Sat 23 Feb 2013 The guardian Nigeria by The Guardian Newspaper

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Big Dilemma Over Dialogue With Boko Haram

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Ayotunde My Husband’s Friend Was Living Take Courage, Build With Us…And Things A Business, And Got Out Of Hand! Be Independent

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Saturday, February 23, 2013

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Gunmen Kill 10 Family Members In Jos From Isa Abdulsalami, Jos, and Njadvara Musa, Maiduguri

Nine Suspected Boko Haram Members Killed In Borno

O fewer than 10 members N of the same family were hacked to death on Thursday

Distraught, the other family members yesterday went to the mortuary to take the body of their grandmother for burial, along with the 10 members who were cruelly murdered by unknown assailants. In Maiduguri, the Borno State capital, about nine suspected Boko Haram members were

night at Koghum village in Vwang District of Jos South Council of Plateau State as they were meeting on how to bury their deceased grandmother, whose body has been in the mortuary.

feared killed yesterday after several gunmen attacked the Ibrahim Taiwo Divisional Police Station on Baga Road, which was repelled by men of Joint Task Force (JTF) in the early hours of the day. Confirming the attacks in Maiduguri, the Borno State Police Command

on Media and Publicity, Pam Ayuba, said: “A family of 10 comprising the mother, father, spokesman, Gideon Jibrin, said two-month-old child and the attacks began at about other kids were mercilessly 11pm Thursday and continued killed in the attack.” Ayuba gave the names of into the early hours of yesterday, when the armed hood- those killed as Jacob Musa (32), lums were repelled by a com- Luka Musa (32), Mrs. Serah bined team of police and JTF. Musa, (22), Benjamin and Confirming the Jos incident Musa. According to Ayuba, the to journalists, Special Adviser to the Plateau State Governor CONTINUED ON PAGE 2

NEWS 5

Monarch Denies Raping

Ex-Corps Member

CONTINUED ON PAGE 2

President Goodluck Jonathan (2nd right) at the 3rd Heads of State and Government of African-South America (ASA) Summit in Malabo, Equatorial Guinea… yesterday.

PDP Moves To Remove Atiku, Na’Abba, Others From BoT From John-Abba Ogbodo, Abuja S part of the plot to pave A way for the emergence of President Goodluck Jonathan as presidential candidate of

the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in 2015, the party has started a process of weeding out some members believed to be opposed to the agenda from the Board of

Trustees (BoT), with a view to whittling their influence in the party. The Guardian gathered that the committee raised last month to carry out an assess-

ment of BoT membership has recommended that some members, who at one time or the other had cause to decamp and later returned, be removed.

According to sources, the committee, headed by former Minister for Information, Prof Jerry Gana, would be submit its report to the party next week. The committee, according to

sources, recommended that former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and former Speaker of the House of Representatives, Alhaji Umar Ghali Na’Abba, have CONTINUED ON PAGE 2

THE GUARDIAN, Saturday, February 23, 2013

Two Kids Found Dead As Mother Vanishes With Third Child From Leo Sobechi, Abakaliki OBODY who visited No. 1 N Elias Odili Street, Abakaliki, would believe, as being claimed, that the two children who lay lifeless on the bed were matcheted to death by their own mother in the early hours of Wednesday February 20, 2013. Did she really do it? At the time of filing this

report, the whereabouts of the woman and her third child were unknown. Did she flee to escape the fate that befell her two children? Mrs. Joy Uchaji, a middleaged school teacher, married to a former leader of Ebonyi Legislative Council was alleged to have butchered her two children, Nneoma and Godwin Uchaji aged four and two years

respectively at the home with a machete after which she packed her bags and fled. When The Guardian visited the scene, the machete with which Mrs. Joy allegedly committed the act, lay innocently on top of the slain daughter. Family members disclosed that the body of the boy was found on top of the bed with his neck almost severed from the body while the girl was

found in the kitchen with machete cuts on her back. Her husband, Mr. Chamberlain Uchaji, was not around as he was said to have travelled to Abuja where he secured an employment recently. However, elder brother to Mr. Uchaji, Elias, told reporters that the incident was an ugly development in the family, stressing that

until the husband and other members living outside Ebonyi returned, the family could not take any decision on next line of action. Commenting on the incident, the Police Public Relations Officer, Ebonyi State Command, Mr. Sylvester Igbo, a Deputy Superintendent of Police said the command received a report of the incident and

had begun a search for the woman, adding that preliminary investigations by the Police indicated that the woman must have run to Lagos. He said bodies of the slain children had been cleared to be deposited at the Federal Teaching Hospital Abakaliki, (FETHA) mortuary.

Lack Of Institutions Fueling Corruption, Says Amaechi From Kelvin Ebiri, Port Harcourt

Explains Why N100B Bond Was Converted To Loan

IVERS State Governor R Chibuike Amaechi has blamed weak institutions

Independent Corrupt Practices and other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) and the Police have remained a tool for silencing government opponents. The governor stated this at the second Prof Claude Ake Memorial Lecture, with the theme, ‘Combating the resource curse: strategies for economic transformation in

for the massive corruption plaguing Nigeria. Amaechi, who is also chairman of the Nigerian Governors Forum (NGF), explained that this is the reason why the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), the

Supreme Court Orders Wabara’s Retrial Over Alleged N55Million Bribe From Lemmy Ughegbe, Abuja HE Supreme Court on T Friday ordered a former Senate President, Chief Adolphus Wabara to return to an Abuja High Court to face trial over an alleged N55 million bribe he allegedly received from the Ministry of Education to approve a budget in its favour. The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) had arraigned Wabara and four others on April 11, 2005 at the Abuja High Court for allegedly obtaining money to facilitate easy passage of the budget of the Federal Ministry of Education in 2005. They were accused of allegedly committing offences contrary to sections 9(1) (a); 17(a); 23(2); 26(1) and punishable under Section 8(1); 9(1) (b); 17(c); 23(3) of the Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Act 2000. Other accused persons are a former Minister of Education, Prof. Fabian Osuji, Senator Ibrahim AbdulAzeez, Senator Azuta Mbata and Garba Matazu. Two other suspects (Senators Emmanuel Okpede and Badamosi

Maccido) have died and their names struck out of the charge sheet. The accused had earlier prayed the trial Judge to quash the charges against them. However, Justice Husseini Muktar refused the request on November 10, 2005. Dissatisfied, three of the accuse persons —- Wabara, AbdulAzeez and Osuji —approached the Court of Appeal, Abuja Division to challenge the judgment of the High Court. On June 2, 2010, the appellate court quashed the 15count charge brought against the trio by the ICPC and let them off the hook, causing ICPC to head to the Supreme Court to challenge the verdict. In a unanimous decision delivered by Justice Musa Dattijo Muhammad, the apex court set aside the judgement of the Court of Appeal which quashed the charge against the accused persons and breathed life into the earlier decision of the trial court. It ordered the remittance of the case file to the Chief Judge of the Federal Capital Territory High Court for expeditious trial.

a natural resource rich economy,’ organized by the state government in Port Harcourt yesterday. In another development, Amaechi has cleared the air as to why his administration asked the State Assembly to convert the already approved N100billion bond into loan. He explained that the conversion from bond to loan of the said sum is to enable government complete ongoing projects in the state before the rainy season sets in. He made the clarification shortly after signing into law the Rivers State 2013 appropriation bill of N490.3billion and the state’s Internal Revenue Service bill at the Government

House yesterday. Amaechi explained that the availability of natural resources in any given society is not a curse rather it is those who mismanage the resources that inflict curse on their people. According to him, the reason corruption is so pervasive and also an acceptable norm in Nigeria is the non-existence of institution to hold those in power accountable. He pointed out the primary underlying motive for the fierce competition for power in Nigeria is the desire to control resources. Amid this struggle, he said those who oppose the powers-that-be are harassed with State agen-

cies like the EFCC, ICPC and the Police. This sort of harassment, the governor added, will intensify ahead of the 2015 general elections. The former President of Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Dr. Mohammed Ibn Chambas, expressed dismay that the benefits of Nigeria’s vast oil and gas resources has not trickled down to the greater proportion of her population. According to him, reports indicate that Nigeria has earned over $900billiion from the sales of crude oil in the last 30 years. Out of this said amount, about N400billion could not be accounted for because of corruption. The former ECOWAS president called for a review of the

fundamentals of the Nigerian economy. He also stressed the need for strong institutions and good governance in combating corruption, which has been the bane of the country’s underdevelopment. On his part, chairman of the occasion and former Nigerian ambassador to the United States of America, Professor George Obizor, called for the restructuring of the country along the lines of true federalism where the federating units will control their natural resources Obizor explained that the abolition of the 1963 federal constitution and the foisting of a unitary constitution on the country gave rise to the fierce competition for the control of power and resources at the centre.

JTF Kills Nine Boko Haram Members In Maiduguri CONTINUED FROM PAGE people told him that “the attackers were speaking Fulani language and they were able to identify two of them as Sani and Idris as the attackers were constantly mentioning them during the invasion. “So, involvement of Fulani militants and soldiers cannot be ruled out as expended shells were found at the scene of the incident,” he said. He added: “Twenty four shells were picked up from the scene of the shooting. One can see holes of firing on the doors, windows and walls of the victims. “The inside of the rooms was full of the blood of the victims. Those two Fulani men, Sani and Idris are well known to the inhabitants who quickly identified them immediately the attackers were calling them in the night.” Ayuba said government condemned the attack, describing it as very tragic. He said the attack was another unprecedented one which should be condemned by every peace-loving person and appealed to the

people to be calm and not take the law into their hands. He was however quick to add that the people should stand up and defend themselves. He disclosed that the assailants had earlier sent a message to the community that they were coming to attack them on an unspecified day and that they should get ready. The content of the message was made known to the security operatives. The Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) of the state Police Command, Deputy Superintendent John Onuigbo, confirmed the incident which he said took place at 9.45pm on that day when unknown gunmen invaded that community. He added that his men quickly mobilized themselves there, but before they could get there, the attackers had run away. Onuigbo said that the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) of the Command is investigating the incident with a view to tracking down the perpetrators and bring them to justice. The Special Task Force (STF)

confirmed the number of casualties in a statement released by 4.30 pm yesterday. STF Spokesman, Captain Salisu Ibrahim Mustapha was said to have travelled out of the country. But Lt. Kingsley Egbo, who signed the statement on his behalf, said: “This is to inform the general public and good people of Plateau State that on 21 February 2013, by 10.00 pm, unknown assailant stormed and attacked a compound in Koghum village, a hinterland of Vom, Jos South Local Government Area. “It was alleged that suspected Fulani assailants stormed a lone compound and slaughtered a family of 10 before escaping into the vast bush in the surrounding environs. Efforts by the Special Task Force troops and police to gain access to the scene with a view to combing the area was foiled by the locals. “The locals attacked and assaulted the security team. Investigation revealed that the casualties had cuts even though several gunshots were fired. Currently, all escape routes linked to the general

PDP Moves Against Atiku, Na’Abba CONTINUED FROM PAGE been listed among those to be dropped from the BoT. Both joined the Action Congress (ACN) before the 2011 general elections. It would be recalled that a couple of weeks ago, the BoT met twice at the Presidential Villa to elect a new chairman, but the Board could not resolve the matter, because many members were interested in the

chairmanship of the board, which was vacated by former President Olusegun Obasanjo in April last year. Following the controversy, it was agreed that the membership of BoT be reviewed and Gana was given the assignment to handle. The Guardian further gathered that some of the aspirants had earlier been contacted to come up with a consensus can-

didate, but most of them refused, saying the era of imposition in the party was over. Those in contention include former holder of the post and now chairman of the Board of Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Tony Anenih; Don Etiebet, former Senate President, Ken Nnamani, Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu and Dr. Ahmadu Ali, the party’s former national chairman.

area have been sealed. Investigations are ongoing to uncover those responsible for this act.” He continued: “Also, at about 11.00 pm same day, an unconfirmed number of hoodlums who came in a Toyota Sienna bus blocked the road at Farin Lamba along Mararaban Jama’a-Riyom route and robbed three passengers who eventually sustained minor injuries. The Special Task Force troops deployed close to the area immediately moved to the scene and the hoodlums abandoned their vehicle. The injured victims were rescued and taken to Farin Lamba Police Station. Meanwhile, security has been beefed up in the general area to prevent a recurrence. “The Special Task Force wishes to use this medium to assure of the citizens of Plateau to go about their lawful business. It also implores the locals of communities on the Plateau to cooperate with the various security agencies as this would make crime fighting/prevention a lot easier for the security agencies as security is a collective responsibility. “The Special Task Force enjoins all law abiding citizens to remain calm as efforts are being made to guarantee safety of lives and property.” The Guardian also learn that by 6.30 am yesterday, the police station, Baga and Federal LowCost Housing Estate roads in Maiduguri were cordoned off by the JTF to prevent further attacks and killings. At about 9 am yesterday, all the traders along with their shops and market stalls were evicted and cleared off the entire areas and roadsides of the police station.

THE GUARDIAN, Saturday, February 23, 2013

NEWS

NIS To Install Surveillance Cameras At Border Posts From Njadvara Musa, Maiduguri HE Comptroller General T of Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), Rilwanu Bala Musa, said that arrangements have already been completed

‘Commending Govs For Achievements Is Sycophantic’

by the NIS to connect all border control posts to the Nigerian Satellite System (NISS) to enable officers and men “effectively monitor” activities in the borders areas from its Abuja headquarters. Musa spoke yesterday when he paid a courtesy visit to Yobe State Governor, Ibrahim Gaidam at the Government House, Damaturu, in continuation of his familiarizations of

NIS formations and facilities in the Northeast sub-region. He told the governor that surveillance cameras initially mounted to monitor and control movement of people in and out of the country, have failed to track and monitor the influx of illegal aliens and activities of terrorists. The affected border posts in the sub-region, he said, include Machinna, Yunusari, Banki,

Damasak, Kirawa, Dabar Masara, Sauro Maina and Gambouru/Ngala with Chad. “When we put the surveillance camera at Banki, in Borno State, it was blown off. That is why we went back to the drawing board to connect the satellite to all the control posts, so that whatever is happening, we will be able to see it from Abuja,” Musa said. He said the visit to the two states in the sub-region was to assess

what is on ground and the challenges of insecurity at the border areas with three neigbouring countries of Niger, Cameroun and Chad. Musa described the border areas of the country as porous, adding that this was why more border posts would be established and equipped to check the influx of illegal immigrants and activities of terrorists in the sub-region.

From John Akubo, Dutse IGAWA State Governor Sule Jture Lamido has described the culof sycophancy among the electoratewhoarequicktosing the praises of sitting governors for their achievements, as a disservice to the mandate which they have given to elected political office holders. Lamido who gave the indication when the Arewa Youth Forum paid him a courtesy in his office in Dutse, the state capital recently,said it is wrong for people to commend elected public office holders for doing what they were elected for. He said it is an honor for the office holder to be so elected, adding that whatever achievements recorded is on the account of the public fund hence there was no need to commend them for executing projects with public funds. “Why should I be commended for doing the right thing, for doing my job for which I was elected as governor? Don’t commend your governor because it is your own money. You dignified him by making him a governor. If he refuses to perform, you sack him in another election,” he said.

A cross-section of delegates at the 14th Annual Convention of the Igbo Youth Movement at the Nike Lake Resort, Enugu at the weekend.

Fayemi Urges Christians To Go Into Politics, Appoints Special Advisers From Muyiwa Adeyemi, Ado Ekiti KITI State Governor Kayode Fayemi has urged more Christians to go into active politics, dismissing insinuations that politics is a dirty game. Speaking Thursday nigh at a forum in Lagos on ‘Christians in Politics: The Challenge of Transformative Public Engagement’, he attributed the view that Christians should abstain from holding political offices to the nation’s political experiences characterized by greed and corruption rather than any actual scriptural prin-

ciple. The event was put together by a group of young Christian professionals, Apostles in the Market Place (AiMP) Fayemi stressed that inasmuch as Christians believe that civil authority is an agency divinely instituted to promote justice and order in the society, politics, which is the operation of that agency, becomes necessary. He however added that politics is a noble vocation but it may be tainted by the frailties of its practitioners, asserting that Christians had an investment in the very foundations of

Nigeria that was “far more than tangential” and should therefore contribute their quota in ensuring that social justice prevails in the nation which is currently entangled by corruption and other social vices. Fayemi stressed that as citizens of the kingdom of God, Christians have a responsibility to bring “transcendent standards of righteousness and justice to bear upon the institutions that shape our earthly lives”. The governor said: “When we venture into the public square, we have a responsibility to establish accurate patterns of

due process, accountability and public policy. Sound fiscal policy is righteousness”. He added: “These enhance the quality of governance and transform socio-political institutions and structures. One example of how my Christian faith has influenced my governance pattern can be seen from how my administration structured our social security scheme.” Speaking on the paradox of religion in Nigeria, Governor Fayemi stated that the social, economic and political realities of the nation provide a sobering portrait against the backdrop of the spiritual boom it has wit-

nessed with the proliferation of churches. Meanwhile, the governor has approved the appointment of 11 Special Advisers ahead of the inauguration of the reconstituted State’s Executive Council billed for Monday. A statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Yinka Oyebode, listed the Special Advisers as Tale Oguntoyinbo; Babatunde Odetola; Aderemi Ajayi; Akin Olayisade; Biodun Omoleye; Dayo Fadipe; Adebayo Kelekun; and Bunmi DipoSalami. Others are Kayode Jegede; Karounwi Oladapo and Ayodele Jinadu

Hotel Receptionist Confesses Checking Cynthia’s Killers In With Used Receipt By Bertram Nwannekanma N Ikeja High Court in Lagos A was yesterday told by Miss Vivian Anueke, a receptionist at Cosmilla Hotel, Lagos where Facebook girl, Cynthia Osokogu was murdered, that her suspected killers checked into the hotel with a used receipt. Cynthia died in the hotel after she was allegedly poisoned, raped and strangled to death by Okwumo Nwabufo and Ezike Olisaeloka who are standing murder trial along with two others at the court. In her testimony, 28-year-old

Miss Anueke told the court that she lied in two out of the three statements she made to the police about what happened on the hotel the night Cynthia was killed. She the second prosecution witness in the ongoing trial of the suspected killers told the court that Nwabufo and Olisaeloka came into the hotel at about 8 am and requested to lodge in the royal suit. According to her, since a couple who had previously booked the hotel royal suite at about 12 am had checked out, she

checked the suspects into the same room with a used receipt and shared the money they paid for the room with the hotel’s guard. The witness, in her testimony, stated that after paying for the room, the suspects received a guest whom they took to the room. Narrating what actually took place at the hotel the night Cynthia died, she said was surprised when the hotel’s management called her after she had closed for work, to inform her that a lady had been found dead

in the room she checked the suspects into. She added that when she got to the hotel, she met a team of policemen who later took her and other hotel staff to the police station. At the police station, Miss Anueke said she lied that the couple who had earlier paid for the room, were relatives of the suspects and that the suspects were only staying in the room to complete the duration the couple had paid for. She said she lied to the police to prevent the hotel’s manage-

ment from knowing that she collected the money for the room and shared it with the hotel’s guard.She however said that in her third statement to the police, she told the truth and later refunded the money to the management. Under cross examination, the receptionist said she could not remember the names of the couple who first paid for the room. She said she could not also properly identify the guest whom the suspects took to their room.

Soyinka,In Benin, Condemns Good Governance Tour From Alemma-Ozioruva Aliu, Benin City OBEL Laureate, Prof Wole N Soyinka, yesterday in Benin City berated the ongoing Good Governance tour being led by the Minister for Information, Labaran Maku, describing it as a scam just as he commended Edo State governor, Adams Oshiomhole for not subscribing to the tour. Although he did not disclose the reason for his unannounced visit to the Benin Moat, The Guardian gathered that it may not be unconnected with the move to make the United Nations Economic, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) make the moat as a world heritage site. Soyinka, who made an unannounced stop at the Oba Oguola Press Centre while inspecting the historical Benin moat on the fence of the NUJ secretariat, told anxious journalists who had attempted to ask of his mission in the state that he is “happy that Oshiomhole told the leader of the Good Governance tour, Labaran Maku to go to hell.” Oshiohole had said: “The resources accruable to the state cannot afford to accommodate the expenses of hosting the Minister of Information and his Good Governance tour team. “Why should I take Edo State tax payers’ money to finance a federal government project? I don’t need Abuja to help me tell Edo people what I am doing in the state. Any time the state’s officials go for official duty in Abuja, the state takes responsibility for their expenses. So I expect the federal government to finance its officials.”

