed by the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) challenging a Lagos High Court decision, which ordered it to pay N25 million to a Yoruba comedian, Babatunde Omidina, popularly known as Baba Suwe. Justice Yetunde Idowu of the Lagos High Court had made the order in her judgment as compensation to Baba Suwe who was detained for several days over allegation of drug trafficking by the anti-drug agency. The appellate court presided over by Justice Chima C. Nweze reserved judgment after counsel to the appellant (NDLEA), Femi Oloruntoba, who is also the
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Director of Prosecution and Legal Services of the Agency and that of the respondent (Baba Suwe) adopted their briefs of argument. Adopting NDLEA’s brief of argument dated February 3, 2012, Oloruntoba urged the court to allow the appeal and set aside the judgment of the lower court. Oloruntoba argued in his submissions that the lower court judge erred in law as her judgment was not a product of evidence presented before the court. He further submitted that the award of N25 million damages leveled against the appellant was outrageous and failed to follow laid down principles of law. Oloruntoba added that the lower court erred as the entire judgment was faulty and that the court lacked juris-
Baba Suwe diction to entertain the fundamental human rights suit filed by the respondent. He contended that Exhibit 3 (photograph of drug defecated by a drug trafficker) was not a public document, hence need not to be certified but said that Exhibits 1 and 2, (results of various scan conducted on Baba Suwe) were public docu-
ments. In response, Baba Suwe’s counsel, Bamidele Aturu urged the court to dismiss the appeal and affirm the judgment of the lower court. Describing the appeal as unmeritorious, Aturu argued that ‘NDLEA is a public body and an agent of the Federal Government, hence all the exhibits it tendered before the lower court ought to have been certified true copies.’ Aturu, who described all the exhibits presented by NDLEA as worthless, added that up till today (Thursday), NDLEA has not filed any charge against Baba Suwe. NDLEA had in its 8-page Notice of Appeal, stated that the trial judge erred in law when she held that NDLEA
was not justified in detaining Baba Suwe from the day of his arrest (October 12, 2011) till October 21, 2011 when the Federal High Court order to detain him was obtained. The appellant further stated that the trial judge erred in law and misdirected herself on facts when she held that the act of the NDLEA in detaining Baba Suwe for nine days were a flagrant abuse and infringement of his fundamental human rights. Besides, the appellant argued that the lower court erred in law when it ordered NDLEA to pay the Baba Suwe N25 million as compensation and that the appellant should publish a public apology in two widely-read national newspapers.
MEETING of all old stuA dents of the Jibril Martins Memorial Grammar School III, also known as Iponri Grammar School at Abule Nla, Iponri in Costain area of Lagos holds tomorrow at the School Hall at noon. A statement by the Class of of 84, which convenes the meeting , urges all olds students to attend.
Foundation holds free heart, cancer screening ANU Heart Foundation K (KHF) in partnership with Fortis Group of Hospitals (India), Mentors Healthcare (India) and Ago Medical Centre will carry out heart, cancer and orthopaedic free screening and consultation for patients in Lagos. The exercise, which holds from Monday, April 22 to Wednesday, April 24, will see cardiologists, oncologist and orthopaedic experts from India attending to patients from 9.00a.m. – 5.00p.m. daily at Ago Medical Centre, 6, Oyinola Close, off Ago Place Way, Okota, Lagos. According the Coordinator of KHN, Onyebuchi Abia, participants are expected to register for the exercise with N1,000, adding that the foundation would sponsor treatment of those with heart disease. Abia blames the increasing that congenital heart disease in Nigeria on expectant mother’s
Church begins revival HE Church of Salvation T and Glory of Christ Cherubim & Seraphim (Iye Nio o) will hold its yearly 21-day revival from Wednesday May 1Tuesday, May 21, 2013 at its Adonai Parish, Lagos District Headquarters, along 26, Oluwalogbon Street, KetuLagos from 6.00p.m. 8:00pm daily. Host is Prophet Adeyemi Adedeji Oluwapelumi.
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THE GUARDIAN, Friday, April 19, 2013
Photonews
Fellows of the West African College of Surgeons: Dr. Seyi Ajayi (left), Dr. Ify Utomi, Dr. Nneka Nnachetta and Dr. Fausat Jinadu at the 53rd yearly congress in Lome, Togo...recently
Lagos State Governor, Babatunde Fashola (SAN)( second left); his Deputy, Princess Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire (second left), Lagos Commissioner for Transport, Mr. Kayode Opeifa (left) and Commissioner for Health, Dr. Jide Idris, at a Driver’s Education Programme organised by Lagos State Driving Institute in Lagos...on Wednesday PHOTO: NAN
Police apologise for killing widow in Akure From Niyi Bello, Akure NDO State Police Command on Wednesday publicly apologised to the people of the state for last month’s killing of a widow, Mrs. Segi Olajiga, by a policeman, Constable Alonge Abdul at a checkpoint in Akure, the state capital, allegedly during an argument with a commercial bus driver over a N20 bribe. The victim, a mother of four, and petty trader whose husband died four years ago, was in an Akoko-bound vehicle when the incident happened around the Plaza Hotel area of the metropolis. Incidentally, both the policeman, and the deceased are from Akoko. The killing led to a disruption of social and commercial activ-
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President, Abundant Life Ministry Int’l Widow Centre, Ile-Ife, Osun State, Evang. Juliana Oluranti Akintayo; Senator representing Osun Osun East Senatorial District, Babajide Omoworare and Chairman, Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) , Ife Central Local Council Chapter, Alhaji Gabi
ities, as irate youths and residents took to the streets to protest the killing. The Ijapo Police Station, to which the killer cop was attached to, was sacked by the irate mob. Although Abdul was dismissed by the Commissioner of Police Patrick Dokumor within 24 hours of the killing and he is at present on remand at the Olokuta Prisons sequel to his arraignment in court. The police boss at a press briefing offered “an unreserved apology to the good people of this state for what happened.” Dokumor, who addressed the press on the achievements of the command in arrest of lawbreakers since he took over two months ago, said while he was not holding brief for the
dismissed policeman, the incident could be put in the realm of a very costly mistake. The police at the briefing also paraded a large crowd of suspected lawbreakers, including 46 armed robbers, five cultists, five car snatchers and 12 kidnappers while different types of ammunition and four stolen vehicles were recovered from them. The suspected kidnappers included those who were said to have masterminded the abduction of Olubunmi Oke, a female journalist with the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) in Akure, whose family paid a N1 million ransom and those who seized Mrs. Taye David-West, an indigene and daughter of the late Asamo of Akure, from whose family the hoodlums got N3 million
Construction worker dies in lagoon, body recovered By Odita Sunday CONSTRUCTION worker with the China Civil Engineering Construction Company (CCECC), currently working on the expansion of Ikorodu road, has been confirmed dead after he fell into the lagoon at Fadeyi Oloro Bridge, Asolo, Lagos on Tuesday evening. The deceased, Asha Balogun, a casual worker with the Chinese construction firm, was said to have slipped into the lagoon while taking his bath after closing for the day’s work. All efforts aimed at rescuing him proved abortive until his body was found afloat on the lagoon yesterday morning. His remains were afterwards taken to the General Hospital for autopsy. Residents of the area said the bridge is named after “Fadeyi Oloro” a popular actor in
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Principal Partner, Cranes and Ladders Limited, Mr. Tosin Olukoga; TV Presenter, Billboard Nigeria, Ms Bisola Aiyeola and Chief Executive Officer, Cranes and Ladders, Mr. Ebun Roberts, at the unveiling of Eko Festival of Kites, held at Maruwa Beach, Lekki, Lagos.
Corps Commander, Nigerian Army Engineers, Maj. Gen. Funsho Sampson Owonibi (left), Director of Army Works, Brig. Gen. Adekunle Shodunke, the Oloja of Ibodi land, Oba Adeloye Ajibike II and some members of the community and Army officers on the land given to the Army for barracks development in Osun State…on Wednesday
Yoruba movie circle. The Guardian gathered that the deceased, Balogun, hailed from Edo State and came to Lagos in Lagos in 2008 before the construction company engaged him. Akeem Gbadamosi, a construction worker who spoke to newsmen said the deceased has been working as a casual worker with the company in the last two years; saying his family had been informed on the development. According to him: “He was one of those draining water by the road side. He did not fall into the lagoon while working. He had actually closed for the day’s work and wanted to take his bath. He left his phone and clothes at the bank of the river and moved inside a little to take some water before he slipped into the lagoon. “We could not get divers on time to rescue him and by the
time they came, they could not find him. Since then, we have been searching for his body.” “I know him to be gentle and hardworking, we will miss him but life continues. I think he should be buried by the riverside where he died. That usually is the practice but I don’t know whether the family will agree to that. Two of them were here this morning and they followed the ambulance that took him to the mortuary,” he added. However, normal construction work to expand the road has continued despite the incident. It is not clear whether CCECC would do anything for the family of the deceased since all efforts at reaching the management of the company proved abortive. But a source from the company said similar incidents in the past had occurred without any tangible compensation for the family of the deceased.
Human Resources Director, UNILEVER Nig. Plc.., Tolulope Agiri (left); the overall winner in the Knorr Taste Quest Season 1, Lalu Sudirham and Brand Building Director, UNILEVER Nig Plc, David Okeme at the prize presentation to the winner in Lagos... at the weekend
TheGuardian
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Conscience Nurtured by Truth
FOUNDER: ALEX U. IBRU (1945 – 2011)
Conscience is an open wound; only truth can heal it. Uthman dan Fodio 1754-1816
Editorial Kenya, Kenyatta and nation-building ENYA concluded its democratic renewal with the stately inauguration of Uhuru K Kenyatta as the country’s fourth president recently. For Kenya, it is a new beginning. For Kenyatta it is the beginning of an arduous but not impossible task of nation-building. Kenyatta was elected in a keenly contested election that pitched him against the former Prime Minister, Raila Amolo Odinga last March. Indeed, Kenyans went to the polls to elect their fourth president amid fears that the process could result in violence as was witnessed in the 2007 election. The relative peace or success of this electoral process to some extent re-establishes the country’s democratic credential in East Africa. Beside the awful post-election violence in 2007, Kenya has never witnessed a military take-over of government despite a series of coups d’etat in much of the continent in the 1960s through to the 1980s. The rebirth in Kenya is significant for the sole reason that the election of 2007 was marred by allegations of poll rigging and ethnic violence that left about 1,200 people dead. The Kenyan people deserve accolades for a peaceful election, which represents hope for them. The high sense of responsibility displayed by the Kenyan judiciary, especially the Supreme Court in dispensing with the petition of Raila Odinga, who challenged the poll results is commendable. The judicial review process was not only well-timed but was also broadcast live for transparency and integrity. The Kenyan Supreme Court ruled that though there were irregularities in the data and information capture in the registration process, it did not substantially affect the vote tally nor sully the integrity of the election results. There are lessons to be learnt from the elections, of course. These were human errors and system failure. In fact, the Supreme Court said that the failure of the electronic system needs to be investigated. Long-term stability of the country makes this imperative and forms part of the challenges before the current incumbent in Nairobi. Certainly, it is not yet Uhuru for Kenyans. The circumstances of the recent election
The Boston Marathon explosion HE quick response of security and medical personnel to last Monday’s massive T explosions that ripped through the finish line of the Boston Marathon in the United States is highly commendable. The prompt response of the nation’s leaders, from the Mayor to the President is also worthy of commendation. Fire fighters were readily available, and as usual, plunged into the disaster with a view to minimising casualty. Everyone who needed to be there to tackle the emergency was there. This unrelenting commitment to duty is the mark of good citizenship and humanity. Life is sacrosanct and must never be compromised. The explosions left two people dead and many others injured in what is seen as the most devastating explosion in America since 9/11. No one has claimed responsibility for the blasts, even as authorities are working round the clock to unravel the brains behind the tragedy. The incident is a lesson to Nigeria, where similar blasts have become commonplace in the wake of the Boko Haram insurgency. Quite often, however, such deadly blasts occur without security or medical personnel showing up promptly to attend to victims. Also, there is often news blackout, unlike what is happening in the U.S now where Americans receive hourly updates. Authorities in Nigeria should take a cue from what has happened in Boston. Diligence and promptness should underpin response in the event of an emergency. Above all, terrorism does not pay and can never win. As President Barack Obama said at the inter-faith service in honour of victims, the resolve of all citizens is the greatest rebuke to the perpetrators of terrorism.
Robert Geoffrey Edwards (1925–2013) OBERT Geoffrey Edwards, physiologist and pioneer in reproductive medicine R and in-vitro fertilisation (IVF) who died recently in his sleep at the age of 87 was no god, but to those who longed in vain for a child, he came very close. Couples that hitherto, would not have been able to have their own children are now happy parents because of his works. Born on 27 September, 1925 in Batley, Yorkshire, England, he attended Bangor University and University of Edinburgh. With specialisation in physiology and reproductive medicine, he worked at the University of Cambridge. Edwards began his work on fertilisation in the 1950s. Along with obstetrician and gynaecologist, Patrick Steptoe, he successfully pioneered conception through IVF, which led to the birth of the first test tube baby, Louse Brown in 1978. Since then, five million IVF babies have been born worldwide. Edwards won the Nobel Prize in medicine in 2010. In 1984, he was elected a Fellow of the Royal Society and awarded the Albert Lasker Clinical Medical Research by the Lasker Foundation in 2001. In 2007, The Daily Telegraph ranked him 26th on the list of 100 greatest living geniuses. He is gone, but he left a huge legacy for humanity. Not to mention millions of happy couples and, of course, babies.
LETTER
PHCN please restore light to Mushin IR: For over two weeks now, the Power Sstreets Holding Company (PHCN) has left some in Mushin in darkness. The affected streets are Alaba, Iyalla, Tadeyo and others. We have not experienced anything like this in years. Annoyingly, nobody from the corporation has explained the reason for this
outage. This is an appeal to PHCN to restore electricity to these communities and save us from the activities of criminals who operate under the cover of darkness. • Babatunde Ogun. Mushin
and the 2007 electoral violence cast a deep shadow over the East African economic giant. Although an African Union-brokered power-sharing arrangement managed to arrest an escalating ethnic crisis over poll-rigging accusation against President Mwai Kibaki, even now, the ethnic fault-lines are by no means healed. The vote tally in the recent election in which Kenyatta won with 50.07 per cent against his main rival Odinga’s 43 per cent substantiates a fundamentally divided country. Equally worrisome is the fact that key opposition figures, including Odinga were absent at the inauguration. A second burden that weighs up on the new leadership is its indictment by International Criminal Court (ICC) over what observers have regarded as ethnic cleansing in the 2007 election crisis. As the second serving African president to come under ICC accusation besides Sudan’s Omar El-Bashir, Kenyatta should take cognisance of this stigmatization and work hard to unite the country on the principles of Harambee (unity), which was the slogan of Kenya’s founding president, Jomo Mzee Kenyatta, incidentally the father of the new president. Importantly, the election itself throws up the dilemma of liberal democracy, especially the electoral principle of the First Past the Post (FPTP) in which an opposition with almost half the vote is sidelined in a winner-takes-all kind of eventuality. It leaves room for disaffection as it is crisis-prone in multi-ethnic societies. Elsewhere, statesmen have tried to deal with the problem through innovative consociational measures such as the power-sharing elite pact that made Odinga the Prime Minister. In the book, proportional representation stands out as a viable alternative in plural societies. There is a strong need to accommodate the opposition, not just to buy a fleeting legitimacy but for enduring national healing, especially of the deep ethnic gorge between the dominant groups, Kikuyu and Luo. The belated congratulation of Kenyatta by Odinga and his running mate, Alonzo Musyoka provides the needed window for dialogue and peace in the country. These are imperatives to solving the greater problem of the economy. Kenya faces rising unemployment amidst a colony of the poor and providing solutions to unemployment and fixing the infrastructural problems form the core of the president’s manifesto. The time has come for Kenyatta to leave his name in the sand of time by proving to Kenyans that he can deliver in accordance with his oath of office to “do justice to all without fear, favour, affection and ill-will.” While the ICC’s problem remains real, the body should leave Kenyatta alone and save itself from the rising impression of being an agency of global governance at the service of interested powers in the affairs of sovereign states. The Kenyan people have spoken and nobody therefore should aggravate local politics with matters capable of dire consequences for Kenya and the region. Africa needs peace and prosperity and countries like Kenya should not back-slide but lead the way.
THE GUARDIAN, Friday, April 19, 2013
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‘NIPP to add 4,200 MW to national grid by December’ By Sulaimon Salau
HE National Integrated T Power Projects (NIPP) is at the verge of contributing additional 4,200MW to the national grid by the end of the year. The Managing Director, Niger Delta Power Holding Company (NDPHC), James Olotu who stated this during the commissioning of distribution projects in Lagos, yesterday, said all hands were on deck to ensure that a quantum number of the projects are completed before December. According to him, the hitherto gas challenges would soon be history, as plans are ripe to complete some of the gas projects by August. "We are moving in the right direction and that is evident in the commissioning you are seeing today, we will continue to commission projects every month in one location of the country or the other. "Come December 2013, God willing, we would have delivered a significant number of the projects, if not all. This means that power supply in Nigeria will be more efficient and qualitative. Most of the power plants are in the advanced stages of completion and they will be commissioned by December. If all these come together, there will be significant increase in power supply." Noting that the NIPP is contributing about 1,900MW to national grid now, he said: "By December, out of the expected 9000MW target, the NIPP will be contributing nothing less than 4,200MW, indicating about 50 per cent of the entire capacity, God willing." On gas challenges, he said: "I discussed with the contractor on gas infrastructures to Egbema, Omoku and Gbarain, and he has prom-
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Chairman. Nigerian-South Africa Chamber of Commerce(NSACC), Foluso Phillips (left); Minister of Communications and Technology and Guest Speaker, Omobola Johnson; Corporate Service Executive, MTN Nigeria, Wale Goodluck; and Director, Nigerian-South Africa Chamber of Commerce(NSACC), Ebun Sonaiya Osagie at the Monthly Breakfast Meeting tagged: “ Our Scorecard and Priorities Going Forward” in Lagos, yesterday. PHOTO: FEMI ADEBESIN KUTI
Govt to get N410bn from bidders of PHCN successor companies By Roseline Okere
he Bureau of Public Enterprise (BPE) is expected to receive the balance of $2.6 billion (N410 billion) from 14 bidders for 15 Power Holding Company of Nigeria (PHCN) successor companies in 2013. Already, the BPE has received $559,445,573.96 from the 14 bidders at the expiration of the deadline set by the agency for successful bidders to make 25 per cent down payment. BPE’s spokesman, Joe Chigbo Anichebe, said yesterday, that the bidders are
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expected to ensure the payment of 75 per cent balance by June this year before the power assets can be handed over to the companies. According to him, having succeeded in paying the 25 per cent, the bidders are now required to pay the balance of 75 per cent value of their bids within 90 days to complete the payment process, after which the companies would be handed over to them. He said that the transaction process of the two remaining successor companies of Afam Power Plc and Kaduna Distribution Plc are currently
on going. The BPE, on March 21, 2013, received $31million from four power consortium; being the mandatory 25 percent of the bid value for Port-Harcourt Distribution Company; $31.5 million from Interstate Electrics Limited; being the mandatory 25 percent of the bid value for Enugu Distribution Company; and $27,913,633.50 from NorthSouth Power Company; being the mandatory 25 percent of the bid value for Shiroro Power Plc. Earlier, Vigeo Consortium, the preferred bidder for Benin Distribution Company,
had paid $32.25million; Transcorp/Woodrock Consortium, the preferred bidder for Ughelli Power Plc, paid $75 million; CMEC/EUAFRIC Energy JV, the preferred bidder for Sapele Power Plc, paid $50,249,965; Kann Consortium, the preferred bidder for Abuja Distribution Company, paid $41 million; Aura Energy, the preferred bidder for Jos Distribution Company, paid $20,464,968.15; Mainstream Energy Ltd, the preferred bidder for Kainji Power Plc, paid $59,467,500; and Sahelian Power SPV, the preferred bidder for Kano Distribution
Company, paid $34.25million. Other bidders are: Amperion Power Company Limited, the preferred bidder for Geregu Power Plc, which paid $33 million; Integrated Energy Distribution & Marketing Company, the preferred bidder for Ibadan and Yola Distribution Companies, which paid $42.25 million and $14.75 million for Ibadan and Yola Discos respectively; NEDC/KEPCO, the preferred bidder for Ikeja Distribution Company, which paid $ 32.75 million; and West Power & Gas, the preferred bidder for Eko Distribution Company,
asked the World Bank for assistance in climate-related work. "Also, as we move toward these poverty goals, we also must be far more effective in fragile and conflict affected states. We now hope to shift more funding toward fragile states under our concessionary lending fund, the International Development Association, or IDA. If we hope to meet our goals of ending poverty and boosting shared prosperity, we must be suc-
cessful in fragile states". To further step up the poverty reduction initiatives, the World Bank boss disclosed that he would next month, travel with the United Nation's Secretary-General, Ban Ki-Moon to the Great Lakes region of Africa. " I believe that the combined efforts of the United Nations and the World Bank Group on political, security and development fronts can make a major difference in moving
How to end poverty, by World Bank From Ade Ogidan, Business Editor, London HE World Bank has unfolded three initiatives under its current plan to end extreme poverty within a generation, with specific focus on developing countries. In a statement released yesterday by the Brettonwood institution, the first step would ensure that the high growth rate in the developing world over the past 15 years assumes an accelerated profile.
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Besides, “growth has to translate into poverty reduction and job creation and it must be inclusive and curb inequality". The World Bank President, Jim Yong Kim, in the statement released at the formal opening of the IMF/World Bank spring meeting, also stressed the need to"avert or mitigate potential shocks, such as climate disasters or new food, fuel, or financial crises". Specifically, "doing better on
growth means doing even more of the kinds of reforms that have underpinned the strong developing-country growth of the past 15 years. That means eliminating bottlenecks; additional investment in infrastructure; and, to ensure that the poor participate in the benefits of growth, much greater investments in education and health care. "As we move ahead, we also must address climate change with a plan that matches the
scope of the problem. Climate change is not just an environmental challenge. It is a fundamental threat to economic development. Unless the world takes bold action now, a disastrously warming planet threatens to put prosperity out of reach of millions and roll back decades of development. "At the World Bank Group, we are stepping up our mitigation, adaptation, and disaster risk management work. Some 130 countries have
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THE GUARDIAN, Friday, April 19, 2013
16 BUSINESS
NCAA seeks full automation for airline operations By Wole Shadare
OMESTIC airline operaD tors have been directed to embark on full automation of their processes to ensure seamless data capture for appropriate billing in the authority’s revenue collection. The acting Director General of the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) Mr Joyce Daniel Nkemakolam, gave this directive to the operators at a counterpart meeting in Lagos yesterday, after a similar one with the Foreign Airlines on the collection of Ticket Sales Charge and Cargo Sales Charge [TSC &CSC] at the Aviation House. According to the submission of AVITECH [Aviation Technology firm handling
the Automation] at the meeting, three airlines are still at zero automation level, while some are operating semi automation, while others have fully complied with the directive. Nkemakolam also issued a two-week ultimatum to those who are yet to commence their automation and those in semi automation to endeavour to entrench a full direct integration with the NCAA Portal. He said the regulatory authority was ready to work harmoniously with all the operating airlines as, 'our relationship is symbiotic'. Any operator who has challenges with the system he said should visit AVITECH for clarification.
According to him, “we cannot continue like this, we are equally accountable to the supervising Federal Ministry of Aviation and the National Assembly. Let us work together and do the right thing.” At the meeting, Charter Operators were warned to desist from non-compliance that emanate from non-disclosure of the nature and purpose of flights. This practice he said denies the authority the much needed revenue and NCAA will come down hard on any one engaging in it. In addition, charter operators were urged to fully automate their operating system in consonance with the NCAA Portal.
Chairman, Diamond Bank Plc, Igwe Nnaemeka Achebe (Middle); Group Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Diamond Bank Plc, Dr. Alex Otti; and Managing Director, Diamond Bank UK, Rollo Greenfield, at the official commissioning of Diamond Bank’s new subsidiary - Diamond Bank UK –in London recently.
Chamber to boost economy through trade mission By Tony Nwanne
S part of efforts to boost the economic system of the country and to further strengthen the commercial relationship between Nigeria and America, the Nigeria-America Chamber of Commerce, NACC, will be embarking on it yearly trade mission to the United States of America. With this year’s theme: Increasing business opportunities between Nigeria and America, the trade mission committee, who will be leaving by April 20, has reit-
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erated it mission to promote the development of trade, commerce, investment and industrial technological relationship between public and private sections of the two countries. Speaking to journalists on Wednesday, the National President of the NACC, Mazi Sam Ohuabunwa, said this year’s theme is therefore not only apt but appropriate because Nigeria has become the preferred investment destination of the continent, in spite of the numerous challenges.
How to end poverty, by World Bank CONTINUED FROM PAGE 15 fragile states out of fragility”, he added. Recently, the World Bank outlined an ambitious agenda for the global community that called for a two-pronged approach for a world free of poverty. The first is virtually ending extreme poverty by 2030. The second is promoting shared prosperity by fostering income growth of the bottom 40 percent of the population in every country. And for that second goal, we also mean sharing prosperity across generations, and that calls for bold action on climate change. According to the World Bank "ending extreme poverty within a generation will be much harder than most people realise. It is far from a given. It will take ingenuity, focus, commitment, and visionary leaders. But if we succeed, we will have accomplished one of humankind’s most historic accomplishments. "Let’s take a look at the situation in the world today. More
than four years after the start of the financial crisis, highincome countries continue to struggle with high unemployment, weak growth and economic fragility. "The good news is that taken as a whole developing countries are doing relatively well, with growth expected to reach about 5.5 percent this year. That should strengthen to just under 6 percent by 2015. Indeed, developing countries are accounting for more than half of global growth. "But too often we lose sight of the fact that this overall story hides a wide range of outcomes across countries. In Africa, about a quarter of the countries grew at seven per cent or higher last year and a number of them are among the fastest growing in the world. In East Asia and the Pacific, output is expanding rapidly amid fears of overheating and asset bubbles. But growth in several major middle-income countries, including Brazil, India, Russia, and Turkey, has slowed in part because of unresolved bottle-
The Trade Mission consisting of about 30 delegates intends to visit four key cities - Washington, D.C, Pittsburg, Atlanta and Detroit, where they hope to explore business opportunities between Nigeria and the United States in the area of Agriculture and AgroBusiness, Information and C o m m u n i c a t i o n Technology, Energy and Power, Transportation, Health Care, Hospitality and Tourism.
NIPP to add 4,200 MW to national grid CONTINUED FROM PAGE 15 ised me that by August this year, he will finish his projects." Some of the projects commissioned by Olotu in Lagos yesterday include, 15MVA injection substations each and switch gears in Yaba, Ijora Causeway, Orile, Ojo and Mushin among others. Commenting on other expected distribution projects, Olotu said: "We have commissioned about seven projects today, tomorrow (Friday) we will commission more projects. On Saturday, we are going to the biggest transmission substation in Nigeria, (2x300 and 2x60MVA injection substations) located at Oke-Aro in Ogun State. "We are hopping to then proceed to Kaduna for projects that are ready for commissioning, Jos (4 projects ready), Kano (4 projects), and we will be going back to the Eastern part of the country. Last two weeks we were in the East to commissioned more projects," he said.
THE GUARDIAN, Friday, April 19, 2013
BUSINESS
Gombe, BoI to finance N3b SMEs From Emmanuel Ande, Gombe HE Bank of Industry (BoI) and the Gombe state Government have concluded arrangements to finance the disbursement of soft loans worth N3 billion to indigenes of Gombe state in the areas of agro-allied and mineral sectors of the state economy through small and medium enterprises. Gombe State Governor, Hassan Dankwambo, made this known yesterday in Gombe while disbursing the second phase of N1 billion loans to small and medium enterprise businessmen and women of the state in the same programme with the BOI that was entered into about two years ago. Following the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the state Government and the BOI about two years ago, the sum of N500 million was raised by the bank and the state government for distribution to the SMEs. According to the Governor, the total disbursement is currently N510 million with another N136 million being processed, bringing the total expected disbursement to N646 million which is N146 million above the initial funds’ size. Dankwambo who expressed delight with the investment, which he said, had been encouraging and beneficial to entrepreneurs of the state, added that the amount of loan disbursed ranged from N2 million to N10.5 million. A committee set up by the Governor to monitor the utilization of the funds reported that out of the 99 beneficiaries visited, it was discovered that 39 beneficiaries were engaged in value addition activities in fertilizer blending, groundnut oil processing, rice processing, poultry feeds processing, fish feeds processing, tomato processing, cosmetic processing, aluminum long span roofing sheet manufacturing, poultry farming, printing metal fabrication, block/interlock molding, carpentry, furniture making and many others. Governor Dankwambo stated that as at today, about 1, 380 jobs have been created by 39 cooperative societies and envisaged that by the time all 133 cooperative societies are visited, it is expected that more than 3, 000 direct new jobs would have been created and another 6000 indirect jobs would also be created. Earlier, Managing Director and Chief Executive officer of the Bank of Industry, Evelyn Oputu, expressed happiness in the determination of the Gombe state Government in ensuring express transformation of the state economy. She commended the people of the state for moving along with the Governor through complete compliance with the guidelines of the programme saying, “I am happy that there has not been any reported defaulter. You people have worked with dignity and pride.�
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Director, Unified Payment Services Limited, Ano Anyanwu (left); Director, Ik Mbagwu; Company Secretary, Sylvester Adahada; Director, Victor Etuokwu; Chairman, Bisi Onasanya; Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Agada Apochi; and Director, Femi Olaloku, all of Unified Payment Services Limited at the 15th yearly General Meeting of the company which held in Lagos Tuesday.
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THE GUARDIAN, Friday, April 19, 2013
THE GUARDIAN, Friday, April 19, 2013
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Weekend
Cancer cases on the rise Arts & Culture P. 28
Autowheels P.43
Business Travels P.46
Ugbomah at 72... A journey into film
Next generation automobiles for 2015
When duty-free shopping becomes a way of life
20 WEEKEND
THE GUARDIAN, Friday, April 19 , 2013
Cancer claims more victims, experts
Radiotherapy machine
Cancer is slowly, but steadily breaking down the country’s human resources. It is no respecter of age, status, race or religion. Once it strikes, establishes its foothold, spreads its poison, the victim can only write his or her will, mark the calendar and choose the “best” way to go. Yet, medical experts insist that most cases could be saved through early detection and prompt treatment. CHUKWUMA MUANYA examines the various cases of cancer, rising number of victims and treatment options available. ANCER is the name. The deadly disease, with its many variC ants, is a worldwide phenomenon that has confounded both local and international medical experts with its unusual ability to destroy the human mechanism. When it strikes, establishes its foothold in the human body and moves forward, nothing can stop it. It has cut many Nigerians down in their prime. It is no respecter of social status, age, race or religion. In this part of the world, it thrives first on ignorance, then on self-denial and then on wrong diagnosis. And for the hapless victims, the high cost of treatment, with the added burden of ill equipped hospitals and diagnostics centres have only compounded their woes. Cancers are, indeed, here with us. And the list of its victims is elongating. From Human Rights Activist, Gani Fawehinmi, to the wife of former Head of State, Mrs. Maryam Babangida, Senate Leader in the Second Republic, Dr. Olusola Saraki and now the Ekiti State Deputy Governor, Mrs. Olufunmilayo Olayinka to mention a few, cancer is now at the forefront of the group of killer diseases afflicting Nigeria. The ‘wasting’ disease is fast depleting the nation’s human resources as government, scientists and others grapple for solutions. On December 27, 2009, Maryam Babangida, wife of former military President, General Ibrahim Babangida (rtd), died of ovarian cancer after a long battle with the disease. She was aged 61. That same year, Fawehinmi, renowned lawyer; Remi Abiola, actress and wife of late businessman and politician, Chief M.K.O. Abiola, and Alaere Alaibe, wife of Bayelsa-born politician, Timi Alaibe, all died of cancer. That is not all. The Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) ace broadcaster, Yinka Craig also died on September 23, 2008 at 60, as a result of cancer of the blood. So did musician-turned evangelist, Sonny Okosuns, who also lost the battle to cancer of the colon on May 24, 2008 at the age of 61. Mrs. Clara Oshiomole, the wife of Governor Adams Oshiomhole of Edo State passed on, on December 7, 2010 after a battle with breast cancer. She was only 54. According to recent estimates published by the World Health Organisation (WHO), cancer killed 7.6 million persons in 2008 worldwide. There is indication that the figure could double to 13 million by 2030. The WHO has declared that cancer accounts for 13 percent of all deaths registered globally and 70 percent of that figure occurs in middle and low-income countries. In Nigeria, about 10,000 cancer deaths are recorded annu-
ally, while 250,000 new cases are recorded yearly. It is worrisome that only 17 percent of African countries are believed to have sufficiently funded cancer control programmes, while less than half of all countries in the world have functional plans, to prevent the disease, provide treatment and care to patients. Sadly, the National Cancer Control Programme (NCCP) has revealed that cancer incidence in Nigeria is rising. Recent data from NCCP showed that 60 per cent of cancers occur in women and 39.8 per cent in men. Breast cancer incidence has gone up at least four times over the past decade and in 2010, it accounted for 40 per cent of all types of cancers afflicting women, closely followed by cervical cancer (17.9 per cent). Lymphomas and ovarian cancers are next. However, in men, the commonly reported is prostate cancer, accounting for 29.2 per cent of all types of cancers, closely followed by colorectal cancer and lymphomas. While cancer can affect people of all ages, with a few types more common in children, the risk of developing cancer generally increases with age. Rates are rising as more people live to an old age and as mass lifestyle changes occur in the developing world. Reasons for rising cases of cancer Why are more Nigerians developing and dying of cancers? The five most common cancers affecting Nigerian men, according to the coordinator of the national system of cancer registry programme, Dr. Elima Jedy-Agba, are prostate, colorectal (large intestine), lymphomas (lymph nodes), liver and skin. In women, the most common are breast, cervix, ovary, lymphomas and skin. Although cancer cases are on the rise, the National Coordinator of the NCPP and Director of Hospital Services Federal Ministry of Health (FMOH), Dr. Patience Osinubi was of the opinion that screening and awareness are also high, thanks to the efforts of government, Non Governmental Organisations (NGOs) and the media. Consultant radio-therapist and oncologist, Lagos University Teaching Hospital, (LUTH), Idi-Araba, Remi Ajekigbe, revealed that not less than 15 new cases are being reported on a daily basis, out of which nine are breast cancer. This makes the breast variant the leading cancer afflicting women the most in the country. According to Ajekigbe, Nigeria’s mortality and morbidity statistics for cancer are high, due to late presentation, involving 83 to 87 percent of cancer patients. By then, the cost of treating the disease would settled in the area of N150,000 to N350,000 every three weeks, as long as the pa-
tient survives. The WHO denotes cancer as primarily an environmental disease, with 90 to 95 per cent of cases attributed to environmental factors, while five to 10 per cent are linked to genetics. Environmental, here, means any cause that is not inherited genetically. Common environmental factors that contribute to cancer deaths include tobacco (25 to 30 per cent), diet and obesity (30 to 35 per cent), infections (15 to 20 per cent), radiation (both ionizing and non-ionizing, up to 10 per cent), stress, lack of physical activity, and environmental pollutants. To the Director of Research and Strategic information at the Institute of Human Virology, Nigeria (IHVN) and President of the Society of Oncology and Cancer Research of Nigeria (SOCRON), Prof. Clement Adebamowo, the commonest cancers affecting Nigerian women – breast and cervix, which constitute 60 per cent of all types, are either preventable or curable if detected early. Reports from a recent study derived from population based cancer registries in Nigeria, showed that the age group most commonly affected by cancer in men is 65 years and above, while in women, cancers are common between 45 and 55 years. The study also showed that there has been “a 100 per cent increase in breast cancer incidence in Nigeria over the last decade.” A study by Jeddy-Agba, Adebamowo, Osinubi and their team of researchers, titled “The role of hospital-based cancer registries in low and middle income countries-The Nigerian Case Study,” published last year in Cancer Epidemiology, declared that the incidence of cancer continues to rise all over the world, with current projections indicating that there will be 1.27 million new cases and almost one million deaths by 2030. The case of contraceptive pills Several studies have, in recent time, associated high contraceptive uptake to rising cases of breast cancer. But where does this leave women, who need to do family planning? Osinubi said: “Actually, some of the commodities used in contraceptive drugs are risk factors for breast cancer. They have their side effects, just like anything else in life. But, that is why we insist that for Family planning, you should see the appropriate physician like the Gynaecologist. “The Gynaecologist would evaluate your whole history, ask you questions, examine you and in discussing with you, he will be able to advice you on the best method of contraception. So, it has to be an informed choice. It is not right for people to just listen to their peers or neighbours or even their relatives and just decide for themselves. It is good to consult those that have been properly trained so that the best method of contraception will be made available to individuals to choose. That is the best thing for Nigerians to do.” Cost of Cancer Treatments and Therapies The Guardian investigation revealed that histology diagnosis of cancer costs about N150,000 per month or N40,000 per week. Cystology costs N10,000; mammogram, about N10,000 per session; chest X-ray is N3,000, and Electrocardiography (ECG) costs N2,500. Treatment of cancers in Nigeria costs about N200,000, and for chemotherapy, it is N50,000 to N80,000 (for six sessions with interval of three weeks). Laboratory tests cost about N45,000, while surgical intervention costs between N250,000 and N400,000 depending on the severity/complexity of each cancer case. Targeted therapy in the country costs over N4 million, putting more financial pains on cancer patients and their caregivers. Costs elsewhere Costs of biological hormone therapy treatments vary according to the drug and the stage of cancer being treated. In the United States, price for Avastin may cost up to $4,400 a month, while Herceptin costs an average of $3,000 a month. Chemotherapy costs in the United States average about $500 per treatment, while comparative treatments in foreign destinations are much lower. A breast lump removal (lumpectomy) in the U.S. can cost an average of $2,500 to $3,000, while such procedures can cost about $700 in India and about $1,000 in Singapore. Cost of chemotherapy procedures range from $8,000 to over $15,000, and this “does not” include the cost of the necessary drugs that accommodate the procedure. Common chemotherapeutic drugs such as leucovorin and 5-FU can cost as little as $100 for an eight-week dosage. However, if a doctor recommends the addition of irinotecan or oxaliplatin, the cost to the patient can increase to $10,000. The cost can rise to $20,000 or $30,000 if cetuximab or bevacizaumab is also needed. Shortage of functional cancer control plans WHO noted that the shortage of functional cancer control plans is especially alarming in developing countries, which already account for more than two-thirds of the new cancer cases and deaths each year. An official of WHO’s Department of Chronic Diseases, Dr. Andreas Ullrich, said the situation might get worse in metropolitan areas of the developing world, as populations age and increasingly feel the impact of
Reports from a recent study derived from population based cancer registries in Nigeria, showed that the age group most commonly affected by cancer in men is 65 years and above, while in women, cancers are common between 45 and 55 years. The study also showed that there has been “a 100 per cent increase in breast cancer incidence in Nigeria over the last decade.”
THE GUARDIAN, Friday, April 19 , 2013
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advocate early treatment exposure to major risk factors such as tobacco, certain chemicals and infections. Ullrich also explained that up to a third of all cancer deaths are linked to “modifiable risks” like tobacco, obesity and harmful use of alcohol. He however said that if detected early, many types of cancer could be cured. Strides made in preventing Cancer, but challenges remain When it comes to cancer prevention, the latest report from the American Cancer Society offers mostly good, but some bad news as well. Cigarette smoking rates continue to drop, with significant declines seen in high school-aged smoking. But, in response to the now ubiquitous smoke-free areas in most public spaces, cigarette companies upped their marketing for smokeless tobacco products by nearly 120 percent, according to the report released last week. The annual report focused on tobacco use, obesity, nutrition and physical inactivity, ultraviolet radiation and skin cancer, the cervical cancer vaccine and screening tests. Findings from the tobacco front were mostly positive. Cigarette smoking in American adults declined slightly, from nearly 21 percent to 19 percent between 2005 and 2011. Rates in men dropped from nearly 24 percent to 21.6 percent, and for women, the prevalence of smoking went from slightly over 18 percent to 16.5 percent. One of the most positive signs in tobacco use was the drop in high school students. In 1997, more than 36 percent of these students smoked. By 2011, that number was cut in half to just above 18 percent, according to the report. About 13 percent of high school students said they smoked cigars and nearly 8 percent used smokeless tobacco. The report also found increasing numbers of young women getting vaccinated with the HPV vaccine, which can prevent many cervical cancers. Rates of mammograms to screen for breast cancer remained relatively stable. Slightly more than four out of five women received Pap screening according to the recommendations, with the exception of women without insurance and those with low education. Colorectal cancer screening rates were also lower in people without insurance. The report also looked at obesity, nutrition and physical inactivity. All of these factors can affect cancer risk. The rise in obesity appears to have slowed down. However, about 36 percent of adults and 18 percent of teens are already obese. The prevalence of obesity varies widely by state, with Mississippi having the highest rate at 35 percent. The lowest was Colorado at about 21 percent, according to the report. Efforts by government Osinubi said there are six comprehensive cancer screening centres. They all have mammogram machine for cancer detection, machine for follow up of initial cancer screening; ultra sound scan for both breast and cervical cancer; electro-cervical machine (for immediate intervention in case of cervical cancer), and prostate cancer screening machine as well. “These are in fulfillment of what we promised two years ago,” she said. These centres, according to Osinubi, are located in hospitals like the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Ebute Metta in Lagos; FMC Keffi; FMC Gusau in Zamfara; Federal Teaching Hospital Abakaliki; University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital and also in Birnin-Kebbi. “In addition, the Federal Government has procured eight mammography machines and they have been distributed to some of our centres across the country like Owo, Abeokuta among others,” she said. Latest Advances in Cancer Treatments Over the past several years, doctors and researchers have increasingly come to view cancer as a collection of many different diseases. As the mechanisms that drive the various types of cancer are coming to light, so are new cancer treatment approaches. Some of the most recent noteworthy breakthroughs in cancer treatments include: • Virtual colonoscopy: Using virtual colonoscopy has proven as accurate as fiberoptic colonoscopy in detecting intermediatesize and large colorectal cancer. As a result, virtual colonoscopy, which is less invasive than the fiber-optic approach, is an increasingly common approach for colorectal cancer screening. • Cancer vaccines: In 2010, the first vaccine for cancer treatment, Sipuleucel-T, was approved. This medication is used in the treatment of metastatic hormone-insensitive treatment cancer, and its success has led to other cancer
According to the WHO, the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) and International Union Against Cancer (IUAC), increased access to cost-effective vaccinations to prevent infections associated with cancers and the availability of cost-effective cancer-screening programmes for everyone, could help to reduce cancer mortality. They said certain vaccines could prevent some infections linked to cancer, including hepatitis B, which could cause liver cancer and human papillomavirus, which could cause cervical cancer. vaccines, a growing class of anticancer drugs. • Capazitaxel for prostate cancer: Another advanced for prostate cancer is the approval of cabazitaxel, which increases survival for men with metastastic hormone-insensitive prostate cancer that has progressed after treatment with docetaxel. • Crizotinib for lung cancer: This drug, which belongs to a class of medicines known as tyrosine kinase inhibitors, was recently approved for a subgroup of lung cancer patients. This targeted therapy improves survival for the approximately 4% of lung cancer patients with a mutation that fuses two genes, EML4 and ALK, together. • Enzalutamide for prostate cancer: This drug was approved in 2012 for the treatment of metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer. Enzalutamide significantly prolongs survival time for patients with this type of cancer • Intraoperative radiation therapy (IORT) for breast cancer: With this approach to radiation therapy, this cancer treatment is given less frequently than traditional radiation. An increasing number of cancer hospitals are offering this option to women with breast cancer following surgery. • Low-energy laser for melanoma detection: A new device that emits twin laser beams onto the skin is proving to be an accurate and fast way to detect skin cancer. By observing how the laser energy is absorbed, doctors can determine whether a mole is benign or melanoma. • High-intensity focused ultrasound for bowel cancer: This next-generation technology provides a highly precise way to deliver ultrasound energy to heat and destroy bowel tumors without harming surrounding tissue. Way forward According to Jeddy-Agba, Adebamowo, Osinubi and their team of researchers, in view of the rising incidence of cancer in subSaharan Africa, urgent steps are needed to guide appropriate policy, health sector investment and resource allocation. They were also of the view that Hospital Based Cancer Registries (HBCR) are fundamental sources of information on the frequent cancer sites in limited resource regions, where population level data is often unavailable. They said: “In regions where population based cancer registries are not in existence, HBCRs are beneficial for policy and planning. Information provided by HBCRs is beneficial and can be utilized for the improvement of cancer care delivery systems in low and middle income countries where there are no population based cancer registries.” According to the WHO, the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) and International Union Against Cancer (IUAC), increased access to cost-effective vaccinations to prevent infections associated with cancers and the availability of cost-effective cancerscreening programmes for everyone, could help to reduce cancer mortality. They said certain vaccines could prevent some infections linked to cancer, including hepatitis B, which could cause liver cancer and human papillomavirus, which could cause cervical cancer. The world bodies, in a joint statement on how to ease the global burden of cancer, said: “Cancer mortality can also be reduced if cases are detected and treated early through early diagnosis and screening programmes. Early diagnosis is promoted by educating the public about early signs and symptoms of cancers.”
Fawehinmi
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Saraki
Olayinka
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Oshiomhole
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ExecutiveBrief In association with TRIPPLEA ASSOCIATES LIMITED
EDITION 263
EXECUTIVE MANAGEMENT INFOTECH4DEXECUTIVES CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE EXECUTIVE FINANCE By Tito Philips, Jnr. am yet to come across any entrepreneur who seems to have had enough when it comes to making money through their business. Especially if you are an unusual entrepreneur [purpose-driven], you realize that the more money you make, the more purpose you can fulfill. So, making money in business is not a luxury only a few should enjoy, but a necessity for every unusual entrepreneur. But wanting more money in your business is not enough. The real questions is; “how do you make that ‘want’ a reality?” To answer this question has been the age long quest of every entrepreneur, business owner, manager as well as several business consultants. The entrepreneurs or companies who succeed in business are those who have cracked the profitability code –a set of different elements, laws and principles that must be strategically applied. Many entrepreneurs and businesses still struggle with profitability because they are missing one or more elements of this code or they are wrongly applying them. Knowing them and rightfully applying them is what this unusual article is about. Let’s get started!
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The Profitability Code: How To Unlock The Profit Potentials Of Your Business business and the environment in which your business operates. These peculiar elements are what you need to really crack in order to make more money in your business. But let’s tackle the universal elements of the profitability code first.
The Universal Principles Of Profitability What are those universal principles that guarantee profitability in business? Value: The first universal law of profitability is value. And it states; you will only GET as much as you GIVE. It’s such a simple logic; you want money, so what are you going to give in exchange for it? Since money doesn’t grow on trees, how do Cracking The Profitability Code –The Key To Making More you intend to get it without stealing? The answer is simple; Money In Business! provide something of value. Value is the solution you proIf you want to make more money in your business, there are vide through your business, it could be a product or service two sides to cracking the profitability code that you must or a combination of both. Without value, you are not qualibegin to focus on. There are universal laws/principles you fied for profitability. must follow and there are peculiar factors you must address. The universal laws/principles of profitability are; Marketing: The second universal law of profitability is marValue keting. And it states; your business will only go as far as Marketing your message goes. Isn’t it quite obvious? The more people Culture who get to know, like and trust the value your business proThe peculiar factors that determine the profitability of your vides, the more of them will likely buy from you. And the business are; less people who get to know, like and trust the value your Business factors business provides, the less of them will buy from you. The Environmental factors marketing that works is all about influence. So to apply the Personal factors principle of marketing to your business, you have to focus on these 3 key areas; Both sides of the profitability code must be rightfully The message aligned and strategically applied before you can unlock the The medium profit potentials of your business. In most cases, the probThe messenger lem is not from the universal elements of the profitability code. Rather, the problem often stems from the peculiar ele- Culture: The third universal law of profitability is culture. ments of the profitability code. Why? Because laws are laws, And it states; every company is the sum of all the people they rarely change. The only problem with universal laws is involved, without unifying ideologies a company is a mob. this; ignorance of their existence or poor application of Come to think of it; imagine if every person involved in them. But the challenge of cracking the profitability code your business was going about his/her own agenda, would greatly lies with you the entrepreneur, the nature of your your company ever make a dime? Obviously not! Do your employees know why your company exists? Does your business have a big picture? Do they believe in the value [products/services] your company offers to the market? Do they all align to your profitability goals? Do they know and uphold the values the company stands for? So culture is how you unify the efforts of everyone involved in your business towards the achieving profitability. Culture is the soul of your company. It is the thread that binds everything and everyone together. It influences behavior, defines expectations and inspires teamwork. Without culture, there’s no company, there’s only a mob!
Synergy/Teamwork: The greatest impact of culture on profitability is synergy. There is nothing as rewarding as a group of people working together to create something bigger than they could have individually achieved. Culture is the fluid that makes high performing companies deliver excellence. When everyone in your organization knows what to do, why it matters and how to do it, magic happens. And customers love a company where magic happens! The Peculiar Elements Of Profitability What are the peculiar factors that determine your company’s profitability? Business factors: The first peculiar element of profitability is the nature of business you are into. Take it or leave it, some businesses are more profitable than the other. This is why the kind of business you go into is equally important in determining how profitable or not your company will become. So profitability is peculiar to the kind of business you do. Every business has the potential to be profitable, but the degree or extent to how profitable a business can become is peculiar to the nature of business one is into. Some businesses have irregular revenue or sales cycle while some businesses have regular revenue or sales cycles. A business with regular sales cycle is often more profitable than one with irregular sales cycles. No wonder cashflow is considered the most important word in finance. It is the relationship between revenue and expenses within a given period. If the frequency of expenses exceeds the frequency of revenue, then you have a negative cashflow. Businesses with irregular sales cycles are more prone to negative cashflows because they have a longer cycle time. You have to live on your last revenue before the next and in most cases you might end up spending your last revenue while pursuing the next sales. But businesses with regular sales cycle have shorter cycle time and this means before you run out of cash, another sale has been made. In other words, it is harder to run out of cash if you own businesses with regular sales cycles than those with irregular sales cycles. So the peculiar question you need to answer to be profitable in your business is this; “how often do you make a sale?” Or “what is the average timeline or gap between your previous sales and the next?” The longer the timeline or gap, the more prone to negative cashflow and the less profitable your business becomes. The bitter truth is this; businesses with a higher degree of repeat purchases/sales tend to be more profitable than those with lower degree of repeat purchases/sales.
Environmental factors: The second peculiar element that determines your company’s profitability is the environment in which your business is situated. This is when the saying “location matters” holds true. The environment in which your business is located defines a lot about your profitability potentials. It determines the kind of business you will venture into, it determines the quality level of the products/services you will offer, it determines the price at which you will sell them, it determines the caliber of workers you will employ. All of these factors will either improve or hinder your profitability as a company. The smart choice is to always analyze the environment before going into business. Check for profitability pointers and killers such as; the standard of living, the prevailing culture, the demography, the income level, the condition of How Does Culture Impact other existing competitions, the religion, level of education, Profitability? Culture impacts the profitability of your business government legislations and many more. The more receptive the environment is to the kind of value [product/service] you in the following key areas; Customer service/satisfaction: A offer, the more profitable your business becomes. The less company with a positive culture receptive the environment is to the kind of value you offer, the will serve customers better than less profitable your business becomes. one with a negative culture. And Personal factors: The third peculiar element that determines since your profitability rests in your company’s profitability is you the entrepreneur. There are the hands of your customers, certain individual traits and habits that are peculiar to entrepoorly attending to them can negatively impact your bottom- preneurs that can improve or impede your company’s odd of becoming profitable. As a business rule, the more knowledgeline. able you are as an entrepreneur about the kind of business you Product development/innovaventure into, the more you increase your odds of becoming tion: Culture is contagious and this is why it must be taken seri- profitable. So having more experience, knowledge, passion and ously otherwise a company can skills in a particular business can contribute to your bottomline positively. In business, there is no way you can exclude the cease to exist. Value as was discussed above is the first univer- impact and role of the entrepreneur in determining how profitable the company becomes. You are the driver of your busisal law of profitability, it is the ness and to a large extent it will only go as far as your eyes can product/service your company offers to the market. The culture see and your legs can take it. None of all the things listed above of your company will determine will happen by themselves, it takes you the entrepreneur to make them happen. It is still up to you to determine if your the quality of the products/serbusiness will be profitable or not through the choices you vice it creates. Companies with great cultures create great prod- make and the actions you take as the leader of your company. This is why you need to be up and doing; commit to personal ucts/services. And great products/services generate high prof- development –learn more, do more and achieve more! its.
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THE GUARDIAN, Friday, April 19, 2013
Executive Management By Danica Jones mployees are the primary force keeping any business running. No matter what job an employee fills, they play an essential role in the way a business runs and thrives. This is why listening to employees and getting their feedback on processes, treatment, pay, and other employee concerns can help improve the employee experience and in turn improve your bottom line. A refusal to listen could result in unsatisfied employees, which could end up causing you a loss of valuable team members and a decrease in productivity. This affects your bottom line directly, and is something managers simply can't ignore.
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Employee Feedback - Essential to Business Success
ness in an organized, structured, productive and positive environment to help nurture innovation, production and growth. I also believe that hiring the best employees’ means businesses must compensate those quality team members appropriately, generously, and provide the kind of environment that makes quality employees want to stay on the team. In short, businesses need to create an incentive and a motivation for employees to perform their best and help the company grow and thrive.
ation to avoid losing valuable employees. It takes empathy, humility and understanding to listen to unhappy employees when things aren't going well, and many managers and business owners find this a rather tough pill to swallow. However, it is the key to correcting situations to help facilitate a more positive workspace and retain employees with value to the company.
keeping great employees feeling appreciated and needed. The other pieces involve that continued willingness to listen, adjust, and nurture a space that invites
positivity and facilitates innovation, growth and forward movement. Denying the necessity of employee happiness will cause business deterioration and a decrease in growth both
in a basic manner and a more innovative and dynamic manner. Are you willing to take the risk? I know I'm not. Employees matter.
If you are a business owner and notice that your employees don't look thrilled to be at work, ask yourself what you Business owners will do a do to improve the situatremendous disservice to their can tion. Your employees are there companies by failing to listen to work for you, and deserve to to employees when they are I truly believe a happy employ- dissatisfied. It is often difficult work in a productive atmosthat acknowledges their ee is the key to business sucto accept responsibility for cre- phere to the company's cess. Owners and Managers ating a hostile or unproductive importance growth and productivity. Fair have a responsibility to their work environment, but it is employees to manage the busi- something that must be done compensation is just one part to address and correct the situ- of the puzzle when it comes to
Executive Finance By Patrick L Dawson ne of the problems that many of us have is the fact that our thinking becomes muddled and although we feel that this is a natural process, there is often something behind it the can be corrected. When you are able to think clearly, you are not only able to troubleshoot problems effectively, you are actually able to get more done. You will find that your relationships are more in tune and you may even have ideas that are worthy of filling out a patent application. Here are some things that you can do which will help to clear your thinking and to help you to gain that faculty again.
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One important thing for you to consider when it comes to thinking is the type of food that you are eating. Although most people are going to talk about brain foods, I'm discussing foods that are better left off your plate. When you eat foods that are bad for you or those that contain harmful chemicals and preservatives, your body is going to produce inflammation and mucus as a result. That
Relaxation Tips for Innovative Thinkers Success Strategies
mucus not only forms in your lungs and in your stomach, it forms in all areas of the body. The cells of your brain are also going to be surrounded by a layer of mucus and that will make it more difficult for them to fire properly. When you eat a clean diet that is healthy and plant-based, you will find that you are thinking much more clearly.
Another difficulty that can lead to muddled thinking is a lack of sleep. Some people are convinced of the fact that they can deal with just a few hours of sleep every night but the fact of the matter is, that it is going to affect your thinking ability. Of course, there may be times when you are going to lose some sleep, such as if you are patenting an idea that has been running through your mind. Just make sure that you don't lose sleep on a consistent basis or your thinking is going to suffer as a result.
Your breathing is also something that is going to affect your ability to think. When most people talk about being healthy, they talk about staying hydrated or eating the right types of foods. Although those suggestions may have some bearing on your ability to think clearly, your breath has a more profound effect. Consider the fact that you are able to live without water for a few days and you can live without food for a month or more but when you take away your breath, you will die within a matter of minutes. Make sure that you are breathing deeply through the day and take the time to take in the oxygen that you need regularly. These are just a few of the suggestions that can help you to begin thinking clearly again. When you put them into practice regularly, you will find that you are not only thinking clearly, your entire body is going to benefit as a result.
Action is the foundational key to all success. Pablo Picasso
By Tammy J. Gregory NDERSTANDING IN SUCCESS What does understanding mean to you? Maxwell wrote to be a "success" you need to be understanding. He used the analogy of a man cracking his knuckles. His wife might find that very annoying and resent her husband for it, assuming that he is doing it to annoy her. But, if she can “understand" she might realize that he is just cracking his knuckles and it has nothing to do with her. I can relate to that. My husband rolls our cigarettes for us. He has a machine to roll the cigarettes but after the tobacco is in the tube he has to tap the cigarette on the table to get the tobacco compacted in the tube. He usually does this while we are watching TV at night. Sometimes he does this late at night after I have gone to bed. Picture this - I am lying in bed and all I hear is this "tapping" coming from our living room. I am trying to sleep and this steady tapping is going through my head. It can be annoying and there have been several times I have wanted to go down there and tell him to just stop! Certainly, he is not doing this to annoy me,
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What Does The "U" In Success Mean To You? and most times if he is rolling cigarettes that late at night, he is rolling them for the next day - for me. So without understanding why he is rolling cigarettes late at night, one might assume he is trying to be annoying when it is just the opposite. So, what does that have to do with success? The point Maxwell was trying to make is that if you are "assuming" someone is behaving badly just to annoy you, then you are focusing on the behavior you don't want and you will get more of it. I believe the point he is trying to make is that you will have more success if you assume everything is working for you and not against you. You need to assume that things are going your way instead of focusing on the negative things around you. WHAT COULD THE "U" MEAN TO YOU FOR SUCCESS? My first thought was to take it literally, instead of a "U", how about "you". You are important to your success. I have written many times
about the image you have of yourself and how important that is to your success. You are the most important thing to your success, or, how about unstoppable? If you were unstoppable wouldn't that surely lead to your success? Say to yourself right now "I am unstoppable". How does that feel? Pumped up? This leads me to the word "up". If you were "up" all of the time do you think that will lead to your success? Is it possible to be "up" all of the time? I'm not sure but I certainly try hard. I know when I am feeling "up", I can feel my energy flowing and when my energy is flowing exciting things are happening. I think we can all rule out the word unhappy, right? Unless (whoops that's another u word) your unhappiness motivates you to change your life. Is that what you are looking for, a change? Or, are you looking for freedom? Or, do you want to be unstoppable? Success can be about all of these things when you begin to understand the world around you.