Cleric Advocates Review Of Law On Corruption, Arms Proliferation By Olawunmi Ojo HE moderator of Gideon 1 T Baptist Assocition of the Lagos Baptist East Conference, Rev. Olu Kristilere, has called for a comprehensive review of all the laws guiding corruption in the country to make them effective in serving as deterrent. Rev Kristilere made the call while speaking at the quarterly programme of Gideon 1 Baptist Association held recently at New Light Baptist Church, Magodo, Lagos. Recalling as a typical example, the recent judgment given to someone who stole billions of naira from the police pension scheme, where a two-year imprisonment with an option of paying N750, 000.00 as fine was given, he noted that such development is inimical to the war against corruption and depressing to the public. Kristilere said that corruption is a major factor responsible for poverty in our nation but bemoaned the fact that our justice system and laws against corruption are not helping matters. The cleric noted that a country whose legal system cannot fight corruption could never win the corruption. He then urged the National Assembly to revisit the nation’s laws and enforce grave consequences on anyone found guilty of corruption.” “A life sentence without any option of fine or parole or future clemency will go a long way in deterring people from engaging in corruption,” he added.

THE GUARDIAN, Saturday, February 23, 2013

NEWS Julius Berger Wins 2nd Niger Bridge Contract By Chinedum Uwaegbulam MID backlashes from public on the delay in providing alternative gateway to the Southeast, the Ministry of Works yesterday announced the award of contract for construction of the Second Niger Bridge to Messrs Julius Berger Nigeria Plc. Julius Berger-African Infrastructure Investment Managers Consortium, emerged the winner for the construction of the bridge out of five other bidders that submitted tenders for the project. A statement signed by the ministry’s Deputy Director (Press), Theodore Ogaziechi, said the Minister of Works, Mike Onelememen, made the disclosure in Abuja at a press conference. Messrs Roughton International Limited emerged as the Transaction Advisor, while amongst

Senior Fellow and Director, Centre for Leadership in Journalism, Pan-African University, Mr. Richard Ikiebe (left); Executive Director, Apostles in the Market Place (AiMP), Pastor John Enelamah; Chief of Staff, Office of the Executive Secretary, Economic Commission for Africa, Mr. Adeyemi Dipeolu; former Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Lagos State, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo; and Ekiti State Governor, Dr. Kayode Fayemi, during the Annual Partners Dinner of the AiMP in Lagos on Thursday.

Innoson Drags Radio Nigeria To Court Over Failed Lease Agreement

Monarch Denies Raping Ex-youth Corps Member, Fingers Paramount Ruler For Travail M

From Lawrence Njoku, Enugu

From Tunji Omofoye, Osogbo TRADITIONAL ruler in Obokun Local Council Area of Osun State who is standing trial for alleged rape of a 23 year-old ex- youth corps member, the Alowa of IlowaIjesa, Oba Adebukola Alli has told the court that he did not force the lady in question (names withheld) to bed. Besides, Oba Alli is alleging that a first class traditional ruler, the Owa Adimula of Ijesaland, Oba Gabriel Adekunle Aromolaran might have played some role in his travail due to an alleged rift between Oba Aromolaran and his late father. The monarch, who opened his defence at an Osogbo High Court, insisted that he had been making love to his victim while she in return

allegedly enjoyed the relationship. The embattled royal father is standing trial on a one-count charge of having carnal knowledge of the ex-corps member that served in his domain in 2011. He told the presiding Judge, Justice Oyejide Falola of the Osun State High Court, that the victim was his wife and that they slept regularly both in his palace and his private residence in Osogbo where he was alleged to have raped her. His words: “The lady is my lover; I did not rape her and that was not our first time of having sexual intercourse. She is my wife but I was surprised when I got to the police station over the allegation. She slept with me from March 25 to 26, 2011, and I got to know that she had reported me to

the police on Monday, March 28, 2011. “I met the ex-youth corps member during the induction course going on in Ibokun. On the day in question, March 25, 2011, both of us left Ilowa to Osogbo where we branched at Osun groove in order to replicate the groove at Ilowa historical site. After we left Osun Groove, we drove down to my private residence where we spent the night and when it was 10.30 to 11pm, she removed her jacket and told me to help her loose her underwear from her back, which I did and I discovered that she was not wearing any bra. She then took off her skirt and pants herself and we started making love. After making love that night which lasted without struggle, I drove her back the next day to Ilowa.”

He added: “But I was surprised on Monday March 28 when I was invited to the police station over the allegation of raping her. She was my regular visitor at Ilowa palace and my private house in Osogbo. Even many people including my brothers and other Obas knew about our relationship.” Led in evidence by his counsel, Taofeek Tewogbade, Alli stunned the court when he revealed that the police demanded for the sum of N400, 000 in order to dissuade the victim from continuing the case. The accused monarch also alleged that the victim’s pastor demanded for a sum of N1million on her behalf so that the complainant could drop the charge instituted against him.

The Patriots Creates Body To Lead Campaign For National Conference By Onyedika Agbedo S part of its drive towards the convocation of a National Conference where Nigerians will iron out their differences and forge a common front, The Patriots, an association of prominent Nigerian statesmen, has singled out 11 elder statesmen in the country whom they called “Fathers of the Nation” to lead the campaign. In a statement, the association said the eminent Nigerians “have been unanimously voted by The Patriotsas

commanding such reverence and credibility, and as worthy of the position of “Fathers of the Nation”. Those in membership the body include: Gen Yakubu Gowon, Alhaji Shehu Shagari, Chief Emeka Anyaoku, Justice Chukwudifu Oputa, Justice Karibi Whyte, Alhaji Ali Mongono, Alhaji Maitama Sule, Alhaji Ahmed Joda, Prof. Alele Williams, Prof. Oladipo Akinkugbe, and Alhaji Femi Okunnu (SAN). In a letter to the members, signed by Prof. Ben Nwabueze, and which was made available

to The Guardian, the association noted that the concept of “Fathers of the Nation” carries immense significance and symbolism, adding that “in particular, the persons commanding such acceptance are looked up to as representing the collective mind, conscience, ethos and values of the nation.” It defined the duties of the new body as “to join in appealing to the President and members of the National Assembly to take all necessary steps for convening and holding a National Conference of the people of

Nigeria, both as members of ethnic groups and as individuals, to deliberate and agree on the terms and conditions on which they are to live together in peace and unity, to work out a programme for ensuring development, progress, justice, equality and freedom for all Nigerians, and to adopt a Constitution whose source of authority, as supreme law of the land, is the people, acting in a Constituent Assembly (i.e. National Conference) and a Referendum, otherwise called a People’s Constitution.”

Messrs Arm, Bouygnes, Chine Habour and Johnson Matiere, Julius Berger-AIIM emerged the preferred bidders under the first phase of the efforts in the construction. The 2nd phase, which will be concluded in the next few weeks, as explained by Onolememen, would address detailed hydrological, topographical and geotechnical surveys that would lead to the final bridge design, while also detailing the environmental impact assessment of the project and traffic survey among others. The minister, the statement added, reiterated federal govcommitment ernment’s towards delivering the project and promised that government would do everything possible to create a conducive environment for the private sector to move into road sector, so as to deliver world-class roads to Nigerians.

OTOR Manufacturing Company, Innoson Company Limited has dragged the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRCN) to court asking for a repayment of the sum of N20 million for a failed lease agreement in Enugu entered with it since 2011. The company also seeks the order of court compelling the Corporation to pay to it interest on the said sum calculated at the rate of 22.5 per cent per annum, based on the Central Bank of Nigeria approved lending interest rate from July 8, 2011, till the determination of the suit. The automobile company in the suit filed by its counsel, JHC Okolo (SAN), at the Federal

High Court, Enugu, also asked the court to order the Corporation pay to it another N80 million for the flagrant breach of the agreement signed in the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in 2011. The company said the suit is predicated on the ground that the Corporation knew that the property had long been sold, yet it went ahead and collected the sum from it and has refused to refund the premium sum it collected in the past two years, despite several demands. Justice Mohammed Agishi adjourned hearing on the matter till May 2, this year, following an application by Counsel to the Corporation, D.O Nnamani that it be given time to respond to the motion on notice.

Osun Releases Agric Intervention Programme For 2013 From Tunji Omofoye, Osogbo N readiness for the new planting season, a government agency in Osun State, the Quick Impact Intervention Programme (QIIP), has released the 2013 Aregbesola Food-Security Intervention (AFSII-QIIP) calendar to enhance agricultural production. The agency is also partnering with the Federal Governmentowned National Centre for Agricultural Mechanisation (NCAM) based in Ilorin, Kwara State to establish a rice demonstration farm alongside the provision of bunds and dykes for multiple season low-land rice cultivation. The Coordinator of QIIP, Mr.

Dele Ogundipe, who made this disclosure while speaking to newsmen in Osogbo stated that the scheme would serve as a build-up on the successes recorded in the agricultural and food security sectors in the last two years of Governor Rauf Aregbesola’s administration. Ogundipe stressed that the AFSII-QIIP calendar was designed in line with the SixPoint Integral Action Plan of the Governor to banish hunger, poverty and unemployment by the evolvement of strategies capable of drawing more youths and women farmers’ co-operative groups into the agricultural valueenterprises. chain

Wike Assures On Completion Of All Basic

Operatives Rescue 3 Kidnap Victims From Anambra Shrine, Arrest 7 Suspects Education Projects JOINT team of operatives A of the State Security Service (SSS) and the Nigerian Army have rescued three kidnap victims from a shrine in Anambra State. According to Alexander Okeiyi, the state Director of SSS, who disclosed this at a news briefing in Awka yesterday, the victims, who were chained, were rescued in the shrine located in a forest in Umuobi village, Awkuzu in Oyi Council. Okeiyi said the victims were rescued from the hideout of the kidnappers, led by one Ifeanyi Nwaezeaga, a prophet

operating the ‘Unchangeable God Miracle Church’ beside the shrine. He named those rescued as Solomon Okonkwo, 33, Monday Osagie, 50, and Udenwa Ikedibe, 41. The director said the kidnappers had demanded the sums of N20 million, N50 million and N10 million, respectively, from their families for their release. “Amaechi Oraekie, 35, from Awkuzu in Oyi council, who was allegedly taken to the shrine by his family members for elimination over land dispute, was also rescued.

“Preliminary investigation showed that the gang was responsible for the kidnap of Rev. James Achugbu of St. Paul’s Anglican Church, Umunachi in Dunukofia on February 2,” he added. Okeiyi said a Nissan Sunny car, with registration number AV 112 AWK belonging to another victim, Princewill Abian, who was released on February 20, after payment of N100, 000 ransom, was recovered. He said other items recovered were the prophet’s Nissan Jeep, four motorcy-

cles, one generator, one Dane gun and an international passport of a suspected kidnap victim. The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) quoted the SSS boss further as saying that seven suspects, comprising five male and two female, tending to the kidnap victims were arrested during the rescue operation. He attributed the feat to the cordial working relationship among the various security agencies and commended Governor Peter Obi for his commitment to rid the state of criminal activities.

HE era of abandoned projects in the basic education sub-sector is gone for good, the Minister of State for Education, Barr. Ezenwo Nyesom Wike has declared. Addressing journalists after completing the inspection of basic education projects in four local councils in Akwa Ibom State on Thursday, the Minister noted that before the Jonathan administration started the projects, it made adequate arrangement for their funding. He said the basic education sub-sector like the higher

education sub-sector was experiencing a total turnaround for the good of Nigerian children. According to him, “what we are witnessing today is a total boost of the basic education sub-sector. These projects are aimed at improving access to quality education for less privileged Nigerian children. For us, we have made a commitment that no single library, girlchild or almajiri school project will be abandoned. Before the projects were awarded, provision was made for funding.”

THE GUARDIAN, Saturday, February 23, 2013

NEWS Akpabio Blames BPP For Failure Of NDDC From Inemesit Akpan-Nsoh Uyo KWA IBOM State governor, Godswill Akpabio has exonerated the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) from the slow pace in the completion of their projects. Rather, he opined that, the Bureau of Public Procurement should be blamed. According to him, the undue bureaucratic policies of the Bureau have been a limitation to the performance of the commission. Akpabio, made these observations when members of the Senate Committee on inspection of NDDC projects led by their Chairman, Senator James Manager, paid him a courtesy visit at Governor’s Office, Uyo. The Bureau of Public Procurement is the one delaying the NDDC because some of

the work they could have done judiciously is tied down there and we suffer for it. ‘’Oil companies cannot execute projects on time because their proposals with the Bureau for approval don’t come out until after few months. So, many proposals are piled up in the Office of Public Procurement and at the end, they don’t get done. “Bureau of Public Procurement was meant to assist in ensuring due process, but it has also become a source of delay. When a government that comes in for a four-year tenure ends up waiting for three years for projects to come out of Bureau of Public Procurement, the tenure would be over and at the end you have nothing to show before the next election. “Look at the law, which says you cannot do community projects above N10m. And that

time, a dollar was going for 50 kobo per dollar and that N10m still remains till today. So, if Federal Government could allow the commission to change the N10 million to $10 million dollars in executing community projects, I think most of the problems in the oil producing areas such as the oil spill would have been dictated and solved,” he stressed. The governor further reasoned that, since the main aim of NNDC is that of providing infrastructure in the Niger Delta region, they should engage known construction firms, which would help them achieve their set goals. “NDDC must ensure proper monitoring of projects in states by going round those projects to score them. Projects should not be kept too long by the Bureau of Public Procurement. That

delays the construction of the NDDC projects; you must bring in five-star construction companies to build five-star projects because NDDC is for infrastructural development and laying a foundation for industrial growth of the Region. Commending the efforts of the committee and the current management of the commission, the Governor said it was the first time the Senate Committee has shown commitment, focus and determination to turn things around. Earlier, the Chairman of Senate Committee on Niger Delta, Senator Manager, said the Committee oversees the Ministry of Niger Delta, NDDC and Amnesty Programme, adding that, they are interested in ensuring that money meant for the commission are spent on quality projects.

Falana Suggests How Govt Can Arrest Maina By Abiodun Fanoro UMAN rights lawyer and former president, West African Bar Association (WABA), Femi Falana (SAN) has given a clue on how the federal government could arrest the fleeing main suspect in the pension scam, Mr Abdulrasheed Maina. Falana, in a statement yesterday, said the best option available to government is to ask Maina’s lawyer to produce him. According to him, his lawyer has continuously been in contact with him, they have been talking and he has been receiving instructions from him. His words: “The Nigeria Police Force should ask his Lawyers to produce him. Since they have been taking instructions from him from his hideout, they are

presumed to know his whereabouts.” The former WABA president has also lauded the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Muktar Aloma and the National Judicial Council (NJC) over the sack of the two judges who were indicted for allegedly perverting justice in the Osun State Governorship Election Petition Tribunal in 2007 and in the trial of the former boss of Intercontinental Bank boss, Erastus Akingbola. The judges are Justice Thomas Naraaron and Clement Achbong respectively. NJC also advised the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) to set in motion processes for the discipline of a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Otunba Kalejaiye who was indicted along with Justice Naaron.

Benin Prince Stirs 2016 Guber Controversy

From Alemma-Ozioruva Aliu, Benin City HEEdo governorship election is still three years away but the drums have started beating with the tacit support of the Benin Monarch as the Crown Prince of Benin Kingdom, Ambassador Eheneden Erediauwa, yesterday said he expected Governor Adams Oshiomhole to hand-over power to his deputy, Dr Pius Odubu, at the end of his tenure as governor in 2016. The prince’s public pronouncement came at a time observers are yet to fathom who Oshiomhole’s successor

would be even though there is consensus that he or she must be a Bini. Prince Erediauwa made the pronouncement during a one-day seminar on taxation organised in the state where he expressed support for the tax regime of the government, which according to him would fast-track the development of Benin Kingdom and the state. He said that Odubu had shown unflinching loyalty and had displayed a personality who understands Oshiomhole’s vision for the state.

Enugu Moves To Strengthen Justice System From Lawrence Njoku, Enugu HE Enugu state government said it would partner with justice reform teams to improve delivery and quick dispensation of justice in the state. Governor Sullivan Chime, who announced this at the Network meeting of Justice Sector Reform teams, said that the state would sustain already made efforts through adequate funding and review of existing laws. Represented by the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Anthony Ani, he stated that various transformations had been undertaken to strengthen the sector and restore confidence in it. He said: “We have revived the human rights desk to make it

L-R: Ogun State Governor, Senator Ibikunle Amosun and CBN Deputy Governor, Mr. Tunde Lemo during the Burial Service for Pastor Obadiah Olusola Coker (father in-law of CBN Deputy Governor) at the Christ Anglican Church, Iporo Ake, Abeokuta...yesterday

Minister Tasks New VCs On Best Practices In Universites From Mohammed Abubakar, Abuja HE Minister of Education, Prof. Ruqayyatu Ahmed Rufa’I, has charged vice chancellors of Nigerian universities to adopt the international best practices approach in running their respective institutions by ensuring a high level of probity, integrity and accountability. The minister gave the charge while presenting letters of appointments to the vice chancellors and registrars of the three established federal universities in Gashua, Yobe State; Binin Kebbi, Kebbi State; and Gusau, Zamfara State, in

Abuja yesterday. Those presented with the letters included Profs Shehu Abdulrahaman; a deputy vice chancellor at the Usmanu Dan Fodiyo University, Sokoto (UDUS), Lawal Suleiman Bilbis and Ben Chuks Okeke to take charge in Gashua; Birnin Kebbi and Gusau in that order. Also the minister presented an appointment letter to Prof. Isaac Asuzu, one of the deputy vice chancellors of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, (UNN) as a VC of the Federal University, Oye Ekiti as replacement for Prof. Chinedu Nebo from Enugu State who was

recently appointed as Power Minister. The registrars named for the new universities were Alhaji Sule Dauda, Federal University, Gashua; Mr. Ibrahim Mungadi, Federal University, Birnin Kebbi and Malam Ibrahim Bawa Kaura for Federal University, Gusau respectively. The minister admitted that the challenges posed by the appointment of the new officers as pioneer managers were tasking and daunting, but was optimistic that if they exerted their wealth of experience on the job, a lot could be achieved in the development of critical

infrastructural facilities for teaching and learning at the sites of the new universities. She also challenged them to take “extreme caution” in the appointments of members of staff, saying these appointments must follow due process and federal character principles. “You should note that your appointments are not a means of self- aggrandizement and self-enrichment, but a call to serve humanity, noting that the sanctity and integrity of the university must be foremost in deciding who gets what positions in the new universities.

Kwara Police Boss Justifies Abolition Of Check Points From Abiodun Fagbemi, Ilorin WARA State Police Commissioner Chiwinke Asadu has justified the abolition of police checkpoints on the nation’s high ways. Asadu said the recent police statistics on crime in Nigeria have shown that ‘the stop and search’ method currently in vogue by the security agency has proved to be a more effective way of policing in the country. For him, however, the work of security of persons and property should not be an

exclusive duty of the Police as the entire citizens should be alert to secure the nation and its people. Speaking in Ilorin yesterday while parading some robbery suspects before journalists, Asadu said, “the successes we have recorded through patrolling are more than those recorded in the days of road blocks. “The order that we should not mount road blocks does not mean that we should not do our duties. The directive is to stop blocking the major high ways. There must be free flow

of traffic. That is why the ‘Stop and Search’ methods have been encouraged.” The Police boss, while parading a suspect, Abdullahi Umar, said the suspect was among a gang of four robbery suspects recently intercepted by the police along Ilorin/Ogbomoso expressway. The suspects, traveling inside a Golf car marked, Abuja BB 665 BWR were allegedly driving against the traffic on February 2 this year. While the three others had escaped with bullets wounds, Umar was not

all that lucky, as he was rounded up by the police. Items recovered from the vehicle abandoned by the gang include two pump action guns with six rounds of live cartridges and two fully loaded AK 47 riffles. “The arrested suspect and three others at large are strongly suspected to belong to a robbery gang terrorising the highways,” Asadu added. Another gang of suspects, Abdullahi Muhammadu and Abubakar were allegedly apprehended at Massama Fulani camp Aderan treating

easy for people to come and resolve issues of such nature when it occur. We have the victims’ support programme that gives opportunities to traumatized victims to get assistance to enable them go to court and get justice. We had embarked on jail delivery where we have identified about 150 inmates who have not had opportunity of court.” He said that the state was developing a bill in partnership with the Justice reform teams that would offer some protection to witness in court. Nine state justice reform teams drawn from Enugu, Kaduna, Katsina, Kwara, Bayelsa, Ekiti, Kano, Jigawa States and federal capital territory featured at the conference.