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Heritage
Fun, excitement colour Anioma Cultural Festival at By Gregory Austin Nwakunor ATELINE. April 1, 2013. Arcade Ground, D Asaba, Delta State. An incessant din resounded for minutes, as daylight broke on the ground, which hosted the grand finale of Anioma Cultural Festival. Buzz of saws and echo of hammers created a melody, as scores of workers hurriedly put finishing touches to the serene ground, while traditional music played… Exquisite sensitivities surrounded the facility, which now wore a bright look with beautifully designed white canopies and chairs neatly arranged for guests and participants. The arena was festooned with branding materials from MTN and Grand Oak Ltd., makers of Seaman’s Royale. In fact, the sea of colours made the place a pleasant sight to behold. As early as 8am, dance groups, exhibitors of arts and crafts and guests had begun to arrive for a showcase of the best of Anioma culture — a symphony of dance, music, fashion and creative arts of historical values that have grown into a melting pot of diverse cultural arts that come in a contemporary space. And by 8.30am, more than 80 per cent of the over 150 dance groups billed to perform had stormed the arcade ground. There were also arts and culture practitioners in the crowd. Some of them, who were billed to officiate in the contest, mingled in the crowd of dancers for easy assessment. The massive turnout of monarchs and guests, who gingerly awaited the grand finale of the yearly Anioma Cultural Festival, was a testimony of a project that had imparted on the lives of the people. The atmosphere became electrified, when as the President of Organisation For the Advancement of Anioma Culture (OFAAC), Arc. Kester Ifeadi flagged off the event. Guests had enough dose of the best of Anioma culture and hospitality. On display were the legendary Egwu Oshushu, Agwuba royal dance, Occupational dance, Egwu-Ajah — maiden dance, Uloko dance, Olingba dance, Amala and contemporary dance, among other dance arts. Indeed, anyone at the festival could easily see and experience the vibes and the excitement of the day as competing groups danced with their heart and soul to the delight of all. This was not lost with the presence of Igbanke community of Edo State, which stepped out in style to the rhythmic music of Anioma in solidarity with their kith and kin in Delta State. anniversary celebration started with a THE public lecture and awards ceremony on
March 29. Held at the Banquet Hall of Orchid Hotels, Asaba, the two events attracted a galaxy of some of the finest and brilliant minds from the land, who had gathered to honour two of Anioma greats, Stephen Okechukwu Keshi, Super Eagles coach and Prof Demas Nwoko, a renowned artist and designer for their distinguished achievements that have brought honour to the country. Keshi, whose award was presented to him by Chief Philip Asiodu, a member of board of trustees, OFAAC, declared, “no honour is better than the one received from his own people at home.” The Super Eagles’ sweat merchant said he was humbled by the show of love and appreciation from all and sundry, particularly from his people in Anioma who showered prayers on him and wished him more accomplishments. Nwoko, who had his own award presented to him by Obi (Prof.) Chike Edozien, the Asagba of Asaba, thanked the entire nation and OFAAC for providing a platform for cultural renaissance and for the honour bestowed on him and Keshi. He stated humorously that he and members of his family knew Keshi well and had followed him as a player and a coach; unfortunately, Keshi did not know them. The artist said, “that is a measure of true greatness, a situation where you bring joy and fulfillment to millions of people; you attract more friends and relatives without you knowing everybody, but everybody knows you.” In his welcome address, the President of OFAAC, Ifeadi, said, “feeling gratitude and not expressing it is more like wrapping a gift and not presenting it.” According to him, there was no better time to celebrate these two sons of the land, who have brought honour to the land. “We may not have all the silver and gold to thank the awardees for their great accomplishments, but we know that coming together in the magnitude of today’s occasion sends a brighter message of gratitude to all on the need to engage in productive ventures, as there is dignity in labour,” Ifeadi enthused. Senator Ifeanyi Okowa, on his part, commended OFAAC for a job well done in the promotion of Anioma culture and unification of the people. MTN Nigeria, Grand Oak Ltd makers of Seaman’s Royale, Guinness Nigeria Plc, West African Food Seasoning, 911 Energy Drink, Brian Munro Ltd., Orchid Hotels, Asaba and
Scenes from the festival representatives of government both at federal and state levels and members of OFAAC were acknowledged for their support over the years at the ceremony. The anniversary lecture titled, Prospect, Potentials and Place of Anioma in the Geopolitical Evolution of Nigeria with special focus on Anioma, Her Burning Issues and the Fourth Cockcrow was delivered by Prof. Sam Ukala, former Provost, Delta State University, Anwai Campus. In his lecture, Prof. Ukala chronicled the evolution of Anioma. Situating the challenges of the people over the years, he likened the issues to the different cockcrows. To overcome the seemingly challenges, he emphasised the need for its people to solidify on the unity that held them together. He further admonished those in the corridors of power to put the interest of the people first, while he called on organisations saddled with the development of the region to unite under a single body rather than exist in bits, warning that such would only make the people speak with discordant tunes. In acknowledgement of the supremacy of God, and in thanks for His grace and love in the past 10 years, Chief Elue led the delegation to the Cathedral Church of St. Peter, Bishopscourt, Asaba on Easter Sunday, March 31. The officiating minister Rt. Revd. Justus N. Mogekwu prayed for the people of Anioma and OFAAC for divine direction. HE Overall best performance of the festival T 2013, went to Onu Anioma of Owa Alero winning the cash prize of N300,000, a plaque and gifts from sponsors MTN and Seaman, followed by Delta State Polytechnic Dance Group, Ogwashi-Uku with second position winning a cash prize of N200,000 and a plaque, third position went to Anionye Dance Group from Otolokpo with N100,000 and a plaque. In the primary school category, Seat of Wisdom, Kwale came first with a cash prize of N50,000 and a plaque. Royal Foundation Primary Kwale came second with a cash prize of N40,000, while Ogonma Primary School, Ogwashi-Uku came third winning N30,000. For category winners, Otu Chukwuanyirima from Agbor was adjudged winner in the EgwuOshushu category with a cash prize of N50,000, Otu Ofuobi, from Idumuogo came
second with a cash prize N30,000 while Ifeoma Dance Group from Obomkpa came third with N30,000. African Voice from Kwale emerged the best in Occupational/ Contemporary Dance category with a cash prize of N50,000 and a plaque. In the War/Royal Dance category, Otu Onyechukwubie Chukwu from Ukala came first with N50,000 cash and a plaque. In the Wrestling contest, the first position went to Okocha Opiah with N50,000, a plaque and gift items from sponsors. Over N4million cash prizes were splashed on winners and participants at the festival. More excitement was witnessed, as guests won interesting items such as LCD TV Sets, Home Theatre, Generating Sets, Standing Fans, DVD Players, Electric Irons, Telephone Hand Sets, and Bags of Rice in a raffle draw from both MTN and OFAAC. Seaman also had a promo of buy and win with lots of exciting items. Notable dignitaries that graced the celebrations included, Chief Festus Okubor, who represented the state governor, Dr Emmanuel Uduaghan; Chief Elue, former Deputy Governor of Delta State; Senator Ifeanyi Okowa, member representing Delta North at the National Assembly; Chief (Dr.) Newton Jibunoh, the Isagba Odua of Akwukwu Igbo; Obinwanyi Modupe Edozien, wife of Asagba of Asaba; Barr. Lady T. A. Giwa Amu; Chief Clement T. Ofuani, the Odua of Ubulu Okiti; Mrs. Ify Kagho; Dr. and Mrs. Charles Mekwunye; Mr. Frank Onwachi (M.O.N); Prof. Pat Utomi, founder, Lagos Business School and member of trustee, OFAAC and a host of other eminent personalities. The Asagba of Asaba led the pack of Anioma venerated monarchs and high chiefs that included Obi Chukwumalieze Victor, the Obi of Onicha-Ugbo; Obi Kikachukwu (J.P), the Obi of Ubulu-Unor; Obi Isiyemeze, the Obi of Ugbodu; Obi Mohanyem, the Obi of Ezi; Agbigidi Samuel (III), the Obi of Idimuogo; Obi Godwin Nzemeka, Obi of Ejeme-Unor; High Chief Nmakwe Pius, the Oza of Idumu-Ogo; Obi Chukwuma Jikeme, the Obi of Ute-Ogbeje; Dr. Martha Dunkwu, the Omu of Anioma; Ogbueshi Stephen Atagbuzia, the Onowu of Okwe, Ezenwali Ahoma Collins, Obi of Otolokpo; Obi Kingsley U. Ofuokwu (III) (JP), the Obi of Obior; Obi Sunday Olisanweokwu, the Obi of Ogodor and others.
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Revue Creativity, commitment, essential ingredients for robust entertainment industry, says Ugbomah • Nigerians should celebrate me now, not when I’m dead • I sold my house to make my first film • How Nigerians connived to kill the Jos film laboratory By Shaibu Husseini HE trip to Ilogbo-Eremi, a settlement on the Lagos-Badagry Expressway, to see the elder artiste and acclaimed father of Nollywood, Chief Eddie Ugbomah, took almost a whole day. Reason? The long stretch of road from Satellite Town to the junction at Ilogbo was bad — pot holes and gullies everywhere. To worsen the situation, commercial bus drivers parked their vehicles indiscriminately. So, a trip that ordinarily would have lasted for less that an hour, stretched into hours. “That is why I don’t just go to town except it is absolutely necessary. I sometimes insist that anyone inviting me to a meeting in town must be prepared to put me in a hotel, so, I don’t return to face the madness on this road,” Chief Ugbomah said. “You care for late breakfast or palmwine?” he asked. “We have fresh palmwine here.” A young lady, who was introduced as Ugbomah’s last daughter, the 13th, came inside with a tray. Breakfast had been prepared in anticipation of the visit. The reporter declined the meal and went ahead with the interview. Two things inspired the interview with Ugbomah, who is undoubtedly one of the foremost independent African filmmakers. He is credited with producing 13 celluloid films —Vengeance of the Cult; Death of a Black President, Omiran, Tori Ade, The Boy is Good and The Rise and Fall of Dr. Oyenusi and others.
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Jos and NFC The reason for taking Nigeria Film Corporation (NFC) away from Lagos was because of water. We found out, after a test was conducted, that Lagos water had little salt in it and you cannot process a film with that kind of water. The few that were processed then had holes on them. So, government said we should look for land elsewhere. We went to Ondo State, which had good scenery for making film, but the state government asked us to pay N80 million for the land they had allocated. We didn’t have that kind of money, therefore, we moved to old Bendel State, and the same thing happened. They were all asking for money even when they knew it was a Federal government project. But when we approached the military administrator of Plateau State, he gave us the land on which NFC now sits for free. The government even granted us the use of Liberty Dam to build a film village and to create studios. The only thing the government demanded was that we must give indigenes jobs and we were happy to give them jobs. It was a collective decision. If we had been given the land at Ondo, we wouldn’t have gone to Jos. The next thing we did was to immediately set up a film laboratory because our filmmakers were spending so much money processing their films abroad and we wanted to help save cost. But then, one thing most Nigerians don’t know till tomorrow was that some filmmakers and civil servants never liked the idea of us establishing a laboratory because people were using films to siphon money out of the country. They knew that a laboratory in Nigeria would
the Hausa film Kulba Na Bana. There were two other documentaries processed, which made the seven films that were processed, but because I left, they went and built an inferior dubbing theatre, and that further killed the lab. Some of us Nigerians are our own worst enemies. You see, after I got the then Head of State, General Olusegun Obasanjo, to send break their back. They did everything possible to kill the lab, which I am now being accused of away some Lebanese film distributors who were using films to siphon money abroad by usurping. It is a big lie to suggest that I only used the lab to process my films. We processed buying cheap Indian films and selling them costly to us, some Nigerians approached five feature and two documentary films there them and those Nigerians were appointed including Kulba Na Bana on 35 mm, a film by the late Ishola Ogunsola (aka Isho Pepper), and directors of their company. As soon as I left NFC, it crashed because then, three of my films, edited and track-laid. majority of those I left behind were civil serThe only thing we did from outside was to dub because we had not built the dubbing the- vants and not filmmakers. They were not committed and were not patriots. They were atre. We had to go abroad to dub and print, if not creative, and these are qualities needed to not, everything would have been done in Jos. These people bribed the staff of NFC to destroy run an entertainment outfit—creativity and the equipments in the laboratory. I don’t want commitment. I mean, look at what is going to mention names, but I know a multi million- on there. The laboratory died because the civil aire in Nigeria who made his money on the pre- servant and filmmakers wanted to have a hold on the foreign exchange regime. tence that he was going to process films Unfortunately abroad. again, the His brother was a filmmaker, and so, when economy his brother was ready to process his film, went they will approach the Ministry of Finance to ask for about $800,000 foreign exchange, which he doesn’t need—and this business man will buy it from him. That was what kept that man in filmmaking and that was what kept the man in business. He is today a multi millionaire. I also know of the intrigues of one of the biggest advertising agencies in the country, which didn’t want the lab to work because it will stop them from getting foreign exchange from the Ministry. The agency was asking for $6 million to shoot a cigarette advert, and unfortunately for them, I was summoned to the Ministry for advice. Of course, I kicked against the idea of granting them $6 million to shoot 65 seconds advert in Europe. They said they would hire speedboat and a yacht. I advised that if they insisted, they should be told to go to Marina or Onikan in Lagos to shoot and save the country the foreign exchange they wanted to fritter away. Their budget was later cut from $6 million to $600,000, which I complained was still too much. At the end they were given the money and that was the last we heard about the advert. So, tell me, how would they want the lab to work, when it would have stopped the fraud perpetrated by them in the guise of procuring foreign exchange? One thing I also discovered was that they were doing this with the connivance of officials of the Ministry.
The allegation that the laboratory never functioned Who said that? We set up the facility and processed five films that hit the cinema and made name— Omiran, Tori Ade, the film by Isho Pepper and then
through recession, and the point and shoot became the easiest way to deliver. So, people moved to home video and once the videographers found out that they can make money from shooting cheap videos, they embraced it and cinema died. Difficulties in raising funds for filmmaking I never had difficulties raising funds to make my films because they were self-funded. When I made up my mind to be a filmmaker, I decided that I was going to get trained and after my training, I was going to raise my own funds to make movies. I didn’t plan making film over night. I spent all my life, my young days in Britain going to school, working and saving to make films. When I came home on vacation, I saw how our people followed music and movies but they were talking about the likes of Cliff Richards and the Shadows. But I changed it. I brought in Millie Small, the Soul Messengers, Dannie Williams and so on. I recall that after one of the shows, I got £80,000 and I fainted because it was a lot of money. I was just a student. I remember that when I took my money to London to buy the two houses, which I later sold to make films, I paid cash when the man said the houses were £4000 each. When he saw me bring out the cash, he went in and called the police. When they came, I was asked what I do for a living. I told them I was a show promoter and when they opened my brief case, they saw pictures of me and the Rolling Stones and Diana Ross. The people who came to arrest me turned around and started asking for my autograph. Funny enough, when I came back, I tried to get a job without touching my money. I couldn’t get a job at the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) because when they saw my profile as a promoter and my training in film, they ‘blocked’ me. It was friend like Dan Suleiman, Ibrahim Bako and Jerry Useni who rallied round me. Those friends supported me. I sold my house to make my first film, which was inspired by an experience I had when I was staying in a friend’s house on CONTINUED ON PAGE 28
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...Creativity, commitment, essential for robust entertainCONTINUED FROM PAGE 27 the Island in Lagos. Robbers struck one night, and it was Dr. Oyenusi and his men. It was after they left that I said if we don’t educate Nigerians about guns after the war in the street, it was going to be hell. So I started researching on him. That was how I shot The Rise and Fall of Dr. Oyenusi. People that I asked for money at that time to shoot the film didn’t believe in me. They even laughed at me. That was how they laughed at me and shoved me aside when I wanted to promote the Millie Small show that turned out a huge success. Only Senators Franca Afegbua and Florence Ita Giwa believed that I could bring the show to Nigeria. I was very young then. That was how with them I got AG Leventis to sponsor the show and I made some money from it. My films were very successful My films were very successful. But we were so naïve at that time. We thought a crowd at the National Theatre meant success of a film. We didn’t have distributors to take the films around. But if you want to judge by Nigerian and African standard, they were all massive hits. The Rise and Fall of Dr. Oyenusi was a big success. I lifted the money I made from the film into The Boy is Good, then into The Mask and so on. The only time I asked for money was when President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan announced the creation of an intervention fund. I wrote to NEXIM Bank and they sent me a 12-paged form to fill including a form asking me the day my mother was born. With the economy and Nigeria they should know that anybody who wants to make a film in Nigeria is a suicide squad man. It is not easy. It is very hard. There are chances that you wont even break even. Now the President has announced the release of a N3 billion grant and the guidelines for accessing the money is being worked out. I hope we will make headway with this. No industry survives without grants that are not backed up with provision of heavy collaterals. I lost some money with The Great Attempt That was The Great Attempt and that was because the Sole Administrator of the Censors Board, at its inception, banned the film without knowing what it was all about. The film was released when Gideon Orkar tried to overthrow the government of General Babangida and just because of the title he banned the film without it. When he eventually saw it, he told me to change the title, and so many scenes were cut-off. So, they were done with the film at the Censors Board, it was useless. Moreover, that time the rate of Naira to major currencies had started to plummet. I used over N2 million to make the film. This was a lot of money, then. If I didn’t have The Rise and Fall of Dr. Oyenusi, The Boy is Good and The Mask; I would have quit long time from the industry because they made good money for me. My films are intact They are here with me. I am planning to travel to America to see how I can re-scan them and print into DVD. How much do I need to transfer them — just N2 million. Can’t the NFC or the Ministry of Information give me N2 million to go and clean these films and bring them back and we will do a television series of movies of Eddie Ugbomah? The only person who agreed to do it with me when other television stations were telling me that the film don old was Ben Bruce when he was at the NTA. He said he was going to create a one-year of films of Eddie Ugbomah and it will run for 52 weeks. So, we were on this, and I was already planning to take the films to America when he was removed as DG of the NTA. Now I am stranded. If you see what PHCN has done to me. I have lost over N800 million. My films, which are all on 35mm, have burnt with heat. The few I have saved now are on 16 mm. Out of 13, I have managed to save eight and I have sent five to America through my daughter who came for holiday and they say to transfer the whole eight would cost N2 million. I have written letters to the NFC and the Ministry of Information, but nobody one has acknowledged them. With N2 million we can raise history. Look at a film like Death of a Black President, anyone born then that you tell about the film will mention Muritala Mohammed. I shoot historio-contemporary films and I have made a lot of hits. In fact, I make bold to say that I am the only person who is not Yoruba or Igbo but has made films in every language and that is because I believe that art has no language. Like the one I am working on now. It is a script that took me 16 years to write. It is called Black Blood. I have been to people to raise money, but what I get is rebuff. That was the same thing that happened when I wanted to shoot Aba Women Riot. No one wanted to sup-
Ugbomah
I have made billions out of this industry and I have squandered billions too. That is why I cry every day. This is a big money spinning industry. We don’t need to beg anyone for anything. People want more but you must give them quality entertainment and not this one you put Nigerian films and people are asking you to remove. So these junkies have murdered the movie industries with all those junk they are shooting and they are suffering from it now. But commitment can revive it.
port me. With the little money I had, I shot it on super V and the output was not good, so I dumped it. I want to now shoot it on a more superior format.
I have no issues embracing video Oh well, I didn’t embrace video. I just wanted to make a statement. That is why I have only done six movies in 20 years either as a producer, director or actor. I have had to help some boys to act in two or three movies, though I consider Nollywood the biggest junk-making factory in the word. I still commend them for their resilience. My only sadness is that they have refused to grow. Some are doing well but the others have refused to grow 20 years after. But things must be done the right way.
Unfortunately, I am the only one in the wilderness shouting. May be one day, if I die, people will come to my graveside and say, ‘I was a great man’. You will be shocked that I will stand up and slap their face and lie down again. If they don’t celebrate me now, and I die, and they come to my graveside and say, ‘Eddie Ugbomah was a great man, he did this and that…’ I will wake up and wipe their faces. The national honours of Officer of the Order of the Niger It was 20 years late and even then the national honours was not enough. I am one of those few who have committed so much to this industry. I have made billions out of this industry and I have squandered billions too. That is why I cry every day. This is a big money spinning industry. We don’t need to beg anyone for anything. People want more but you must give them quality entertainment and not this one you put Nigerian films and people are asking you to remove. So these junkies have murdered the movie industries with all those junk they are shooting and they are suffering from it now. But commitment can revive it. I am looking for money to shoot a film on hundred years of Nigeria. It is a project I began with my late friend Justus Esiri. I have sent a proposal on it to Senator Anyim Pius Ayim. I am hoping he will look through it and invite me to defend it and then handle it and show these boys how it is done. I may be over 70, but I am strong as a 30-year old boy on set.
refused. They saw the agony I went through. I tell you that I have made millions from his industry and I have burnt millions and my children say they wont go through that twice. And again, they have seen the ungratefulness of the nation. If I drop dead now, filmmaking is over in my family. It is sad, but what can I do? I can’t force them to do it. I tried to convince them but they won’t listen. One is a solicitor in London, another a doctor in London, one is an architect, the other a designer and one is a lecturer. And then you have Amaechi, who read English, Nneka read Theatre Arts and Edna read Computer Science. The one who just graduated read Pharmacology. One of my last babies is aiming to study medicine, and my very last girl wants to do Creative Arts, and being a woman, I don’t want her to be an actress. I want her to learn the industry and be an off screen personality. But where will I get the money now? I am 72. I cook now at the age of 72 with my daughters because their mother died since 11 years ago. That’s the only sad aspect of me if not, I am a very happy and fulfilled human being.
My small farm as the secret of my longevity The secret is my small farm here. I have a lot of herbs that I take. Do you know that I have not been to any hospital for 28 years? I don’t go to hospital and then I know when to stop. When I am tired, I rest. I don’t over do things. I also eat very well. Oh, yes. I take pounded yam and Egusi soup. Then I eat a lot of vegetables and the other thing is that when I go to bed, I forget the whole world. I don’t allow My children and filmmaking things worry me. That is my juju of longevity. Unfortunately, none of my children is I don’t have room for enemies. If you tell me I involved. Every time I think of it, I cry. I built a am wrong, I will be the first to beg you. I school for the two who finished from Lagos believe I am not perfect. So, I have a free State University to take over and run, but they mind and happy mind.
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THE GUARDIAN, Friday, April 19, 2013
Events ITALIAN NIGHT @ Eko Hotel Date(s): 19/04/2013 Location: EKO HOTEL & SUITES, Victoria Island, Lagos. Promoter: Eko Hotel & Suites There will be karaoke, complimentary weekend for 2 to be won as well as prizes for best karaoke performances. There will be delightful pasta at the live cooking station as each person creates their own dish from a fine selection of pasta and authentic sauces amongst other Italian specialties. GET TICKETS HERE: www.afritickets.com
MUSIC FESTIVAL LAGOS
Date(s): 20/04/2013 Location: Golden Tulip Hotel, Festac, Lagos. Promoter: Golden Tulip Festac Lagos. An unrivaled gathering of some of the Country's greatest vintage and young superstars: including King Sunny Ade, Onyeka Onwenu, Bongos Ikwue, Tuface Idibia, Flavour Nabania, Kcee, Ice Prince, Olamide, Pasuma would be greeted by over 7000 music fans across Nigeria. GET TICKETS HERE: www.afritickets.com
In partnership with Conscience, Nurtured by Truth
TheGuardian The Abuja Young Entrepreneurs Awards
Date(s): 19/04/2013 Location: The Abuja International Conference Centre, Abuja Promoter: Aye Awards Hosted by Bovi and Chigul, the event will feature musical performances by Praiz, Burna Boy, Di Ja and Ice Prince. Comedian Tee-A and dance group Krump Studios will also be present to entertain you. More info: www.afritickets.com
Presentation Skills and Public Speaking Training for Professionals and Graduates Date(s): 20/04/2013 Location: Precinct Comfort Hotel, Yaba, Lagos, Nigeria Promoter: LiveSpeech Ventures No matter your profession, you need public speaking skills. Join us again this April at the next LiveSpeech Presentation Skills & Public Speaking Training for professionals, business leaders and graduates. More info: www.afritickets.com
The Mobile Market Fair April Fair Date(s): 20/04/2013 Location: 9b Isaac John Street, GRA Ikeja, Lagos. Promoter: Mobile Market The Mobile Market presents its April Fair; an opportunity for you to network with clients and sell your products. The fair helps vendors advertise their products, link customers to retailers and vice versa. More info: www.afritickets.com
Red Ball for Charity Date(s): 21/04/2013 Location: Grace Event Centre, 3B Evo Road, GRA Phase II, Port Harcourt, Rivers. Promoter: Eve Afrique Eve Afrique, a family and lifestyle magazine connecting Nigerias SouthSouth to the world is set to host the 3rd edition of this charity ball at the Grace Event Centre. The event will focus on cervical cancer awareness and prevention in partnership with the Medical Women Association of Nigeria. There will be free pap smear tests for the first women to register. Registration costs N 5,000 per person. More info: www.afritickets.com
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showblast One-on-one with Lalu
...The buzz in town
Stories by Chuks Nwanne
‘How I’ll use my prize money’
s he stood on the big stage with the remaining finalist in A the just concluded Knorr Taste Quest, a cooking competition that aims at showcasing Nigeria’s rich cuisine, Nigeria-basedIndonesian chef, Lalu surdihan was lost in thought. Apart from facing a stiff competition from other well-experienced cooks, the 44 years old father of three was in the contest without home advantage; the remaining finalists were all Nigerians. Fortunately for Lalu, the reality show was conceived to pick the best out of the contenders, with no emphasis on tribe, religion or skin colour. Immediately he was pronounced winner of the cooking contest, excited Lalu jumped on stage repeatedly, then hugged his fellow finalists, who cheered him up. The victory comes with a top prize of a 2013 Hyundai Elantra, N1 million and kitchen equipment worth N300,000. he enthused, “In my mind, I was thinking that Patricia would emerge as the champion, but they announced her as the first Runner-Up. From that point, I was a bit confused. And then, I looked round and saw two other contestants including Gregory. I wasn’t sure of myself until I was pronounced winner; I couldn’t believe my eyes”. The tension soaked grand finale saw Patricia Allison and saratu Mamman emerge as second and third place winners respectively. While Patricia went home with N1 million prize and a kitchen set worth N300,000, suratu got N500,000 and a kitchen set worth N300,00. similarly, Ifeyinwa and Gregory emerged fourth and fifth place winners respectively and went home with mouth-watering prizes including kitchen equipment and Knorr branded products. Presently working as a Chef with the skye Restaurant, Eko Hotel & suites, Victoria Island, Lagos, Lalu recalled how a friend hinted him about the cooking competition that has earned him both fame and fortune in a foreign land. “I got to know about the competition through one of my friends; he told me Knorr was organising a cooking competition. On my part, I made efforts to search for more information about the competition on the Internet. Then I registered
and went for auditions and passed through all the screening stages. Luckily, I made it to the list of 12 finalist.” Even as an international Chef, who has worked in countries such as Ukraine, Lalu has always paid special attention to Nigerian cuisines, as if aware that a day would come when his ability to make local dishes would earn him great fortune. “I’m a patient Chef; I’m also very inquisitive to learn anything I put my mind on. I’m quite familiar with Nigerian foods because we have a local kitchen where they cook Nigerian dishes. I tried to spend a couple of hours there every day to pay attention to the recipes and how they mix the ingredients every day. Even in my Kitchen, we have local foodstuffs such as Garri and cocoyam,” he revealed. However, from the day he entered for the Knoor Taste Quest, the father of three started paying extra attention to Nigerian dishes, spending hours in the local kitchen. “I had to spend like 14 hours a day to learn about local Nigerian dishes. Then when I progressed to the grand final, I spent more hours every day learning as much as I could; learning and practicing are the main secrets. Then the big secret is the Knorr seasoning; it is a tastemaker and when one introduces it into the dish, it changes everything. It is a special condiment that is made up of several things that when combined with cooking ingredients produces an amazing taste.” Having worked for over five years as a chef in Nigeria, Lalu is quite knowledgeable when it comes to Nigerian dishes. In fact, he has his favourites. “I don’t joke with my suya at the street corner; I also like pepper soup. Another thing that I don’t joke with is jollof rice. These are things I can prepare too myself; I love Nigerian foods,” he said. Lalu started cooking at a very tender age, with the hope of helping the family. But what started as a passion ended up as a career when he enrolled at the Hotel & Catering school in Bailey. “I started cooking immediately after High school; I was quite young then and my family didn’t have anything, so I needed to
work to make things a bit easy for myself. After my programme with the catering school, I worked with several intercontinental hotels in countries such as Dubai, Ukraine, Jordan and then the Middle East, before I made the journey to Lagos.” Before hitting Lagos, Lalu was working as a Chef in a luxury hotel in Ukraine when the offer to move to the most populous black nation came. “I was in Ukraine where I worked with a big hotel. I got an interesting offer to be part of sky Restaurant and I settled for it. so here we are till this moment. Though my family is not here with me, Nigeria is like my second home now.” Already, excited Lalu has mapped out strategy on how to spend his money. “First of all, I will drive around Lagos in my new car; I’m very proud to get this car. I will share a part of my money with the poor and plan the remaining with my family especially my son’s education.” According to Dr. Roberts, master Chef and head of the judges, the best contestant emerged winner. “The choice of winner was basically based on their performance of the task that they had in front of them. It had nothing to do with whether you are a man, woman or child; it was strictly based on the task at hand. The show has proved that anybody can be a Chef irrespective of gender provided you can put your mind to it. Cooking is not only a skill that women do,” he said. To the brand building director, Unilever Nigeria Plc, David Okeme, “what you have witnessed is over 1500 hours of cooking from 12 talented Nigerian Chefs. They have worked with over 70 ingredients and they have used that to create amazing dishes. This show has reinforced the extraordinary length, which the brand goes to deliver taste to the consumers. Knorr is an international brand. secondly, the criteria were spelt out from the start and we threw it open to anybody who loves to cook. We all witnessed that the recipes were a balance of both local and international in line with the Knorr philosophy of excellence.”