Ex-Unilorin VC Accused Of Alleged Illegal Awards By Abiodun Fagbemi,Ilorin group, University of Ilorin Stakeholders Forum (UISF) has canvassed for immediate investigations into the alleged improper granting by the University authourities of a Staff Development Award (Salary Supplementation) to one Mr. Ayopo Oloyede Abdulkarim, an Assistant Lecturer in the department of Telecommunication Science of the institution. Besides, the UISF in a statement released in Ilorin to reporters, alleged that one Dr. (Mrs) Faatihah Adeyinka Odumosu, an alleged sibling of Oloyede under a temporary appointment as a Lecturer Two with the department of Physiology of the University equally benefited from the Award contrary to the rule making it an exclusive benefits of persons with full employment of the University. But the University through its Deputy Director,

Corporate Affairs, Mr Kunle Akogun, has described the two awards as meritorious, just as he viewed the group as allegedly engaging in “personality hunts.” According to the UISF in the statement jointly endorsed by its Chairman, Ademola Olawale and the Secretary, Taoheed Salami, the two awards were allegedly granted under undue influence as one of the beneficiaries is the biological child of one of the past Vice Chancellors of the institution while the other is believed to be his relation. Oloyede had, in a letter dated February 22 2012, applied for the award through the office of the Dean Faculty of Communication and Information Science University of Ilorin. The excerpt reads: “I kindly request for Staff Development Award (salary only) salary supplementation to enable me continue and complete my PhD programme at the University of York, York, England.

THE GUARDIAN, Saturday, February 23, 2013

NEWS 14 Communities Honour Jonathan’s Aide, Nwankpo, With Chieftaincy Title From Chuks Collins, Awka T was a moment of joy for President Goodluck Jonathan’s Special Adviser on Technical Matters, Nze Akachukwu Nwankpo, when his kith and kin of Ihiala Local Government Area of Anambra State along with his friends and well-wishers gathered at the Odo-ata Primary School ground, Ihiala, to celebrate with him on the conferment of a chieftaincy title by 14 communities of the council. The Ifeadigotitle, meaning the light is here, was bestowed upon the presidential aid for his shinning example in public office. The royal fathers, who awarded the title, said that Nwankpo’s calibre of person is difficult to find these days when people abuse the public office at will. Describing him as a worthy son of Ihiala, the royal fathers urged the recipient not to forget his root in his future

endeavour. Nwankpo, who is the Secretary of the Subsidy Reinvestment Programme (SURE-P) of the Federal Government, until his current appointments, was the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Special Duties. His Royal Highness (HRH) Igwe Comas Igwe, commending the commitment of the recipient to pubic duty, said Nwankpo would be a great replacement for Governor Peter Obi of Anambra State when the latter vacant office in few month’s time. He, therefore, called on the electorates to support the future political ambition of the Presidential Special Adviser on Technical Matters. Nwamkpo, while acknowledging cheers from the crowd, thanked the royal fathers and the people of his council for finding him worthy for the title, and promised not to disappoint them.

Ogun To Introduce Adire As School Uniform By Azeez Olorunlomeru GUN State Government has revealed its plan to introduce adire fabric into public schools as uniforms for students in the state to boost its patronage. Ogun State Commissioner for Commerce and Industry, Bimbo Ashiru, who made the disclosure in Abeokuta while interacting with adire makers who benefited from the state government and Bank of Industry (OGSG-BOI) loan scheme, said the move would boost local economy.

The commissioner urged the textile makers to increase the level of their creativity and improve on the quality of the fabric to meet international standards, even as he pledged government continuous support for the development of the fabric. “Our desire is to ensure that Adire fabric has comparative and competitive advantage over others in the international market. Therefore, you must produce quality design that can meet international standards”, Ashiru said.

Lagos Commissions Youth-Friendly Clinic By Oluwakemi Ajani HE Lagos State Government has advised the youths to make use of Youth-Friendly Health Clinic whenever they are having health challenges. Speaking at the commissioning of the clinic at the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH), the Special Adviser to the governor on public health, Dr. Yewande Adesina, said the initiative would make adolescent friendly services affordable and confidential. She noted that centres would cater for the reproductive health needs of youths and adolescents. Adesina explained that Nigeria, especially Lagos State, has a predominantly young

population, comprising significant numbers of adolescents and youths with unmet reproductive health needs. She said: “At inception, the main goal of the programme was to empower in- and outof school adolescents and youths to exercise their right to reproductive services regardless of their race, sex, marital status, age, religious and political beliefs. These interventions were deployed in the belief that they would put some measures, address the prevalent health and social challenges arising from the unmet reproductive health needs of the youths and adolescents by enabling them take certain decisions on reproductive health issues,” she said.

Jalingo FMC Wears New Look Amidst Patients’ High Patronage From Charles Akpeji, Jalingo HE refurbishment of and change of attitude of staff of the Federal Medical Centre (FMC) Jalingo, Taraba State have not gone unnoticed by patients as the centre has begun to receive high patronage of those seeking quality healthcare. The hospital, which in the past could best be described as mere clinic because of the absence of medical equipment is presently putting on new look. The absence of facilities few

years ago made it impossible for staff of the hospital to treat patients as at when due, a situation, which compelled patients to seek for medical other hospitals. Some patients, who spoke of The Guardian, said they were attracted to the hospital by the recent change. “Unlike in the past when pregnant women were left unattended to for several hours, the story has changed as we are now given attention we deserve,” Mrs.Hauwa Ahmed, a pregnant woman, said.

Chief of Staff to Ondo State Governor, Dr. Kola Ademujimi;Deputy Governor, Alhaji Alli Olanusi; Governor Olusegun Mimiko, Speaker of Ondo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Samuel Adesina and Ondo State Labour Party Chairman, Barr. Olu Ogidan at the Thanksgiving Jumat Service in commemoration of the second term inauguration of the governor in Akure, Ondo State…yesterday

Court Fines Military Authorities N10 Million For Detaining Abia Princes From Gordi Udeajah, Umuahia HE Federal High Court sitT ting in Umuahia has ordered the Nigerian army to pay the sum of N10 million to the royal family of Eze Bernard Enweremadu of Ngwa Ukwu in Abia State for illegally detaining two princes of the family, Destiny and Mustard, since April last year. The court presided over by Justice M.G.Umar gave the order on Thursday while delivering judgment in the case filed by the two princes challenging their illegal arrest and detention by suspected officers of the 14 Brigade of the Nigerian Army Ohafia, Abia State. The court ruled that the detained princes should have been handed over to the police for investigation and prosecution where necessary since detention was outside the jurisdiction of the military. “Even when they (military) arrest, they are bound by law to hand them over to the police who have the right to detain them and investigate the matter properly. The law allows for the detaining of suspects for

one day or at most two days. Yet these boyshave been in military cell without anyone knowing the state of their health,” Justice Umar said. Sources said the two princes who were forcefully taken away

According to the Marketing Communications Manager, Segun Ogunleye, the development is to attract more customers to the firm. “Consumers who make purchase from the store are guaranteed the authentic premium quality luxury Swatch brand. They also automatically qualify for a FastFoward loyalty card which entitles them

family, Prince Christopher, a former speaker of Abia State House of Assembly, lauded the verdict, and described the arrest and detention of the princes as source of trauma to the family.

National Good Governance Tour Is Not FG’s Programme,Says Maku From Hendrix Oliomogbe And Nkechi Onyedika, Asaba INISTER of Information, M Mr. Labaran Maku, has said that the National Good Governance Tour is not a Federal Government project but a national programme endorsed by the 36 governors of the federation through the Nigerian Governors’ Forum (NGF). Maku, who spoke when the team of National Good Governance Tour visited Government House, Asaba,Delta State, explained that the aim of the programme was to engineer healthy conversation concerning development between the leaders and the electorates. He stated that the programme, which was approved by the Federal Executive Council and the National Economic Council, received

Firm Opens New Branch In Ilorin MARTMARKLimited Nigeria SKwara has opened its new office at Mall, Ilorin, Kwara State.

from their father’s palace in April 7, 2012 on allegation of robbery have remained in the detention of the military despite efforts of the family to get them out. Eldest son of Eze Enweremadu

to amazing discounts at subsequent purchases from the store and other FastFoward stores nationwide, in addition to enjoying world class and after sales services for purchased watches at no extra cost.” The Managing Director of the company, Alhaji Layi Gobir, thanked the State Governor, Dr. AbdulFatah Ahmed for his foresight in creating an enabling environment for investment in Kwara State,

the inputs of Nigerian Governors Forum, who had set up a special committee headed by the Governor Godswill Akpabio of Akwa Ibom State to scrutinise it, and agreed on a common template for the tour. “It is important to explain this because as we go round sometimes and we hear comments that it (the tour) is a Federal Government programme. It is not, “ Maku said. Delta State Governor, Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan, described the programme as a demonstration of President Goodluck Jonathan’s commitment to accountability and openness in governance. The

governor advised that programme should not to be politicised. The Special Adviser to the President on Project Monitoring and Evaluation, Prof. Sylvester Monye, solicited the co-operation of state governors to the success of the programme. “Even if you are coming to monitor federal projects, you still need to talk to the governor. He has the responsibility to provide security for the team because the minister has no budget for security. We need the support and co-operation (of governors). It is a good project that all the states should support,” Monye said.

Cross River Warns Farmers Against Loan Diversion From Anietie Akpan, Calabar ROSS River C Commissioner Agriculture and

State for Natural Resources, Mr. James Aniyom, has warned farmers against the diversion of bank loans for something else as farmers get N1 billion agriculture loan. Aniyom gave the warning in Calabar while speaking on during one-day capacity building and sensitisation workshop organised by the Commercial Agricultural Credit Scheme for 1 billion loan beneficiaries. He asserted that henceforth extension officers, through whom approvals are given for

bank loan to farmers, would face the wrath of the law when inappropriately utilised. Aniyom, stressed that it is the responsibility of agricultural extension officer to monitor and nurture farmers in their field of choice. Aniyom charged participants to pay keen attention to the lecture, and accordingly apply same when dealing with their farms. Facilitator at the workshop, Alban Nwogu, disclosed that at the end of the training, beneficiaries should be thought how to keep farm records, evaluate the records and also analyse the state of progress.

Firm Dissociates Self From Threat To Demolish MTN Facilities AJOR contractor to MTN provider company based in as against therule of law, equity of MTN in a statement credited M Nigeria, Procomte Limited, Bayelsa State, which is a sub-con- and good corporation gover- to MTN General Manager of has dissociated itself from a sub- tractor to Procomtel, had issued contractor company’s, Gbaruka Resource, threat to demolish MTN facilities in the Niger Delta region over nonpayment for services rendered to MTN. Gbaruka Resource, a service

threat to demolish MTN facilities in the Niger Delta region over failure to honour the contractual agreement it reached with Procomtel Limited. Procomte Limited described the threat by Gbaruka Resource

nance. In a statement signed by General Manager Legal Service in Lagos, Ms. Bolanle Opadokun, Procomtel said while it was not in support of threat by Gbaruka Resource to issue such threat, it was perplexed with the reaction

Corporate Affairs, Ms. Funmi Omogbemigun. The company claimed that MTN has resorted to all form of mechanisms to cripple its business by persistently refuse to honour it obligations.

THE GUARDIAN, Saturday,February 23,2013

NEWS Court Orders EFCC, AGF To Declare Recovered Assets By Joseph Onyekwere N what can be described as a IInformation true test for the Freedom of (FOI) Act, Justice Mohammed Idris of the Federal High Court in Lagos yesterday issued a 72-hour ultimatum to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the office of the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) to furnish details of properties recovered from former managing director of defunct Oceanic Bank Plc, Mrs. Cecilia Ibru, to one Boniface Okezie. Justice Idris made the order while delivering judgment in a suit filed by Okezie, who is president of the Progressive Shareholders Association of Nigeria (PSAN), against the anti-graft agency and AGF, who is also joined as second defendant in the suit. Justice Idris, in his judgment, held that the FOI Act required all public institutions to proactively disclose information about their structure and

process. He said that where such information was required, the institution had a duty to provide same within seven days, but where a valid reason exist for their non-disclosure, this also should be stated in writing to the applicant within seven days. Justice Idris held that by the provisions of Sections 2 and 3 of the FOI Act, the plaintiff was conferred with the requisite locus standi (right) to institute the suit. According to the Judge, the plaintiff need not demonstrate any specific interest in the information being sought, adding: “In the instant suit, it appears that the AGF has not declined to provide the required information, but had sought for adequate time within which to collate the required information and serve same on the applicant, whereas the EFCC had bluntly refused to comply. “I am of the view that on receipt of the plaintiff’s

request, the EFCC had a duty to respond, but in this case they simply kept mute. “Let me say that none of the defendants has such powers under law. The EFCC had failed to file any counter-affidavit stating the reasons for its failure to avail the plaintiff with the required information. “In my view, the defendant did not show that by its non-disclosure, it was protecting the certainty, deliberative or policy making process within the agency. “The EFCC has not shown that it is protecting the disclosure of an information that will constitute a clearly unwarranted invasion of the privacy of individuals in the agency, or that would contaminate its court proceedings. “I am of the view in this case, that none of the information required by the plaintiff threatens the national security.” The Judge said the FOI Act is meant to promote democracy, transparency, justice and development, as well as

Suswam Sacks Eleven Commissioners, Head Of Service From Joseph Wantu, Makurdi ENUE State Governor Gabriel Suswam yesterday sacked 11 out of his 16 commissioners, while five have been retained. The Head of Service, Mr. Mike Iyordye, was also relieved of his position and directed to hand over to Mr. Terna Ahuah, who before now, was the Permanent Secretary, Special Duties. Those sacked include John Ngbede (Water Resources and Environment); Benjamin Ashaver (Works and Transport);

Eugene Aliegba (Agriculture); Jacob Omenka (Rural Development and Cooperatives); Elizabeth Ugoh (Education); and Elizabeth Allagh (Women Affairs). Others are Comfort Ajene (Culture and Tourism); John Tondo (Lands and Survey); Simon Kwaghbula (Housing and Urban Development); Godwin Adah (Science and Technology); and Orduen Abunku. According to the statement

made available to The Guardian, those who retained their posts include Commissioner for Youths and Sports, Aondowase Chia; Terfa Ihindan (Commerce and Industry); Omadachi Oklobia (Finance); John Wergba (Information); and Alex Adum (Justice). Suswam, in the statement, thanked the sacked commissioners for contributing to the administration’s stride and urged them to continue to keep faith with the party.

TheGuardia SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2013

Those Eyeing Jonathan’s Job VEN when 2015 is two years away and INEC is yet to sound the whistle for the commencement of electoral hostilities, some governors of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) are not leaving anything to chance. They

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designed to change how government works, “because all Nigerians, have resolved that it should no longer be business as usual.” The Judge stated: “Therefore, every public institution must prepare itself for a full implementation of the FOI Act, and the Judiciary has no choice but to comply with the enforcement of the act. “Obedience to the rule of law, especially by those who take oath of office in public institutions, is a ‘desideratum’ to good governance. “Judgment is hereby given in favour of the plaintiff and the defendants are directed to provide the said information within 72-hours of this judgment. “The law is the last resort of human wisdom and the court will never sanction what is injurious to the public.” The plaintiff, by an originating

motion, filed the suit against the defendants in December last year, under the provisions of the Freedom of Information Act, 2011. The plaintiff, through his counsel, Chuks Nwachukwu, had sought, among other reliefs, an order of court compelling the EFCC to disclose the total cash and value of properties recovered from Mrs. Ibru. He also sought to ascertain the whereabouts of the recovered assets and what portion of the assets had been returned to Oceanic Bank and its shareholders. Okezie also required to know the source and amounts paid to the EFCC for the prosecution of former bank chiefs in Nigeria, the list of criminal prosecution carried out by the EFCC through private lawyers and the reason for not utilising lawyers in the Commission.

Final Home Coming For Gracious Grace RS. Grace Nwabuogo M Nwokike will be buried on Friday March 1 at St Peter’s Church, Amawbia, Anambra State at 10 am. There will be a wake keep at her house, 5B, Nnaji Park, New Haven, Enugu on Tuesday. Body leaves Eastern Nigeria Medical Centre by 9am. There will be a brief stop-over at her Residence, 5A Nnaji Park, Upper New Heaven at 9.30am.It will be followed by a commencement Service at Barths, Asata, Enugu at 11am. On Saturday March 2, there will be Akwa-Ogo and other Mgbalu/condolences at Odogwu GI Nwokike’s compound at Adabebe Village from 12noon. The grand finale will take place in an outing service at St. Augustine Church, Adabebe, Amawbia at 8am on Sunday March 3.

Group Urges Jang To Desist From Interfering In Taraba Politics From Charles Akpeji, Jalingo HE need for the governor of T Plateau State, Jonah Jang to desist from interfering in issues that have to do with Taraba State has become a source of concern to the members of the Save Taraba Group (STG). The group told the The Guardian in Jalingo, Taraba State, yesterday that it could not fathom why Jang has continued to play to the gallery by incessantly blowing the trumpet of the ailing governor of Taraba state, Danbaba Suntai who has been in Hanover,

Germany since October 25th, 2012. Jang who claimed to have visited the ailing governor of Taraba State in Germany had said the governor was fast recuperating and would soon be back to the state to resume his duty. Wondering when “Jang has become the spokesman of our state or that of the Governors Forum,” the group through the state coordinator, Alhaji Razaq Umar stressed the need for “Jang to face the massive problems in his state and leave Taraba alone. “From the information avail-

able to us, we know that our governor is incapacitated. But for the governor of Plateau State to come and publicly tell the whole world that all is well with Suntai and will soon return, I think that is bad of him.” The group said further that “who ever watched the clips of Jang and Suntai that was recently aired on that television station would surely agree that our governor is no longer himself. But we are surprise that Jang has deliberately refused to toe the path of his colleagues who have visited Suntai.”

AFRICA Is The Muslim Brotherhood Seeking To Kill Egypt’s NGOs? RESTRICTIVE draft law sponA sored by a member of the Muslim Brotherhood’s party echoes the philosophy of the Mubarak government, which saw independent groups as a threat. A government minister and member of the Muslim Brotherhood’s Freedom and Justice Party (FJP) has proposed a highly restrictive law that rights activists say would cripple civil society groups in Egypt and mark an alarming shift by the Brotherhood toward the methods of the ousted Hosni Mubarak. The draft law is likely to be revised before it is sent to Egypt’s legislative body for approval. Even so, nongovernmental organization (NGO) leaders and activists say the draft shows that the FJP is adopting the philosophy of former President Mubarak, whose government saw independent groups as a threat and sought to restrict their actions and funding. Last year, before the FJP’s Mohamed Morsi was elected president, the party proposed a law that earned cautious praise from rights organizations. Last week, Mohamed Ali Bishr, a prominent Muslim Brotherhood and FJP member and minister of local development, proposed a new draft that is closer to the highly restrictive bill proposed by another government ministry. It would interfere in the details ofhowNGOsoperateandorgan-

ize, and would tightly restrict the foreign funding that rights organizations in Egypt rely on. For the first time in history it would give a legal role to Egypt’s security apparatus in overseeing civil society organizations. If a law much like the current draft passes, “NGOs will not work actively. They will work under the pressure of the law

and the government; they will not be healthy NGOs. There’s no hope for those that work in human rights or criticize the government on human rights to obtain foreign funding,” says Mohamed Zaree, Egypt program manager at the Cairo Institute for Human Rights Studies (CIHRS).

Russia Sends Aid To Mali, Worried By Militant Islam USSIA expressed concern R about the spread of militant Islam and growing tension in Mali on Friday as it sent humanitarian aid to the West African country. Reuters reported that the dispatch of the aid signalled Moscow’s growing unease about the situation in Africa since the Arab Spring popular revolts, which Russian officials have long warned may strengthen the hand of radical Islamists and fuel violence. The Emergencies Ministry said a transport plane had left for Mali with 36 tonnes of food and household items, blankets and tents. The Foreign Ministry warned about growing tensions in the region following talks on Thursday between Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov and Romano Prodi, the United Nations envoy to the Sahel region of Africa.

“The sides paid particular attention to the situation in the Republic of Mali. They expressed particular concern about the activity of terrorist organisations in the north of the country which represents a threat to regional peace and security,” the ministry said in a statement on its website. “The sides agreed the uncontrolled proliferation of arms in the region after the conflict in Libya creates grounds for an escalation of tension throughout the Sahel,” the ministry said in a statement on its website. The statement underlined the need to resolve the situation through the United Nations Security Council. The ministry released the statement before a trip to Russia next Thursday by French President Francois Hollande, whose country has sent troops to its former colony Mali.