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The GuARdIAN, Friday, April 19, 2013
Mozida lounge hosts Miss Safety mega groove OZIdA Lounge will host Miss Safety International Nigeria Juliet Ofodile to an exclusive M Mega Groove come Wednesday May 24, at 64 Toyin street Ikeja Lagos. Miss Juliet Ofodile was crowned at the same lounge and the officials at the lounge have decided to host her. Mozida is very proud of Miss Safety and we are happy to be part of the success story having noted the effective kick off from January of this year. Miss Safety (International) Nigeria Juliet Ofodile commented: Myself, Miss Safety eros (1st Runner up) Miss Safety unitate (2nd Runner up) thank Mozida Lounge and other well meaning Nigerians for their support. The Mega Groove will actually flag off a new phase of my campaign to promote safety in all spheres of our national life. Crowned on december 7, 2012 at the inaugural edition Miss Juliet Ofodile beat fourteen other gorgeous beauties to clinch the coveted crown. Since January when she officially flagged off her reign Miss Safety International Nigeria has been received in audience by Mr. umaru Manku Commissioner of Police Lagos Sate, dr harold denuren former dG Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority NCAA, Chief Mrs. Taiwo Taiwo Chairman Aart of Life Foundation. Only last week she paid courtesy visit to Mr. dapo Chief Executive Officer, OH Africa, Akin Salami; Managing Director, MNET Africa, Biola Alabi; Nollywood actor, Jim Iyke and Chief Creative Officer, Ifactory, Michael Djaba at the press Adelegan Chairman Celtron Group (Pioneers of briefing of Jim Iyke Unscripted on Wednesday… in Lagos PHOTO; SUNDAY AKINLOLU electronic billboards in Nigeria) and dr Felix Adeduro of Banquaires Facilities representatives of himalaya herbal Products (India). In June 2013 Miss Safety International will officially launch her pet projects which include: customized Miss Safety Air Fresheners (with targeted messages By Florence Utor Biola Alabi is confident that like the man himbra State native. for different audiences), a short film on Zebra Crossings and visits to various orphanages during OVe him or hate him, Jim Iyke is a superstar The show will also provide the actor an opportu- self, the show will be a must-watch. “Jim Iyke attracts attention on a daily basis and her birthday in July 2013. nity to promote his latest movies, as well as his as far as the African motion picture induswe’re definitely pleased that we’re in a position Miss Safety beauty Pageant was created by award try is concerned. Though popularly known as foray into competitive world of men’s fashion. to screen his exciting new reality series. he’s Viewers of the programme will have the opporwinning filmmaker Madu C Chikwendu with the ‘the bad boy of Nollywood’ due to his numerous ‘hard man’ roles in movies, ever-controver- tunity of seeing the actor in his natural environ- such a talented individual who is not afraid to slogan Beauty for safety, the pageant is presented take risks, to speak his mind, to blaze his own ment. exclusively by Kraftman Production (a member of sial Jim has written his name in gold in the future. his charisma, talent and energy are un- MCM Group www.mcmng.org) business of filmmaking in Nigeria and African Filmed in Lagos, Abuja, Accra, houston, dubai, deniable and his fans want to see more of him! This is a youth oriented national project that will Nairobi, Amsterdam and London, Jim Iyke: Unin general. “The viewers’ reaction to Omotola: The Real Me produce a beauty queen that shall be a safety AmIn what seems like an attempt to tell the true scripted!, a 13-week programme, will be screened proved again how much African fans want to bassador promotes a safe living and learning envistory of Jim, M-net Africa in collaboration with every Thursday (5:30/8:00 PM). see celebrity focused reality programming that ronment. Miss Safety will embody Beauty, Brains According to the promoters of the show, the iFactory, Geryology Inc and Oh Africa will be allows them to get close to the African stars project “is a no holds barred, unscripted and unand consciousness of Safety amongst the people. screening a TV reality show on the actor tamed. his image has sometimes been described they see on their screens. We are determined Amongst the objectives, the pageant will promote tagged Jim Iyke: Unscripted! The show, which that this is a need we will meet whenever we and nurture a culture of safety in all its totality, enstarted airing yesterday on AfricaMagic enter- as ‘Bad Boy’ but beneath it all, he’s as real as any can. It’s wonderful to see the connection that courage the youths by creating a role model and tainment channel on dsTV premium bouquet, celebrity can get and fans are in for one roller African audiences are making with our conticoaster ride.” create awareness amongst the general public. takes an exclusive look into the glamourous nent’s biggest stars”. and sometimes controversial life of the Anam- Meanwhile M-Net Africa Managing director
Nollywood bad boy, Jim Iyke live on screen L
Shady XL dreams big heAd of the formal release of his debut A album, fast rising artiste, Bernard Chidi Nwankwo, otherwise called Shady XL, has perfected plans to cement his arrival on the music scene. The ebonyi State-born hiphop artiste is currently promoting the video of his single entitled Well Well. Shady XL who has worked with popular producers including e Kelly and Phat e also boasts of two other singles Just Us and Hold Something. he noted, “My kind of music is basically Afro pop but I tend to infuse R&B and sometimes soul into it. My challenge still remains funding except for people who have been kind. I think at this junction, I must express my gratitude to these important personalities who have shown immense support to what I do. They are Mr. Stanley Okafor of Basalt Oil & Gas and Mr. Collins Aigbe. One can be talented but without people like this, it doesn’t count.” As far as Shady XL is concerned, music is beyond high tempo songs and club bangers. “I make music that will help people deal with their day-to-day challenges. In addition, what keeps me going is my passion for singing. A lot of people say the special thing about my songs is that I have a unique voice and that I tend to add a good dose of soul to them. And I can tell you for real that there are quite a lot for my fans in my forthcoming album.” Indeed, Shady XL’s journey has been eventful, as he stated, “It started way back as a little boy singing in church groups and school choir. So, as time went by, I expanded my target audience and the rest is history. I released a single entitled Well Well in 2005, which got a lot of airplay and attention while I was in enugu. In 2007, I moved to Lagos to begin a professional career as an artiste.” On his music influence, Shady XL who is already planning collaboration with hip life star act, Flavour, revealed that his inspiration is spontaneous. “My music is influenced by my environment and the people I meet on a day-to-day basis. Besides, my trials and travails all add up to influence me. Well, I have a range of role models according to every aspect of my life but basically in music and entertainment in general and they include Will Smith, Bob Marley and Tuface Idibia”.
Ofodile
Fiberesima kicks off search for Miss Earth Nigeria 2013 By Tony Nwanne eAuTIFuL actress and president, Actors Guild B of Nigeria, Ibinabo Fiberesima, is walking a familiar path as she has concluded plans to stage Shady XL
her own beauty pageant, Miss Earth Nigeria 2013. The actress, who has many sides to her, was once a beauty queen, which must have influenced this move in staging Miss Earth Nigeria pageant. According to her, the Miss Earth Nigeria beauty pageant is focused on preparing a brighter future for teenage girls who are interested sheltering and “SheI FuNMI ShOW” on YouTube with over a caring for the environment as well as making a thousand subscribers. career in the fashion and beauty industry. Majoring in english and Creative Arts from The pageant has since been gathering momenBabcock university till he moved to the united tum and is slated for the third quarter of 2013, States to major in Media Arts, his blogging cawhere the eventual winner will represent Nigeria reer started off as a gossip for Babcock univerat the World Miss Earth pageant in the united sity activities not excluding other universities States later this year. and the media. On the pageant, Fiberesima said, “We are not V-Channel, a spanking new entertainment leaving any stone unturned in ensuring that this channel airing on Channel 221 on Cable TV, year’s pageant becomes a success. We have been Startimes, aims at changing the phase of the hosting this pageant for a while now and I can tell entertainment world, with its diverse and exclusive packages. Other presenters on V-Chan- you that this year’s edition would be different benel are Annabel who presents Comedy, Bridget cause we are currently in talks with top dignitaries who are passionate about the environment hosts the V breakfast segment, April takes and the earth at large. charge of Celebrity Interviews, Oyinda pres“Furthermore, the Lagos State Government has ents Musicals, Zerziya anchors Lifestyle, Perlent us a listening ear”. petua presents Fashion, Papasam does the Ibinabo’s reputation as a workaholic has put the dance segment, Jude hosts e-Campus, Speens pageant on a firm footing and she has been busy anchors excite on TV, and Chemist Boy hosts working to ensure it succeeds. the Comedy challenge.
Sheifunmi joins Vchannel on Startimes what could be described as show of intent, IonNtheStartimes) management of V-Channel (Channel 221 has engaged the services of popular blogger and media personality, Sheifunmi Yusuf. Best known for covering gossip posts on celebrities, actors, musicians and other famous faces, Sheifunmi is also known for featuring upcoming artistes from different parts of the world, interviewing celebrities from hollywood. But recently he has been interviewing Nigerian artistes and updates on recent music, movies and other showbiz events. he was the official live feed blogger for the MTV Music Awards 2010, hip hop World Awards 2010/2012 and the Social Media Officer/On Air personality for Nigerian Idol diaries. he attempted a career as an actor in high school, before his blogging career. he started off as a radio host on Babcock university FM, hosting Nigerian universities radio show (Red ALeRT), while he was doing his internet show
THE GUARDIAN, Friday, April 19, 2013
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VisualArts
Victoria Udondian presenting her works to a Lagos audience during Open Studio. By Tajudeen Sowole ODERNITY and colonization may have M conspired to stunt the growth of African fabric culture internationally, reclaiming the lost glory of over five centuries-old weaving fabrics is however imminent, courtesy of Victoria Udondian’s experimentation in ancient textiles via installations. Udondian’s research experience, which spanned four years across Africa and Europe, distilled in recreation of the fabrics and exhibiting the works in the U.K, Italy and South Africa, was shared, few days ago in Lagos, with artists and art enthusiasts at an event she tagged Victoria Udondian Open Studio at Ajao Estate, Isolo, Lagos. Like using one stone to kill two birds, the gathering availed participants an opportunity to discuss challenges of documenting Africa’s forgotten textiles, in addition to undertaking critical assessment of Nigerian art landscape. Of recent, critics of Nigerian art space have been echoing the country’s reluctance to accommodate other forms of art outside the traditional practice. For Udondian, who came to Lagos in 2007, few years after graduating in Fine Art from University of Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, it was an instant escape to the highly competitive traditional art settings, a city waiting to wear the toga of Africa’s art hub. Made more impene-
Victoria
to reverse technology. However, confining her gospel of re-fabricating history to just installations or conceptual art form, without including the traditional painting on canvas may reduce the message’s mileage in a Nigerian art scene that’s so reluctant, perhaps justifiably arrogant not to give space to radical contemporary rendition. “Fabric, in its real content, most explains my thoughts”, Udondian argued. The content justifies the materials, she stressed. Contents of contemporary practice is determined by the environment in which an artist works, another section of the audience argued. However, artist and art teacher, Dr Ademola Azeez of College of Education, Technical, Akoka, 2011, Udondian and a South African, Tamilyn Lagos, drew attention of the gathering to the Young, according to the organizers, were the issue of preservation. He noted that works so only two beneficiaries. From Udondian’s significant to history such as Udondian’s work presented under the themes, Second “should be in permanent collections of governHand Museum and Venetian Portraits 2011, ment to energise social participation.” He howsome of the works she represented on slide ever asked: “But how do you preserve some of during the Lagos gathering included Nigerthe works in a situation where government is ian female attire (Buba and Iro) and Nigerian not collecting?” male attire (Buba and Sokoto). For one of Nigerian artists who are currently Quite interesting, from the Venetian tradion the high contemporary scale, designer and tion are models of both Italian and African sculptor, Raqib Bashorun, the local art landorigins as reflected in such works as Portrait of scape may not be ready for change. He noted Margherita Minguzzi, a inkjet print on d-bond that “what you (Udondian and other artists 100x165 cm 2011; Portrait of Antony Knight, pro- alike) and I are doing may not be exactly what duced in inkjet print on d-bond, 100x165 cm the country needs now”. Radical contemporary 2011; Portrait of Jacinthe Clotilde Kondje, also of art, he explained, “appears to be ahead of time inkjet print on d-bond, 100x165 cm 2011. in Nigeria. In the interim, survival of the artist Last year, Udondian took the second-hand is a priority,” he cautioned. clothing theme to Africa where she noted of a Performance artist, Jelili Atiku disagreed. He completely lost or never-existed tradition of stressed that the “survival syndrome has set us native fabric. “If any existed, there was no backward” and it’s time for artists to fight back traces of history of traditional fabric weaving by being more conceptual in their outputs. in South Africa”, she stated. As Udondian hoped for a solo art exhibition in However, from interacting with the natives Nigeria before the end of the year, the Lagos art in Johannesburg she “created Amafu Fabric – landscape may have to concede to the chang1878” an installation, of mixed textiles, paper, ing reality: currently Olu Amoda’s metal of agfabric paint, thread, Her research in South gressive expression is on display for five weeks Africa was facilitated courtesy of Bag Factory at Art21, a new space in Lagos less than a month Artists Studios’ project Visiting Artists Proafter Bashorun’s incendiary expression in gramme, which included a Garman artist, woods was shown at Terra Kulture. Mark Thomann, South Africans Kate Tarratt Some of Udondian’s recent shows include Cross, Jarett Erasmus and Briton Fiona Flynn. Pechakucha Lagos, at Goethe Institut, Lagos Their works were exhibited in a group show 2013; We Face Forward, Arts From West Africa titled Secret Art Service (SAS). Today, at the Whitworth Arts gallery, University Beyond lamenting over the depletion in of Manchester, 2012; SAS at the Bag factory StuAfrica’s native tradition of weaving textile and dios in Johannesburg, South Africa, 2012; A Kilo the mass importation of used clothing from Of Hope at the Yusuf Grillo Gallery, Yaba College Europe, an artist’s responsibility should go of Technology in Lagos, Nigeria 2011; The Green further to “confront policy makers”, a painter, Summary and Who is Wearing my T-shirt? at the Bunmi Lasaki argued during Open Studio. Centre for Contemporary Arts (CCA), Lagos, Policy making, Udondian responded is not, Nigeria, 2010; Hidden Drama, an exhibition by and should not be the headache of an artist. Catalyst Women, Arts and Science at the King’s Indeed, Udondian’s project is more of docutheatre, South Sea, UK, 2010. menting, particularly reminding the people of lost tradition, and not exactly any attempt
Open Studio... Reclaiming the glory of African fabrics trable by ‘outsiders’, the Lagos art scene, which was boosted by sudden rise in value, through auctions, could not offer her any space to grow her talent and nourish her skill. Going into more conceptual and non-traditional art, Udondian retraced her step to first love; fashion designing. “After graduating in Fine Art, I thought of researching into clothing and textile”, she told her audience during the Open Studio. Soon, Udondian discovered the depth of fashion and textile intellectualism via conceptual art. With residencies in Europe and Africa, the artist found a wider expression. In works depicting native woven fabric, Nsibidi of eastern Nigeria; to Aso Ikele 1948, inspired by an alleged excavation carried out in a part of Yoruba, of a native woven material taken to Europe almost 70 years ago; Ukara Ekpe’ Cloth series, from the Niger Delta; Amafu Fabric – 1878, possibly from native Zule of South Africa; and Kenyan Kikoy, Udondian showed her audience the vast world of African fabrics covering ages. And in the contemporary context, some of the works included what she described as “handmade paper repurpose fabric” in such a piece titled Black Lace, a recycled polythene bags, rope 2010 145cm x 335cm. However, Udondian is worried that the changing “languages of what Africans wear as fabrics, over the ages, have consequences on the perception of one’s identity”. From a conceptual and contemporary art perspective, Udondian has contributed to documenting history of African fabrics. For example, through her passion for the subject, the artist was commissioned by Whitworth Art Gallery, The University of Manchester to produce Aso Ikale from used clothes taken from UK and printed fabric as well as burlap from Nigeria. The work was one of the highlights of a group exhibition, We Face Forward at Whitworth Gallery, Manchester, last year. Out of 145 young African artists who applied for Venice, Italy-based residency Art Enclosures
THE GUArDIAN, Friday, April 19, 2013
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Literature Ebigwei: Promoting the game of Chess sponsored them to chess tournaments where they excelled. He used to pay their affiliation fees… He made sure that not only Nigerian but other African countries continued to be relevant. Without Ebigwei, there would be no chess in Africa today. It takes that kind of sacrifice, commitment and passion to give birth to an activity like chess and to sustain it”. Ebigwei’s son, Olisa says of his father, “Concerning chess, that is his passion. I can say chess is another child of my father. He is so passionate about chess that he gave up family time for it… He goes as far as secondary schools and the armed forces to recruit people to play chess. He was eating and waking up chess. As a matter of fact, his practice as medical doctor also suffered because of chess”. However, Chess: A National Legacy is a fine tribute to the efforts of Dr. Ebigwei in his pioneering role in the formation of chess game in Nigeria. Although he is now retired from active participation, what he established still lingers on and is the bedrock on which other achievements are currently being built in the game of chess. However, the book Chess: A National Legacy suffers serious editorial flaws. The editors did a shoddy job of stringing the story together. They kept going round the same things over and over again and repeating the superlative achievements of Ebigwei. For instance, there’s hardly a need for this, “So, who is the one, that one who brought the chess game to Nigeria? Who is the one, that one who does not feel but believes that he did more to chess establishment in Nigeria? Who is he who gave his home, who gave his job, who gave his knowledge, who gave his money, who gave his all to the transportation of chess game across the
By Anote Ajeluorou Dr. Silvan Ebigwei, the intellectually FlongOr stimulating game of chess has been a lifepassion to which he devoted both his time and resources to develop in Nigeria. Ebigwei first encountered chess as a 15 year-old schoolboy at the famous St. Patrick College, Asaba in 1960. His American teacher, Mr. r. Scarpura introduced him to the game of royalty. He showed early promise when he beat another American teacher, a friend of his mentor. The book, Chess: A National Legacy (Worldwide Controls Nig. Ltd, Lagos; 2011) is edited by Emiko Bake, Isaac O. Isaac, Sony Neme and Uzo Odikpo. From that early start, through university and adult life, Ebigwei took to chess with uncommon zeal. At the University of Lagos in the 70s, he started organising small groups or clubs of like minds. Even when he did his post-graduate studies, he never let go of chess. As medical practitioner, chess still ran deep in his veins. Indeed, Mr. Chess as he became fondly called, Ebigwei is reputed to have single-handedly founded the game of chess in Nigeria and brought it to international reckoning and recognition. The Opanam, Delta State native, also took Nigeria and some African Chess Federations to the international body. As he put it, “I became the president of College of Medicine chess club in 1973 with Boniface Adeniran as my secretary and between us we mapped out a strategy, which led to the formation of All Nigerian Universities Chess Association, with me as the first chairman. And since then I was resolved to popularise the game among intellectuals of this country. One of the major assignments executed in those infant years of chess in Nigeria was to invite the president of the World Chess Association, Prof. Max Euwe of Holland in 1975”. According to the editors, “Prof. Euwe’s acceptance to come to Nigeria on the invitation of a friend, Dr. William Zeylstra, then royal Dutch Ambassador to Nigeria, and his eventual arrival opened up a new page in Ebigwei’s marble-cast of achievements for the chess game in Nigeria. Euwe’s visit aided tremendously the formation of Nigeria Chess Federation with world renowned economist, Dr. Pius Okigbo as president, Dr. J.T. Cole as vice president and Dr. Ebigwei as secretary-general; Ebigwei later became president. The same year, Nigeria was affiliated to the World Chess Federation”. Ebigwei’s towering achievements included affiliating the Nigerian Chess Federation to the world body, starting the 38-member nation
POETRY A Luminous Shadow Commonwealth Chess Association and helping other African countries like Libya to gain affiliation into the world body. Ebigwei also helped to fight Apartheid regime in South Africa when the chess federation money was invested in a South African company. He mounted serious campaign with other colleagues and got the money withdrawn eventually. As a pioneer in the game of chess, he helped to plant the game in all schools and extend the frontiers of the game in the country. He encountered certain difficulties in penetrating the usual bureaucracy. But he forged
ahead nonetheless. An exceptionally brilliant fellow, Ebigwei sums up his involvement with chess thus, “I founded and brought chess to Nigeria and posterity is there to tell the story”. Among those who bear witness to Ebigwei’s legacy in the game of chess is a former NTA director, Dr. Victoria Ezeokoli, who, through the death of her son, who was a young master at the sport, became chairman of Nigeria Chess Federation. She states, “Everybody in chess in Nigeria will say he is their mentor. Some of them he picked up from secondary schools, coached and mentored them, and
Newton Denila, The Blessings Of Godly Fear By Maryrose Ukah EWTON Denila, in his book, The N Blessings of Godly Fear (Joecom7 International, Lagos; 2012) highlights the reasons for the problems in the world being the result of a lack of the fear of God. As Denila explains, there’s the reverential or respect kind of Godly fear. He argues that people should reverence God not just because of judgment but because of who He is. When people respect and honour Him, then things start to work well with them. The author notes that the fear of God will make people to depart from evil and make them to hate evil. He notes, “When the fear of God takes over the hearts of men it will make them depart from iniquity or hate evil. People should fear God not because of His punishment but fear Him because of the benefits”. The author also says that there are blessings to be derived in this life and in the world to come when people fear the Lord. For example, when parents do evil, they get the punishment here on earth. Their children will also get
the punishment too if the parents do not repent from such sins. The book identifies issues such as pride being evil that can bring judgment and punishment. The benefits of Godly fear include the angels of the Lord encamping roundabout believers and delivering them. There is no want of anything when people fear the Lord because the angels of God are there to minister to the needs of people. The fear of the Lord includes the following: the person will be blessed, he or she will eat the fruit of his orher labour of his or her hands, he or she will be happy, it shall be well with him or her his or her children shall be as fruitful vine and his wife and children shall be like olive plants about his table. He cites the example of Jesus Christ who had respect for God; he honoured God. He says people who fear God usually have their prayers answered by God. If you don’t respect God, you cannot continue in His word; if you don’t respect God, you cannot continue to do or keep His word. So it is the fear of God that will make you
continue in the word of God. The author urges people to fear God and depart from iniquity. Jesus departed from evil even though he was tempted in all areas yet he did not sin because he feared God. He respected God; he honoured God. When we honor God, we will keep His word. God is all and all so let Him be your fear. Let God be your fear and let Him be your dread. Let
God be the only one you should be afraid of, and not the devil and his cohorts in their works. The author asks a fundamental question on how we deal with the spirit of fear? He says by being established in righteousness (your righteousness is of God by faith). When people walk in the fear of God, and keep his commandments, the blessings of God will locate and manifest in their lives. The Blessings of Godly Fear is a must read book, not for Christians alone but for everyone who desires to have the blessings of Godly fear in their lives. The book is supported with various scriptural passages to buttress some of the points highlighted. The book is written in simple and clear English that makes it easy for understanding. Pastor Newton O. Denila is the General Overseer of Grace For All Ministries (a.k.a House of Favour). He was an electronics/telecoms engineer and has held managerial positions in a multinational organization before he resigned and went into fulltime ministry.
By Kayode Are
Have been there a few times Over the Himalaya of myth and self-doubt Flying stridently but not sure of the goal in sight Above the deserts, oceans and mounds A luminous shadow looms on the horizon beyond An unseen presence which beguiles hope and fear Across the Sahara in the scorching heat A timeless emptiness unfolds amidst the dunes The shadow of death winks at a nomad confused By the drought of thoughts and a horizon so distant An arid land watered by streams in the ages past Nothing stands, nothing lasts; only the passage of time Astride the oceans, seas and coasts, waves hit the rocks Denuding the base of the mound to swallow the beach The slow and strident frenzy erodes the stable splendour Which the murk, brackish water of life provides a universe So predictably unsure, based on chance and seasonal temper Dimming the flipping glimmer of a brighter gale ahead Floating in the misty clouds as if on steady course Above plateaus, boulders and rock clefts of all types A small oasis glitters amidst the ups and downs A pretty landscape dotted with fragments and greens Yet scarred by a world mirrored in the silhouette of a grave Defining the inelastic limits of what we know or crave
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THE GUARDIAN, Friday, April 19, 2013
Film Klinks Studio to deliver Africa’s movie awards to global audience By Anote Ajeluorou
Tomorrow, at the Cultural Centre in Yenagoa, capital of Bayelsa State, the Africa Movie Academy Awards (AMAA) will be held and audiences across the world will be treated to the African version of the American Oscars and the British BAFTA. One man who will deliver the super classy award show to millions of viewers across the world is Klinks Studio boss, Mr. Kingsley Ogoro, also known as Sir Kay Delivering a world-class show HIS is just like the past when we produced events. Now, it’s not just Nigerians that will see what we do. AMAA is a continent-wide event that even goes to Europe, America and the Caribbean. AMAA is an organisation that is well recognised and formidable. AMAA, I mean Peace Anyiam-Osigwe, came up to us to say, ‘look, we’re so big and we want an award that is of the American Idol, American Oscars, Grammy level; that AMAA is Africa, Nigeria thing and we want it to go beyond these borders to outside where Nollywood has huge audience’. She wants the award made in Nigeria but by Nigerians. At first I was hesitant but I eventually said, ‘yeah, we can do it’. It occurred to me that that was the challenge that drove me in the past in everything I was doing. It will offer me a chance to raise the stakes in the industry yet again. This is our own AMAA and somehow it can be done in Nigeria by a Nigerian; that is, delivering a world-class show to the rest of the world. It was the same drive that made us do such box office hits like Across the Niger and Osuofia in London. We have just brought in the facilities from the U.S. and we have been running rehearsals with them in the past week with the facilities here in Yenagoa, venue of the show. That is how it is done internationally; we’re running the facilities with cast and crew to ensure hitch-free operations. We are doing it with high-end, professional standard, state-of-theart equipment that we ordered specifically for the show. This time AMAA is all out for the best; that is why they called me in.
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No challenges for me until now ’VE been somewhat quiet because I’m more of a creative businessman. I have my background in advertising and corporate world; I got into filmmaking because there was a gat that needed to be filled up; and that is what usually inspires me, the need to take up challenge in anything I set out to do. So, it’s not about the money, but money comes out of it at the end of the day. My main quests were that I’d be the first to premiere my movie at a major cinema and that the president of my country be present. It happened, Across the Niger, which is about creating peace for the country was successfully premiered. Former President, Olusegun Obasanjo through Information Minister, Chukwuemeka Chikelu, got interested and came for the premiere in Abuja. The only thing he felt was missing was the Nigerian flag. He amazed at the movie and adopted it for the Heart of Africa Project campaign. It got the AMAA Heart of Africa Movie Project ever award. After the premiere of Across the Niger, I got a call for its premiere in London because the organisers said it was the only movie that met international standards. It was premiered in Leicester Square in London. It was a great success; it attracted a huge crowd. Apart from that God also added a greater value to my moviemaking efforts. I shot a movie that I took for granted, Osuofia in Lon-
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Scene from Ogoro’s movie, Across the Niger don. I just shot the movie for the fun of it, and it became the highest selling movie ever in the country. So, after these had gone through there were no more challenges to surmount in the industry; I became a yardstick for which my colleagues measured their moviemaking craft. Now, we’re on a different scale; the challenge is not for too much of movies to be shot. But training people to shoot movies; not just taking them to school to learn about movies. We’re bringing experts from abroad on retainership, who will be part of our team as hands-on persons to train these young people. Those we will train will be made to work with us on productions; they will work on the scripts and produce them with our supervision and support in terms of funding and everything else it takes. So, Klinks Studio will shoot movies but that will be through our young ones. It’s not about Kingsley Ogoro going on location, no. I will go to location, but not as before with me as the driving force. But it will be done by passing on the baton to younger ones. I’ve gone past that stage; I’ve won every available award in the industry. So, producing is a not my motivation right now. So, the challenge is not about winning awards, but helping with the wealth God has given me to impact on younger filmmakers in the country. The challenge today is how to give back to society through the medium in which I have been successful. And that is why I took on the AMAA job because it’s about showing what stuff we’re made of. The AMAA job is not about the money. The woman in charge of AMAA, Peace has set a standard, which is that she wants Nigeria to be the
Ogoro greatest country in the world in terms of entertainment, and she said to me, ‘Kingsley, I want this award to be one of the best and I want you to deliver it’. And I saw in her somebody who wants to make Nigeria proud and I bought into her vision. Film academy OST of the people in Nollywood today are my products; they came from me. Now, I’m setting up a training studio to train more people in the technical area where Nollywood is lacking in manpower as part of leaving a legacy in the industry. With our new studio, we want to start training young artistes for the industry who can take over from us. I’ve been the one pioneering all the digital editing in use today in the country. Today, I want to impart my knowledge onto younger ones coming up in the industry by setting up an academy to train younger ones and use them as production fronts. We’ll recruit young people, train them, fund them to produce technically sound productions so they can have income from start. At the production, we’ll guide them with the experience we have. The academy is at 50, Tafawa Balewa Crecent, Surulere, Lagos complete with everything needed to make technically sound movies. You know how I entered the industry; I didn’t enter because I wanted to make money. I entered because I wanted to up the standards for everybody to follow; but we’ve got to that level again when we need to move to another level in the industry to set standards again in the technical aspect of filmmaking and handing over properly. There are a lot of young people who are interested in
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Content has been the only driving force for Nollywood. Even when the pictures are not good, people still strain to watch our films because of the content we have – the ability to get the whole of Latin America, America and everywhere to sit down and watch our movies no matter what the quality is
filmmaking but they don’t know how to go about it. We need to tap onto them because they will be the ones to carry on from us. So, we’ll use our equipment, our wealth and our experience to empower them because they are our people; that way they can stand on their own. We’re simply magicians in Nollywood HEN you say other countries are overtaking us in filmmaking in Africa, it means we have not been as technically and creatively good as filmmaking countries like Britain, U.S., France, China and the rest. Nollywood became number two because of our unique storytelling style, our content. Everybody is applauding Nollywood because out of nothing it created something; that is what makes us. There are a hundred better movies from Canada or China or France, but it is the idea that it is in Nollywood that you can compare a movie shot with $10,000 with one shot with $200 million from America. In fact, there’s no basis for comparison; but that is the reality. So, there’s no comparison; we do achieve things here with nothing. We’re simply magicians! Now, we simply have to move to the next level by improving on the technical input. That’s why somebody like Kingsley Ogoro is saying, ‘we’re going technical; we’re going professional in the areas where we’re lacking such as editing, sound and lighting’. Content has been the only driving force for Nollywood. Even when the pictures are not good, people still strain to watch our films because of the content we have – the ability to get the whole of Latin America, America and everywhere to sit down and watch our movies no matter what the quality is. But we must begin to raise the technical standards; that is where I’m coming in this time around. Even with South Africa’s better technical quality, they are not number two in the world. Now consider this: If we have half the technical quality that America has, America film industry will be in trouble!
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ThE GUARDIAN, Friday, April 19, 2013
ARTS
Arthouse COSON Music Foundation for launch
hE Copyright society of Nigeria (COSON), Music Foundation T will be formerly launched on Wednesday, May 22, with activities beginning from May 19 to culminate on the 25th. The launch is a key objective of the COSON week this year.
Lion of Judah continues to tour cinemas in Lagos
hE animated movie, Lion of Judah will be launched at cineT mas in Lagos today and will show in all cinemas in Lagos for a month. The movie, which was originally shot in English, has been translated to Pigin English to reach a wide Nigerian audience, the first of kind in Nigeria.
Amoda to exhibit
LU Amoda’s Metal of Aggressive Expression opens at Art21, a O new space for art exhibition on the ground floor of Eko hotel & Suites. It will show for the next four weeks.
Visual poetry for exhibition
.S.-based artist, Tunde Afolayan’s show Visual Poetry, a solo U art exhibition of paintings at Watersworth Art Gallery in Lekki Phase 1, Lekki, Lagos, will open tomorrow. The exhibition will end on April 27, 2013.
Installation arts for exhibition
Fashion installation by Gozi-led U.Mi-1 will be showARTingand at Freedom Park from April 30 to 12th of May.
Young African Leaders Summit and honours holds April 26
OUNG African Leaders Conference Tagged Youth: Deliver the Y Future, with the theme Peace, Entrepreneurship and Leadership Conference, a forum where creativity and knowledge commingle, holds in Nsukka on April 26. It’s organised by Young African Leaders Network, hope Vanguard, Lion FM 91.1, University of Nigeria and the Office of the Vice-Chancellor, UNN in association with other well meaning organizations. It will feature sessions and presentations by seasoned speakers, leaders, artists, entrepreneurs, educationists, writers, filmmakers, actors and musicians from different parts of Africa and beyond.
2Chainz to perform in Lagos
MERICAN rapper, 2Chainz will be in Lagos on June 23rd to A perform at D’Kings Men Concert, which will coincide with D’Banj’s birthday celebration. The concert will hold at Eko hotel and will also future D’Banj, J-Sol, Kay Switch, Fally Ipupa and Olamide.
Women dancers at the Anioma Cultural Festival
-Compiled by Florence Utor
Caught in the Storm for presentation tomorrow By Gbenga Salau hE public presentation of the book, Caught in the Storm by Amaka Ezenwankwo will be held tomorrow, Saturday, April 20, at St Leo Catholic Church Conference Room, Ikeja, Lagos. Time is 10am. The author said she was inspired to write the book because of her reflection on the behavioural patterns of present day youths. She said, “Looking at what is happening in our society, especially as it concerns the young ones; immorality is at its peak. The quest for sudden
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Ezenwankwo wealth amongst the youth is alarming. Most times in their quest for quick wealth they get caught in the storms of life due to their own misad-
venture. “As a way of curbing this youthful menace, I decided to write this novel so that the young ones coming behind me would learn from Sandra’s (the protagonist) story. “We the young ones are so keen about freedom and the only time we seem to have it is when we gain admission into tertiary institutions.” Ezenwankwo noted that freedom was often misused as undergraduates get caught in the web of peer influence, as they want to keep pace with what was in vogue among others.
Tunde Ayeni, (left), Divisional Sales Manager (South West), Olusegun Koleoso, Business Development Manager, Chief Keith Richards, MD/CEO, all of Promasidor Nigeria Limited; Tochukwu Oranu, winner of the star prize, Don Jazzy, Loya Milk Brand Ambassador and Kachi Onubogu, Commercial Director, Promasidor Nigeria Limited during the presentation of star prize in the on-going Loya Milk It’s What’s inside that Matters Promo in Lagos on wednesday.
NCAC recovers Abuja Crafts Village from FCT ministry From Bridget Chiedu Onochie, Abuja hE recent issuance of T Certificate of Occupancy to the National Council for Arts and Culture by Abuja Geographic Information System (AGIS) finally brought the long-drawn battle over ownership of Arts and Crafts Village to rest. Consequently, work is expected to commence on the 3.24 hectare-land located in the Central Business District of FCT to forestall further encroachment. The disputed land was allocated to the Council in 1987, but successive ministers of the Federal Capital Territory had laid claim to it, with each successive government selling out part of the land before
it was finally returned to the original owners. In an event to officially present the Certificate of Occupancy to the Minister of Tourism, Culture and National Orientation, Chief Edem Duke, Chief Executive Officer, National Council for Arts and Culture, (NCAC), Mr. M.M. Maidugu, stated that in spite of the Council’s meager budget, work would begin on the land in line with original plans. Maidugu noted that when the arts and crafts village is fully developed, it would accommodate, among other facilities, the Council’s permanent office block, structure for daily exhibition for arts and crafts, children’s facilities, semi-permanent pavilion for
the yearly regional market (Arts and Crafts Expo) as well as performing theatre. his words: “We need to have structures that will house the permanent office of National Council for Arts and Culture and also, that which will house a lot of arts, culture and crafts activities on daily basis. Also to be included in the structures are children facilities, where they can come and see cultural activities and have their own programmes. “On completion, the land will have a permanent structure for the yearly African Arts and Crafts Expo (AFAC). Our idea is to be able to create a space here that any visitor to Abuja will go back with the memory of our endowed arts and crafts.”
Maidugu presents the land’s Certificate of Occupancy to Minister of Tourism, Culture and National Orientation, Chief Edem Duke.
THE GUARDIAN, Friday, April 19, 2013
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AutoWheels Next generation automobiles for 2015 Stories by Taiwo Hassan HE automobile industry T worldwide is at the verge of exhibiting new high-tech innovations that may beat consumers’ immaginations by the year 2015. ACURA NSX When: (2015) As the crucial halo car for Honda’s premium brand, the mid-engine Acura NSX will combine the magic of the original, aluminum-bodied NSX sports car with the technology of a hybrid whose electric motors power the front wheels and provide for torque vectoring, as well. Think Porsche 918 Spyder at one-seventh the price. The NSX is expected in showrooms by 2015 and will look much like the 2012 concept, which was updated with a sumptuous two-seat interior for the 2013 Detroit show. United States-based designers and engineers are leading development of the sports car, which Acura will assemble in Ohio. The ‘15 NSX is expected to have a 3.7-liter V-6, two electric motors for the front wheels, and a rear motor providing a combined 480 hp fed through a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. A 370-hp, 3.5-litre version of this powertrain is found in the all-wheel-drive iteration of the Acura RLX luxury sedan. Late last year, American Honda’s President, Tetsuo Iwamura, hinted that since the RLX is also available in nonhybrid form with frontwheel drive, it’s possible that we could see a nonhybrid NSX with rear-wheel drive only. True, it would have less power, but it would be lighter and, thus, very true to the original NSX. BMW M3/M4 When: 2014 (coupe, sedan), early 2015 (convertible) Whereas the 3 Series is known internally (and among BMW fanboys) as the F30, the M3 takes the development code F80 and the M4 is the F82. Ever since the arrival of the new BMW 3-series sedan (and maybe even before), those who worship the blue-andwhite roundel have been waiting for the next M3-and M4, as it turns out. With the standard two-door’s change in designation from 3series to 4-series, the two-door M versions will follow suit: the
coupe and convertible will be called M4; the sedan will remain M3. The upcoming M3/M4 is slated to switch from the current normally aspirated 4.0-litre V8 back to a straight six, albeit one bolstered by twin turbos. Displacing 3.0 litres, its output of approximately 420 hp will be slightly higher than the current 414 hp, but M is not gunning for ultimate bragging rights in this department (leaving that to Mercedes-AMG). Instead, it has focused on reducing weight and improving overall performance-as well as fuel economy. It has a six-speed stick along with an eight-speed dualclutch automatic, which supplants the current sevenspeed. Aluminum (door skins) and carbon fiber (roof, hood, trunk lid, and brake discs) serve the cause of weight reduction. The goal is to bring the weight below 3300 pounds, down from 3700 today. What about an über-M4, akin to AMG’s Black Series line of cars? BMW would point out that it has had the M3 GTS/CRT models, but those cars were never sold in the United States. Bentley Falcon When: 2015 Plans for Bentley’s first-ever SUV hit a bump in the road when the EXP 9 F preview concept suffered cripplingly bad public reaction, but the project has been merely delayed, not derailed. The exterior is being redone by Luc Donckerwolke, Bentley’s recently installed chief designer, so what you see here is the concept’s interior, which is likely to remain intact as the vehicle transitions to production. The Bentley SUV will share a platform with the next-generation Volkswagen Touareg, Audi Q7, and Porsche Cayenne. Conveniently, Bentley’s current head of engineering, Rolf Frech, comes from Porsche, where he was director of engineering during initial development of the Cayenne. Frech recently spoke with us about his role at Bentley and the new SUV. Buick Riviera When: Late 2015 The seminal ‘63-’65 Riviera was a design icon. The Enclave is currently Buick’s most
Buick Riviera
expensive offering and the LaCrosse its biggest sedan, but neither is a proper halo model for the brand. When General Motors reregistered the Grand National and GNX names, rumors erupted that a hot-rod Buick would return. GM has reregistered the Riviera name, too, and it’s this car that would best serve as a halo Buick. Folks in the know tell us that the new-age Riviera is a larger four-door coupe—perhaps much like our illustration—in the mold of the MercedesBenz CLS-class, BMW 6-series Gran Coupe, and Audi A7, although considerably cheaper. Overall length will be in the 195-to-200-inch range, placing it in the same full-size category as the Chrysler 300, for example. We expect the venerable 3.6-liter gasoline directinjected V-6 to be the only engine. A Riviera GNX could be the division’s riff on the Cadillac V-series, but it would likely have a turbocharged 3.6-liter V-6 instead of a smallblock V-8. The question is which rearwheel-drive GM platform the Riv would ride on. GM’s flexible Alpha architecture already underpins the Cadillac ATS and will support the next Chevrolet Camaro and
Jaguar F-type coupe
Cadillac CTS with its longerwheelbase iteration. But even in that form, it might be too small. The Chevy SS’s Holden Zeta platform is larger, but its longterm future is uncertain. Cadillac’s Omega platform for the upcoming S-class fighter makes the most sense. That may sound expensive for a Buick, but the added volume would bring down its per-unit cost, and it would recall top-ofthe-line Buicks from the time of the early Roadmaster to the 1963-1977 Riviera, which were only a half notch below Cadillac in prestige. Ford F-150 When: 2014 Ford’s next F-150 faces quite a
balancing act. It must maintain supremacy as the nation’s best-selling vehicle without diminishing the kind of profit margins that come from cheap-to-produce body-onframe construction. That’s good reason to question rumors that the new F150, as previewed by the Atlas concept, will be made mostly of aluminum. The hood and maybe the door panels, sure, but whole bodies and frames? Seems unlikely. We do expect the 2015 F-150 to grab design cues from the Atlas, such as its profile, huge grille, and LED head- and taillamps. A next-generation EcoBoost engine powers the concept,
and although Ford won’t elaborate on what that means, stop/start technology will be part of the package. The six-speed automatic in the Atlas suggests that Ford won’t follow the new Ram with an eight-speed. Features such as active grille shutters, adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, blind-spot warning, lanekeeping assist, trailer-backup assist, power-deployable running boards, and an electronic parking brake are more likely. The concept’s active wheel shutters and dropdown front chin spoiler wouldn’t help a tall vehicle with so much extra space around the tires.
Fashola opens maiden auto stakeholders forum State Governor LhasAGOS Babatunde Raji Fashola concluded plans to declare open today the maiden edition of the auto stakeholders’ forum, which aims to chart the way forward for the nation’s auto industry at the Federal Palace Hotel Victoria Island, Lagos. Fashola, according to the organisers, would be speaking extensively on the impact of the state’s new traffic laws, especially on
how it has instilled orderliness and discipline among Lagosians. Specifically, the event was powered by the Lagos State Ministry of Transportation, in conjunction with On Wheels Magazine for the industry stakeholders. According to the organisers, the theme of the forum is: “Transportation: The key to economic prosperity and sustainable growth.” Speaking on the event, the Chief Executive Officer of
Fashola
Beachouse Ventures, Jabez Babatunde Aina-Scott, said
Fashola has given his word to participate, adding that he will be rubbing minds with chief executive officers in transportation and related businesses as well as industry on policy matters in a convivial environment. “Although, the governor had had many opportunities to hold discussions with members of the public on the new state traffic laws, this latest round of talks promises to be different from others,” Aina-Scott said.
He also explained that under the platform, the state Ministry of Transportation plans to discuss the administration’s various plans at bringing continued semblance of orderliness and civic obedience to the transportation business culture of Lagos State. Expected to participate at the forum are key auto industry players, which include transport magnates, top managers of haulage
and logistics companies, fleet managers and private motor transport operators as well as public transport unions and representatives. Aina-Scott, however added that apart from players in the transport sector, the organisers have made efforts to include financial institutions and their counterparts in the insurance and leasing houses who are favourably disposed to funding the growth of the transportation industry in the country.
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THE GUARDIAN, Friday, April 19, 2013
3D printed car
First 3D printed car hits auto market in 2015 Stories by Taiwo Hassan T might just be the precursor to the next industrial revolution and slowly but surely, 3D printing is expanding its presence into the realm of manufacturing. Now it seems that one of the first major industries to benefit from 3D printing is the same one that spawned the assembly line revolution – the automotive industry. Israeli company Stratasys, already a major player in the field and its subsidiary, RedEye On Demand, will be part of a project aimed at putting the first 3D printed car on the roads within two years, in partnership with KOR EcoLogic. “A future where 3D printers build cars may not be far off after all,” says Jim Bartel, VicePresident of Stratasys and RedEye On Demand.
I
“Jim Kor and his team at KOR EcoLogic had a vision for a more fuel-efficient car that would change how the world approaches manufacturing and today we’re achieving it. URBEE 2, the name of the car, shows the manufacturing world that anything really is possible. There are few design challenges (3D printing) capabilities can’t solve.” KOR EcoLogic will be in charge of the design end, building every inch of the car using computer aided design software. The design will then be turned into reality using RedEye On Demand and Stratasys printers. While standard cars have hundreds or even thousands of small parts, the URBEE 2 will be built using only 40 extremely complex interlocking pieces, made possible by
3D printing. The material used to build the car will be a strong but lightweight plastic and the two-passenger vehicle will be able to travel at speeds of up to 70mph. According to Bartel, the car will also be highly fuel efficient. To prove it, Bartel explains, his team will try to set a world record by traveling in the car from San Francisco to New York City on only 10 gallons of fuel. “As a mechanical engineer, I’ve always believed we could use technology to help us solve some of society’s greatest challenges, like minimising our dependence on oil and reducing ozone emissions,” says Jim Kor, President and Senior Designer for Winnipeg-based KOR EcoLogic. He added: “How cool is it that
American manufacturing can evolve to tackle these challenges head-on? Our team is excited to launch URBEE 2, putting a next-generation vehicle on the road that will eventually be sold to the public.” URBEE 2 was preceded by URBEE 1, a prototype built entirely using 3D printing in 2011.
While serving as proof to 3D printing’s potential, the car had no side mirrors or windshield wipers – both of which will be included in its updated version. “With the Urbee 1 project, I learned that product design is nearly unencumbered by considerations on how parts can be made with digital manufacturing. That liberation is
incredibly powerful and holds a lot of potential for the future of manufacturing,” says Kor. .ORG-Connection: NoCamels.com is the leading news website on Israeli innovations in English. It covers all the latest Israeli innovations in the fields of technology, health, environment and lifestyle.
ELAN plans fleet management conference HE Equipment Leasing and Towers, Lagos, between Executive Officer of Fleetcube, T South Africa, Michael Association of Nigeria April 24th and 26th, 2013. The programme is divided Crankshaw; Managing holds the first ever fleet management conference in Lagos, with the theme “The Role of Fleet Management in Achieving Operational Efficiency.” The programme will take place at the Sheraton Hotels
into Business and Technical sessions. The one day business session is expected to cover paper presentations to be handled by renowned experts including Managing Director and Chief
Director of ATC Nigeria Limited, Adeoye Ojuoko; Lagos Sector Commander, Federal Roads Safety Corps, Nseobong Akpabio and Managing Director of C&I Leasing Plc, Emeka Ndu.
Firm introduces two brand vehicles into Nigerian market FAO CICA Nigeria Limited, C distributors of Great Wall range of vehicles has unveiled two new models into the Nigerian market, the Haval H5 SUV and the upgraded Wingle Pick up. According to the company, these vehicles were already on display at its showrooms nation wide. Haval H5 is a new developed city SUV based on the mature Haval SUV platform. The exterior design is smart and the sharp headlights are of the same as Mazda XC7. The car adopts a design of streamline and muscular appearance with exquisite beauty of curves. The radiator grille gels well with the lower air dam and on the lower part of the bumper are round fog lamps. From the side, the SUV looks great with a high waist line and the oversized wheel arches which cover the big 17-inch rims. The hood flows seamlessly into the waistline while the prominent contour line under the door handle extends from the front wheel arches to the rear of the vehi-
cle. Encompassed with high reliability, high security, low fuel consumption and high emission standard, everything looks perfect and the Haval H5’s strong proportions disguise its origins. Equipped with a Mitsubishi sourced 2.4-litre petrol engine which develops 200/25003000 Nm/rpm of torque, internationally the SUV is available with a five-speed manual transmission. There is also a low range gearbox which proves useful for off road use. Commercial Manager, CFAO CICA Nigeria, Idris Siyaka, described the Haval H5 as Great Wall’s “icing on the cake.” It is trendy and would definitely change people’s perception of SUV’s in Nigeria,” he said. Continuing, Siyaka added: “Take it off road, and you will be surprised at the kind of beating that the Haval can take. Although, we won’t recommend a jungle expedition in this car yet, we expect that the H5 will competently tackle the demands of construction sites, mines, and estates. There is a prevailing sense of ruggedness coming from its chassis,
Haval H5 and the amazing pliancy of its suspension makes it extremely suitable to be used as a workhorse that you can punish without remorse. While speaking on the upgraded Wingle Pick up, Siyaka explained that Great
Wall has raised the quality of its vehicles to highest standard in their segments with array of quality materials. “Great Wall wants to be recognised as a premium brand, hence it has improved in quality with the brand phi-
losophy of focus, dedication and specialisation’’. The Wingle has a admirable interior materials as well as intuitive controls and extensive number of standard and optional features that distinguishes the new pickup.
The overall impression is of a rugged and potentially longlasting vehicle that should look after daily transportation and leisure needs of family and fleet users for years to come.
THE GUARDIAN, Friday, April 19, 2013
AUTOWHEELS 45
BMW vehicles go greener on fewer cylinders, less gasoline
A BMW i8 plug-in hybrid sports coupe
MW is working on the litB tle engine that could or more accurately create an efficient fleet of cars that are still a blast to drive. I recently tested three BMW vehicles, each representing a different prong of the Munichbased company’s green efforts. First, I got a chance to drive a test car with an odd and surprising three-cylinder engine. This efficient engine will eventually be put into the company’s future hybrid sports car, the i8. Next came a diesel-powered version of the 3 Series, the company’s perennially-heralded sedan. Lastly, I spent a week in the X1, the company’s smallestever SUV, offered with a fourcylinder engine. BMW, which has long touted itself as the “Ultimate Driving Machine,” a few years ago came out with the tag line “Efficient Dynamics. Less Emissions. More Driving Pleasure.” At the time I thought it was just green speak. However unlike some competitors, the company has rolled out a steady stream of models with alternative powertrains. These days you can buy a 5 Series with a 2.0litre, four-cylinder engine; an X5 SUV powered by diesel and a hybrid 7 Series executive sedan. The company has also performed limited consumer testing with all-electric 1 Series coupes. Just before last week’s New York International Auto Show, I went to BMW’s U.S. headquarters in Woodcliff Lake, New Jersey to meet several engineers from Germany who are developing a new, 1.5-litre, turbocharged, three-cylinder engine. Such a small engine would seem to be anathema for a company known for inline six-cylinders, which have a distinct sound and feel. Yet BMW’s engineers pointed out that mechanically and sonically, the three-cylinder is more similar to a six-cylinder than a four - basically, it’s a six-cylinder lopped in half. They said the smaller engine will produce between five and 15 per cent
less C02 emissions than the four-cylinder. It will first appear in BMW’s i8 plug-in hybrid sports coupe, slated for production next year. The i8 looks suitably mean and fast in a science fiction kind of way, and will be powered by both the three-cylinder engine and an electric motor. Mini Cooper With no i8 test mule available, I made do with a handbuilt three-cylinder installed in a European-spec 1 Series hatchback. (BMW has no plans to release a threebanger 1 Series, they say. I wouldn’t be surprised to find
the small engine in a Mini Cooper in the near future, though.) From a hard start, the turbo on the engine took a moment to spool up, but it was punchy and confident as it reached peak power. The engine also sounded throatier and rawer than a fourcylinder, almost like a rally car from the 1980s. The engineers said it was tuned to 174 horsepower and 199 pound-feet of torque as tested, but that it would be more powerful in the i8. Also on hand was a 328d, a 3 Series model powered by a 2.0- liter turbo-charged fourcylinder diesel engine. This
engine is familiar to Europeans, and the 328d will make its U.S. debut in the fall. (The six-cylinder 335d was sold here for a short time.) The engine runs on ultralow-sulfur diesel, and should get about 32 miles per gallon in the city and as much as 45 mpg on the highway. Horsepower is 180, with 280 pound-feet of torque. It will also be offered as an allwheel-drive and as a wagon. Motoring around some New Jersey hills, I was pleased. The diesel 328 isn’t fast (60 mph arrives in some seven seconds), but it is awash in low-end grunt.
Freeway commutes will surely see fewer fuel stops. To see how efficient dynamics translate to the real world, I turned to a production vehicle, the 2013 modelyear X1 xDrive28i. (Base of $32,500; $45,595 as tested.) The X1 is built on the chassis of the small 1 Series coupe, and it’s a bit of a griffin: Taller than a sedan, fatter than a wagon, not quite a SUV. I like the idea of a smaller, lighter SUV. The all-wheeldrive X1 weighs around 3,700 pounds and gets 22 mpg city, 33 highway. Compare that to the X3’s 4,100 pounds and 21, 28
mpg, and you’ve got a good case for smaller vehicles. The available four-cylinder, with 240 hp, is rarely found wanting. Unfortunately, the X1 excels at nothing. It has a similar ground clearance to a sedan; doesn’t handle nearly as well as the regular 128i coupe (too much body roll); and is homely. An awkward rear storage cover impedes you from stacking up stuff in the back. The X1 is a good reminder for both BMW and potential buyers that efficiency alone doesn’t make a great car. It may be greener, but it isn’t a blast to drive.
General Motors introduces Cadillac’s ATS Sport Sedan Series By Taiwo Hassan ADILLAC said it has just released a brand new sports sedan known as the ATS, which according to its management, “it’s a true-blue driver’s car to drive.” As a compact with all-wheeldrive, it’s a major release for Cadillac and its parent General Motors (GM), potentially proving that they can make an up market sedan with European-style sports car chops. The longstanding champion of this totally subjective concept is the BMW 3 Series. Little wonder that Cadillac took careful target at the BMW 3, mimicking its general dimensions and engine sizes. The 2.0-liter, turbo-charged four-cylinder starts at $36,700, while its 3.6-liter V-6 model with all of the options cost $55,000. The ATS is a compact sedan and small by today’s standards. The cabin is sized for regular humans, just as the exterior footprint is modest, too, allowing for room to make adjustments on an average-sized lane. Turn off the traction control and the ATS becomes puppy playful, wagging its tail. It merrily peels out at T-stop intersections. Small adjustments bring it under control. This is not a mean car. The ATS glides over without the expected chatter. This is even without Cadillac’s magnetic suspension, which
C
2013 Cadillac ATS becomes softer or stiffer according to road conditions, and is only available on the most expensive Premium
model. It also has something about the locales where suspensions are developed.
Germany’s roads are smooth. Michigan’s aren’t. The ATS handles bad pavement far more handily than the BMW’s.
Cadillac’s brand- new CUE system has a finicky touch screen and a few “invisible” buttons underneath.
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THE GUARDIAN, Friday, April 19, 2013
BusinessTravel When duty-free shopping becomes a way of life By Wole Shadare VERYONE loves a good bargain, which is E why a stop-off at the airport’s duty-free store is a priority for a lot of international travellers. But do all duty-free stores offer discounts on their goods? Most people delay their electronics, leather goods or perfume purchases until their next overseas trip in order to save a bit of cash since they can be bought so cheap duty-free. Duty-free shops have many attractive, wellpriced offers for passengers. And while your aircraft is being prepared for take-off, sometimes you can relax in the waiting room of some shops with a drink or a snack. Duty-free shops, as the name implies, are retail outlets that are exempted from the payment of certain local or national taxes and duties, on the requirement that the goods sold will be sold to travellers who will take them out of the country. Duty-free shopping involves buying products, including liquor, tobacco, fragrances, edibles and gifts, or sometimes cosmetics. For instance, those travelling from the United States (U.S.) to other countries or leaving the U.S. to return to an international destination can purchase duty-free wares either at airport locations or in flight via catalog. Also, savings on duty-free items can range from 10 per cent to 50 per cent. But, of course, travellers or other airport users need to know that they cannot just walk into those glittering shops without knowing a handful of what it takes to shop successfully at those shops. The first thing to know is that duty-free shoppers must be returning to their country of origin to qualify to shop duty-free. You need to, therefore, make research and determine your eligibility by first providing proof of international travel. For instance, for those leaving the U.S. for Nigeria, travellers must be departing the U.S. for more than 48 hours and be prepared to display travel documents, such as passports and identification, as well as boarding passes and itinerary information for air travel. So, travellers to U.S. border towns, such as California, Texas, Florida, etc, can shop duty-free as long as they meet the requirements while visiting towns across the borders. You also need to listen to an announcement during international flights to shop via catalog for duty-free purchases. When onboard, flight attendants will deliver catalogs displaying selections, such as luxury clothing and accessories, cosmetics and electronics. For easy shopping, too, you can also browse in airport duty-free retail locations and make selections. For purchases, such as bottles of liquor and perishables, customers can request packaging appropriate for air travel. Customers have the option to pay using cash, travellers’ cheques and credit card. So, set a budget for items of interest and plan accordingly with the payment method of your choice. Hey, before you lay your hands on those materials, check the prices on them and research on items of interest to ensure that the savings are in line with expectations; and then determine whether the departure
The Dubai Duty-Free or arrival airport has duty-free shopping locations and plan your travel accordingly. Nevertheless, due to the restrictions on baggage and checked luggage fees, it is advisable to prepare for any shopping that will be done after checking bags and any shipping fees that may be incurred in the event that items must be delivered. As a shopper, you must know that some countries impose duty on goods brought into the country, though they had been bought duty-free in another country, or when the value or quantity of such goods exceed an allowed limit. However, products that can be sold duty-free vary by jurisdiction, as well as how they can be sold, and the process of calculating the duty or refunding the duty component. Most nations and airports are investing billions of dollars in duty free across the globe. Dubai Duty Free opened for business on December 20th 1983 and has grown to become one of the leading airport retailers
The duty-free shops have many attractive, well-priced offers for passengers. And while your aircraft is being prepared for take-off, sometimes you can relax in the waiting room of some shops with a drink or a snack. Duty-free shops, as the name implies, are retail outlets that are exempted from the payment of certain local or national taxes and duties, on the requirement that the goods sold will be sold to travellers who will take them out of the country. in the world with sales turnover of $1.6 billion in 2012. Its founding principal of providing travellers with a first class retail experience in a shopper-friendly environment and a diverse range of products still holds true to this day. Employing over 5,700 people, the operation has consistently raised the benchmark for airport retailing in the Middle East. To date, Dubai Duty Free has received over 250 industry awards which bear testimony
to the operation’s retail success including the 2012 Frontier Awards for ‘Best Airport Retailer of the Year’ which was won by the operation for an unprecedented sixth time; the ‘Best Airport in Duty Free Shopping’ presented at the Business Traveller Middle East Awards, the Global Traveller US magazine Award for ‘Best Duty Free Shop’ and the ‘Superbrands Awards for Excellence in Branding’ received from Superbrands Council.