THE GUARDIAN, Saturday, February 23, 2013

AFRICA The recently concluded African Union (AU) Summit in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, transcended the normal assemblage of the continent’s heads of state and government as it set out a new development agenda for the much-sort after African rebirth for the next 50 years.

AU: Tackling African Challenges With A New Growth Agenda

By Bola Olajuwon (who was in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia) HE theme of the recently concluded 20th T Ordinary Session of Assembly of Heads of State and Government of African Union (AU), “Pan-Africanism and African Renaissance,” was apt going by the submissions of African and United Nations (UN) leaders and experts among others during the summit and on its sidelines. The theme, according to the leaders and experts, was instructive for a continental organisation that had evolved in last 50 years from the Organisation of African Unity (OAU), which was founded on May 26, 1963 and now AU – established on May 26, 2001 in Addis Ababa and launched on July 9, 2002 in South Africa. It is also appropriate for a continent in need of a rebirth from its problems of elusive peace, instability, insecurity, conflicts as well as how to entrench economic development and transformation from widespread poverty for a more secured and developed African continent. Surprisingly too, the theme is now the cornerstone of activities marking the 50 years of the continental organisation in May and how to leapfrog Africa to a continent of the dream of its founding fathers beyond the next 50 years while keying in its constituent units. Therefore, African Renaissance was conceptualised as a global programme of African societies and civilisations aimed at creation of conditions for African people and nations to overcome the current challenges confronting the continent and achieve cultural, scientific and economic renewal. It is also a philosophical and political movement to end violence, elitism, corruption and poverty that plague the African continent and replace them with more just and equitable systems. As such, Pan-Africanism is being viewed as a political and economic doctrine for African Renaissance to address the need for a critical reassessment, valorisation and promotion of African cultures and languages as well as qualitative reform of the continent’s information and education systems. As part of activities marking the continental oraganisation’s existence, member states have been urged to organise events at national and community levels to reflect the spirit of Pan Africanism as well as the drive for a renewal among the youths and other constituent units. Mali, Other Crises As Acid Test Of New Vision Expectedly, to serve as the acid test of the objectives of “Pan-Africanism and African Renaissance, how to resolve from wholly African perspective the conflict in Mali, including the scaling-up of African troops to support the weak Malian army battling Islamist militants, as well as the flashpoints in other parts of the continent dominated the opening of the two-day summit. Moreso, the unrests in Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo and Central African Republic, tensions between former civil war foes Sudan and newly independent South Sudan and efforts to build peace in Somalia also featured. Therefore, the summit immediately and urgently called for formation of its standby force to tackle the lukewarm attitude of member states in contributing troops to deal with conflicts on the continent. The issue of a standby force had been on ground for a while, but according to AU technocrats, the Malian crisis and intervention launched by France, brought to the fore a fresh urgency for its immediate take-off. But leading the park of leaders on the need to urgently tackle Africa’s challenges from African perspectives were the former Chairperson of AU, President Thomas Boni of Republic of Benin; the newly elected chairperson, Ethiopian Prime Minister Hailemariam Desalegn; the chairperson of African Union Commission, Dr. Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma; Secretary General of United Nations (UN), Ban Ki-moon; President of Palestinians National Authority, Mahmoud Abbas and President of Ghana, John Dramani Mahama. Yayi, while dwelling on the problems affecting the continent, especially on the question of peace and security affecting its image before its international partners, in his

Desalegn

Ban Ki-Moon

farewell address, emphasised the need for the continent’s leaders to look themselves in the face and do some self-examination so that the anniversary for which the organisation tagged, ‘Pan Africanism and African Renaissance’ would be an occasion for renewal with the flame of hope and which its founders lit. “The world is observing us, the people of Africa are waiting for us and history has placed a responsibility before us. We need to take it or betray and I have the firm conviction that we will not fail. I count on each and every one of you,” he said. Telling the African leaders present that their response to the conflict in Mali had been too slow, Yayi thanked France for taking the lead in its military intervention in the West African country. The urgency of the situation in Mali, he stressed, calls for the mobilisation and implementation of resolution 2085 of the Security Council in terms of deployment of troops without delay for AFISMA of which some African countries have already mobilised their forces. According to Yayi, modern time requires that Africa move quickly to constitute a good network of businessmen for a solid support from public-private sector partnership for the financing of the development of the continent. He asked the AU to take the initiative of organising an investors’ forum of Africans to debate the question of autonomous financing of the continent’s developmental projects. But to Dlamini-Zuma, Africa as it marks the 50th anniversary of the formation of AU and its precursor, the OAU, must seize the opportunity of current growth indicators to fast-track its economic development. She asserted that plans must be set in motion to look to the future, debate, strategise and develop an accelerated African Agenda 2063 for action on integration and development of the continent for the next 50 years. The Chairperson of AU Commission said her commission and Permanent Representatives Committee of the AU have agreed to do more work after the on-going summit to accelerate preparations, so that activities plan throughout the year will give concrete expression to the African Agenda 2063 objectives. Dlamini-Zuma argued that Africa should use the 50th anniversary activities to stimulate a continent-wide debate on the importance of the concepts and praxis of Pan Africanism and African Renaissance – past, present and future – to inform and mobilise the African citizenry and the Diaspora behind the AU vision of an integrated, prosperous and peaceful continent. She asserted that Africa is well-endowed with natural resources, which are critical components development of industrialisation on the continent. “Africa’s time has arrived and we can achieve our dream within 50 years, or even less,” she said. On his part, Ban Ki-moon said he had visited nearly 30 African countries and in each place listening to leaders and the people. “I have seen countries emerging from war and those with long-established peace. I have seen innovation, innovation, imagination and tremendous determination of Africa’s people to thrive and prosper,” he said. Africa, he said, therefore has the experience to

forge solutions to its own challenges and contribute to global goals of inclusive growth, social justice and protecting our environment. Pointing to Africa’s achievements as having some of the fastest-growing economies, gains in Millennium Development Goals (MDGs), tremendous progress in HIV infections and AIDS death, he urged that the continent must tackle widespread poverty, make more efforts to empower youth and women and give them responsibilities of driving economic growth and peace. However, at the end of the summit, the AU member states decided to contribute $50 million for the African-led International Support Mission in Mali (AFISMA) just as the international community also pledged $460 million in assisting the continent to deal with the problem. Hailemariam said the decision to contribute the fund was hinged on the fact that Africa should find solutions to its problems and not to wait for others before taking the required actions. Hailemariam’s Election Moreso, Hailemariam’s election to take over the post of AU chairperson from Yayi for the next one year after a consensus arrangement in line with the body’s zoning framework, was also an indication that the continent is riding on a new vision. But Hailemariam, at the end of the summit, charged his counterparts on the continent to exert every effort in carrying out their obligation with a view to advance the objectives of the union and making a difference in the lives of the people. On his own part, he pledged to focus on the issues of poverty through economic transformation as well as entrenching peace and security on the continent. Nigeria’s Roles At The Summit Moreso, Nigeria also played important roles in making sure that Africa realised some achievements during the summit. Nigeria and other West African countries were at hand to rally the support and understanding of the international community for the military campaign of the African-led International Support Mission to Mali (AFISMA). The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Olugbenga Ashiru, at the 22nd Ordinary Session of the African Union Executive Council in Addis Ababa, argued that if France had not intervened, Mali would have seized to exist today. “It was in realisation of the seriousness of this crisis that Nigeria deployed a force of 1,200 troops to Mali to be part of the ECOWASled intervention force, AFISMA. Nigeria is at the command of this force,” Ashiru explained. Ashiru’s fervent contributions also informed the announcements by Chad, Tanzania, South Africa, Burundi and Rwanda to deploy troops to Mali. Moreso, the minister, through diplomatic overtures, also ensured that Denmark, Norway, Finland and United Kingdom (UK) delegations to the AU Summit as well as some Asian and Latin American countries to pledge one support or the other for the ECOWAS-led military operation in Mali. However, the minister announced that the

Jonathan ECOWAS and African Union are willing to negotiate with any group that is ready to renounce terrorism and that also believe in the idea of an indivisible Mali with its territorial integrity as constituted today. President Goodluck Jonathan was also involved in settling the problem between Sudan and South Sudan in the spirit of the newfound African Renaissance. Jonathan, after bilateral meetings with Presidents Salva Kiir of South Sudan and President Omar Al-Bashir of Sudan, said they met to discuss possible ways of achieving a comprehensive peace agreement. The two Sudanese leaders had separately before the AU Summit sent special envoys to Nigeria, seeking the intervention of Jonathan in the crisis between the two countries. Also at the summit, Jonathan urged African leaders to show greater commitment to increase access to essential life-saving commodities to save the lives of millions of women and children on the continent. Jonathan spoke as co-chairman of the United Nations (UN) Commission on Life-Saving Commodities for Women and Children during the official presentation of Campaign for the Acceleration of Reduction of Maternal Mortality in Africa (CARMA) on the fringe of the 20th Ordinary Session of Heads of States and Government of the African Union (AU). At the official presentation of CARMA to African leaders with the objective of forming a major health programme for implementation by all AU member states of the AU, the president declared that there was the need for action to prevent deaths from preventable diseases. He appealed to African leaders to “rededicate ourselves to this important cause of saving the lives of our women and children from preventable diseases,” which he observed was the idea behind CARMA. Moreso, Nigeria’s roles before and during the summit must have been responsible for its reelection on Peace and Security Council of AU, the most important organ of the body. Nigeria’s Mr. Boniface Obinna Okere was also elected to AU Commission on International Law while Mrs. Julie Onun-Nwariaku was also elected member, Advisory Board on Corruption. Congo’s Crisis As The Hitch Of The Summit However, the snag of the summit was inability of the Democratic Republic of Congo, Rwanda, Uganda, Burundi, Angola, Congo, South Africa and Tanzania to sign a regional framework agreement hammered by the UN on how to end the Congo crisis. The peace plan was presented at the end the summit, but the leaders of the eight African states refused to sign it. But the UN Secretary General’s Office announced at the weekend that the framework would now be signed in Addis Ababa on February 24 to pacify the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo. The DRC’s mineral-rich east has long been caught up in strife among local and foreign armed groups. Since May, the army has been fighting the “March 23 Movement,” an insurgency that the United Nations said is backed by Rwanda and Uganda – an allegation the two countries denied.

THE GUARDIAN, Saturday, February 23, 2013

METRONOTE Since its inception on October 25, 2011, the Ekiti State government Social Security Scheme for the elderly has been under serious scrutiny by various stakeholders in the state, who were in doubt of the government’s ability to execute it. MUYIWA ADEYEMI, Head South West Bureau, who has been monitoring the implementation of the scheme writes in this report that the government has not only been faithful with the implementation of the scheme but that it has also positively impacted on the economy of the rural communities. HE joy of the elderly people that gathered at T the All Saints Society Hall in Ilawe Ekiti last week Wednesday was palpable. They smiled to receive government officials that came to monitor their welfare and health. Some were seen in groups exchanging banters and discussing how Ekiti State government had in the last one and half years turned their lives around for better even when they had become weak to contribute to the economic development of the state. From a distance, another set of aged women led a song to acknowledge the gesture of Governor Kayode Fayemi, which they all chorused and there was a deft silence as the officials started to call their names. These aged people are the beneficiaries of the Social Security Scheme of the state government. They congregate at the hall every month to receive their monthly stipend of N5, 000. From the appearances of the over 3, 000 beneficiaries monitored in Ilawe, Aramoko and Ido Osi, they are truly indigent aged people who see the stipend as a lifeline saving them from hunger and abject poverty. Pa Rufus Idowu, 87, is from Oke-Omo, Idofin quarters in Ilawe Ekiti. He said he had stopped going to farm about 20 years ago because of ill health and old age and depended on his son, Damilare, who was the breadwinner of the family for survival. But Damilare died in 2006 in a ghastly motor accident along LokojaAbuja road and since then he had to rely on friends and relations to survive and at times support from them would not come. He said: “Since the death of Damilare, I had lost hope of living any meaningful life. In fact I had been praying to God to take my life; you know it is an abomination to commit suicide here. When one of my friends came and invited me to register for this scheme, I was reluctant because I don’t trust politicians, but he insisted that I should give it a trial. I went for the enumeration and when I told officials the story of my life, the youth corps members that conducted the exercise gave me N2, 000 from their purse. And since then I have been collecting N5, 000 every month without working for government.” Asked if the stipend is enough to feed him for a month, Pa Idowu, who lost his wife about nine years ago said, “in this rural community, it is sufficient to feed me. Most times I still save up to N400 per month because I don’t drink alcohol. But my fear is how long the government will pay us this money because we don’t render any service to them. But the only thing we can do is to continue to pray for Governor Fayemi and the people paying us.” For 80-year-old Mr. Obafemi Awoluyi of Okemedo Ikere road, the scheme has been the best thing to happen to him in his old age. He said he was fortunate to be among the first set of beneficiaries and since then he and his wife have been able to feed well without having to wait for their children or relatives. With gratitude to the government, Pa Awoluyi said he would have wished the scheme were extended to his wife. He said: “This is a big money for a peasant farmer like me. Even when I was still strong to go to farm, I knew the quantity of yam I sold to make N5, 000. But now, I don’t have to work before I get money to feed. But I would have been happier if my wife is benefitting from the scheme.” Speaking on why his wife was exempted from the scheme, he said she just clocked 64 in January this year and the scheme is for 65 years and above but pleaded with government not to hesitate to replace his name with that of his wife whenever he died. “Please help me plead with the government to transfer my stipend to my wife because I am old and may die anytime. I am making this plea because I know two people that have died but the stipend was not transferred to their wives or children,” he pleaded. Radiant looking 75-year-old Juliana Awelewa from Aye quarters in Ilawe-Ekiti is an excep-

A cross section of the beneficiaries of the scheme at All Saints Society hall, Ilawe Ekiti, waiting to collect their stipend…recently.

Ekiti N5, 000 Monthly Stipend To Indigent Elders: Measuring The Impacts tional woman with business acumen. She said immediately she started to collect the money, she decided to go into selling of GSM recharge cards and have been making profit of between N3, 000 and N3, 500 per month. According to her, “I was a farmer cultivating yam and cocoyam but because of age I had to stop farming. But when I started collecting this stipend, I thought of what I could do with it and I went for recharge card. In the beginning the profit margin was insignificant but now I make up to N3, 500 profit. So, I am having up to N8, 500 which is sufficient to feed me and my grandchild staying with me.” She continued: “Since the death of Chief Obafemi Awolowo, we never thought we could have a government that would cater for the poor but Governor Fayemi is a God sent politician to banish poverty and put smiles in the faces of the old people. This is the first time we are feeling the impact of government and this gesture is coming without asking for any obligation from us. But we shall continue to pray for him because once he remains our governor our survival is guaranteed.” To Pa Oluwatoba Agbasola, the stipend is not only sufficient for his feeding, he also has enough to buy hot drink to keep his body warm. “After eating in the morning whenever it is raining or the weather is too cold, I will buy a sachet of Chelsea hot drink that keeps me warm. I drank local gin (ogogoro) before but Fayemi has changed that with our monthly allowance,” the 78-year-old man said. Not less than 20,000 indigent elderly people have been benefitting from the Social Security Scheme of the state government since it formally took off in Ise-Ekiti, the headquarters of Ise/Orun Local Government Area on October 25, 2011, where Fayemi distributed cheques to beneficiaries. The scheme is being

supervised by the State Ministry of Labour, Productivity and Human Capital Development which was created by the governor to generate more jobs for the unemployed and improve the living standards of the less privileged. To make the enumeration and screening exercise a success, the Ministry held consultations with the local government caretaker committee chairmen, traditional rulers and ward development officers in the 16 Local Council Areas. A workshop was also held for 400 members of the Ekiti State Youth Volunteer Corps who served as enumerators for the exercise. The Permanent Secretary, Ekiti State Ministry of Labour, Productivity and Human Capital Development, Mrs. Funmi Ajayi, told The Guardian last week while monitoring the payment of the stipend that about 500 out of 20,000 beneficiaries have died in the last one and half years and disclosed that the Ministry is already working on how to replace them. She said that the programme was very dear to the governor who most times ensured that the stipend was paid even before civil servants collected their salary. She added that the Ministry at inception of the programme devised a method to ensure that they take the cash to the doorstep of the beneficiaries through what she called Community Cash Programme (CCP). Ajayi said the process to select the beneficiaries was thorough because it was meant for the indigent elderly people that are not receiving pension or having children that will cater for them. Besides the stipend, the aged people in Ekiti State also enjoy free medical care in all government hospitals. These gestures, no doubt, have increased the life span of elderly people in the state. A community leader in Ido who spoke to The Guardian on the effect of the scheme said government has been able to record success on the programme because it does not have political colouration. He said there was even a protest from the members of the Action Congress of

This is a big money for a peasant farmer like me. Even when I was still strong to go to farm, I knew the quantity of yam I sold to make N5, 000. But now, I don’t have to work before I get money to feed. But I would have been happier if my wife is also benefitting from the scheme

Nigeria (ACN) that more members of the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) benefitted than ACN members in the programme. According to him, “the effect of this programme goes beyond feeding the aged; it has impacted positively on the macro economy of our community. As at last count, not less than 200 aged people from this small community are benefitting from it, meaning that about N1 million is coming here every month because they spend the money to buy food and occasionally GSM recharge cards. We noticed that food items sell more and farmers are happy because people have cash in their pockets to buy their produce.” A government source disclosed to The Guardian that about five states had sent their officials to Ekiti State to under study how the government has been implementing the welfare scheme said to be first of its kind in sub Saharan Africa despite the lean purse of the state. Speaking on why government is spending so much on the aged people, Fayemi had noted that, “it is painful to note that across the length and breadth of Africa, poverty visibly walks on the street with impunity. Of the many identifiable strands of poverty that is confronting the developing world is the one associated with old age when one’s strength and vitality is lost and the bones are irredeemably weakened. Not too long ago, those who fall in this vulnerable category, the aged, were taken care of by a social system that is effective in making life more enjoyable though with little to share. Today, civilisation has eroded the system; it is now everyone to himself and God for us all. In the process, people lived the latter part of their lives in abject poverty with attendant diseases, emotional breakdown and frustrating social disaffections. “Even if it is impossible to re-enact, in absolute terms, the good old days of fending for our elderly through our extended family system, it is the determination of this government to reduce old age poverty significantly. This is the essence of this scheme designed to provide for our people in their old age in various communities in the state.”

THE GUARDIAN, Saturday, February 23, 2013

OVERLAPPING WORD GAME with OLULANA KAYODE O8023183727 olulana3@yahoo.com Starting from the square numbered ‘1’, fill in the first word, writing from left to right. Also fill in the second word, starting in the box numbered ‘2’ You will observe that the second word will overlap the first word. Also, the third word will overlap the second word and so on. Keep on filling the words in a clockwise direction until all the squares are completely filled, using the clues/ definitions below:

Overlapping Word Game ‘13’

Solutions To Overlapping Word Game ‘12’

1.Stock of ammunition 2.Easily agitated 3.Oral defamation 4.Speak with contemptuous mirth 5.Different 6.Strict 7.Administration 8.A mixture 9.A small hole 10.Visible mark 11.Concrete 12.Lacking self-confidence 13.University professor 14.Son of one’s brother 15.Coldest season of the year 16.A weasel of northern regions 17.Number after 10 18.Relating to nation 19.Most recent 20.Former Gov. Jolly Nyame’s State 21.The Hausas in general term 22.Former Internal Affairs Minister 23.Largest city in West Africa 24.Against

1.Adeleke 2.Elevate 3.Encore 4.Review 5.Weir 6.Irate 7.Emerge 8.Gentle 9.Legion 10.Novice 11.Icebox 12. X-rated 13.Eddy 14.Dynamo 15.Osogbo 16.Bodice 17.Epicure 18.Renegade 19.Egress 20.Sterile 21.Learn 22.Notable 23.Empire 24.Reap

By Bayo Ogunmupe\ 08034673443 http:/ogunmupe.blogspot.com

On The Path Of Winners OOD leaders have intuition. G They see where others don’t. We all fall into various intuition levels. There are those who will never see it. Making these people leaders is like putting square pegs in a round hole, when someone is gifted as a subordinate it is a mistake to put them into leadership roles. Besides, every orchestra needs a good second fiddle we’re only responsible for the gifts God gives us, not the ones we want, or others think we should have. There are those nurtured to see it. Those folks have the raw materials, they just need to be mentored famous leadership expert, John Maxwell points out that the ability to think like a leader is informed intuition. They just need people to inform, instruct and inspire them and they will become great leaders. The truth is that without Intuition you are condemned to be blindfolded all your life. Indeed, there are those who naturally see it. These are those born with true leadership gift, they instinctively understand people and know how to move people around, “if a man’s gift is leadership, let him govern diligently.” Romans 12:6. The trait most critical to leadership is courage. One, it takes courage to face the truth about yourself. Two, it takes courage to change when staying as you are feels more comfortable. If you are willing to leave your comfort zone, step out in faith and follow God, you will be tested. But you also reach heights you thought were beyond you. Moreover you will go further than others who possess greater talent than you

Nurture Your Gift Diligently Three it takes courage to stand for your conviction, the American philosopher Ralph Waldo Emerson wrote, “Whatever you do, you need courage.” Whenever Nehemiah’s enemies threatened him he said, “Should a man like me run away? I will not,” Nehemiah 6:11. As a result he built the walls of Jerusalem in a record 52 days and got a book in the bible named after him. Four, courage usually involves getting it wrong before you get it right. It is easy to be brave where you are strong. General Omar Bradley remarked: “Bravery is the capacity to perform properly, even when scared half to death.” Courage always takes the high road. When we keep score of wrongs committed against us, we reveal a lack of maturity. The most important ingredient of success is knowing how to get along with people. If you want to succeed, then practice forgiving. Remember, committing an injury puts you below your enemy; taking revenge makes you with him; forgiving him sets you above. Paul writes; Act with courage, every detail works to your advantages”, 2Cornthians 4:5. Any time we want to move forward obstacles are going to get in the way. HG wells asked, “What on earth would a man do with himself if something didn’t stand in his way”? But adversity is our friend even though it doesn’t feel that way. Each obstacle we overcome teaches us about our strengths

flashed to the British people during World War II. Eisenhower, fighting back tears, pulled his chair back, stood up saluted him and left the room. To his aide out in the hallway, Eisenhower said, “I just said goodbye to Winston, but you never say farewell to courage.” Another attitude of men of courage is modesty. It is the way of Jehovah to diminish the full and enlarge the modest. It is the way of earth to overthrow the full and replenish the modest. God brings down disaster on the full and bless the modest. It is the way of man to hate the full and love the modest.