Cronos Airlines, Peacock open Port Harcourt-Malabo route N a bid to open up the Malabo-PortIcarrier, Harcourt route, Equatorial Guinea-based Cronos Airlines has partnered with
Efik speaking tribe who are found in Akwa Ibom and Cross River states. The Malabo-Port Harcourt service, he said, Peacock Travels and Tours Limited. The devel- came at the right time for the sizeable numopment followed an agreement reached ber of Igbo traders plying the route. recently by the two companies. According to him, “Previously, the traders go Peacock has now obtained the exclusive by ship which is slow, hazardous and unsafe. General Sales Agency (GSA) right to issue the The new air link between Port Harcourt and airline’s tickets all over Nigeria. Malabo, which lasts for just 45 minutes, The Executive Chairman, Peacock, Chief become a comfortable, fast and reliable Segun Phillips, said Cronos also had an ambi- option than going by ship.” tious plan to commence flights from Malabo Other segments of people plying the route, to Lagos and Abuja before the end of the year. according to him, are business executives and According to him, Malabo as a destination oil exploration workers. has historical link with Nigeria, especially the The route also comes handy for leisure trav-
ellers, who want to go to Equatorial Guinea to enjoy their vacation. “It is an interesting tourist’s destination which boasts of upscale holiday and recreational facilities, including luxury hotels and one of the best golf courses in Africa,” he added. Phillips said with the popularity of golf game in Nigeria, the airline and Peacock would give priority to golf players for easy access. The company said that it would offer total package, including entry visa and flight tickets for prospective passengers. To do this effectively, Peacock, with its three
offices located in Aba, Port Harcourt city and Port Harcourt International Airport, would be able to make logistics easier for travellers, stressing that the firm would assist prospective passengers to facilitate the issuance of visa. He further explained that the airline was already looking forward to signing inter-connectivity with some foreign airlines in order to link Malabo to other oil producing cities in the world including Houston in United States and Dubai in United Arab Emirates. Equatorial Guinea has the highest per capita income in Africa. This attests to the prosperity and business opportunities in the country.
THE GUARDIAN, Friday, April 19, 2013
BUSINESSTRAVEL 47
Human factor challenges and aviation safety By Chika Goodluck-Ogazi UMAN factor in aviation H has an important influence on aircraft maintenance, and the safety of air transport as a whole, which is a complex interface between machine components and the trained professionals who service them. It has also been a topical concern for aviation industry players across the world towards reducing the scope of errors that coincides with such a system. To them, whether through engineering advancements or changes in industry oversight, there is no doubt about the vast improvements to aviation safety that have taken place over the years. The term “human factors” have grown increasingly popular as the commercial aviation industry has realized that human error, rather than mechanical failure, underlies most aviation accidents and
incidents. Human factors are often considered synonymous with crew resource management (CRM) or maintenance resource management (MRM). However, it is much broader in both its knowledge base and scope. It involved gathering information about human abilities, limitations, and other characteristics and applying it to tools, machines, systems, tasks, jobs, and environments to produce safe, comfortable, and effective human use. In aviation, the factors are dedicated to better understanding on how humans can most safely and efficiently are integrated with the technology, that are translated into design, training, policies, or procedures to help humans perform better. Despite rapid gains in technology, humans are ultimately responsible for ensuring the success and safety of the aviation industry. They must continue to be knowledgeable,
flexible, dedicated, and efficient while exercising good judgment. Meanwhile, the industry has continued to make major investments in training, equipment, and systems that have long-term implications. As technology continued to evolve faster than the ability to predict how humans will interact with it, the industry can no longer depend as much on experience and intuition to guide decisions related to human performance. Also, improved human performance can help the indus-
try reduce the commercial aviation accident rate; much of the focus has been on designing human-airplane interfaces and developing procedures for both flight crews and maintenance technicians. Airplane manufacturers, like Boeing has also examined human performance throughout the airplane to improve usability, maintainability, reliability, and comfort. In addition, human factors specialists have participated in analysing operational safety and developing methods and tools to help operators better manage
human error. According to an expert, Dainius Sakalauskas, “given the requirement for effective communication and teamwork that exists between mechanics and senior engineers, the evolution of human factors training, otherwise known as Maintenance Resource Management (MRM), was likely an inevitability. “With studies suggesting that maintenance error is a leading contributor to between 15 and 18 per cent of all accidents, it is perhaps not
surprising then that more and more airlines and training institutions have developed rigorous MRM programmes in order to abate the human element of accident causation”, he said. The expert noted that, MRM arose from the unique environment in which maintenance technicians operate. It is the nature of the job that predicting an accurate maintenance workload for a set task can only realistically be achieved following a heavy inspection of all components. He stated that, it was often
IATA tasks African leaders on aviation safety, development By Chika Goodluck-Ogazi HE International Air Transport Association (IATA) has called on African governments to build stronger partnerships with industry to prioritise and promote aviation policies that will improve safety, develop a more competitive industry cost structure and advance liberalisation. According to IATA, aviation is a key driver of Africa’s economy, noting that 6.7 million African jobs and nearly $68 billion in African GDP are supported by air transport. “The benefits of aviation connectivity go far beyond these figures. With a few kilometers of runway the most remote region can be connected to the global community. And that could mean access to vital sources of health care and emergency assistance; jobs selling products in global markets or welcoming tourists; or opportunities for education, exploring the world or creating business,” said the Director General and Chief
T
Executive Officer, Tony Tyler. The international body stated that safety has continued to be the biggest challenge for African aviation. It noted that in 2012, airlines averaged one hull loss for every five million flights on Western-built jet aircraft while the African average was one for every 270,000 flights. However, there were no Western-built jet hull-losses among the 380+ airlines on the registry of the IATA Operational Safety Audit (IOSA), including 25 airlines in sub-Saharan Africa. Speaking in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia recently, at the opening of IATA ‘s Aviation Day, he said: “World-class safety is possible in Africa. The safety record of African carriers on the IOSA registry tells us that the key to this is integrating the best safety practices of the industry as captured in the IOSA standards. IATA is committed and actively engaged in helping to enhance African aviation’s safety performance to reach worldwide levels
Human Resources Manager, Peacock Group, Aderemi Awolaiye (left); Chief Operating Officer, Cronos Airline, Loco Lambert; Group Chairman, Peacock Group of Companies, Aare Segun Phillips; Country Rep, Cronos Airline, David Ekule; Customer Relationship Manager (Africa), Nahco Avience, Biodun Adewuni. based on the African Strategic Improvement Action Plan,” said Tyler. His words: “All of our members, including those in Africa are already on the registry. But of course, safety is not only about IATA’s members or those of AFRAA. It is an industry issue. In addition to a series of IOSA familiarisation workshops with regulators and airlines, IATA announced
sponsored in-house IOSA training for ten African airlines. Tyler also reiterated IATA’s longstanding criticism of the European Union Air Safety List of banned airlines. “The European Union’s approach is wrong. It lacks transparency. And it does not improve safety”. There are no transparent criteria for removing airlines from the banned list. “But, the
overall safety improvements that we can expect from the commitment to mandate IOSA registration for all carriers will be a very strong argument for Europe to re-think its position,” he added. IATA also highlighted the need for governments to rein in the high costs of fuel and burdensome taxes and charges. It noted that buying aviation fuel in Africa is about
21 per cent more expensive than the global average as a result of heavy taxes, many of which are in contravention of ICAO principles. IATA, which stated that the association would be working with airlines in Africa on a campaign for compliance with global standards, maintained that improvements have been realized in Angola, Uganda and Ghana.
Firms get new lounge at MMA2 By Chika Goodluck-Ogazi I-COURTNEy Aviation Services Limited (BASL), operators of the Murtala Muhammed Airport Terminal Two (MMA2), has opened a new lounge for protocol officers of various organisations at the terminal. The terminal operator said the innovative idea would further make the airport terminal more traveller-friendly, promising that touts, miscreants and other questionable characters would continue to be kept at arms-length from MMA2. The firm said it had zero-tolerance policy for any
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form of touting in and around the airport terminal. Spokesman for the firm, Steve Omolale-Ajulo, said the new lounge has modern facilities, such as internet, DSTV and communications equipment “to make the company officials using them have a feel of the relaxed ambience of MMA2, while still being effective in their various assignments”. Apart from its aim of checkmating touting, the new lounge, he said, would enhance security, as all protocol officials will be well identified with various tags having different levels of access and
restriction within the terminal. The statement added that many companies had started using the lounge with more indicating interest in the facility, adding that MMA2 has enough space to accommodate all the interested firms. Omolale-Ajulo listed some of the companies whose protocol officials have already taken office accommodation at the lounge as Exxon Mobil Nigeria Limited, CPL Industries, Deawoo Nigeria Limited, Intel Nigeria Limited, Addax Petroleum Limited, Dredging International Nigeria Limited,
Pam Marine Investment Limited and GAC Shipping Nigeria Limited, among several others, and said that more have put in their applications for office spaces. While saying that more innovative projects were underway at MMA2, he listed some of the projects to enhance the terminal, either already executed or ongoing, as upgrade of alternate power supply, repaving of the driveway, concessioning of the Cargo Shed, automation of the Multi-Storey Car Park (MSCP) and construction of offices for cargo agents, among others.
Arik, SAHCOL get awards By Wole Shadare IGERIA’s flag carrier airline, Arik Air, has emerged as the Company of the year 2012 at the Leadership Annual Conference and Awards ceremony held at the International Conference Centre Abuja on Tuesday, April 16, 2013. The airline was lauded for its role in aviation in both local and African region. At the heart of the airline’s operation is a management footing that places travelling guests first, even in an extremely challenging business environment,” the organizers observed in the award citation. Earlier, the Chairman of Leadership Group and organiser of the event, Mr. Sam Nda-Isaiah, said the process of choosing winners for the various award categories by the Editors of Leadership has always been rigorous and painstaking with debates, discussions and casting of votes stressing that he was very proud of this year’s choice of award winners. The award was presented by the Gambian High Commissioner
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in Nigeria, Angela Colley-Iheme and received on behalf of Arik Air by the Managing Director/Executive Vice President, Mr. Chris Ndulue. According to Ndulue: “By adding the Leadership Company of the year 2012 Award to our array of laurels, we have shown clearly that we are not relenting in our efforts at making Arik Air the airline of choice in this part of the world. We make no pretences when we say we are bringing world class standards in aviation to the region and will continue to improve on our services to the delight of our valued guests.” Also, the Skyway Aviation Handling Company Limited (SAHCOL) was rewarded as the Best Aviation Cargo Handling Company of the year, 2013. The award was presented to the company in Lagos, recently at the 2013 Nigeria Transport Awards and Lectures, organized by the Transport Day Newspaper, the “mouthpiece of transportation and logistics in Nigeria”.
The ceremony, which was graced by Crème de la Crème in aviation, automobile, maritime, and various service providers in the transport and logistics industry in Nigeria, appreciated SAHCOL for its outstanding high quality performance and operational excellence, track records and value creation in the Nigerian Air Transport industry. Meanwhile, the company has recently acquired and commissioned critical ground handling equipment, which drew commendations and endorsement from the representatives of foreign airlines in Nigeria, domestic airlines and other stakeholders in the aviation industry present at the event. It noted that under the leadership of Olu Owolabi, as the Managing Director, the business modules of SAHCOL has been upgraded, which has ushered into the performance of the company efficient and speedy service delivery, state-of-the-art equipment, fleet replacement and massive infrastructural development.
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NigeriaCapitalMarket NSE Daily Summary (Equities) PRICE LIST OF SYMBOLS TRADED FOR 17/4/2013
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THE GUARDIAN, Friday, April 19, 2013
NSE Daily Summary (Equities) as at 17/04/2013
PRICE GAINERS
LOSERS
Nestle posts 5.4 per cent sales increase in Q1 By Helen Oji HE world biggest food T company, Nestle has posted 5.4 per cent increase in sales in its 2013 first quarter operations to 21.9billion Swiss francs, ($23.7billion) from 21.4 billion Swiss francs ($23.4billion) posted in 2012. The company recorded organic growth of 4.3per cent , composed of 2.3per cent real internal growth and 2.0per cent pricing. It also added that acquisitions, net of divestitures, added 2.0per cent to sales, whilst foreign exchange had
an impact of -0.9per cent. “Our three geographies all contributed to the first quarter’s 4.3per cent organic growth, which builds on the 7.2per cent organic growth achieved in the first quarter of 2012. The Americas grew by 5.1per cent, Europe by 1.0per cent and Asia, Oceania and Africa by 6.1per cent. Our business grew 8.4per cent in emerging markets, 0.9per cent in developed markets, reflecting contrasting trading conditions across different regions. Reviewing the performance,
Nestlé Chief Executive Officer, Paul Bulcke said; “the start to the year reflects the caution we expressed in February. We continue to expect some volatility throughout 2013 but reconfirm our expectation to deliver on our commitments for the full year: top line, bottom line and capital efficiency. “We are outperforming the market in Europe where consumer sentiment remains low. We are seeing progress in our North American business and we expect to see stronger momentum in key
emerging markets. Our global presence, unrivalled category diversity and our proven ability to bring innovative products and services to our consumers allow us to deliver in the short term while at the same time creating the right conditions for continued success over the long term.” For Nestlé Waters, the company noted that, “the late arrival of spring affected the developed markets. The North American business grew, helped by the performance of our premium brands S.Pellegrino and Perrier, as
well as Nestlé Pure Life. Our US regional brands faced intense price pressure. In Europe, Perrier continued to be a highlight, as was the UK where we inaugurated a new factory in Buxton. Elsewhere the business was resilient in view of the prevailing trading conditions. The emerging markets continued to grow double-digit led by Nestlé Pure Life and our strong local brands, supported by production capacity investment in Brazil, Nigeria, Vietnam and China. “Infant Nutrition performed
very well, growing doubledigit in the first quarter, resulting in market share gains in all zones, especially Russia, France, Brazil, the US, China and South Asia. The key drivers of growth globally were the rollout of major innovations in formula, meals and drinks and cereals, and an appropriate level of brand support. Wyeth Nutrition, acquired at the end of 2012, performed well, in line with our expectations and the integration of the business is on track.” It added.
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FridayWorship By Afis A. Oladosu In the Name of Allah, the Beneficent, the Merciful “O! Dawud! Verily, We have placed you as a successor on the earth; so judge you between men “Surely, the religion with Allah is ISLAM,complete submission”... Qur’an 3:19 in truth (and justice) and follow not your desire — for it will mislead you from the path of Allah).’’ `(Quran 38 v 26) “Any man whom Allah has given the authority of ruling some people and he does not look after them in an honest manner, will never feel even Many people lost their lives and/or hawking, some stealing, and some act- Borno State, some 10,000 pupils are the smell of Paradise.”-Prophet Muhammad. properties in the course of campaign- ing as political hoodlums. Our youth, reported to have been sent out of ing for you. You may wish to recall also who are supposed to be the source of school. RETHREN, men and women of wis- that on 29th May 2011, the masses were our strength, have, quite unfortunately, What continues to worry some of us, dom and those endowed with the gathered to witness your swearing-in become our greatest liabilities. Your Excellencies, is your continuous While we were battling with the above silence despite the startling revelations inner meanings of the above verse and ceremonies. Hadith of the Prophet Rasul (s.a.w.) Many of them stood under the sun. I challenges, then came another monu- regarding the incessant bombings and would pity those who go about today believe you have not forgotten that on mental challenge that is now even killings. You kept silent when security in happiness because they have been that day, while carrying copies of the threatening our survival as a communi- personnel revealed that many of the “selected” to be rulers over our com- Glorious Quran or the Bible in your ty, the “Boko Haram” (BH) phenomenon. killings are perpetrated by politicians. monwealth. They would pity occu- hands, you pledged to protect the lives, And this phenomenon has accorded the You said nothing when in many states piers of public offices who luxuriate in property and integrity of your subjects enemies of the north the opportunity to it was found that the destructions were the pleasure of the here and now. as enshrined in the Nigerian constitu- execute their grand design of destabiliz- not perpetrated by the so-called Such appears to be at play when tion. It is now almost two years since ing and destroying the north. It has Jama’atu Ahlil Sunnah lid Da’wati wal Abdullahi Abubakar Lamido, a former that memorable occasion. For second become clear now, as one writer has Jihad, but by criminals who attack National President of the Muslim timers among you, you are, do not for- observed, that there are at least five cate- banks to steal money and then claim it was by BH. Students Society of Nigeria, who is get, in your sixth year now. gories of people who camouflage as BH: that presently a staff of Gombe State Sirs, events in the Northern part of The genuine BH, the Political BH, You kept mute when in over 10 University decided, during the past Nigeria have shown lack of develop- Criminal BH, Christian BH and instances Christians, some of them clerweek, to do an open letter to the north- ment and progress. In fact, under your Conspiratorial BH. These Boko Harams gy, and many of who were from the ern governors. I found his piece very leadership, we are faced with grave, have collectively brought many activi- south, were caught red-handed with instructive and germane to the search monumental and multifaceted dan- ties to a standstill in the north. They kill. explosives trying to bomb churches. I for an exit point from the current state gers such as we never experienced They bomb. They maim. They destroy. must tell you that our youths are of anomie in which this nation is before. The education sector is in sham- They target all the pillars of our very sur- already exasperated. Your right-hand steeped. bles. The roads are bad. The hospitals vival as a community: security, econo- men (Special Advisers, Media advisers education and religion. etc) may not have the courage to tell Lamido wrote, in part, as follows: have become mortuaries. My people my, “Your Excellencies, I hope you will find still look for water to drink from the They have now made police stations, you that. You might have forgotten time to read this message. I pray also streams. There is presently no peace the heart of our security, a no-go-area. what some of the youths- the first victhat you will read it with open and and security of life and properties. The They have made security personnel tims of your negligence- did after the objective mind. You may wish to recall most unfortunate thing, however, is unsecure, thereby putting our society 2011 elections. Have you also forgotten that, about 23 months ago you went that there is no hope for positive on the path of anarchy. They are destroy- that the last anti-subsidy-removal round town-to- town, village to village, change in sight. ing markets, which are the centers of protests were primarily conceived, begging for the votes of the masses. Our part of the country hosts the high- our commercial activities. They attack planned, implemented and coordinatYou promised them free education, est incidence of poverty, hunger and banks, the very hearts of all economic ed and supervised by the northern affordable potable water, road infra- diseases. We have nearly monopolized activities, thereby crippling the very youth? structure, gainful employment and the begging industry. Our youths are heart of our economy. They have not Do you not sometimes visit Facebook general sustainable development. on the streets; some begging, some spared our Universities. Already in and Twitter to see by yourself how the
Message to northern governors
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youth are mobilising and organising themselves? Do you not read some articles that are sometimes contributed to some national dailies by the irritated but sensitised youth? Do you undermine the impact of editorials of the fearless media houses like Media Trust, Leadership, and People’s Daily etc on the thoughts of the youth? Do you not take time to analyse the write-ups of some brilliant columnists and their potential for awakening the youth? A stitch in time, Your excellencies, will save nine. Amidst all these challenges, sirs, for God’s sake, how many times do you ask yourselves, whether you are truly on the right track? I do not mean you should ask your political lieutenants, praise-singers and “godsons” whether things are going well. No. I mean you should ask your personal selves: “are we really doing what we swore we would do the day we were elected?” Brethren, what today’s sermon has attempted to do, therefore, is admonish those who have forgotten that power is a trust for which they shall be called to account. It is a wake-up call for those who identify with the religion of Islam among the leaders of today but conduct themselves in ways, which do not conform with the religion. Sufyan bn Uyaynah once said as follows: “The most awful thing in the world is a soul which recognises its Creator yet indulges in committing sins against Him. Ibn al-Qayyim puts this succinctly. Quoting al-Rasul, he says the Almighty says: “whenever he who knows me commits sins which I have forbidden for him, I inflict on him as punishment as he who does not know me”. I seek refuge from Him against the latter. (guardianfridayworship@gmail.com)
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Opinion Uka’s pseudo theology of political pardon By Emeka Nwosuh DETEST having to spend my valuable time reIargument sponding to one intellectually pretentious or the other. Yet, I am often torn between ignoring such pseudo piece of writing or offering a response. I am often compelled by the Christian obligation to refute and correct errors, at least for the sake of the unschooled and unsuspecting minds, to put aside my other important engagements and articulate a response. This obligation is even more incumbent on me as a member of a religious Order, the Order of Preachers, aka, Dominicans, which was specifically founded in the twelfth century with the specific goal of refuting heresies and errors and proclaiming the truth, hence the Order has as its motto, Veritas. Rev. Uka’s piece, which appeared on the Monday, April 15 edition of The Guardian Newspaper is one of such writings or rather pseudo writings that sometimes distract me from my more serious task. Rev. Uka’s piece: The theology of political pardon seeks to provide a theological foundation and support for President Jonathan’s Presidential pardon of his erstwhile boss, Diepreye Alamieyeseigha. His argument can be summarized thus: all men and women have sinned and have received the gratuitous pardon of God, and so we too must extend same to others. Uka goes on to counsel that let us have compassion and mercy and not demand justice per se. Do not execute the law; do not trample an offender underfoot; do not act cruelly, swallowing him up and destroying his spirit. Love him and forgive him “just as Christ in God forgives you” (Eph.4:32). On face value, Uka’s theology appears orthodox but that is the very danger of pseudo theologies like Uka’s. According to the 2nd century anti-gnostic writer, Irenaeus of Lyons, heresies are like milk or honey laced with deadly poison. To an unsuspecting mind, they appear to be nourishing food but in actual fact they are well camouflaged deadly poison. Similarly,
Uka’s argument that President Jonathan’s pardon of Alamieyeseigha is consistent with Jesus’ teaching and injunction to pardon others, especially for the very fact that we too are recipients of God’s pardon may appear to be sound theology to an uncritical mind, but it is instead laced with deadly poison even though he cites Mt: 18:21-35, which is the parable of the unforgiving servant as his foundational text. Uka’s theology of political pardon is fraught with several theological weaknesses of which I will point out only a few. First, his theology or rather pseudo theology suffers from a poor use and understanding of sources. Secondly, his pseudo theology is characterized by weak exegesis, which completely ignores the context of the texts he cites. His pseudo theology also suffers from poor logic, and lastly his pseudo theology displays an incapacity for making distinctions. One of the peculiarities of heretical or erroneous theologies like Uka’s is the selective or partial use of sources. Like the Gnostics of the 2nd and 3rd centuries and not unlike most Pentecostals of our time, pseudo theologians simply limit themselves to sources or texts that argue their position while conveniently ignoring sources or texts that do not buttress their position. Rev. Uka conveniently cited sources that speak of unconditional pardon of an offender, yet he refuses to take into consideration texts which demands of certain attitudes and actions on the part of the offender, namely sorrow for sin and repentance. Although, God forgives us unconditionally, he does not do so without our repentance. Before any other pseudo theologian quotes me, St. Paul’s statement that Christ died for us even while we are sinners (Rom 5:8), it is important to understand and place in proper context what he meant. Although Christ, by his death has objectively won pardon for the whole of mankind even before we knew and repented of our sins, yet only those who approach him in sorrow and repentance will obtain gratu-
itously that forgiveness that has already been obtained. In other words, the objective salvation must be individually or subjectively appropriated and this is achieved by walking the path of repentance. Thus, those who out of pride and whatever reason refuse to approach that throne of grace will not receive that pardon. This demonstrates that without repentance, the grace of forgiveness is not given or received. This is why the tax collector, who in repentance prostrated himself before God not daring to raise his eyes to heaven, went home at right with God, while the proud and arrogant Pharisee went home laden with his sins (cf. Lk 18: 9-14). Forgiveness not only demands repentance from the sinner but also the grace of forgiveness received demands some further action on the part of the forgiven sinner. It not only demands that the sinner goes and sin no more (cf. John 8:1-8) but it also demands that the sinner restores, where possible, the order of things upset by his sins. This in Catholic and orthodox theology is called Restitution. Zacchaeus, having received the grace of pardon from Jesus Christ when the latter invited himself to his home, did not simply go home and enjoy his ill-gotten wealth. In fact, before the Lord even made to go to his home, he stoutly defended his right to be pardoned by insisting that he would restore to each of his victim fourfold the amount he may have illegally acquired from them (cf. Lk 19:1-10). This is a sign and indeed a condition for full pardon. Typical of pseudo theologians, Uka conveniently ignores these other scriptural texts as part of his theological sources. To factor in these texts into his so-called theological analysis would have meant asking why Alamieyeseigha did not, in repentance, apologize to the people of Bayelsa State and to all Nigerians for having looted the common purse meant for improving the lives of the people. It would have meant asking why he has not like Zacchaeus restored fourfold the loot he stored away in
foreign and local banks and in other forms of investments. By ignoring these other important sources, Uka who claims to be a Prelate shows himself to be no theologian but a theologian falsely socalled. By refusing to carry out a critical exegesis of the passages or texts quoted, taking into consideration their proper contexts and their connections with other texts, since Scripture, according to the early Church Fathers, must be read and interpreted as a whole, demonstrates that he was only a graduate of a Sunday school and not of a reputable theological school. His separation of justice from mercy, illustrates how little he understands the biblical concepts and their underlying theologies. Now, if this Prelate and Moderate demonstrate so much theological ignorance and paucity, I wonder the kind of theology the rest of his pastors will be expounding to the unfortunate flock they gather around themselves. It may be true that President Jonathan, like so many other politicians and public figures, “has never made any pretences about his Christian persuasion” and so may believe deep in his heart that he is following Jesus’ injunction to forgive the sinner, it does not remove the fact that he is acting on the basis of very erroneous theologies fueled by pseudo theologians like Uka and many others who have appropriated to themselves the title “men and women of God’. These also include those to whom Jonathan goes annually to kneel before and obtain divine favours, which seemed to have eluded him in grappling with the problems and challenges of Nigeria. It is these pseudo theologians and pseudo self-ordained and anointed men and women of God who continue to adulterate the true message of the Gospel and until Nigerians and their leaders quit gulping down their pseudo theologies and pseudo miracles, we will continue to wallow in the shadow of religious madness and stupidity. • Rev. Fr. Nwosuh, OP is the Dean of Studies at the Dominican Institute, Samonda, Ibadan.
Is corruption inevitable? By Festus Unuigbe th
HE facts are daunting: A rich country, the 6 largest proT ducer of oil, endowed with abundant human and material resources. An annual budget of some N1.5 trillion. Recurrent expenditure – salaries and allowances for – 0.013 per cent of the population amounting to N1.126 trillion or some 75 per cent of our GDP, what else is left for development? The result is massive unemployment in a country where 96 per cent are below 65, there is little hope for the young. Many take refuge in further studies – a master’s programme, even going as far as the doctorate level to increase their chances of employment – but all to no avail. The job market is not saturated, it is virtually non-existent for the average person. The few jobs available are reserved for the children or contacts of those in authority. Nepotism, tribalism, cronyism all come into play. Merit plays a minimal role in this, even then the “powers that be” have to be pacified by hefty bribes paid upfront or some other inducement, especially for females. When such a person finally gets the job, his first priority is to recoup his investment and pay back the money he borrowed to secure the job. The same scenario can be repeated for those who seek elective office. A total reliance on ideology and good ideas will get you nowhere! Monumental investments are made to secure the votes. Naturally when those who have expended so much capital either borrowed from godfather sponsors or even from own resources, the first priority on getting to office is obvious. A hopeless situation? But there is a way out. A new way of thinking is required here. Must everyone get a white collar job and receive a monthly salary? Self-employment either alone or in conjunction with others is an alternative that should not be ignored. Even if it is a stop gap measure until the cherished job in a bank, or in the oil and gas sector comes up, what is there to lose if one does something else in the meantime to keep body and soul together!