Schelling

and weaknesses. It shapes us, makes us wiser and more courageous. The greatest people rose to the occasion by facing the most difficult challenges with courage. That was certainly true of Winston Churchill. In his book, American Scandal, Pat Williams writes about Churchill’s last month. He says in 1964, President David Eisenhower went to visit the Former British Prime Minister; Eisenhower sat by the boldspirited leader’s bed for a period of time, neither speaking. After 10 minutes, Churchill slowly raised his hand and painstakingly made the V for victory sign which he had so often

Humility displayed in a position of honour, increase the radiance of that honour, displayed in a lowly position, men will not seek to brush it aside. Therefore, the champion encounters good fortune in all his undertakings. Our champion for today is Thomas Crombie Schelling the American economist and cowinner along with Robert Aumann of the 2005 Nobel Memorial Prize in economics. Schelling gained the award for having enhanced our understanding of conflict and cooperation through games theory analysis. He was born to John Schelling and Zelda Ayres in Oakland, California in April 1921. Thomas Schelling graduated in Economics from the University of California, Berkeley in 1944 and received his PhD in Economics

from Harvard University in 1951. He served with the Marshall Plan in Europe; the White House and in the Executive Office of President from 1948 to 1953 He wrote his dissertation on the US national income behavior while in Europe. Thereafter he joined the Yale University economics faculty and in 1958 Harvard appointed him professor of economics. In 1969 he joined the staff of John F. Kennedy School of Government at Harvard. And for 20 years he taught at Kennedy School as Littauer professor of Political Economy. In 1993 Schelling gained an award for Behavior Research. Relevant to the Prevention of Nuclear War, Schelling was married to Corinne Saposs from 1947 to 1991, with whom he had four sons. His marriage to second wife, Alice Coleman occurred later in 1991. Schelling published, The Strategy of Conflict in 1960, Arms and Influence in 1969 and 1971, Schelling published articles dealing with racial dynamics which he termed a general theory of tipping. This dynamics has been cited as explanations that are found as meaningful differences Schelling has been involved in the Global warming debate since chairing a Commission for President Jimmy Carter in 1980. He believes climate change poses a serious threat to developing nations. He has argued that global warming is a bargaining problem, if we are able to reduce emission, poor countries will receive the benefits, but rich countries will bear the costs, Schelling is still alive and kicking at 92.

THE GUARDIAN, Saturday, February 23, 2013

NEWSMAKER

Deminiwei…

Mending Bones The Unorthodox Way This is the story of a traditional orthopaedic home where Nigerians and foreigners with broken bones, and joints seek and find healing. By Bola Olajuwon HEN Sunday Deminiwei, an ijaw man from W Arogbo Ese-Odo Local Council of Ondo State, first came to Lagos in 1977, he quickly joined the league of fishermen plying their trade on the Lagos Lagoon to earn a living. The sturdy fellow also added palm wine tapping to augment what he was earning from fishing. But in 1989, he decided to abandon the two trades for timber sales. He went as far as Cross River State to ferry logs to Lagos for sale. All along, while fishing, tapping palm wine and selling timber, Deminiwei was always at hand to massage and repair the joints and bones of people who suffered domestic and other accidents. His fame in this regard began to spread beyond his community. But unknown to many people, Deminiwei, 61, is from a family of bone-setters and massagers, the healing art having been passed down from generation to generation. Now, it runs naturally in the family. However, after his father died, Diminiwei was prevailed upon in 1997 to fill the shoes of the late man. Deminiwei then moved to Apollo in

Makoko area of Lagos —– a sprawling slum by the shore of the Lagos Lagoon Today, the rich and mighty as well as the lowly criss-cross the suspended wooden shed housing Deminiwei’s traditional orthopaedic clinic and home for the touch of “The hands of God” and “Water Angel” to cure all their bone afflictions. To get to Deminiwei’s clinic, one must cross a plank loosely nailed to the suspended wooden house. Below the plank and underneath the wooden clinic are piles of wastes and human excreta which the lagoon washes ashore. It takes a good balancing act to navigate the plank, else one lands inside the mess below. But each morning, Deminiwei’s patients and their relations find their ways to the suspended shed even before the traditional orthopaedic surgeon wakes up —- to ensure early treatment. As new visitors/patients wait for Deminiwei, his in-patients –- with all sorts of bandages and swollen limbs —- emerge from two of the rooms serving as wards, passing across the edge of the wooden shed to use the lavatory, take their baths or cook their meals. As one looked on with amazement at the environment dotted with other suspended wooden sheds in the midst of piles of refuse, the dark and dirty water below and the tumbling faeces, minors with protruding tummies started surfacing from the adjoining rooms and sheds, running helter-skelter with plates and naira notes meant for their breakfast. Those kids – some of Deminiwei’s patients offered – are equally gifted with the art of bone

massaging and mending. However, after carefully attending to his patients amidst banters, threats and soothing words, the man known as Baba Imole told The Guardian that he earned the names “Hands of God” and “Water Angel” because “of the way I treat my patients. I use only herbs and palm kernel oil to treat broken bones, including hunchback. I just massage the hunchback and it will disappear after such constant massaging.” Noticing the reporter’s bewilderment at the mention of hunchback, he asked his assistants to bring the picture of one Adebimpe Adeloye, whom he successfully treated. “If you don’t know, ask those big madams and pregnant women. I am also a traditional gynaecologist. I inherited it from my father and that is what my mother does. If a child is coming out with his or her legs, I use my hands to change the child’s position in the womb so that he will come out

with the head.” On the dirty environment, he asserted: “Forget about it. People come here from United States, Germany, Ukraine, … which other one? Yes, Belgium and even Britain. When you are in pain, you won’t think of dirty surrounding. I thank God that even General and Orthopaedic hospitals refer patients to me. With my hands, I also treat spinal cord injuries.” Asked whether he uses any special power owing to the name “Water Angel”, he retorted: “I am an Ijaw man. We live on the water. I don’t know anything about juju. Look at that church there (pointing at a building with the inscription Progressive C&S Church), that is where I normally refer patients who are not responding quickly to treatments. Sometimes, I ask such people to bring their church members to pray for their quick recovery. But I am the best in mending all broken bones and that is why I am called ‘Water Angel’.”

THE GUARDIAN, Saturday, February 23, 2013

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THE GUARDIAN, Saturday, February 23, 2013

CELEBRATION

Sermons From A Theologian Monarch At 75 His Royal Majesty Oba Adedapo Tejuoso, Osile of Oke-Ona Egba, Ogun State, who turned 75 on Tuesday speaks on the secret of his successful life as a doctor, traditional ruler and a born again Christian. He speaks also on his faith in Nigeria and the secret of his radiant look… By Debo Oladimeji HAT is the secret of your looking so radiant at 75?

As to the secret of my looking younger and healthy, I am sure that you all know that the only thing that will make you look glorious and fit is the presence of Jesus Christ in your life. If Jesus Christ lives in you, his glory will be reflected in your outlook. People instead of seeing you the old man will be seeing Jesus Christ in your life. That is the secret of my looking young. But I know it is not easy to grow old. I pray that you will all grow old gracefully. What are your reflections at 75? I have seen it all. God has let me through every aspect of this world. I have been in the secular. I am now in the spiritual. God has enabled me to have a very good battle in life. Fortunately, I was born into a Christian home, Christian parents who led us in the right path through the Bible. I have no regrets whatsoever for my childhood base. I had a very wonderful start in life. I started school at the very early age of three, when I could not even know my left from my right. I had my primary school education in Zaria up to standard two. At the age of 8, I was moved to Abeokuta where I went to Mrs. Ransome Kuti’s class. Before then, I went to Abeokuta Girls School. By 1949 I moved to Mrs. Ransome Kuti class and by 1951 I was in Abeokuta Grammar School. I left the school in 1956. I was the Senior Prefect in Abeokuta Grammar School. With the very good results in my school certificate, I was lucky to gain admission into Trinity College Dublin in 1958 to study medicine. Where I was for six years up to 1964. Trinity College Dublin is a unique university. The third university to be established in Great Britain and Ireland. Everybody goes through art subjects along with the medical course. So, by 1962 I graduated as a Bachelor of Arts holder. 1964 I graduated as a medical doctor. I came straight home to Lagos University Teaching Hospital to do my house job up to September 1966 when I went back to the UK for my post- graduate exams. Just before the civil war started.. and luckily just as soon as the civil war ended in 1970, I came back home. Since then I have been established in my medical practice which exists till today as Teju Industrial Clinic which metamorphosed into Iyalode Bisoye Tejuoso Hospital. At the same time I became the Managing Director of Teju Industries Limited. The producer and marketer of Teju Foam, which exists till now. You all know the story. I was lucky, I was appointed into this present position to become the Osile Oke-Ona, Egba here in Abeokuta;I came to Abeokuta on February 20,1989, a day after my 51st birthday. Come May 2013, I will be 24 years on the throne. It is still a long way, but God has been with me. I think the thing I appreciate most in my life is that God himself enabled me on August 5, 1992 during the 20th coronation anniversary of Oyebade Onipede, Alake at that time to give my life to Christ under the ministration of Pastor Enoch Adeboye. Since then, things have never been the same again with me. Jesus Christ took over my life completely. Any notable achievements? The other aspect of my life that I will like to talk about briefly was finding myself representing the whole of South West at the Constitutional Conference in 1994 during General Sani Abacha’s regime —- from June 27, 1994 to June 27, 1995. We all know how tough those times were. But I am happy that God used me to help to keep Nigeria one today. Six months before I was appointed to go there, God told me that I was going to be appointed to do certain things for Nigeria. And that I must make sure that I was not dissuaded from doing the job. And barely six months after, the call came. And I was appointed to represent the whole of South West traditional rulers. There was a lot of opposition. People rose against it … and I told them “Sorry, God has told me to go.”

Tejuoso Thank God we went. The country would have disintegrated. What do you think about Nigeria, will Nigeria survive? God has a purpose for Nigeria. I do not believe that Nigeria will ever break. My son is a partner to Benny Hinn. They went for a conference just before the election of President Olusegun Obasanjo in 2003. In the middle of the programme, Benny Hinn stopped and said, “Let us pray for Nigeria.” And he prayed that Nigeria should have a successful election. He said later that the reason for the prayer was that God told him “Nigeria was his bestkept secret”. If Nigeria is the heartbeat of God, what do you think can break Nigeria? Nigeria, no matter the odds, still keeps going strong. We must all rally round to make sure that Nigeria does not break. God has a great purpose for keeping us together. We must assist God to keep Nigeria one. My prayer is that

Nigeria will never break. What is the secret of your happy home? Prior to my accepting Jesus Christ into my life, officially, I had several wives. I came on the throne in 1989 with three wives (olori). I accepted Jesus Christ into my life in 1992, three years after. God has said that if your sins are as red as scarlet, if you come onto him he will make them white as snow. God is not a man that he should tell lies. He has said that no matter what your conditions are, even if you are a murderer, you should come and confess your sins. Give your life to him and he will forgive you. I was a polygamist, I had three wives. God accepted me when I gave my life to him. He has preserved my life and I was more than fortunate because not only did I give my life to him, but God himself tried or succeeded in getting my three wives to give their lives to him. Jesus Christ himself said a house divided again itself cannot stand. In the book of Galatians, Paul said if you have ac-

The traditional rulers established what has now been termed parliament (Ile Ogboni). It is the king that established Ile Ogboni for the people to be able to take part in governance. What you called House of Assembly today was started as Ile Ogboni.

cepted Jesus Christ into your life, it is no longer you living your life but the Holy Spirit in Jesus Christ who is living his life in you. Christ is the one living in all (four) of us. We are four but we are one. Don’t become a polygamist, but if you have not accepted Christ into your life and you are a polygamist, accept Christ and pray that your wives will also accept Christ. That is the secret of my success. I know that God is not sparing my life just for the fun of it. He has a purpose for me in this country. That purpose I know will soon manifest to all of us. What prompts you to be friend to prisoners? First and foremost, I am a friend of Jesus Christ and you know Jesus Christ said in the book of Mathew Chapter 25 that at the end of time the goats will be separated from the sheep. And he will say to the goats: “When I was hungry, you did not feed me. When I was naked, you did not cover me. When I was in prison you did not visit me.” And they will say to him: “When were you in prison and we did not visit you?” He will say: “As long as you did not visit your neighbour, you did not visit me.” So if you have never been to prison, you have never visited Jesus Christ in prison… Are you not missing out in your medical practice? If I have been programmed to live my life the way I live it, I will not say that I am missing out in my medical practice. My medical practice is still going on. It is just that I have employed people to do it for me. What are the roles of traditional rulers? I believe God brought me into this institution as a stepping stone. Talking about traditional institution… I have said that if anybody thinks he can push aside the traditional institution in Nigeria, that person is deceiving himself because it was the traditional institution that established what we called government. Government in Yoruba means “congregation of the Kings” (Ijo oba). Without the kings there will be no government. If we now look at the calibre of people who are coming into the institution, we must understand that God has a purpose for traditional rulers in governance in this country. How do you combine being a traditional ruler and a theologian? Traditional rulers are supposed to be keepers of our culture and traditions. Does culture or tradition include religion? It doesn’t. What is tradition, what is culture? They are both different from religion. The traditional rulers established what has now been termed parliament (Ile Ogboni). It is the king that established Ile Ogboni for the people to be able to take part in governance. What you called House of Assembly today was started as Ile Ogboni. What are cultures? When you see an elderly man you prostrate. Our tradition is what we are supposed to uphold. If we must trace our culture or tradition to the source, I believe we should trace it down to Noah. In order words I must lead my people in the path of Noah. What is Noah in Yoruba? Omoluabi. We are all OmoNoahbi. Would you say you were you born with a silver spoon in your mouth? I was born in Lagos on February 19, 1938. My mother was a petty trader. By 1940, my mother had another child. Before me, my parents had had two children who died almost at childbirth or very young. Then my sister came July 2, 1940. In 1940, my father was transferred to Zaria from Lagos by the Nigerian Railways. By 1941, my mother and the two of us joined our parents in Zaria. That was when I was three. We were well brought up in Zaria and at the age of eight, our parents decided to send us back to Abeokuta. They sent us to Abeokuta to live with one Miss Olantolu. I was only eight years old. They couldn’t even find a school for me in Abeokuta. They only found Abeokuta Girls School. I was not permanently living with them again, except going on holidays twice a year, June and December. By 1951, I went to Abeokuta Grammar School living in the boarding house. Tell me, where was the room for them to pamper me? At the time that I needed pampering, they sent me away. I was in the boarding house in Abeokuta Grammar School. I was looking for avenue myself to go abroad and better my lots. How I got my passports they didn’t know. Although they gave me the financial backing to process my papers. I left Abeokuta Grammar School in 1956 and the following year, I travelled abroad. Tell me how I was pampered. I did not see the silver spoon, I was easting with my hands.

Truth Has No Elder Brother...

Epidemic Insanity… FFOR was one of our hopes in Blue House. Though small in stature, he was tough like an old boot; he outran all our competitors from other houses in the 200metres Junior. The house had the uneviable reputation of coming last all in previous inter-house sports. So, we were determined to break that jinx. Excitement ran high as the D-Day neared. Pep talks from my colleagues, Seyi Adekanmbi and Ghanaian “Chief ”Kogbe, the undisputable technical Adviser of Blue House kept adrenalin pumping. We were the noisiest of the four houses. Thanks to intense homework by the duo of Adekambi and I both of us products of “Great Ife”. We composed slogans, ditties. The slogan for the Blue House was “GREAT TITANS!” to which the response was a throaty “H-HHEY!” It sent shivers down the spines of our competitors. We were so colourful. The Titans, we told those boys and girls, were giants, bigger, tougher and stronger that all others; indeed they dared the very gods—- and almost defeated them. We pumped them full of determination, confidence, fighting spirit… Then came the day. Then the moment for 200 metres Junior. The whistle went off and off sped the young athletes. We were not worried at first when Offor lagged. We were sure Offor would catch up. After all, he led in all previous practices. But he never did. He did not come second, nor third, nor fourth. He came a trailing last. I was aghast… what could have happened? My puzzlement only deepened when after the race I learnt that he was nowhere to be seen. He had disappeared. But we had other races to bother about, so I pushed that matter inconveniently into a corner of my mind. Then reports seeped in later of the story behind Offor’s flop. In his enthusiasm, Offor had decided on a trick to be in top shape for the race: he jogged from Obantoko to the school in Osiele— a distance of roughly four kilometers. Poor boy. He discovered his mistake too late. He was sapped of energy before the race. Those who saw Offor in hiding said he was in tears: shame, hurt pride. He couldn’t face us. He couldn’t face me. I sent for Offor—- the stupid boy. He came shaky-kneed. His eyes were dry. Mine were hard. I raised my hand—And I hugged Offor Nwabuogor. Because I understood. He burst into tears… For some reasons, that episode boosted the emo-

Lighthouse

Yemi Ogunsola yemiogunsola@gmail.com 08069074718

tional bond in the Blue House and at the end of the whole event, Blue House athletes shone. We came First. We led the runner-up with a whole 24 points! We were real Titans. How can I ever forget that experience? Offor’s laudable sense of responsibility, of duty, of shame, and of embarrassment when he felt he had let down his beloved Blue House... That was sanity. Humanity. In a boy. But the grey-haired fellows and others who make up the Nigerian political class —- and their lackeys —- lack these evidence of sanity. Despite having let down not just a house now, but over 150 million persons in the most crucial function of state, governance, these horde who should have willingly committed mass suicide by submitting to some cataclysm like some dinosaurs of ages ago still strut around pretending to be on this side of sanity. Amidst the ruins they have made of our legitimate hopes of a better country, Tukur and his boys —- mostly common rogues—keep boasting of “capturing” more states. They imagine they are immune to all Nemesis. To all repercussion. Can these things be sane who hate their own country, citizens with such passion.

THE GUARDIAN, Saturday, February 23, 2013

Most of the monies being stolen in this country, from subsidy scam to pension funds to oil theft end up in PDP coffers, some sources have said. No wonder we are seeing lots of wayo/kangaroo prosecution which ends up nowhere in particular. When one of their boys, former director, Police Pensions Office, John Yakubu Yusuf, stole N23.3billion Police pensions funds, he slaughtered over 129,444 senior citizens of Nigeria. Didn’t he? The stolen amount is what 129,444 pensioners would get in six months if, on the average, each pensioner gets N30,000 per month. Do the arithmetic: N23.3billion divided by (30,000x6) The Government thief was fined N750,000 and set free. Section 309 of the Nigerian Penal Code under which the EFCC elected to try Yusuf states: “Whoever commits criminal misappropriation shall be punished with imprisonment for a term which may extend to two years or with a fine or with both.” Many have wondered why the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission should charge the thief under that code. And why there should be any plea bargain at all. But Should this prevent the judge from pronouncing the maximum sentence under this

penal code? Read the penal code above again. The maximum sentence is not two years but two years per charge. Yusuf pleaded guilty to three charges. So the maximum sentence is 2+2+2 years = 6years running consecutively. Why did Thalba choose concurrently? Again, the penal codes stipulates both imprisonment and fine as a option, why did Thalba ignore that option? All these point to concerted efforts by irrelevant authorities to free the Government thief. It was so in Saint Ibori’s case. Barely 24 hours later, a non-government thief who stole a goat in Ondo State bagged two years in jail with no option of fine. Another Government property, Alhaji Abdulrasheed Maina, deputy director in the office of the Head of Service, was drafted to retrieve stolen pension funds. He allegedly stole N21billion of the funds. Despite a warrant for his arrest, the Presidency protected the alleged thief with an army of security guards. When finally forced by a Senate ultimatum to withdraw the guards, we are told the “Government Boy” has escaped from the country… Wayojibiti Amidst all this stealing, do you know that an estimated 240 Nigerians die daily of cancer? Or that N10billion will build a comprehensive cancer centre? Yet what passes for a sane Nigerian government has not deemed it fit to build a single comprehensive cancer centre. But, by the admission of the Minister of Finance, Okonjo Eweala, Nigerians spend $200million (N31.7billion) yearly on foreign trips for medical treatment. Know what that means? I quote Consultant ocular Oncologist Dr. Abia Ezelu in a chat with The Guardian late last year: “To build a comprehensive cancer centre would cost … N10 billion. By the estimate of the Minister of Finance, Nigerians spend $200 million every year on foreign medical trips. What this means is that we can build three comprehensive cancer centres every year if we stop foreign medical trips. Yet we do not have one in Nigeria.” That’s just one of the countless areas of criminal neglect in the midst of theft and profligacy. Sane men don’t take up the cudgel against their own country and countrymen this way. No. Sadly, this insanity has gone epidemic among the political class and their lackeys…

Corps Member Builds Mini Biogas Plant By Onyedika Agbedo

OPE that Nigeria will one day join the league of technologically developed nations of the world was raised recently by Etim Gregory Friday, a Batch C 2011/2012 corps member in Lagos State, who built a domestic size biogas plant otherwise called Anaerobic Digester. By definition, biogas is produced through the breakdown of organic matter in the absence of oxygen, which is referred to as anaerobic digestion. The whole process works like a big concrete stomach would: Organic materials like manure, food scraps, crop residue, or wastewater sludge (known as feedstock) are fed into the digester, where it’s heated to 38-40 degrees Celsius (temperature of a cow’s stomach) and stirred for 30-60 days, slowly producing a combination of methane, carbon dioxide and other gases (known as biogas). The biogas can then be used for power generation, heating and cooling needs or piped into the natural gas grid. Once biogas production is complete, the waste has transformed into a high-quality fertilizer (called digestate). A biogas plant is the name often given to an anaerobic digester that treats farm wastes or energy crops. With Etim’s breakthrough in fabricating the facility, his major headache now is how to get sponsorship to commercialise his invention and engage as many unemployed youths as possible. Speaking while presenting the device at the Lagos Secretariat of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), recently, Etim, a 2010 graduate of

Agricultural Engineering from the University of Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, explained that he used cow dung to test run the machine. He light the gas produced from the wastes to the admiration of the guests present at the event. However, he said that general wastes such as municipal waste, poultry droppings and those from abattoir could be used on the biogas plant. He noted: “It makes use of a process called anaerobic digestion, which is the breaking down of bio-degradable materials in the absence of air, to produce methane and other elements such as carbon-dioxide, nitrogen, hydrogen sulfide as well as traces of water vapour”. According to the Utumong in Oron Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State born, the waste product is poured into an airtight tank with a temperature range of between 35 and 45 per cent. He further said that the device has an electric motor and a heater connected under the tank, with a heater that regulates the temperature while the electric motor is also connected to a stirrer inside the tank. Giving more insight, he said that the stirrer ensures that the feed stock is properly stirred to enable the bacteria acting on them to work faster, adding that if the mixture is not properly stirred to get even texture, it will settle down at the bottom of the tank and form a scum – a kind of hard substance – which would make it very difficult for the bacteria to work on it and break down the materials to produce the biogas. Etim revealed that the project was funded by a non-governmental

organisation, Maldovaplux, noting that it was one out of many projects that the Bolanle Kazeem-Audu led organisation have sponsored in recent times. Another corps member, Humphrey Giane, had at the same event presented an E-portal, which he designed and proposed for on-line application for NYSC registration, monthly clearance and all data based activities. On why he designed the biogas plant, Etim said it all started during the January 2012 fuel subsidy crisis, which crippled the country for five days, with its after effect that lasted throughout the year. He said he was undergoing an empowerment training run by Maldovaplux during the crisis. And as “I was considering other alternative sources of energy to our controversial crude oil, the organisation’s boss, Mrs. Kazeem-Audu asked us to initiate a project of choice each which Maldovaplux would help us to fund. So, I quickly mentioned mini biogas plant, which I’m officially presenting today.” He stated that he is targeting to mass produce the plant, given adequate financial backing, for sale to families to enable them convert their wastes into useful energy instead of having them disposed wrongly or littered as the case may be. “With adequate financial backing, we could mass produce it for commercialisation. We as well intend to build an industrial biogas plant which would generate a larger amount of gas that can be converted into electricity generation for rural communities,” he said.

Fabricator of the device, Etim Gregory Friday (left); Project Manager, NYSC Skill Acquisition and Empowerment Department (SAED), Tony Oviosun and the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Maldovaplux, Mrs. Bolanle Kazeem-Audu at the event. them out. The presentation of the invention “In Maldovaplux, we have a passion was witnessed by representatives for empowering African youths, not from NYSC, the Lagos State Waste only Nigerians. Though we started Management Authority (LAWMA), Maldovaplux, and other dignitaries from Lagos but we are gradually extending our services to other states who thronged the venue not only with special target on corps memto witness how the device operates bers,” she said. but also to felicitate with Etim over The Project Manager, NYSC Skill his achievement. Speaking with The Guardian, Acquisition and Empowerment Kazeem-Audu said that Department (SAED), who represented Maldovaplux was not only con- the State Coordinator, Tony Oviosun, cerned with providing IT training said, “Etim’s project was wonderful for corps members but that it also and we thank Maldovaplux for their sponsors youths, such as Etim, who partnership with us”. initiate brilliant concepts but lack the financial wherewithal to carry

TheGuardian

Saturday, February 23, 2013 17

Conscience, Nurtured by Truth

Love&Life

... Celebrating The Feelings You Share!

With Michael Uchebuaku

IN THIS EDITION

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True

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Sylvia 11 Things Nduka That Are Most Beautiful Killing Your Girl in Nigeria (MBGN 2011) Sex Drive

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‘My Husband’s Best Friend Was Living With Us … And Things Got Out Of Hand I

cheated on my husband of two years. The first full year of our marriage was good. However, three months after our first child was born, we found out that I was pregnant again. With this pregnancy I felt completely different. I was not happy to be pregnant; I was dreading everything to do with being pregnant. In fact, I hated it. I tried telling my husband how I felt or anyone at that how I felt and everyone told me just give it time it will go away. It never did. When we had our first ultrasound (mind you, I was on Birth Control when we found out I was pregnant), I cried afterwards because I wanted it all to be a mistake. Fast-forward six months to the baby being born. I was happy she was healthy but I was not ecstatic to have another

baby. I wanted to have some time for the first baby by herself before even thinking about having another child. I kept trying to talk to my husband about feeling different about this one but he kept telling me that I was crazy and everything will be fine. We were living with our friend (husband's best friend) when this was all happening. Well, our friend and I started talking more and more because I was working all the time, cleaning, and taking care of the girls while my husband was out talking with the neighbors on the porch or playing his Xbox. So, our friend and I started getting to be better friends. I never thought of him as anyone more than a friend, someone I could talk to because my husband and I were barely talking (I found out recently that he resented me for working and it was on the verge of

the hallway in his boxers. He then walked behind me and pushed me into his room and we proceeded to get physihating). cal. My daughter woke up a few seconds So, one night after coming home from into us starting and we stopped. I went seeing my family, I was frustrated over to put her back to bed and I went to bed some things my mom and I were argu- myself. ing about so I had some beers with our The next night I kissed him and we had roommate/friend and things got out of sex again. Meanwhile my husband and I hand [i.e, 'it just sort of happened;' 'one had a talk about either getting a divorce thing led to another,' etc.]. We were or trying to work things out. We had watching some TV and just chatting. I gone on a date and talked, then had sex. was not even thinking about doing any- About a week later, I had received a thing with him. So, he went outside for phone call from a neighbor saying she a smoke, then came back in, sat down knew what was going on and I had to by me and kissed me. We made out for a come clean to my husband otherwise few seconds and then my oldest daugh- she was going to tell him. So, I decided I ter woke up so I went to put her back to was going to tell my husband everything bed while we texted back and forth. He the next day. Well five minutes after I got texted me saying come outside of your off the phone with her, my husband calls door. So, I did and he was standing in me and tells me I have to tell him what

Love Adventure

the "hell" was going on and to come clean. So, that night he came home from work early and took the girls to his parents’ house and was there for little over a week. Fast forward to today. We are working things out. A lot of our problem is communication. We have none. I was never good at communicating things growing up because my parents were never around for me so I was wrote things down. I do regret every day what I did. My husband is the best person I have ever met. I love him with all my heart. Courtesy: www.mgtowforums.com *Do you have an amazing or adventurous love experience to share? Tell us how you met. E-mail your story to: ireto007@yahoo.com. Call 07031028714, 07032944123.

THE GUARDIAN, Saturday, February 23, 2013

18 |

LOVE&LIFE ‘Help! I Had Sex With My Big Brother’s Girlfriend’ I

Dear Love Angel, ’M having secret sex with my brother’s girlfriend. I feel guilty about what we’re doing but I can’t seem to stop myself. They have been together for three years, but she is a very sexy woman. I was out with them one night. We’d all had plenty to drink and as the night progressed, it got a bit messy. My brother ended up drunk and went straight to bed. His girlfriend also looked tipsy and started touching my manhood after my brother had gone to bed dead drunk. She went on touching me and things got very hot and intense between us. I’m not going to lie. As

she was touching me, she said we should dance to some music. We were in the middle of the dance when she suddenly pushed me down on the floor. I was flat on my back on the rug and she lay on top of me and started touching me very erotically. I could feel myself becoming very aroused. We put our arms around each other and started passionately kissing. I felt like I was in cloud nine when we started making love. We ended up having sex over and over again that

probably loves and trusts the most. This could be a case of sibling rivalry - you want what your brother’s got and it is very wrong. If she’s not plannight. Now, we’re still having sex ning to leave your brother, then you secretly without my big brother’s must walk away now. knowledge. If she’s not happy with your brother, then she needs to speak to him, Angel's Advice: explain to him that their relationship This will end in disaster if you let it go isn’t working and walk away. on. Someone will find out – and your Allow her to live the life of a single brother will never forgive you. Doesn’t woman for a while and then, and he deserve better than this? He’s being betrayed by two of the people that he

True Confession

Love News

11 Things That Are Killing Your Sex Drive 1. The Pill. Evidence has been mixed on this, but a 2010 study of over 1,000 women found that those who took oral contraceptives had lower levels of both sexual desire and arousal than those who didn't. This bolsters widespread anecdotal evidence — many women have said that the Pill killed their desire to have sex. 2. Lack of Sleep Insomnia. A 2011 study found that getting less than five hours of sleep a night was associated with a significant drop in men's testosterone levels, which in turn can lead to low sex drive. It's reasonable to assume being sleepdeprived isn't awesome for women's libidos either. 3. Eating Too Much Saturated fat, that is. Sexual medicine expert Dr. John Mulhall told NBC that too much of this type of fat could clog arteries and reduce blood flow to sexual organs. 4. Not Eating Enough Low sex drive is one of the side effects of extreme calorie restriction. Calorie restriction is a fancy term for eating 10 to 50 percent fewer calories than normal, which has been touted in the past few years as a way to increase longevity. And while most dieters probably aren't cutting their calories in half, being starving probably isn't great for the libido (especially if you have no energy). 5. Propecia A 2011 study found that the hair-growth drug can cause low sex drive and erectile dysfunction in men. 6. Stress This should be surprising to exactly no one. In a 2010 study of postmenopausal women with low sex drive, "stress or fatigue" was the most common reason they list-

ed for their lowered libido. Sixty percent of them said those factors had influenced their sex drive for the worse. 7. Depression While it's not always clear which way causation goes, research suggests that depression can lead to low sex drive. In one study, 70% of depressed but un-medicated patients reported loss of interest in sex. 8. Antidepressants But several studies, including one from 2010, have found a link between (some) antidepressants and sexual dysfunction. 9. Anemia Brooke Faught, a nurse practitioner at a sexual dysfunction clinic, told USA Today that anemia could cause low libido in women. Luckily, an iron pill might be able to fix this particular sex-drive-killer. 10. Being In a Long-Term Relationship A 2012 study found that women tended to lose sex drive the longer they were in monogamous relationships (men in the study did not have this problem). However, monogamous women shouldn't worry too much — the study was limited to 18-25-year-olds, and was relatively small. Also, the study authors noted that because of social pressure, women might understate their sex drive while men might overstate theirs. 11. Being Young A 2010 study found that women between 27 and 45 had both more sexual fantasies and more actual sex than women 18 to 26. So if you're a younger woman with a low sex drive, one possible cure could be time. Courtesy: www.buzzfeed.com *If you want to advertize or sponsor Love & Life call 07031028714, 08023700641, 07032944123.

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CONTINUED FROM PAGE 17

Love Connections

only then, can you think about resuming your relationship. In the meantime quit the affair and give yourself the chance to meet an unattached woman of your own. *Send your comments/stories to Love Angel. E-mail: ireto007@yahoo.com Call 07031028714. For free marriage/relationships counseling, call Mike 07031028714, 08131161840, 08023700641. Visit www.romances-

Romantic Jokes

Beware Of What You Say!!! This is a great example of "did I say that out loud? This happened at The University of Western Ontario last year. In a biology class, the professor was discussing the high glucose levels found in semen, which gives the sperm all the energy for their journey. A female freshman raised her hand and asked, "If I understand you correctly, you're saying there is a lot of glucose, as in sugar, in semen?" "That's correct," responded the professor, going on to add statistical info. Raising her hand again, she asked, "Then why doesn't it taste sweet?" After a stunned silence, the whole class burst out laughing. The poor

Love Dictionary What Is Infertility? (Fertility problems) Infertility primarily refers to the biological inability of a person to contribute to conception. Infertility primarily refers to the biological inability of a person to contribute to conception. Infertility may also refer to the state of a woman who is unable to carry a pregnancy to full term. There are many biological causes of infertility, including some that medical intervention can treat.[1] Women who are fertile experience a natural period of fertility before and during ovulation, and they are naturally infertile during the rest of the menstrual cycle. Fertility awareness methods are used to discern when these changes occur by tracking changes in cervical mucus or basal body temperature. Definitions of infertility differ, with demographers tending to define infertility as childlessness in a population of women of reproductive age, while the epidemiological definition is based on "trying for" or "time to" a pregnancy, generally in a population of women exposed to a probability of conception.[2] The time that needs to pass (during which the couple has tried to conceive) for that couple to be diagnosed with infertility differs between different jurisdictions. Existing definitions of infertility lack uniformity, rendering comparisons in prevalence between countries or over time problematic, and therefore data estimating the prevalence of infertility cited by various sources differs significantly.[2] A

Fertility Problems/ Miscarriages/Seeking Male Child Are you finding it difficult to conceive? Do you have miscarriages or need a baby boy? Call 07025350586 or 08122352054. Premature Ejaculation/Low Sperm Count–Solution is here. Call 07025350586.

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girl's face turned bright red, and as she realized exactly what she had inadvertently said (or rather implied), she picked up her books without a word and walked out of class, never to return. However, as she was going out the door, the professor's reply was classic. Totally straight-faced he answered her question. "It doesn't taste sweet because the taste buds for sweetness are on the tip of your tongue and not the back of your throat. Have a good day."

Words Of Wisdom A true friend reaches for your hand and touches your heart. couple that has tried unsuccessfully to have a child after a certain period of time (often a short period, but definitions vary) is sometimes said to be subfertile, meaning less fertile than a typical couple. Both infertility and subfertility are defined as the inability to conceive after a certain period of time (the length of which vary), so often the two terms overlap. World Health Organization The World Health Organization defines infertility as follows:[3] Infertility is the inability to conceive a child. A couple may be considered infertile if, after two years of regular sexual intercourse, without contraception, the woman has not become pregnant (and there is no other reason, such as breastfeeding or postpartum amenorrhoea). Primary infertility is breastfeeding or postpartum amenorrhoea). Primary infertility is infertility in a couple who have never had a child. Secondary infertility is failure to conceive following a previous pregnancy. Infertility may be caused by infection in the man or woman, but often there is no obvious underlying cause. United States One definition of infertility that is frequently used in the United States by reproductive endocrinologists, the doctors specializing in infertility, to consider a couple eligible for treatment is: • a woman under 35 has not conceived after 12 months of contraceptive-free intercourse. Twelve months is the lower reference limit for Time to Pregnancy (TTP) by the World Health Organization.[4] • a woman over 35 has not conceived after six months of contraceptive-free sexual intercourse. These time intervals would seem to be reversed; this is an area where public policy trumps science. The idea is that for women beyond age 35, every month counts and if made to wait another 6 months to prove the necessity of medical intervention, the problem could become worse. The corollary to this is that, by definition, failure to conceive in women under 35 isn't regarded with the same urgency as it is in those over 35.

Lovers' Answers Game The rule: Ask the opposite sex one question about love, and choose your lover from the top 3 answers. Rosie, on 08073057036 is asking all men: “Why do some married men deny their wives and kids just to get a lady to sleep with them?” *Call Mike: 07031028714 to send questions or issues

THE GUARDIAN, Saturday, February 23, 2013

| 19

ROMANTIC PLACES, FLIGHTS & CRUISES

LOVE&LIFE

... hotels, airlines, ships, restaurants, clubs, resorts, . beaches & more

HESE are beautiful dome-shaped rock formations with fascinating scenery.

Tula Hill: Pride of Gombe!

True Confessions From Abroad By Jeanne Goshe got married just before I turned 25 and divorced when I was 26. We separated after only 11 months of marriage. When people ask, "What happened?" I usually tell them something like, "I was too young," or "We never should have gotten married," or "I think there's a chance he was gay." All of these things are true. But if I wanted to be completely honest, I would say "His mom got a brain tumor." I usually don't say that because, admittedly, it makes me sound like a pretty horrible person. But if I had to pinpoint what actually happened during my brief marriage that led to its swift demise, it was definitely the brain tumor. It was early December when his mom called to tell him the news. The information was pretty hazy -- no one seemed sure what it was or how bad it was, but with brain tumors, it's usually safe to say that it's not good. He was, understandably, upset. And when he told me, I remember thinking, somewhat selfishly, "Please don't let her die." Now, I genuinely wanted her to be okay, for the normal reasons. But it was also selfish. I had been slowly realizing over the last few months that I was not happy with my life. And a large part of it was that I was not happy with who I had married. I hadn't yet admitted out loud that I was thinking about divorce, but I was on the brink. And when I learned that his mom might have brain cancer, of all things, I saw a future flash before my eyes. I saw tragedy and grief and I saw myself unable to escape. Because you can't ask someone for a divorce when his mother has brain cancer. I tried my best to comfort him. I desperately wanted to convince him that she would be fine. And I did want her to be fine -- I needed her to be fineâ&#x20AC;Śfor me. I called my brother, a doctor, hoping he could better explain the limited information we had. I told my distraught husband that my brother agreed with one opinion that it was probably a meningioma. And that if you're going to have a brain tumor, that is the brain tumor you want. This was

They are ideal for climbing and camping. The Tula people live on the plateau that constitutes a vast expanse of land and plains. Tula has common borders with Panda to the north, Kamo, Awak, Ture and Kaltungo to the West with Dadiya and Mwona Cham to the south and southeast respectively and with the Waja to the east. The size of the area is conservatively put at 455 square kilometres. Tula was the First Headquarters of the defunct Tangale Waja Native Authority, which gave birth to present day Kaltungo, Billiri, Balanga and Shongom Local governments before the headquarters was moved to Billiri in March 1970. Tula has vast and rich agricultural lands on the plains of Baule and Yiri as well as high Tourism potentials in Wange. Common trees found in Tula include baobab, locust bean, Gum Arabic, palm trees, the famous Goron Tula, which grows only in Tula. Kola nuts as well as fruits such as pear, guava, mangoes, banana, sugarcane, pineapple, oranges are also available. Main crops grown include millet, cocoyam, rice, beans, soya beans, guinea corn, groundnut and a host of other minor ones. The Tula people also rear animals. The Tula Mountains is said to house abundant mineral resources in commercial quantities. Such minerals include such as iron ore, fine clay, uranium, basalt and several other unexploited ones. The Tula are reputed warriors, who repelled the combined forces of Suleiman, son of the Emir of Gombe and Mai Sale the Emir of Misau in 1886; both were defeated by the joint forces of Shongom, Kaltungo, Ture and Tula Wange. The Emir of Misau, was killed in the battle and his head cut off. His remains were buried at Sukube Baule. Courtesy: www.gombestate.gov.ng *Are you going to get married or wed soon? Do you want us to cover your wedding or to report on your hotel/resort next? Call 07031028714, 07032944123, 08023700641. *If you want to advertize or sponsor Love & Life call 07031028714, 07032944123.