For instance, the barbing saloon, which I use is owned by a second class honours graduate of the University of Lagos! I was struck by the level of intelligent discourse we have every time I go there and by a photograph of him in a youth corps uniform hung discreetly in one corner. On further inquiry it transpired that he studied Insurance at the university. After months and years of waiting in vain for a place in the industry he set up a barbing saloon/video rental outfit. From this he not only has enough to keep body and soul together, but he got married and is raising a family! I don’t want to speak of the large number of graduates who took to the commercial motorcycle trade – the “okada riders”. There they compete with stark illiterates and hustle for a living, come rain or shine. The females take to preparing snacks or even lunch packs, which they take to offices. Some even cook for people who are too busy or do not know how to. The list is endless. But behind it all, a sense of humility and a firm belief in the dignity of labour are needed. From this many grow to become successful entrepreneurs. Free and not beholding to anybody. But coming back to the problem of corruption, how does one navigate from the law enforcement officers on the highway, who even when all your papers are in order, tell you “Oga your boys are here!” To the secretary in the office who tells you her boss is not “on seat”, and the clerk who tells you your file is missing. But yes, there is a way to tip-toe round the mine field that is waiting out there. It starts with an inner posture to do that which is right. Regardless of the justification of your situation, to be polite and patient when confronted with this menace. But when all fails, then present a fighting front to the darkness in the confidence that with you is Omnipotence, before which all darkness must retreat. But there are realists out there who will tell you to “settle” and move on. The cynics even quote the bible to justify this! Matt.5:25. “Agree with your adversary quickly while you are on the way with him, lest your adversary deliver you to the judge,
the judge hand you over to the officer and you be thrown in prison. Assuredly I say to you, you will by no means get out of there until you have paid the last penny.” Thus emboldened they dash place to place, drive recklessly, and behave irresponsibly, in the conviction that if accosted, a quick “settlement” will resolve the problem. In the long run it does not always work out, for not everyone in authority is corrupt. The day will come when he will meet with a pharaoh who does not know Moses! In coping with corruption, we should start with an inner resolve to do the right thing, keep our thoughts pure, and have a firm volition for what is good. Without our knowing it, these so pervades our aura that it forms an ethereal protection for us. This makes the corrupt uncomfortable in our presence and soon the word goes round, “that man is unapproachable”. The Grail Message, in the lecture “Awake” dwells more on this: “Power of volition. A mighty force, unsuspected by so many. Attracting similar powers like a never-failing magnet, it grows like an avalanche. Uniting with similar spiritual forces, it works backwards, again reaching the starting point, thus the origin, or rather, the producer, uplifting him high to the light, or pressing him deeper into the mud and filth. Exactly in accordance with what the author himself originally willed.” With a constant good volition, we create spears of Light that go before us and smooth the way for us. Added to this is the outworking of the law of attraction of homogenous species that ensures that we move in orbits of like-minded people. Not everyone in Nigeria is corrupt. There are officials and citizens who really make the effort to be straight. What is required is that instead of complaining and pointing fingers we resolve to work on ourselves (for that really is our field of competence) to rid this country of this problem. Soon the numbers of like-minded people will increase until we reach the critical mass that can bring about a change in society and make corruption unfashionable. • Unuigbe molingo2001@yahoo.com
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THE GUARDIAN, Friday, April 19, 2013
Opinion Creative writing, publishing and education By Ngwobia Okereke HERE is a relationship between creative writing, publishing and T the enhancement of the education sector in Nigeria. It is a linear and global relationship, which I would simply illustrate thus: creative writing produces a specialized category of writings; publishing converts such writings from manuscripts to books and/or in other media and supplies the finished product for use in the education sector. And what can the education sector do without such supplies, in Nigeria and elsewhere, but particularly in Nigeria where reading culture is generally known to have declined drastically in recent years, with clarion calls to prop it up by all sorts of measures that would encourage the populace to read more creative writing as fiction, poetry and drama. President Goodluck Jonathan’s support last year for the “Bring Back the Book” initiative of some of Nigeria’s reading-and-book enthusiasts was a major intervention in this regard, which underscores his government’s recognition of collaboration between creative writing and publishing as an important ingredient of nation building that should primarily impact the education sector. Creative writing is an act whose purpose is to express thoughts, feelings, and emotions rather than to simply convey information. The primary concern of creative writing is not with factual information or with the more routine forms of communication. Creative writing is the art of putting words together from the ideas and images it creates in the mind. Creative writing basically takes many forms such as writing fiction, poetry, plays, short stories, essays, advertising and commercials, journalism, etc. Some people view creative writing as a spiritual journey towards inner fulfillment. They may feel that they have a call for writing as an act, and that writing gives them a sense of completeness in themselves. For them, writing is a balm for the soul and helps them tap into a higher power. For others, writing is simply a diversion from the grind of daily life. Some teenagers believe writing gives them a channel to break away from the regimented school curriculum and to recognize that writing can be fun, they do write to pass time. For people who have a general interest in literature, creative writing classes give them a chance to find out how literature works. Publishing, according to Chandler B. Grannis in his book What Happens in Publishing is “to make public – to send forth among the people – the word and pictures that creative minds have produced that editors have worked over, that printers have reproduced. It is the whole intellectual and business procedure of selecting and arranging to make a book and of promoting its ultimate use”. A publisher provides the prepress services that are very important to aspiring authors. A book publisher is a group or person responsible for bringing the book to the public for reading purposes. The book publisher is involved in the major steps of developing, marketing, producing, printing, and distribution of the book. The production process is the process of physically creating the book. This process may be accomplished using onsite facilities, or the publisher may go to a third party production company to fulfill this need. The book is then wrapped and shipped to a variety of bookstores where it is displayed to the public. I must at this juncture mention the fact that for the work of the publisher to thrive and be successful, a vibrant printing industry must be present. In fact publishing and printing are like twins and must continually be in synergy for any nation to have a thriving educational and academic culture. This brings me to the issue of publishing and printing. Many people, even some of our educated elites, do not know the difference between publishing and printing. Publishing is not the same as printing, but rather printing is just, even though very crucial, a
link in the publishing chain. Technically, it has never been easier to get a book printed. But here you hit a perennial problem. Successful books are not just printed. They are published. Anyone can print something. Few can publish successfully. Publishing involves a chain of skills – editing, revision, marketing, design, printing, positioning and building an author’s career slowly and carefully. The publisher is the central figure in the book process. He is the midwife if you like. It is the publisher who receives the manuscript from an author, brings in capital, engages the services of artists and other editorial specialists, commissions and supervises the work of the printers and then directs the distribution of the books produced to the potential market. The publisher is the one who pays out money to the author, artist, editor, assessor, printer, paper merchants and others for producing the books. He also employs sales people and advertisers who help in promoting and marketing the books. He also hopes to make some profit. Remember publishing is business. Books, including creative writing, which are now also published in audio-visual and other electronic formats, besides traditional print, are among the basic materials used in the education sector. They are also the foundation on which the formidable reputation of the teaching profession is built. So the contribution of teachers to the enhancement of the education sector, and to nation building generally, can be linked to the existence of books as collaborative products of writers and publishers. So the real issue for me is not how creative writing and publishing enhance the education sector in Nigeria. The fact and means of that enhancement have been with us since our writers like Chinua Achebe, Wole Soyinka, J.P. Clark Bekederemo, Gabriel Okara, Niyi Osundare, Elechi Amadi, etc., of the older generations, produced their seminal works that formed the bedrock of literacy for our people. For decades, such works have become reference points of literary excellence and provided quality texts for the literary education of the Nigerian mind. I refer to works such as Chinua Achebe’s Things Fall Apart, Wole Soyinka’s Death and the King’s Horseman, J.P. Clark Bekederemo’s The Ozidi Saga, Gabriel Okara’s The Voice, Niyi Osundare’s The Eye of the Earth and Elechi Amadi’s The Concubine. In more recent times, younger Nigerian writers have shown the ability to follow the footpaths of such greats from older generations. They include writers like Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie (with Half of a Yellow Sun), Sefi Attah (with Everything Good Will Come), Helon Habila (with Waiting for an Angel), Adaobi Tricia Nwaubani (with I Do Not Come to You By Chance), and Chika Unigwe (with On Black Sister’s Street), and many others. Such writers, through the contribution of their works to the advancement of literacy, and to national development, have continued to provide answers to the question Chinua Achebe poses as the title of his Nigerian National Merit Award Lecture given at Sokoto on August 23, 1986, which remains relevant today, namely: “What has literature got to do with it?” Their creative works have continued to supply material for the enhancement of Nigerian education such that it aspires to the ideal Achebe espouses in the lecture as “a complex and creative process” such that “the more rounded it is the more productive it will become.” In the lecture, Achebe basically advocates that the Nigerian education sector strikes a balance between promoting technical education and humanistic education, which would entail, among other things, the cultivation of literary minds. Needless to say that such a goal cannot be attained without the complementary productivity of creative and other types of writers producing the relevant types of manuscripts and publishers ensuring the availability of the resultant books for use at all levels of the educational sector. Perhaps the more important issue, which applies to the present and the future, is how creative writing can respond to the chal-
lenge to continue to enhance the education sector. To me there is a growing need to improve the African cultural content of the books read in Nigerian educational institutions at all levels, especially between nursery and primary school, which can be regarded as the grassroots or formative period of the educational venture. This is important if future generations of Nigerian children must not lose touch with their cultural roots even while being raised in their country. The impact of such alienation can only be imagined beyond the basic fact that it would entail loss of real identity and essence for such children as the country’s future leaders. Therefore, creative writers and publishers can redress such outcome by consciously favouring the production, publication and distribution of works with decidedly African perspectives and orientation, works primed for the promotion of the African heritage in the genres of fiction, poetry and drama. Not only do I advocate creative writers and publishers working together to ensure an incremental infusion of African cultural content into the works they produce and publish, especially for young readers, I would also urge both groups to jointly seek to influence the formulation of educational policy and curriculum development at the relevant levels so as to create official accommodation for such infusion. That way, they will be serving simultaneously the cause of the literary and cultural education of Nigerians, especially young Nigerians. They will also be fulfilling what I regard as one of the major obligations of the literary and publishing vocations – the production of books for the nurturing of young, self-aware citizens, future leaders sufficiently raised in the knowledge of the country they are meant to lead, though not restricted to the knowledge of that country. Publishing is capital intensive with various inputs needed to get the books published, distributed and sold. Government fiscal policies hardly favour publishing houses in terms of import regulation, VAT and bank interest. The exchange rate had worsened the plight of publishers with regard to the importation of raw materials, e.g. paper, coverboard, printing ink, etc. All raw materials for the publishing industry are imported. The scope of vattable items has been expanded to include paper, films, plates, chemicals and printing machinery. The tariff structure, which does not give any special consideration to books and publishing input does not augur well for book publishing and development. One of the drawbacks in popularizing creative writing is lack of reading culture. To make available affordable and quality books for the promotion of a virile reading culture would require a joint effort on the part of the stakeholders in the educational and publishing sectors. The following measures are hereby recommended: • Improvement of social amenities, especially power supply by the government. • Removal of duties on quality raw materials for the production of books. • Provision of grants and loans through banks to support the production of quality books. • Overhauling of the educational system to encourage the growth of a healthy reading culture. • Provision of public and school libraries as well as reading centres. • Re-orientation of the masses to recognize the importance of books through a literacy awareness campaign on the same scale as that carried out against the scourge of HIV/AIDS. The above measures will go a long way in making quality books available for everybody. • Okereke delivered this as a keynote address at a seminar/workshop held at Grailland, Iju Hills, Lagos, recently.
Nigerian women and reproductive health By Nwachukwu Joshua
healthcare services, including those related to family planning. In particular, rural women shall have ECENTLY, the House of Representatives the right to have access to adequate healthcare fapassed the long awaited Violence against Per- cilities, including information, counseling and sons (Prohibition) (VAPP) bill, which has been on services in family planning. Every woman shall the floor of the National Assembly since 1999 have the right to take decisions about her health (more than 14 years). The need to pass this bill needs and requirements. In particular, she shall became urgent due to the rising acts of vio- have the right to determine the processes concernlence, which have been inflicted on women by ing reproduction in her body. Every woman shall means of rape, murder, battery, and assault. Al- have the right to enjoy reproductive health rights, ready, it has been predicted that by 2016 one including the right to medical abortion in cases of billion women will have been violated in dif- sexual assault, rape, incest, and where the continued pregnancy endangers the life or the physical, ferent forms all over the world. Many are of the view that, to curb this evil and mental, psychological or emotional health of the inhumane acts, a better criminal legislation is mother.” This provision shows that there is a clear needed, which by providing stiff penal sanctions would serve as a deterrent to potential of- agenda to legalise and publicize abortion and fenders. This new law has received contraception, under the euphemism of recommendations from both the local and in- productive health. Proponents of this provision are advocating that abortion should be ternational community. The House of Representative has to be com- legal for cases of rape, incest and when the mended specially, for its astuteness in ex- mother’s life is in danger. These were the same punging a provision that reads: “Every woman reasons given in other countries where it was shall have the right to health, which shall be un- legal; an example is the United States of Amerderstood to mean the enjoyment of the highest ica, which has legalised abortion for about 40 level of physical, mental and social wellbeing, years. But after a lot of pressure, abortion on de-
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mand became the norm, even to the extent that some girls under 18 procured abortion without the consent of their parents. In the words of Justice Oputa, “People should always go back to history because it gives a perspective to the problems of the present and drives home the point that there is really very little new under the sun. History indeed repeats itself because man refuses to learn from history. But those who ignore the lessons of history are destined to relive its horrors”. As Dr. Chuma Onyejizu said, we can learn that a nation that ravels the road of legal abortion will soon lose its sense of morality and will find itself condoning unspeakable crimes. From history we have learnt that abortion, rather than liberate women, it harms them physically, psychologically, rationally, culturally and spiritually and exposes to exploitation of all kinds. There is a strong link between abortions and increased rates of psychological illnesses like anxiety disorders, major depressions and even suicide. This has led to springing up of post-abortion counselling centres to help women undergoing post-abortion crisis. There is also a link between abortions and increased
risks of cancer. I think it is very much antithetical to the violence against persons bill to make abortion and it likes legal because, rather than liberate women and make them respectable and honourable, abortion makes them vulnerable to exploitation, abandonment and more violence and they could be used cheaply since there is an option called abortion. With abortion comes infidelity, loss of sense of obligation and responsibility. With abortion the virtue of chastity and temperance and the life of virtue in general disappear from the dictionaries of men. Fortunately some countries like Hungary, Russia and Poland and even some states in the USA who have experienced the ills of abortion are beginning to effect changes to protect the lives of the unborn and women. I once again commend our legislators because it seems they are learning from history. I thereby implore the Senate to follow the exemplary path of the House of Representatives and quickly pass the bill into law. • Nwachukwu wrote vide: nwachukwujoshua65@yahoo.com.
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ThE GUARDiAN, Friday, April 19, 2013
Sports Morocco 2013 African U-17 Championship
Okpekpe Race LOC waits for Olympics champion, Dibaba
‘We will beat Congo for World Cup ticket’ OUChED by the T unflinching support of their fans, the Golden Eaglets have promised to beat Congo DR in their last group game of the ongoing Morocco 2013 African U-17 Championship. Nigeria beat Ghana 6-1 in its opening game of the competition, but came unstuck in the next group game against Cote d’ivoire, who ran away with a 1-0 victory. But the Eaglets say the defeat is a minor dent that would be corrected in the last group game. Pleading with Nigerians for forgiveness for the loss to Cote d’ivoire, the Golden Eaglets’ Vice Captain, Success isaac, told Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) President, Aminu Maigari, who visited their Ryad Mogador hotel, Marrakech camp yesterday, that the team was saddened with the outcome of the match. “We want to thank you sir for all the support you have given to us and we are deeply sorry about what happened on Wednesday against Cote d’ivoire,” said the lad, who is still the leading scorer with four goals at this tournament.
“We wanted to win and we went into the field with that positive mindset, but it was unfortunate that we lost,” he said. he added, “we are using this opportunity to beg Nigerians and we are promising them of a better performance starting with the game against Congo on Saturday. We are determined than ever to do our best and by the grace of God, we won’t disappoint Nigerians on Saturday,” us proud.” Speaking earlier, Maigari advised the players to live up to their pre-tournament high rating by winning their next game against Congo on Saturday and secure qualification to the World Cup. he met with the players and the technical crew of the team immediately after lunch in company of the Director of Competitions at the NFF, Dr. Sanusi Mohammed. “We want you to be more determined and focused,” he said. “The next game against Congo on Saturday is the most important match for you at this competition. We want you to approach it with all seriousness and we want
RGANiSERS of the Okpekpe O 10-kilometre international Road Race are awaiting the
Giant killer…Stanislas Wawrinka hits a return during his match against Andy Murray at the Monte-Carlo ATP Masters Series tennis tournament in Monaco…yesterday. Wawrinka won 6-1, 6-2. PHOTO: AFP
Warri Wolves seals N50m sponsorship deal, plans Europe tour
Arsenal ready to offer return to two former EPL stars
From Ezeocha Nzeh, Abuja
iTh their pursuit of a top-four spot set to go down to the wire, Arsenal is already looking at potential summer recruits to aid in securing a smoother passage into the Champions League next term. And at the forefront of Arsene Wenger’s wishlist are believed to be two players familiar to Premier League fans, one of who only left the Gunners last summer. indeed, Alex Song complet-
ARRi Wolves has joined W the ranks of Nigeria Professional Football League
W
ed a £15m switch to Barcelona back in August, but has grown frustrated with a lack of first-team opportunities at the Nou Camp, thus far costing a princely £1m per appearance in Spain. The 25-year-old has also been unsettled by the Catalan lifestyle, and his cousin, former Cameroon international, Rigobert Song, has discussed his feelings with Spanish press.
clubs that have signed sponsorship deals in the on-going season. Enugu Rangers, heartland, Sharks, Lobi Stars recently signed renewable kit sponsorship deals with corporate bodies for the 2012/2013 season. Wolves yesterday in Abuja signed a N50 million oneyear deal with ULO
Consultants, a conglomerate that is into construction, energy and power. Presenting the N50 million cheque to the management of Warri Wolves yesterday in Abuja, the Chief Executive of the company, Uche Luke Okpunor, among other things, promised to take the club to a playing tour of Europe at the end of the 2012/2013 season, as well as, present a brand new bus to the team if it finished among the best three this season. While urging other private
and corporate bodies to identify with the development of football in the country, Okpunor urged the League Management Committee (LMC) to work hard to improve on the standard of the Nigerian league to draw the fans back to the stadia. “i want to inform you that i will take you on European tour if you finished third on the table this season. As worthy ambassadors of ULO, i will give you an official bus if you continue to do well as the season progresses.
Monte Carlo Masters
Wawrinka dispatches Murray in third round, Nadal, Djokovic move on NDY Murray suffered a A heavy defeat as he was swept aside 6-1, 6-2 by Stanislas Wawrinka in the third round at the Monte Carlo Masters. Murray, who had won eight of his previous 12 meetings with the world number 17, looked far from his best as Swiss Wawrinka punished his tame serve. The defeat, in his second match on clay this year, is a blow to Murray’s preparations for May’s French Open. Both Novak Djokovic and Rafael Nadal progressed to the last eight. Murray climbed to second in the world rankings with victory over David Ferrer in the final of Miami’s Sony Open at the end of March
and, despite tending to make a slow transition to the claycourt season, had hoped to close the gap on world number one Djokovic in Monaco. But as a result of this defeat, he will again fall behind Roger Federer. “Twenty-four unforced errors is far too many - a set’s worth,” said Murray after his disappointing defeat. That’s where half the points went. i started making a lot of errors he was able to dictate all of the points from there.” Murray is next scheduled to play at the Madrid Open, which begins on May 5, before competing in Rome in his final event before Roland Garros. “i’ve had tough losses on the clay before and i’ve come back
well from them. hopefully today will be the same,’’ he added. The Scot, who has reached the last four of the Monte Carlo Masters only twice in his six previous attempts, rarely looked like making the semifinals this year. Murray, who comfortably beat France’s Edouard RogerVasselin 6-1 6-4 in his tournament opener, warned before his third-round tie that Wawrinka, who won only twice in 13 meetings with top10 opponents last season, would pose a tough test. Wawrinka had to save a break point in his opening service game but then exploited Murray’s own wayward serve to break the U.S. Open champion three times in suc-
cession and run away with the opening set. The Swiss’s momentum was unchecked in the second set as he closed out a hold to love with a pair of powerful serves to take the opener. Murray showed resolve, if no upturn in form, to save a break point in staggering to 22, but he was soon undone by Wawrinka’s power, volleying long to fall to 4-2. A miserable afternoon’s work was over for Murray as he netted a forehand to concede the second of two match points. Wawrinka’s victory was his third over a world number two after wins over Federer in the same tournament in 2009 and David Nalbandian in Basel in 2006. The 28-year-old
will face Frenchman JoWilfried Tsonga in the next round. Eight-time defending champion Nadal, meanwhile, will meet Grigor Dimitrov next after a 6-2 6-4 defeat of Philipp Kohlschreiber. The Spaniard, 26, extended his winning streak in Monte Carlo to 44 matches with victory, while Bulgarian Dimitrov beat Florian Mayer 6-2 6-4 in the third round. Djokovic, 25, had things tougher as he came from a set down to win for the second day in a row. The Serbian beat Juan Monaco 4-6 6-2 6-2 to set up a quarter-final against Jarkko Nieminen, the Finn ousting Argentine Juan Martin Del Potro 6-4 4-6 7-6 (7-4).
response of London Olympic women’s 10,000m winner, Ethiopia’s Tirunesh Dibaba, to participate in the maiden event. Technical Coordinator of the Race, Yusuf Alli, confirmed yesterday that he was in touch with the manager of the Ethiopian double Olympic champion. “We have spoken with her manager and are waiting for reply any moment from now. We remain very hopeful that some of the world’s best road runners are going to feature in the Okpekpe race,” observed the reigning Nigerian long jump record holder at 8.27m. Dibaba defended the Olympic 10,000m title she won at the Beijing Games in London last summer with a dominant display. Leading with 500m to go, 26year-old Dibaba broke away from Kenya’s Sally Kipyego and Vivian Cheruiyot to win in 30 minutes 20.76 seconds. Dibaba’s triumph was her third Olympic gold after winning both the 5,000m and 10,000m in Beijing - the first female athlete to do so in the history of the Games. Alli also confirmed that former world champion, Stephen Lagat, who is now managing several top athletes, has also got in touch with the Athletics Federation of Nigeria, (AFN), promising to send to Okpekpe some of his top East African runners. Amongst some of the expected runners from the stable of Lagat include winner of the Men’s 1500m T46 final of the Beijing 2008 Paralympic Games, Abraham Cheruiyot Tarbei.
Corporate Nigeria Games Quadrangular begins on Sunday hE first Corporate Nigeria T Games Quardrangular, involving the 2012 industry games champions, will kickoff on Sunday at the University of Lagos Sports Complex with preliminary knock-out matches in football and the athletics’ heats events. Bankers Games champion, Skye Bank, will open the day in the football match with insurance Games’ champion, Sovereign Trust insurance, while the second football match will be between MTN, winners of the 2012 Telecom Games, and wild card invitees, PZ Cussons. The organisers of the Corporate Games quadrangular, MediaVision Limited, said through Jimmy Sogbesan, the group executive director, Projects and Activations, that the games would start at 12 noon with the opening football match and followed by the athletics heats in 100m, 200, and 4 x 100m relays. “MediaVision introduced this innovation in our stable of corporate industry games as the curtain raiser for the Corporate Nigeria Games calendar and more importantly as a pre-season activity to enable the teams assess their preparedness for their respective industry games,” explained Sogbesan.
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THE GUARDIAN, Friday, April 19, 2013
Heroes Of Moniedafe: An Urhobo College defence
Moniedafe
Francis Moniedafe started his romance with sports in Jimeta, a town in Adamawa State in the 1960s and was able to utilize his innate skills in football to become a toast among his contemporaries. Growing up in Jimeta afforded him the opportunity to test his skills against other kids and he excelled to the extent that he was invited to the school team of St. Theresa’s Catholic School even while still a junior student. As the smallest member of the team, Moniedafe’s place was never contested and at several occasions, his contribution aided the team to success. From St Theresa, he got admission to Villanova Secondary School, Numan in 1965. But in 1966, the Civil War broke out and Moniedafe had to relocate to Warri, where he enrolled at Urhobo College, Effurun. His exploits in his new school brought him to limelight to the extent that several clubs queued up for his signature. He decided to pitch his tent with New Nigeria Bank (NNB) after school. He also featured for Asaba Textiles Mills before joining Bendel Insurance, where he was part of the victorious 1978 Challenge Cup winning team. It did not take long before he got a call-up to the national team – Green Eagles. Moniedafe, now a marketing expert based in United States of America, told OLALEKAN OKUSAN that sports and football in particular catapulted him to the limelight, and also created an opportunity for him to further his education in U. S. He laments the less attention paid to school sports in Nigeria, positing that with a robust school sports system, Nigeria can rub shoulders with top sporting nations in the world. RANCIS Moniedafe will forever be grateful to FplayGod for endowing him with the talents to football. Reason: Football brought him fame, as well as gave him the opportunity to study in the United States of America. Reminiscing on his early days in Jimeta, the America-based retail store expert says, “I started sports just like every other kid who engaged in it. We were fond of playing within the neighbourhood in Jimeta, a town in Yola, Adamawa State. I started my primary education at St Theresa Catholic School in 1959 where I became a member of the school first eleven in football. “Aside this, my father owned the first photograph studio as well as the first hotel known as Benue Hotel in Jimeta. I was popular among my contemporaries in football despite being
the smallest member of my school team. I featured for the school in several inter- primary schools competitions,” he said. Moniedafe proceeded to Villanova Secondary School in Numan for his post primary education in 1965 and it was easy for the school authority to identify his prowess in football. This made it possible for him to join the school junior team. “When I left St Theresa for secondary school, my new school quickly invited me to join the junior team, which I played for in several matches until the Civil War of 1966 broke out and the Southerners in the north went back to the south. “At that time, my school principal mistakenly put me - a 13 year-old boy - into a boat taking
people to the East because he thought I was Ibo and it would be better for me to return to my state. Some people in the boat were dropped in Onitsha, while I followed it to Warri where I alighted. “When I got to Warri, my parents were informed about this and they came to see me in Warri. It was then I started staying with my grandmother,” he explained. Eager to further his education, Moniedafe was enrolled at Urhobo College in 1966, where he took part in such sports asa table tennis and lawn tennis, although he still had a burning passion for football. “When I got to Urhobo College, I had to take part in other sports because the school was very popular in the region and for me to make
the team in football I needed to be better than those already in the team. So I was active in table tennis and tennis but I still played football. While I did not have opportunity to play in the school team, I had started playing on the streets of Warri and youth teams,” he said. When Moniedafe finally made the school team in 1970, his final year at Urhobo College, there was keen rivalry between his school and Hussey College. “I made the school team in 1970 which was my final year at Urhobo College and Hussey College was our keen rival, and most times they beat us during inter-schools tournament among schools in the Midwest region, known as Giwa Osagie Cup. “Hussey College could boast top players like Okufulize and Agbonifo, who captained Bendel Insurance. In my team, we had the Obire brothers – Daniel and Paul, as well as Joseph Oshomuwve known as ‘Garuba’ and Martins Ogbala. “In one of the matches we played against Federal Government College, Warri, there was a player known as Express, who was a serious threat to defenders but when we played against them, I was able to checkmate him for us to beat them 2-0. Unfortunately, we lost in the semifinal to exit the tournament.” Moniedafe said inter sports competition was a great moment every student looked forward to as the school system incorporated sports into the curriculum. “In those days, it was well organized with all the students willing to be part of certain activity during the games. There was this rivalry among the houses and everything was well planned. Most times, the climax of inter-house sports was the school invitational relay, with every student eager to catch a glimpse of the ac-
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School Sports marshal’s sojourn in America tion. “In those days, the sports programmes were well planned that the first term was for athletics, second term was for football, while academics was for the third term because promotional examinations were held this term. But one thing that I enjoyed doing during athletics event was to be the cheerleader of my team because I did not take part in athletics,” he said. The Bendel Insurance’s former defence stalwart said marrying sports with academics depended largely on the individual’spriority, adding, “For you to do sports, you must maintain good grades in school. So as an athlete cum student, you must always get your priority right. “Because my parents were skeptical about my romance with football as they just wanted me to face my studies, I never allowed my involvement in the game to distract my attention from my studies,” he said. Looking back on his life after Urhobo College in 1970, Moniedafe said: “I went back to Jimeta after I graduated from Urhobo College and my dad wanted me to continue my education, but at this time the football bug had bitten me and all I wanted was to play football. “I had just come back from Warri, where Warri Wolves had just had a great run against all to reach the final of the Challenge Cup and I happened to be close to some of the players, like Ajasa Owunaru, Joseph Oshomuwve alias Garuba and Ebiyon Dediare. So we agreed that After winning the 1977 Bendel State FA Cup trophy with New Nige- In the colours of Asabatex FC ria Bank (NNB) in Benin at sometime I would join them. “I was invited to the North Eastern State camp in Maiduguri as a pioneer member of Yankari de Janeiro and I was also part of the team. Now leave the team and move to U.S. to continue my Bulls, which was then the State team. In that the big question that confronted me then was studies. “On returning from Brazil, I went to Jimeta to team, we had Benjamin Duamlong, and we whether to stay back with the team in Brazil or both represented the state at the first National go to school in U. S.? I had sleepless nights but I inform my dad that I was fulfilling my part of Sports Festival held in Lagos in 1973. This was the decided to go to school then even though I was the deal, which was to further my education one of the best centre backs in Nigeria. I knew and, he was happy. I left for school and the Eastart of my career as a footballer,” he added. Another window to follow his passion opened my place in the team was secured but I felt it gles eventually won the trophy in 1980. So we for Moniedafe when Coach Anthony Egbokodo was time for me to go. I had to call on Coach were all happy, and for me, if I had the same scewas seconded to the North to groom talents for Etemike, who luckily was on the coaching crew nario, I will take the same decision,” he said. In the North Carolina State University, the region and he was selected to be part of the with us in Brazil to help my case, which he did and I was eventually released to go.” Moniedafe got admission to study Business team. Continuing he said: “I made that decision be- Management and Economics. But he also capHis words: “Mr. Anthony Egbokodo was seconded to us from Midwest then by Governor cause I noticed that in the national team play- tained the school team, known as Wolfpack, for Samuel Ogbemudia on a state tour to discover ers like Adokie Amasiamaka and Segun three years and led it to qualify for the first time more talents. Egbokodo met my dad in Jimeta Odegbami were somehow treated differently in the national playoffs. In 1981, he was named the best soccer player in and they decided between themselves that he from some of us that had not furthered our edwanted me for his team – New Nigeria Bank ucation. This alone prompted my decision to the school as well as the most outstanding de(NNB) in Sapele. But after an initial protest from me, I later accepted to go with him. “I ended up in Sapele with NNB after the festival. In 1974, I moved to Asabatex and we participated in the 1974 Nigeria National League. In Asabatex, we had great potentials but it lasted for a short span, which forced me to eventually end up in Bendel Insurance.” In 1974, Moniedafe was part of the Asabatex team that finished second behind Rangers in the National League. But Stationery Stores of Lagos, which felt that Asabatex fielded ineligible players to prosecute the league, protested their second spot. This eventually forced the league organisers to withdraw some points from Asabatex for the team to go down the league table. “After the protest by Stores, the management of Asabatex was not too happy and they decided to withdraw Duamlong and myself that had already been invited to the national camp,” he said. From 1974, Moniedafe started making the national team, and stayed there up till 1979. Moniedafe narrates: “At a time, there was an exodus of players to the United States for further studies and with the help of Coach Godwin Etemike, the then Chief Coach of Bendel State Sports council, I got admitted to North Carolina State University. I was scheduled to go in the fall semester of 1979, but my team, Bendel Insurance was prosecuting the African Cup Winners Cup and I didn’t feel it was right to leave them at that time. So I pushed my trip to spring semester. “At this time again, another problem emerged because as a member of the Green Eagles invited to camp in preparation for the 1980 Nations Cup and the team was already in Brazil. “The Bendel players had joined the team in Rio Moniedafe (third left standing), with members of the Urhobo College team in the 1970s.
fensive player and for four years he made the All Conference Teams. He was at North Carolina alongside his teammates in Eagles including Prince Afejuku, Sam Okpodu, Sam Owoh and Chris Ogu. Moniedafe, who credits sports for most of the things he has achieved in life because he made good use of the opportunities it provides, advises administrators pay equal attention to games and education because that would give the students better opportunities in life. “School sports played a great part in shaping our country’s sports in those days. So I want to call on the people in charge of sports to go back to the schools to bring Nigeria back to its glory days.”
Mr. Anthony Egbokodo was seconded to us from Midwest then by Governor Samuel Ogbemudia on a state tour to discover more talents. Egbokodo met my dad in Jimeta and they decided between themselves that he wanted me for his team – New Nigeria Bank (NNB) in Sapele. But after an initial protest from me, I later accepted to go with him. I ended up in Sapele with NNB after the festival. In 1974, I moved to Asabatex and we participated in the 1974 Nigeria National League. In Asabatex, we had great potentials but it lasted for a short span, which forced me to eventually end up in Bendel Insurance
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THE GUARDIAN, Friday, April 19, 2013
SchoolSports IG House triumphs at Police Children School inter sports meet By Ujunwa Atueyi ITH 276 points, Inspector General (IG) House has emerged overall winner of the just concluded yearly inter house sports competition of Police Children School, Ikeja, which engaged the pupils in various athletic display for over four hours. The competition ended with much excitement from spectators, parents, teachers and the winning house members. POWA house came second with 234 points, Commissioner House took the third prize with 164 points; while Governor and PTA house came fourth and fifth with 154 points and 96 points respectively. The School Head Teacher, Mrs. Beauty Okuma, said the overall aim of the school is to discover raw talents for the nation, which when adequately groomed becomes an asset to the country, and also ensure an all round development of Nigerian child. To her, the exercise is in line with the national policy on education, which emphasises on sound mind in sound body, thereby positioning the pupils to be healthier and functional for the academic work. She said, “to give holistic education to a child involves all round development of the mind, soul and body. This kind of grassroots events allows discovery of hidden talents, skills and potentials, which when well trained becomes asset to our dear nation and contributes significantly to the economic development of the nation just as the likes of Kanu Nwankwo, Jay-Jay Okocha, Chioma Ajunwa and others have done.” “These individuals did not just come to limelight overnight they were discovered, trained and developed to become heroes, so this grassroot search for talents could produce tomorrow’s world champions in sports.” Also, Area Commander Area F. Ikeja, ACP Tunde Adagunduro, who enthusiastically witnessed the competition till it ends, remarked that active sporting activities portrays the image of a country and therefore the need for government and all concerned to provide needed sporting facilities to groom young people from foundation.
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The foreign coaches during the clinic at the second Greensprings Kanu Football Camp in Lekki, on Monday.
PHOTO: FEMI ADEBESIN-KUTI
Our passion, gains at Greensprings Kanu Football Camp, by pupils By Olalekan Okusan OR the trio of Samuel Oguntuase, Isaac and Ladi Martins, being part of this year’s Greensprings Kanu Football Camp, has been very fulfilling and exciting. The students could not hide their excitement while speaking with The Guardian that attending the camp has exposed them as well as acquiring new skills in football. The camp, which is being organised by Lagos-based Greensprings School in collaboration with Super Eagles former captain, Nwankwo Kano was meant to encourage students to combine their interest in football with their academics. An elated 12 year-old Oguntuase admitted that he enjoyed every minute he had spent in the camp. “I think this is the best place for me to be at this time and I will always be willing to be part of the camp again. Aside the new skills I had acquired, I
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am impressive with the facilities, as well as, the coaching crew that tutored us at the camp. Everything that was said about the camp was true and there was no dull moment in the camp,” he said. The junior class three pupil of Tunyo International Comprehensive High School, however, commended the coaches for their understanding and support at the camp. Like Oguntuase, Ore, one of the beneficiaries of the Kanu Heart Foundation, was particularly thrilled that he has been under the tutelage of European coaches drawn from England and Holland, as well as, local international coaches. “I am particularly happy that for the first time, I had the opportunity to be trained by coaches from English Premier League and Dutch league. This is best camp I had ever attended in my life because everything about the game is superb. From the facilities,
accommodation and feeding, it was awesome and I think we need more of this in Nigeria so that we can have more players like Kanu,” Ore said. The 17 year-old, however, lauded the management of the school for muting the idea of the camp, saying, “if other schools can be doing this, I think more students will have the opportunity to participate in sports not only in football,” he added. For nine year-old Martins, attending that camp has indeed afforded him the opportunity to follow his passion – football. “I love football and I am happy that this camp is being organised. It was my mum that heard about the camp and she ensured I registered for it. I think if I had heard about it last year, I would have been part of it. But I know this will not be my last outing as I look forward to taking part in more of it in near future,” the
Alli, who was part of the 10man contingent sponsored by the Lagos State government, described this year camp as exciting with the mixture of coaches from England and Holland. Also, the Minister for Sport, Bolaji Abdullahi has commended the efforts of the organisers, saying it is a step in the right direction. The minister represented by the Secretary General of the Nigeria School Sport Federation (NSSF), Olabisi Joseph, said Greensprings’ gesture was in line with the Federal Government’s initiative on grassroots sports development. “This event is contributing to the new vision of sports development in Nigeria. From the presidency to the Ministry of Sport and Education, to the states sports councils, the anthem has been ‘go back to the schools for the development of sports.’
Red House lifts trophy at NSB games By Tony Nwanne HE University of Lagos last week came alive when the Nigeria Society for the Blind (NSB), marked it 18th edition of the yearly inter-house sports competition with red house emerging as winner. The competition, which ended in favour of Red House that outshone blue house with 126 points over 116 points to claim the overall best for this year’s edition. From the beginning of the competition, Red House, despite stiff opposition from others maintained the lead starting from the match past competition, three legged race, skittle race, shot put,
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Boys’ sprint event at Royal Group of Schools inter-house sports held at University of Lagos Sports Complex last week.
Lekki British Junior School pupil said. He continued, “I learnt how to dribble very well, make passes and shoot as well. I am eager to come back again next year. Aside the skills I acquired, I made at least 20 friends whom I never thought I would meet. All these made the camp very fun and exciting for me.” Also the duo of Musa Alli and Zion Banjo were quick to admit that they would want the camp to be staged on regular basis. Alli, a student of Langford International School said, “I want to say that this is the best camp I had ever attended compared to the ones I had been to. The hostels were fantastic, the feeding were superb, while the coaches were excellent. I am convinced without any doubt that this camp is well organised because everything was in place and things were done very well by the organisers.”
tug of war, among others to emerge the overall champion. Despite being visually impaired, the students were full of life while participating in the competitions, while parents, guardians and teachers were on ground to cheer them to victory. Speaking during the prize presentation, the Chairman of the Council, Biola Agbaje noted that there is indeed ability in disability, adding that the sport activities is to further test their abilities in different angles. According to her, “we deemed it fit to mark this year’s edition in the
University of Lagos because we felt it is necessary for the world to see the talents embedded in them. It’s indeed a great competition because this will further help them to gather more knowledge outside the classroom,” she noted. She, however, urged good meaning Nigerians to usually see these ones as people who need to be catered for often. “Despite their being visually impaired, they are human beings like us, so they need to be catered for big time because most of them are indeed talented, and they need to heard and seen to enable them achieve their aims in life,” she added.
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Golf Weekly KGI sets tone for collegiate golf in Nigeria HAT looks like the first W practical step towards taking golf to schools in the country will commence on Thursday, April 25th, when the Kids Golf International (KGI), will hold the first in a series of golf clinics/skills challenge. The maiden exercise aimed at providing a sustainable platform for grassroots golf development in schools, is slated to hold at the Lakowe Lakes Golf and Country Club. Only recently, golf legend, Jack Nicklaus, working with Starting New At Golf (SNAG) had decried the slow pace of golf development at the grassroots saying, “today, kids start playing athletics when they are as young as four or five-years-old, and by the time they are seven, eight or nine years old, many of them have picked their two or three sports... and golf isn’t usually in the mix.” He added that, one reason for that is, for kids, golf lacks a team component, so “the youngest shy away from golf because there’s no one to share responsibility with…it’s all on their shoulders,” adding that another impediment to kids taking to golf, was its lack of easierto-use kids’ equipment. In football, kids play flag football with smaller footballs and shorter fields and in basketball, they start with a smaller ball and a shorter hoop. However, schools that are have signed up for the maiden programme are Day Waterman College, Greensprings School, Corona School, Lagos Preparatory School, Chrisland Schools, French International School and Standard Bearers School. According to KGI’s Golf Development Director, Mrs.
Akpabio
Susan Thompson, “students of the affected schools have been taking lessons once a week as part of KGI’s grassroots development in the first phase of the programme. Maintaining that the programme would eventually give birth to golf as a collegiate sport in the country as is the case in the U.S., Thompson added, “we plan to roll out the next phase involving other schools and are also looking to go into state schools with the permission of the government in the future as well.” On her part, Secretary of KGI, Evelyn Oboh said, “we at KGI, are working in partnership with the Nigeria Golf Federation (NGF) and the secretary of the federation was at or last event, the All African Junior Championship in Abuja. “Plans are also afoot for us to partner the Lagos State Golf Association (LSGA) because they have to b in the know about any plans or programmes that we have for state schools,” Oboh stated. KGI as an institution is dedicated to developing the game of golf in Nigeria and West Africa through tournaments and training programmes for children aged 5-18years old. The outfit, which is affiliated with organisations such as the U.S. Kids Golf Foundation, where young talented golfers are exposed to international tournaments in Europe and the United States, also runs coaching programmes for golf coaches and aspiring golf coaches, where they are certified through the KGI Academy. The KGI is the only licensed firm to sell U.S. Kids golf clubs for kids on the African continent.
LM Open series record historic field, Akpabio wins sixth event Stories by Eno-Abasi Sunday rOM an initial field of 69 FMeridien players in March 2011, the Le (LM) Open, the flagship tournament of Le Meridien Ibom Hotel and Golf resort, Uruan, Akwa Ibom State, has grown to become a must play event, attracting participants from nearly all parts of the country and beyond. Apart from a record 129 players out of over 132 that applied playing on Day One of LM Open VI, which took place over the weekend, the tourney has made steady progress while steadily establishing itself as a truly national tournament, even though being only in its third year. About 14 of the com-
petitors were lady golfers. This in itself is also a record for the tournament. However, at the end of the 36hole contest, homeboy, Usenobong Akpabio of Ibom Golf Club, emerged overall winner net with a score of 144 in the Mens’ Category A. While Abuja-based Sam Galadima finished as gross winner in the M e n s ’ - C a t e g o r y Championship, Adeyemo Hassan holed out as net winner. Winner of the first edition of the series, Paul Abiyou led the pack in the Veterans’ Category and Suzan Cole-Kotas reigned in the ladies category. This edition, like the previous ones, saw Port Harcourt-based
golfers being in the majority (24) while hosts Ibom Golf Club contributed 19 competitors. The IBB Golf and Country Club, Abuja supplied 13 players while the combined team from Ikeja Golf Club and Ikoyi Club (golf section) also stood at 13. Aba Golf Club, Benin Club (golf section), Calabar Golf Club, Mobil Club, Eket and Shell Club, Warri, jointly contributed 20 competitors. Interestingly, it is not only the in the area of competitors that the LM Open series has witnessed appreciable increase. New sponsors are signing up to contribute their quota to making the tournament a must play event.
“Our largest participation before now was 118, so a field of 129 players now shows that the tournament is growing and without a doubt, one of the most popular tournament in Nigeria and organised, I believe, in a different way that any other tournament in the country is organized,” Consultant General Manager of International Management Group (IMG), Sam Logan told The Guardian. On why a good number of the series are oversubscribed, he said, “I think more people are signing up because we run the tournament in a different way than every other event is run. We concentrate more on our services to the players and
enhancing their comfort and ensure that prizes to be won in the different categories are golf trophies rather than say, television sets because this is a golf tournament. The television sets and the airline tickets, we give away as raffle draw prizes, so even if you don’t play well, you still have a chance to win a very good price. He said another attraction was the fact that since the facility is a “golf resort and one of the best in West Africa, golfers stay within its precincts and do everything including their accommodation. They don’t have to drive to anywhere to play golf or drive anywhere for the food and beverages events. Everywhere they need to go to
as part of the tournament is located within a walking distance. On rolling out two tournaments yearly as against three that was the case when it came into being, he restated that the June event seemed to be difficult for people to make because of a number of personal reasons. “It was also too quick after the first tournament of the year, so I decided to make the first tournament of the year to coincide with the weekend of the U.S. Masters, so that as the players are finishing their game, the Masters, the biggest golf tournament in the world is on television for them to watch.”
THE GUARDIAN, Friday, April 19, 2013
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Union Bank, Comets in DSTV PBL opener
‘Wolves yet to decide on Mba, ready to go to CAS’ From Ezeocha Nzeh, Abuja ARRI Wolves says it not decided if Super Eagles 2013 Nations Cup revelation, Sunday Mba, would be sold to a foreign club or not, while still insisting that the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has not made a pronouncement on the real owner of the player. The club, which claims it is the sole owner of the midfielder, says it is only when the NFF rules on the ownership of the player that the club would sit down to determine whether he would be sold to Enugu Rangers or retained, adding that the onus is on the Delta State side to determine where Mba will play if he is finally let off the hook by the NFF. According to the Executive Chairman of the Delta State Sports Council, Amaju Pinnick, the duty of the NFF is only to determine the real owners of the player, rather than intervening or determining, who buys or sells him. Pinnick, who insists Mba belongs to Warri Wolves, warned that the club would not be intimidated by either the NFF or Rangers in their ownership tussle, adding that with the documents in its hand, the club was ready to fight the battle up to the Court of Arbitration for Sports (CAS) to prove its ownership of the player. He said, “Sunday Mba’s case is very regrettable because it is clear that he is a Warri Wolves’ player, but we do not want to dwell much on that because I can assure you that within the next one week, a pronouncement will be
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made by the NFF and we know that the pronouncement would clear all the issues surrounding the player. “How can we negotiate with Rangers over our own player? If it is pronounced that Mba belongs to Warri Wolves, the NFF has no right to determine whether we will sell him to Rangers or not. It beholds on us to determine what we want to do with him, if we are selling, at what price and so on. The duty of the NFF is to determine the ownership of the player and there it ends. “If we must sell him, we would first look at the value of the player, we believe in the sanctity of the game. We must underline the fact this boy has a future, but that you have become a star through one championship does not give one the room for impunity or behave above the law. “We know Rangers, for example, cannot afford to pay N100 million for Sunday Mba. We may decide to sell him for a certain amount, which the club can afford but with clause of a certain percentage from his subsequent transfer fee.” Pinnick added that Warri Wolves is not being hard or difficult on either Mba or Rangers, “but what we reject is the kind of pranks and antics which Rangers brought into the whole issue. But definitely we know that it can happen because we know that there are rules guiding football and the NFF on their own must follow the statutes, which is clear in its section 5 and 17 (3) respectively as regard the transfer of players. We cannot be intimidated by either the NFF or Rangers over Sunday
By Adeyinka Adedipe
NION Bank and Comet U Basketball Club will open this season DStv Premier Basketball League in a game that will take place at the sports hall of the National Stadium today. The ceremonial game, which will give an insight into what to expect this season, is coming after the Nigeria Basketball Federation (NBBF) and sponsors; DSTV agreed a four-year deal worth $1.45 million. Both clubs will have to improve their game if they hope to do well this season. Union Bank escaped relegation last year while Comets owned and coached by National team gaffer, Ayo Bakare seems to be content with competing in the elite division. Mba
CAF Champions League
Emordi pleads for release of Eagles’ stars NUGU Rangers’ Coach, E Okey Emordi is pleading for the release of Super Eagles’ stars, Sunday Mbah and Chigozie Agbim on time for Sunday’s Champions League clash against Angola’s Recreativo do Libolo. Rangers is yet to reach an agreement with Warri Wolves over the clearance of Mba and Agbim even after it registered them for the continental competition. “It is a very disturbing scenario we find ourselves at the
moment. It has come to the point where I have to make this passionate appeal to our fellow clubs to release their players that we have registered for the continental competition,” Emordi said. “We really need the understanding of these clubs in this regard. This is a competition we are representing the country and they have to see it as a Nigerian project.” Emordi said he expects Recreativo to stretch his team in Sunday’s Champions League clash at home.
“I expect a very tough game from the Angolans, but I am very sure that we shall overcome them. By God’ grace, we shall find our range that day so as to make the return leg a mere formality. I just pray that we get the clearance of some of the players we are still to get,” he said. Rangers walked over Sao Tome and Principe side, Sporting Club, in the preliminary round, while it beat Vital’O of Burundi 2-0 aggregate in the previous round of the competition.
After last year’s disastrous outing, Union Bank has signed some seasoned players while the return to Edem Ekpeyong should add pep to the team. Union Bank experimented with young players last year, which nearly backfired and has brought in experienced hands to create a balance. Despite Bakare modest ambition, he hopes that his team can still claim some scalp and ruffle some feathers this season. He would also bring to bear his international experience having led the National team through a grueling qualifiers in the run up to the Olympic Games last year. Union Bank Coach, Ayinla Johnson said that his team would vie for the top prize this season. He stated that the return of some of his players and the signing of other established ones would propel his team to the top. He noted that they still had few young players, who would surprise many during the season. “Our ambition is to get to the top again. We have what it takes and I hope that the blend of established and young players will do the trick. “There are other teams who are also strong contenders but we will do all within our power to get to the top again. The management of the team, Union Bank have supported the team over the years and we will repay its kind gesture by winning the trophy,” Ayinla added.
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TheGuardian
Friday, April 19, 2013
Conscience, Nurtured by Truth
HE youths are worried about T the increasing religious militancy and moral decadence in spite of the burgeoning population of Christians and Moslems in the country. The focus on these two major reliBy Dr. Bishop O. Ovwigho gions is exigent on the fact that they constitute the bulk of the population. More so, there appears to be a total derogation of the Ten Commandments contained in both the Holy Books. The Ten Commandments are the bedrock of all religions even though they were later compartmentalised by some avatars as ‘love your neighbour as yourself, and do unto others as you would want them do unto you’. Today, the more worrisome moral perversions are the psycho-social problems of stealing and killing of a fellow man. The dayto-day preachments in Churches and Mosques abhor stealing yet stealing has remained the order of the day. At the national level the worst culprits of stealing are the older members of the society holding political offices, civil servants and few misguided youths. It should be noted that stealing of our public wealth is not rampant among the youths because they are not often given the pride of place in government establishments and political positions. Forms of stealing among others include inflated contracts, unaccounted budgetary allocation, diversion of public fund, 10 per cent kick-back, pick pocket, trickster (419), election rigging, false declaration, robbery, sea piracy, armed robbery and kidnapping. These forms of stealing are intrinsically related but differ in gravity hence a thief could pursue another thief. In some churches, the biggest thieves are escorted to take the front rows because of the financial expectation by the Clergy. Closely related to stealing is the killing of a fellow man by sword, torture, words and thoughts. The argument that the killers and their perpetrators are not true Christians and Moslems does not preclude them from membership or pseudo-membership of the two religions in question. The Boko Haram sect per se has killed thousands of persons since its advent in the last four years. Some Christian sects kill by vocalised prayers and thoughts instead of physical means. We blame Boko Haram because they kill by physical means. Besides, it is highly irrational to kill fellow humans by sword simply on grounds of religious differences and abhorrence to Western education. In the same vein, it is a case of religious intoxication and mesmerism when some Christians go to the extent of praying, ‘let my enemies die, die, and die’. ‘Let the unbelievers die and perish in hell fire’. Most often, we denigrate the effects of our thoughts and power of the spoken word in reaching out to people and places. We have seen some Christians and Moslems cursing non-members just because of differences in religion. Loud speakers are placed facing neighbour’s houses and roads instead of the congregation within the church. A popular song by one of the traditional religions says,’ the church is cursing our religion for nothing sake, I have nothing against them, that I have my reasons for choosing this religion, mind your own and I will mind my own’. The admonition, ‘mind your own’, is plausible for peaceful co-existence in a religiously pluralised society. Before we allow the deleterious effects of religion to plunder us as a people let us reflect on the poem and song written by a Primary four pupil in 1914. It goes thus: On levitate at confluence of River Niger. We turn to the North; saw peace, a people, Hausas, Fulani, Nupes, Gwaris, dwelling on the farm, caring flocks, and mentor by merchandise, under the blue sky, nurtured by love, unseen Goodness, tendered by the green river and trees. We turn to the East; saw peace, a people, Ibos, dwelling on the farm, and mentor by merchandise, under the blue sky, nurtured by love, unseen Goodness, tendered by the green river and trees. We turn to the South; saw peace, a people, Efik,
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Loving thy neighbour as thyself Ibibios, Anang, Izons, Okrikas, Urhobos, Binis, Itsekiris, dwelling on the farm, fishing and mentor by merchandise, under the blue sky, nurtured by love, unseen Goodness, tendered by the green river and trees. We turn to the West; saw peace, a people, Yorubas, dwelling on the farm, and mentor by merchandise, under the blue sky, nurtured by love, unseen Goodness, tendered by the green river and trees. Back to the centre, the confluence, facing the east, source of all light, the cradle, the Eagle landed and flew to the four corners and there was the song: God Bless Nigeria!! With love, peace and harmony!!! AMEN!! The socket of that poem actually exemplified the socio-political conviviality and pristine harmony, which existed among the tribes of Nigeria until the civil war. This was later amplified by the post civil war reconstruction slogan, ‘One Nigeria’, initiated by the then Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon. The present day discrimination, killing, stealing, adultery, intolerance and greed are attributable to wrong precepts. Karl Max hypothesis that, ‘religion was the opium of the masses’, cannot be upheld if we apply the golden rule of all religions, ’love your neighbour as yourself’. We practise only the outward aspect of the song,’ hold somebody,
tell him that you love him keep your hands together and praise thy Lord.’ The outward approach instead of the inward way of seeking the Lord’s intervention is apparently the bane of peace and progress in the country. The outward way involves seeking help from the Clergy who in most cases needs more help than the seeker. Agreeably a good number of them need help of the members to build mansions, buy expensive cars and private jets. The song by the social crusader and musician, the late Fela Anikulakpo Kuti, that, ‘Pastor house na him they fine pass’, is a reality against the backdrop of the inordinate drive for wealth among a majority of the present day men of God. The inward way involves meditation and seeking direct intervention of Almighty God in our affairs. The great avatars made use of the inward way of going to the mountain to solve the afflictions of their followers as well as problems of human emancipation. A popular folktale says, ‘at the beginning God Almighty was very close to earth but man’s wickedness made Him to depart far into the sky’. In essence man’s wickedness has continued to attenuate our chances of reaching God Almighty for help. Through meditation on the mountain
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ABC (ISSN NO 0189-5125)
Moses had the illumination of the Ten Commandments. The pure at heart usually receive answers for solving the problems of their followers after meditation. Philosophers and leaders such as Pythagoras, Socrates, Francis Bacon, Isaac Newton, Michael Faraday, Henry Car, Mahatma Gandhi, Indira Gandhi, Budha, Nelson Mandela and Archimedes made use of the inward way for achieving good leadership, peace and invention of technologies in their times. The reward of the inward way of seeking the intervention of the Creator in our affairs is intuition. For more exactitude without intuition, we cannot solve the problems of human advancement on mother earth. The intuitive flash, which Archimedes received made him to run out of the bathroom shouting, ‘Eureka, Eureka, and Eureka’, ‘I have found it’. He found the principles of flotation. Masters and philosophers such as Pythagoras, Copernicus and Isaac Newton found various principles, which are being used today in the pure and applied sciences. Michael Faraday was able to tap into the spiritual reservoir to discover electricity. The protagonists of the inward way believe that the inner self controls the outer self hence the need for the spiritual food of going to the mountain at intervals. The inward way teaches that humanity is one body, and that an injury inflicted on one part of the body by an individual would later affect that individual directly or indirectly. The song by the legendary Bob Marley that,’ you cannot run away from yourself’ is true to the extent that the inner self is the real self. Williams Shakespeare’s deep understanding of natural laws made him to proclaim that,’ the evil that men do lives after them’, ‘He who kills by the sword shall also die by the sword’. Recently, an Okada rider bemoaning the state of a road remarked that both those who confiscated the money meant for repair of the road and those who did not were equally suffering the difficulties of passing the road. Generally, religion cannot be divorced from man no matter the debate. It began with creation of the planet earth. It was established by the Divine order as an immutable institution for the refinement of man’s crude character. To a large extent, only the negative aspects of religion have continued to dominate our behaviour in the country. This can be attributed to our myopic understanding of the Creator and the created. Poor knowledge of the Creator often gives rise to selfishness and other anti-social behaviour such as indecent dressing, ostentation and primitive acquisition of wealth, stealing in high places, prostitution and pornography. The poor socialisation in our educational institutions is another major clog to moral rearmament in the country. The poor socialisation process starts at infancy like this,’ this is my eye, this is my nose, this is my chest, this is my bag, these are my sandals and so on without reference to the inner power which gives manifestation to all things. Discrimination in human societies starts with the inherent problem of personalising things. The hands of other workers and the Omniscience are in that property you call your own. It is not too late for us to start the process of teaching our children and youths that what belongs to one person also belong to the next person. Though, it is difficult to teach an old dog a new trick the elders can still learn because no knowledge is wasted. There is a common name in my local dialect when translated would mean, ‘who calls this life my own’. From all indications, not until we can grasp a true understanding of the Creator and the created as well as the purpose of existence, the prevailing problems of religious discrimination and antagonism will continue to persist. The task of re-directing and teaching the masses the true nature of man and correct tenets of Christianity and Islam rests squarely on our religious leaders and older members of the society. By this approach, we shall gradually exterminate from our country moral decadence, discrimination, plundering of collective wealth and man’s inhumanity to man. •Dr. Ovwigho lectures at the Delta State University, Asaba campus.