I Was A Bad Wife good news for me, because I really wanted to leave him. But nothing would be certain until they operated. She wanted to wait until after Christmas so they scheduled a surgery for late January. It was a stressful period. And as much as I knew that if it were my mom, I'd be a wreck, his constant worry was driving me crazy. I realize that makes me sound cold and uncaring, but on top of the things that were already troubling me about my marriage, I was learning that there were new things too. I was learning that

in a crisis, this was not the man I wanted by my side. He actually seemed to thrive on the drama. As genuinely concerned as I know he was, I also got the feeling that he really liked being able to utter the words "my mother's brain tumor." I felt embarrassed and uneasy. I don't think there's any way to tell this story without sounding like a bad person. So, I'll just go ahead and say it -- I was a bad person. And a bad wife! I didn't handle it well either. He arranged to fly home for the surgery, telling his boss that he needed to be there for his mom,

and I agreed. He needed to be there, but I didn'tâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;I mean, it wasn't my mom. For some reason, he accepted that I wouldn't join him. I was a freelancer for a television network and I often got jobs with very short notice. I think that was my excuse. But really, I just needed a break from him. And I just couldn't imagine being there, acting like part of the family, and consoling someone who I secretly wanted nothing to do with. During the time that he was away, a lot of things became clear to me. I realized that I didn't feel the way that I should about the man I had married. I realized that I didn't want to be a part of his family. I realized that I couldn't imagine forever with this person who I thought I knew so well. And I realized that I was happier without him. I felt guilty. I felt bad about using this time to think about myself and to plan my escape from our marriage. But that's what happened. And had it not been for the tumor, I don't think I would have realized any of this. Or at least, not until much later. In the end, his mom was fine. They removed the tumor and it wasn't cancer. But when I told him that February (less than a month after her surgeries) that I wanted to move out, he said, "So, when I was gone, sitting at my mother's bedside, you were out looking for apartments?" Yes, I told him. I never planned it that way. It's not as if I got married knowing that I would eventually want to get divorced, but was just waiting for one of my in-laws to develop a serious medical condition. That would be a terrible plan. I learned that while there's never a good time to ask for a divorce, there can always be a worse time. I didn't want to be the woman who left her husband during a crisis, but it turns out being the woman who left her husband immediately following a crisis doesn't sound much better either. But, however it sounds, I'm glad it happened. I'm glad his mom was okay and I'm glad that I realized what I needed to do before I wasted any more of his time, or mine. Your say: Have you experienced a similar situation? How did you deal with it? Tell us your story. Call 07031028714. Courtesy: huffingtonpost.com NB: Call Mike on +2347031028714 if you have a story from abroad to share with us.

THE GUARDIAN, Saturday, February 23, 2013

LOVE & LIFE 21

08033832503 Email: amara@amarablessing.com

WEEKEND withAMARA

Worried? Read This ADIES keep coming to me and sending all Lguyskinds of messages. Some complain about dating them for years and leaving them for another when it’s time for marriage. Others believe it is because they are from one evil community and so witches won’t let them be. You are not married, not because there is no man ready for marriage; a good number of men are looking for life partners. I keep getting messages from men asking me to introduce girls to them. Some have worked out, but a good number of these girls got me feeling bad. Now, I am more careful when it comes to referrals. One of the reasons Nigerian men are now scared of marriage is waywardness and unfaithfulness. Men are now afraid of marriage because they don’t know whom to trust and they are also not sure if that beautiful girl they are interested in still has her womb intact. These young men sleep with married women and so they no longer have regard for marriage. A man recently told me why he does not allow his girlfriends come to his house. According to this man, he doesn’t want a case where a girl enters his house only for her to refuse leaving because of the beautiful house and cars she will see. You want a ready-made man instead of a growing man with vision. Are you aware that if you have not obtained favour from God, the man will decrease instead of increasing when you enter his house? Work on your character—the words that come from your mouth, your lifestyle, the way you carry yourself, the way you dress, and the places you visit. Spend time trying to find favour before God because it’s only favour that can make your husband increase the moment you step into his life. In fact, the moment a man proposes to you, there must be some positive movements in his finance if at all you have obtained favour. All you need is a man with vision. I am not asking you to marry a jobless man; he must have a job and a house even if it’s just one room. But, don’t sit there waiting for the son of Dangote to come. It is never your duty to go find a man. While he is working trying to raise money to sustain whoever he takes home to his mother, you should get yourself busy obtaining favour from God for you to be his source of blessing. A man knows when the wife is a source of blessing and that is the only time he cherishes you. Stop working very hard to find a man; he will find you. Just focus on what you are doing, carry yourself well and know that it is not just about being a good girl. You

Marriageable... married must be able to take care of your body. The man, when he finds you, should take you home to his mother. I don’t understand why you get married to a man who believes it’s just between the two of you. Search the Bible; they all took their wives home to their mother. If a man cannot take you home to his people, something is wrong. Isn’t it surprising how many of us are married without knowing our husband’s village and his mother’s bedroom? Marriage in the African culture is not between the man and woman alone; the two families must be involved. How many of your husband’s relations do you know? I once heard the story of an ex governor in one of the Southwest states. This very man had his girlfriend live with him for years. His wife believed she was her husband’s cousin. She got married from the governor’s house. What a wicked thing to do. This is happening to so many women today. Hey, you have to stop moving from one prayer house to the other in search of miracles that are not coming even after you might have emptied your pocket. Go back to your room; deal with your character that is filled with pride and disrespect for the elderly. Cut down on frivolities. That’s not all; deal with your party and asoebi spirit. You must deal with that thing that gets you to aimlessly move from one end of the street to the other all in search

of precious souls to destroy. Change that mentality that says you use what you have to get what you want; any man you get with your ass is as filthy, unreliable, and irresponsible as you are. C’mon girl, go deal with yourself first before you start blaming your step mother for being the one keeping you down. Stop accusing your neighbours and friends of standing on your way to progress. I just told you the bitter truth, which your Alfa, Babalawo, pastor, and or Imam may never tell you. Stop wasting your time chasing shadows, go and deal with yourself first before complaining. I know of a wonderful lady who sings so well that when she comes to lead in worship, miracles take place. People love her, but this lady is unmarried till date. It is not because men don’t go to her for marriage, it is not because she is ugly; her number one obstacle is her character. They say there are many old single ladies in our churches; I think I know the problem. The problem is that most of these ladies wasted their lives in frivolities only to realize the last minute that they have to run into the church where they might get a brother to marry. I am not trying to judge anyone’s past, I encourage people to accept others when they change. But the issue is that even when they

join those churches, their character does not change. It’s really appalling how some ladies talk to men simply because they are in the same church. Some of them fight everyone in their department in church while some live their lives begging from one member to the other. What do we have to say about ladies who fight for food during church meeting? Those guys would be foolish to see the stuff you are made of and still go ahead to take you home to mama. You are now on social media “Face booking” and “tweeting” about parties and nightclubs. You are now there exposing your breasts and flat tummy. That time is coming when the tummy will wrinkle and the breasts sag. You engage in all kinds of vulgar jokes with men on social media; I thought some jokes are for men alone and never for real women. I am sure you will then start preaching on Facebook and your BB status will then read, “Jesus is my all”. I always tell ladies that if by the age of 30, no man had asked to know if you are for sale, there is something wrong somewhere; it’s either spiritual or attitudinal, but the truth is that it is always more attitudinal than spiritual. I am not talking about you not being married because marriage is not all a woman needs in life; some people make up their mind not to be married. You are to be worried when from birth until you become an adult, no man has asked for your hand in marriage. Not that the marriage didn’t work out; they just date you and go without talking marriage. You have been fasting and praying and going for all levels of deliverance but it seems nothing is working. What is your character like after all the prayers and religious devotion? It is sad when I see a single girl walk up to a married woman sitting with her husband and tell the woman to get up because she was there before her. In Nigeria, our culture demands respect for married couples. You attend functions with extra bags to pack food and drinks and when it’s time to hit the dance floor, you do that as if there is no tomorrow. What do you expect from life when you are the source of all quarrels in your neighbourhood, church, and office? What do you want from a man when you know all the nightclubs and eateries in town but cannot raise a broom at home? This is the moment of truth and if at all you want to be delivered, your decision to deliver yourself is the first step to your breakthrough. Don’t forget; it is still the grace of God. But we shouldn’t take advantage of this grace and also note that the grace available to your friend may not be available to you.

08167089656 (SMS only). IMAGE AND ETIQUETTE WithPamela E-mail:regalgraces@yahoo.com RACE and poise, G charm and an attractive posture are three

priceless attributes a woman can possess. Suffice it to say that the first and most important in which the three should, of necessity, be derived is godliness. Each of these three goes hand in hand and when they are all resident, they are a powerful force. Though not exactly the same as physical beauty, they adorn the outward appearance with an unmistakable ethereal beauty and quality. A woman by fashion is deep (or should be), insightful, wise and persevering yet having the capacity to be subtle about it! At the centre of her reservoir is love of which she draws out from as each situation requires. I cannot do justice to women by this article but I will attempt to give a brief insight into the value and promise that is woman. Reflect on this if you will; the answer to man’s need for companionship was a woman and that gives justice to the saying “Behind every great man is a woman”. Not just relating to birth but in the making of a man. It also follows that a woman’s influence, when not godly, is therefore perverted and capable of great destruction. A typical example was when Eve fell into temptation and led Adam and human race as it were to fallen state. Samson and Delilah is another case on point. The Advantage of Grace Grace in this sense means “A sense of propriety and consideration for others” (The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language). This is a very beautiful attribute for

A Woman’s Own a woman to possess. It begets the art and heart of hospitality – a welcoming/embracing quality to her presence and words and even to the image you hold of her long after she is gone. It is out of grace that poise comes; “Great coolness and composure under strain” (The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language). With these, we see that the woman holds her own and shines in any situation that presents its self. Grace comes from a deep reservoir of love and therefore it knows no end. That’s what truly generates the beauty of a woman of grace; she exudes an ethereal aura that is hard to grasp yet undeniable, a quality and atmosphere that endears many hearts. The Advantage of Charm The definition of charm referred to here is the appeal or attractiveness that interests, pleases or stimulates. How the Lord has blest us so! Reading the Songs of Solomon expresses many such appeals of woman. It could be the grace of your speech, your complete white teeth, the colour of your lips, the shape of your hips or even the delicateness of your breasts. All these charms God created in the woman that our husbands might be satisfied at our breasts. “May your fountain be blessed, and may you rejoice in the wife of your youth. A loving doe, a graceful deer—may her breasts satisfy you always, may you ever be captivated by her love.” (Proverbs 5:18 - 19 NIV 1984). Our bodies come in different forms so also do men come with different tastes. Should you know – you should know which part of your person your husband is taken to and should nurture and pro-

Her sweet neck tect it. The Advantage of Posture and Carriage Posture must be given its rightful place because the physical beauty of a woman has so much to do with the way she carries herself. Where else would the gracefulness of our thoughts, our poise and inner beauty, gentleness and calmness reflect if not in the expressions of our body (posture, gestures, carriage, facial expressions and physical adornment)? A woman’s body is admirable and should be presented in the best light possible. Her body language including her physical adornment are part and parcel of the embodiment of woman and carries with it great influence.

Whether that influence is used for good or for evil is dependent on the heart of the woman. The heart of a woman is very important to her because it is the core and beauty of her. For this reason, a woman ought to let her outward appearance testify of the goodness of her heart. She puts her inner self before her outer self; her outer expression and adornment, of necessity, should be subject to her heart. It is not befitting nor is it honourable that a woman should be looked upon and valued by her outward appearance. If people admire and profess only your beauty in form that means that you are shallow (simply put). Your outward appearance enhances your inner beauty... (I say this in many words so as to drive the point home). Our outward appearance is so transient and there will always be a woman who has a better form. However, our inner beauty is genuine and cannot be replicated. If only a woman will nurture her heart and let her inner beauty express itself without, she would never be truly valued nor will she find true satisfaction. Image and Etiquette addresses general perceptions, societal norms and expectations and personal expressions with the goal to cultivate social graces, suavity and a dignified presence for interpersonal relationships. If you have questions on Image and Etiquette please send them to askpamela@regalgraces.com or SMS 08038240870. Pamela also covers Online Correspondence Courses, Workshops and Keynote speeches on Corporate Image and Etiquette, and manages Perfect Healthlife Center. For online correspondence courses email info@regalgraces.com with the title “Online Course (Saturday Guardian)” for our promotional price

22 LOVE & LIFE

THE GUARDIAN, Saturday, February 23, 2013

MARITAL SEX By Gila Lyons CONTINUED FROM LAST WEEK IS voice, intelligence, attention, and humor were like medicine to me. I felt shaky without them. When he flew to Israel for a month, I wondered like an addict how I’d make it through the days. I crossed dates off my calendar like a girl. My dreams were full of his arms and fingers, like how I would dream about bread every Passover, my subconscious providing what my life lacks. I see now that the intensity and urgency of my love was too fiercely exaggerated by the copious amounts of sex we had – the chemicals released, the pheromones inhaled, my own biology craving to house something inside it. I loved his smile, his dark humor, his caring, the gentle and generous way he dealt with others and with me. I held him, and though at times he still seemed like a boy, he seemed like my boy. It bothered me that he lived like a teenager – rolls of quarters and half-drunk glasses of milk on his dresser, his perpetually dirty sheets and laundry that smelled unclean even when fresh from the dryer. It bothered me that he arrived late for our dates and for his own appointments, and that even though he was extremely talented, he wasn’t trying to advance his career or his writing as quickly or ambitiously as I thought he could. In moments when my brain wasn’t loopy with hormones, I considered the practicalities of our life together. A friend said that a serious partnership is like starting a business. While I trusted his heart, his business skills seemed to be lacking. He came with me to the doctor for a consultation. We held hands. The doctor looked at us both. “You’re smart people,” she said, “you’ll do the right thing.” My breasts were huge and my skin amazingly clear. I started taking prenatal vitamins, just in case. The due date would be in November, between our two birthdays. I took days off of work and browsed online pictures of what our baby might look like under a microscope. A human tadpole. Nothing but an eyelash of spine, a pinprick eye, an amalgam of peach tissue and miniscule veins. A Jewish embryo, all brain and hair. Josh brought me ginger ale, macaroni and cheese, and baked potatoes and encouraged me to eat toast before bed so I wouldn’t wake nauseous. I gained ten pounds of pure carb weight in one month. I felt unattractive in an entirely new way, like an honour, an important padded vessel. I loved it. Before bed, we’d review our creation story. “What did you do the first time you kissed me?” I’d ask, like a child hearing a bedtime story she knows by heart. “What was I talking about? How did you feel? And then what did you do? And then what did you do?” But I started thinking, “We could have saved ourselves so much trouble. Why did I kiss you back?” Our un-readiness for marriage and parenthood became undeniably apparent. So, too, did our

By Samuel C. Ezeala

There be three things which are too wonderful for me, yea, four which I know not….the way of a man with a maid. Prov. 30 vs 18 – 19 marriage relationships, we are more ITheNthan roommates, we are soul mates. emotional part of our lives are intertwined. Most times, we determine the happiness of our spouses by what we do and what we don’t do. But I think that if we do it right, the right things, we would always have a honeymoon. What are the simple physical things that endears us to each other? What are those things we enjoyed before we married that is now scarce, or we take for granted? Why do we think we need to just have ‘actual’ intercourse to keep physically in touch? That might be the reason we get tired of each other. But let’s add these suggestions to the ones we already know. *Use a hug to express understanding. Most times we become teachers and lecturers to our spouses. We want to control their behavior, teach and train them. Your spouse will end up your student. The ‘mystery’ of the intimacy will fade off. Sometimes, when our spouses are stressed and they over-react , we tend to

Abortion, A Love Story (2) conflicting ideas about money, life opportunities, and each other. He became distant and vague, a man going out of focus, which made me sharp and mean. My best friend said she’d get pregnant, too, and we’d move to a farm together and raise our babies in Arizona. Underneath it all, I knew Josh wasn’t right for me, hadn’t been from the start. And I didn’t want to have his baby. “There’s nowhere to go from here,” I said one night. “Just stay with me until this is over.” Because he was a good person, Josh came over each night, sometimes to talk, other times to do something mindless to take our minds off the decision we would sooner and sooner need to make. One night, I defrosted a generous piece of ice cream cake for us to share while watching “The Daily Show.” It sat in a purple bowl on my desk while we fought and cried, and eventually it turned into soup and fluffy inedible white frosting, rainbow sprinkles melting in pools of their color. “This ice cream is a metaphor,” I said to him. “Sometimes ice cream is just ice cream,” he said. “We’re going to let this go to waste,” I said, unsure whether I meant our relationship, our baby or both. He got up and spooned the warm dripping mass into his mouth. “Stop eating,” I said, “you’ll make yourself sick.” “We have different definitions of love,” he said between bites, “and according to yours, I love you. According to mine, I can’t.” A river of blood on the second day of Passover. It was the best day for me to do it. I had a week off from school, and I was told I should stay off my feet for a while afterward. I woke in the most comfortable leather chair I had ever been in, my body so relaxed as to be immobile. I was shivering despite the white blankets piled on top of me; an IV bag of water dripping into my veins was chilling me from the inside. “Is it over?” I asked the nurse who was sitting at a desk in the recovery room. “All over, sweetheart,” she said. “I’m freezing,” I told her. “Let’s get that IV out.” She removed the ice-water needle with a pinch. “You can leave when you can stand up on your own to pee,” she said. I tried to move my legs, but they were heavy sacks of mud. I leaned my head against the chair and dozed a little. Girls in various stages of

awake laid limp in the overstuffed chairs. Everyone seemed so small. I drank a paper cup full of ice chips until I was able to waddle over to the bathroom. The nausea was gone – it was exhilarating. I ate a hard grape Jolly Rancher from a glass bowl next to the sink and didn’t want to puke it up. Instant — just like that. “It’s just a mass of tissue,” the doctor had said before she put me to sleep. “Not anything like a baby.” “But it had a heart,” I thought, or said aloud. The next few days, matzah tasted better than anything I had ever had. Matzah and butter with salt, matzah with brie, matzah crushed up with raisins in a bowl full of

Be Romantic In Marriage make them feel wrong for it. A romantic relationship does not need that. Just a hug, and gentle cuddle will say more than all your “should’ve, shouldn’t have” homily. The way a woman reacts to pressure and stress is definitely different from the way a man does. So we should avoid blames, or guilt transfers. In case there is a heated argument, shift and just hug each other a while. Let it rest. *Kiss often. Kiss the checks, kiss the mouth, kiss the hand, kiss the fore head. A kiss is very endearing. It shouldn’t be an invitation to sex. Make it a form of romantic greeting. It has this magic touch and a way of making the pressure ease. Kiss in the morning and when you want to sleep at night. Greet one another with a kiss of love. *Hold hands. Don’t break away from the hold. Find things and circumstances that would bring you together. Aside sex, find a domestic chores you both would do together. If there is anything that requires the hand of the other, endeavor to do it together. It could be cooking, washing, plastering, painting, shopping, reading, writing, music, dancing. There are things that can keep both of you in constant association. You may not always see eye to eye, but you can walk hand in hand.

*Keep in touch. If you can’t call then, flash, send a text, no matter how often. Write short notes. Write letters to each other. Chat on the social network. No matter the distance, keeping in touch is healthy. It shows where the heart is. Don’t let quarrels, misunderstanding, and offences block contact. Don’t say we would see each other at home, or we always see. Constantly relate. Find pleasant ways of communicating. *Look for each other. Don’t take each other for granted. If there was a quarrel, you shouted at each other, find a way of getting back in the right mood. Quickly clear the fog, or mist, or just by-pass it and locate each other. Were you expecting to marry a perfect person? The person you call ‘angel’ is a human capable of any wrong. Love covers a multitude of sins. Never lose each other in the midst of an argument or by trying to get even. You don’t have to win an argument and lose your spouse. Find each other. It is very interesting how people in love resolve their problems. What they do after the quarrel is even sweeter. If you do these things you have won the heart, not just owning the body. E. C. Samuel 08027173447 SMS ONLY intimatefaithministry@yahoo.com

yogurt. It was unbelievably liberating to be able to eat again, to have an appetite. Passover, festival of freedom, slaying of the first-born — these ideas swam through my thoughts as I regained my regular body and hormone levels. I felt lucky to live in a place and at a time when I could make decisions about the destiny of my own life and about whom I would couple with — and when and why. I ate bowls of red beet borsht, globs of fuchsia horseradish on thick slices of gefilte fish. The festival of freedom. Moses in his basket, saved on a river that would soon become blood. Culled from the Internet (CONCLUDED)

TheGuardian

Saturday, February 23, 2013 23

Conscience, Nurtured by Truth

Life&Style Ayotunde Adeusi, a computer scientist- turned-event manager, is the Managing Director of Stesi Events. An active member of Association of Professional Party Oragniser and Event Managers of Nigeria (APPPEMN), Adeusi bakes cake, does decoration, designs Jewelries and makes Yogurt. Ahead of the company’s skill acquisition seminar for corps members in Lagos on February 28, she spoke with VICTOR OLUSHOLA on her passion for event management and the need for young Nigerians, especially corps members, to develop entrepreneur skills instead of queuing for white-collar jobs. HEN the need to take care of her babies W arose in 1992, Ayotunde Adeusi was quick on the trigger. She resigned as the Head of Computer Science Department, Federal Road Safety Corp. It was a sacrifice she made for her children and family, and many would agree that only few women could take such a bold step, especially with a lucrative job. Then, people questioned her decision. But she was not moved. According to her, “It was not even my passion for event planning that made me to resign. I was a senior person there and I was just raising my children. At the time I left the organisation, my first child was just one. I didn’t have time for my family and I said to my self that rather than doing a job I am tired of, I should just stay at home to look after my family. I have two boys.” Born a Sagittarian on December 13, Adeusi was doing tremendously well while working, but she was always changing from one job to the other until she finally bowed out. Whenever there was nothing new in a job she got fed up. But being the restless type, idleness was not an option. She was always seen helping friends and family to put parties together. She also had time to perfect her cake-baking skills and all these set her towards establishing an event-planning and management company. She had to turn her passion to money. After her National Youth Service Corps at the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) Refinery, Kaduna in 1986, she had a brief stay at Living Faith Church, Angwa-rimi, Kaduna before she moved to MET Nigeria Limited in 1988. A graduate of the University of Ibadan where she studied Computer Science, Adeusi says the courses she did trained her mind in a way that she could itemize things well. “Though I deviated from my profession, Computer Science trained my mind and educated my person to become what I am today,” she smiles. She added that she also trained her husband,

Emmanuel Odunayo Adeusi, in IT, and it became his major source of livelihood. Unfortunately, he died before in September 2011. If training her husband was the only thing she achieved with studying computer science, she says, she is happy. She had stumbled on event-planning and management before she sought to gain more skills in the different aspects of the business. When she was in the university, she had no intension to venture into event planning. She says the skills are inborn; it started from helping friends to coordinate birthday parties. And when it came down to family functions, she was always taking responsibility. After some time, she began to look herself in that direction. Though it was for passion at the onset, she decided to make money from it later. In 1992, she started out as an event decorator, picked a certificate in it and later spread her tentacles. Her words, “I have certificate in cake- making from Mix ‘n’ Bake Nigeria. I also have diploma from an online event training school in London.” Restlessness, or put another way, “dynamic energy” is a virtue she inherited from her mother. Her mother, Mrs. Modupe Ogunranti, is a retired teacher and had a penchant for cake and bead-making, and helping people to organise things. Her father is Dr. Ayokunnu Ogunranti who retired as a university lecturer. “I am born and bred in Ibadan. I am the first of four children, three girls and a boy. The principles I was raised with are the principles I used in training my children. I am really grateful to God that I have succeeded in using the principles,” she recalls Against the backdrop of failed businesses around her after so much investment, she was not afraid. She strongly believes that one can turn anything to money-making venture. “You just have to do it right. If you do it right, it will yield money. What I did was to perfect my hubby and do the right thing. So, there was no fear of failure or fear that it won’t work. No! I didn’t have that. It has never come to my mind that I will do something and it will fail…” She explains Primarily, Stesi is an event planning and management company but she says it also handles skill acquisition training for young Nigerians. She had noticed that there are a lots of young people on the streets, looking for white-collar jobs that are limited. But with her own personal experience, coming from the world of computer science into cake making, decoration and event planning, she realises that there is bigger reward in self-employment. With that in mind, she informs that an entrepreneur will create jobs for other people, be satisfied and his or her financial status will also soar. “I keep seeing young jobless people everyday. And I have them around in the family and I said to myself “let me help to guide their minds into acquiring skills and running businesses rather than round-

Acquire A Skill, Build A Business… Preaches Ayotunde

WOMAN ing the streets and looking for white-collar jobs.” This was what led us to skill acquisition and we started out with working with youth corps members. “Many of them do not know the challenge in this world today. But we have decided to help them see that it is not all rosy. There must be something you love doing, perfect it and turn it into money,” she speaks of the aim behind the forthcoming seminar. At present, they have some in-house corps members undergoing training. They have them batch-after-batch. But next week, precisely February 28, she informs that they are having a business seminar for corps member where “we would talk about things they need to know to set up a successful business.” The seminar is the maiden edition, but plans have been concluded to hold it quarterly in order to have impact. For now, the event manager says Lagos is the focus, insisting that there are over 10,000 corps members in the state. At Evans Square, old Yaba road on that day, lawyers, accountants, brand experts and young entrepreneurs are expected to come and challenge the corps members. She says there will also be question and answer session to access the inputs of the seminar. Stesi has an in-house team, consultants, the PR people and other people around them as a team. When ideas come, they get everybody together. And the different people from the different departments chip in their ideas, making things to work smoothly. She recalls that in the university as an undergraduate and a member of the Christian Union fellowship, she used to teach the sisters how to bake, etc. “Learn a skill, build a business,” is the message she is passing across. According to

her, a young Nigerian need not to look for a white-collar job because they do not exist anymore. “If you need a job, you need financial freedom, learn a skill and look inward on what you lack and what you can to do about it… “What we intend to achieve with our programme is to groom young Nigerians, empower them rather than being frustrated and roaming about the street or engaging in illegal acts. They have come to our office to learn the skill but we still need to show them how to set up the business...” According to Ayotunde, every business has its challenges and Stesi is not an exception. Among many others, poor power supply remains the company’s greatest nightmare. “We have been running on generator for the last three-days, our bill increases unnecessarily and it is hard to get workers who are trustworthy and truthful. Most of our artisans in Nigeria are either not disciplined or not well trained. I have a lot of qualified people not willing to work but they want to earn huge amount of money,” she laments She adds that finance is a big challenge as Nigerian banks are very reluctant to lend money to people in this field. But God has been her driving force and source of happiness, she says She believes the industry is evolving, and would get better. She says there is now an Association of Professional Party Planners and Event Managers of Nigeria (APPPEMN), which started last year to network and create standard in the industry. To her, event planning and management industry is a vibrant one and all Nigerians will become proud of it soon. As a mother and a wife, she stresses the importance of marriage, noting that it is good but one has to play the game by its rules. “If you have a car, pick the manual and study it for optimal performance; same goes for marriage. If you study how your marriage could work, then, it will work for you and you will enjoy it,” she says. She’s sure that great things are coming from Nigeria, but there is need to do things right. “Pay your dues, be contented and ready to learn and grow. But if you pursue money to the detriment of other things, disaster is near,” she delares. Madam Adeusi reads a lot for relaxation, and loves travelling and having nice time with her family.

THE GUARDIAN, Saturday, February 23, 2013

PEOPLE As the remains of the late Justice Emmanuel Takon Ndoma-Egba are committed to Mother Earth today in his hometown of Ithaca Nkpanjen Akparabong in Ikom Local Government, Cross River State, his son, the distinguished Senator Victor Ndoma-Egba, recounts the fond memories of the late jurist. By

Dele Fanimo

OW would you describe your father, the late Justice Emmanuel Takon NdomaEgba? He was the ultimate father. His was a pioneering generation in our part of the world. He was among the first people to benefit from Western education, and still retain their traditional roots. So, being a pioneer means that you will have to break grounds that haven’t been broken before. That requires a lot of imagination, a lot of hardwork. In our part of the world, he was the first lawyer. He was in private practice and because we are minority of the minorities, he had to compete with the big names elsewhere. He chose to start his practice in Enugu, which was the capital of the then Eastern Region, which means figuratively, he was like a drop in a large sea. In spite of that, he still made his mark and became a legend in our part of the world. So, he had to combine hardwork with a young family. It was not an easy thing to do and I think that the result of his abilities reflected on who we the children have become today. How was he able to raise such children, since he was hardly available at home? His wife was a very strong woman. She had absolute charge of the home and it was a nononsense regime. He, on the other side, led by example. I remember once, we were driving out of his chambers and he saw a visiting lawyer in bib and collar at a drinking bar. He stopped. And walked up to him, “If you must drink, you must take off your collar and the bib,” he told the lawyer. So, for him, issues of integrity matter a lot. Another example. Kanu Agabi (SAN) once stopped over to see him. They were having lunch and I was the one serving them. Kanu asked me how far I had gone with my studies, and what I would like to do after I finished. I said I was hoping to read up to Ph.D level because I was interested in academics. And Kanu said, “No, no, no. Yours is a bread and butter generation. We are not of that generation that has choices. Our own generation is to generate wealth, and it is for our children to make choices.” So, I left the discussion on that note. This was in my year two. I went on to year three, law school, youth corps, then got an appointment with the University of Jos as a graduate assistant. So, I came home to tell my father that I had got a teaching position in the University of Jos. He promptly said “No”. I asked him why. He said, “I was here when Kanu Agabi asked you to join him.” I told him that I didn’t say yes or no. He said he knew that I didn’t say yes or no, but that was the point. That I should have said “No”. That I didn’t say yes or no meant that I agreed with Kanu, and I must keep my words, he said. That was how I joined Kanu Agabi. For him, you must be a man or woman of your words. He lived by that example. He was also a man of peace. He was an exceedingly humorous person. I remember once, my sister (now in Canada) and I went to him for something my sister needed money to do. He said he had no money. Later on, we were looking for something in his room and we found some money on the table. So, my sister went to him to say, “But daddy, you said you had no money; see money here. You are doing us wayo o.” So, we started calling him Wayo. And he took no offence. He only reminded us, ‘You know Wayo produces Wayo. If I am Wayo, you people are also Wayo,” Another amazing aspect of his life was how his children’s friends became his own friends. My friends for instance call him ET (Emmanuel Takon). We hardly called him “daddy” or any such title. No matter how young you were, you could call him ET. And he was at home with that. Even with that familiarity, the immediate response of people to him was that of utter respect. There was also his capacity to share. I don’t remember him eating alone. Each meal, the driver would go round inviting people … And he was the most capable marksman I ever knew. He would shoot a flying bird from a moving car and still tell you where the bird will drop. Each time he came home on Fridays, he went into the forest and came out very early

‘Father Opposed My Nomination For Ambassador Post On Principles’ When they were considering nominees for ambassadorial appointments, Dr. Wayas suggested my name. But my father put his foot down. I was wondering why he would put up such objection. My elder brother… went and discussed with him. He told him that if they could ‘consider Victor (me) for this at this age -- I was like 23 years old then -- and he takes it, he is just a child. He will burn out.’ on Sunday -- early enough for him to go to church, and he would come with sacks of game. In fact, our mum used to say the house always had a “mortuary” smell. Because there was always meat in the house. Do you have a family history of hunting? He is the only one. My elder brother, the professor, claims he is a hunter, but I have never seen anything he killed. How did he take your decision to join politics? He never touched politics, but my mum was a politician. If he had touched politics, probably he would have made it to the Supreme Court. But, for him, politics was a no-go area. So, I took the legal bit from him and the political side from my mum. I was the least indulged among his children. Things that others could do and get away with, I never got away with. In fact, at a point, I thought that he was picking on me. But his thinking could have been that if I wasn’t tough, I wouldn’t realize my potentials. But as I grew up, I noticed that his attitude was mellowing down. I remember a particular incident: it was my

first flat in Calabar. It was a bungalow, but with very large grounds. My flat became a meeting point for young professionals in Calabar. Every evening, we assembled over barbecue and had debates on every issue —philosophy, politics, religion and all of that. I even remember a point when we were debating: “if you were made this, what would be your programme?” I remember at a time I was asked: “If you were commissioner for works, what would you do? And a few months later I became the commissioner for works, so I was just implementing what we had discussed at those meetings. But one day, the old man came with my step-mother, and my step-mum was worried about the crowd, especially the use of the telephone. She said, “Victor, you are the one paying the bills. There must be some caution on how people use your telephone.” But my old man said, “Leave him. He is networking. And networking comes with a price.” I think he read where I was going and he could configure the whole process. I also remember in 1980, when they were con-

Once, my sister (now in Canada) and I went to him for something my sister needed money to do. He said he had no money. Later on, we were looking for something in his room and we found some money on the table. So, my sister went to him to say, “But daddy, you said you had no money; see money here. You are doing us wayo o.” So, we started calling him Wayo. And he took no offence. He only reminded us, ‘You know Wayo produces Wayo. If I am Wayo, you people are also Wayo,’

sidering nominees for ambassadorial appointments, Dr. Wayas suggested my name. But my father put his foot down. I was wondering why he would put up such objection. My elder brother, now Professor of Surgery, Rowland, went and discussed with him. He told him that if they could consider Victor (me) for this at this age -- I was like 23 years old then -- and he takes it, he is just a child. He will burn out. Let him mature. Let him establish himself in his profession. What they have recognized in him now will even bloom by the time he grows. By January 1984, I was commissioner and the rest is history now. What he didn’t want was this “fast-track”. He feared that if I took that route, I would burn out in no time. He preferred something enduring. He didn’t believe in short cuts. What precisely have you missed by his demise? So much. At least, you looked forward to going home -- his company, his jokes. He wasn’t a demanding person. I don’t remember my father asking me to buy him a handkerchief. Never. But there was one request he always made, especially if you told him you were travelling. He would say, “Victor, if you have time, just buy me Readers’ Digest.” So, I miss that request for Readers’ Digest. Or, he asking me what the current position on a legal issue was. He always wanted to be current. Again, there is a certain assurance you get when both parents are there for you. You move with a certain bounce, knowing full well there are some people watching your back. But in all his greatness, he was such a simple unmaterialistic person. He had a choice to be a very rich man; but he deliberately didn’t make that choice. He didn’t find anything enamouring in material wealth. He

THE GUARDIAN, Saturday, February 23, 2013

PEOPLE

Lateef Okunnu: A Colossus At 80 By Adeniji Kazeem AM not sure I am the best person to write Ition this tribute. Afterall, I am at least a generayounger than this great Nigerian, Alhaji Abdul Lateef Olufemi Okunnu, SAN (CON). However, his impact on me has been very profound and I am compelled to document some of my interactions with him for posterity. My family and the Okunnu family are apparently not strangers. My paternal grandfather, Kasunmu Aralawon and the Okunnu family houses have remained close to each other for about 100 years on Iga Iduganran Street in Isale-Eko area of Lagos State. My maternal grandfather, Oba Adeniji-Adele also held sway at some time on the opposite side of the street at the IgaIduganran palace. Even though he had had an ongoing close relationship with my late father, Honourable Justice Boonyamin Oladiran Kazeem and my mother, Princess Jemilah Adetoun Kazeem, my own first major interface with Alhaji Okunnu was in 1993 when he presided as Chairman of my wedding reception. Of course, that day was full of excitement but I did clearly remember that this was truly a strong personality who cannot be ignored. After my wedding, Alhaji Okunnu disappeared from my horizon but apparently not from National consciousness. During that time, he was cementing his reputation as a dogged fighter for the cause of Lagos State, a Nationalist and an Elder Statesman par excellence. In 2005, he called me to serve as Secretary of the Isale-Eko Descendants Union. Like a lot of people of my generation, I initially felt

it was an intrusion into my life and indeed my Law practice, which I was seeking to grow. Nevertheless, there was no escape, so I plunged into the assignment that eventually proved extremely rewarding. In the service I was able to give to the community that produced my mother and father, Okunnu and so many great Lagosians and Nigerians. In 2006, I was again called to serve by Alhaji Okunnu as joint secretary with my brother, Lateef Olaseinde Karim in a committee designed to prepare the groundwork for the take over of a number of Ansar-ud-Deen Schools, which were to be returned to its previous owners by the Administration of Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu. That was indeed an arduous task but again I realized that this great Nigerian had stirred something in me that no one else had been able to. He had been able to make me realize that true greatness is only acquired by how much you truly impact your fellow human beings. Okunnu’s drive in that committee drove everybody’s commitment and motivated us to deliver on our assignment with pride. Happily, the Committee delivered and metamorphosed into the Ansar-Ud-Deen Education Trust that currently oversees three Ansar-Ud-Deen Secondary Schools in Lagos State. I later went on to become the Secretary of that Trust and a member of the Board of Governors of Ansar-Ud-Deen College, Isolo. Alhaji Okunnu serves as Chairman of the Trust and has remained tireless in his quest to raise the standards of those Schools. Apparently, Okunnu was not done with me, in 2010 when he assumed the Presidency of the Ansar-ud -Deen Society of Nigeria, he graciously asked me to come and serve as its National Legal Adviser, which I gladly accepted. His leadership as President of the Society is groundbreaking and that fascinating and riveting story must be reserved for another day. During the course of my close interaction with

Okunnu this amazing Nigerian, I have found him to be a down to earth and kind person. He is firm but fair, and while he would not suffer fools gladly, you will always come away from your interaction with him richer. He would often regale me with stories of Lagos at its infancy, his service as the youngest Federal Minister of Works, his former activities as a politician and his unquenchable love for sports. One thing he would hardly ever talk about is his philanthropy. However, I found out that Okunnu is a quiet but very active philanthropist who has and continues to touch many lives both young and old. In personal appearance, he cuts the image of class and style. From his native attires to his quintessential bow ties and two-tone shoes, I

doubt his dress sense can be matched by anybody of his generation and indeed of mine. In Lateef Olufemi Okunnu, I have found a role model for service. Just as the former President of United States Ronald Reagan was called the great communicator, I wholeheartedly give Alhaji Okunnu the title of the Great Motivator. I salute this great Lagosian, Nigerian and Nationalist at 80 and pray that we shall continue to drink from his fountain of wisdom for very many years to come. I dare say that very few can deny him his status as a colossus of our time at 80. Adeniji Kazeem is Lawyer and National Legal Adviser of the Ansar-Ud-Deen Society of Nigeria

From Oba Adedapo Tejuosho, Another Honour For Shade Okoya By Olawunmi Ojo and Azeez Olorunlomeru

“I must however say that being the wife of an industrialist cum philanthropist, Chief Rasak Okoya, is what keeps alive the N Tuesday, all roads led to the palace of the Osile Oke-Ona of humanitarian spirit in me. It has given me the rare opportunity Egbaland, HRM Oba Dr. Adedapo Tejuosho in Oke-Ona, to support and further contribute my quota to the development Abeokuta, Ogun state. Oba Tejuosho turned 75 and family, friends, of the society. With the help of my husband, I believe we will do relatives and associates, gaily dressed in different attires, turned more in helping and improving the society,” she said. up to felicitate with him on the occasion. In furtherance of their resolve to continually impact positively Some of the activities lined up to mark the day included a on the society, Okoya disclosed that presently, the family is develthanksgiving service at the church and a ceremony to confer oping a site of over 30 hectares of land as the new Eleganza chieftaincy titles on three deserving Nigerians followed by a Industrial City. This, she revealed, would soon begin to churn out reception. Chief Rasak Akanni Okoya’s beautiful wife, Chief (Mrs) various new product lines, and in the process serve as another Shade Okoya was one of the select. It was therefore not a surprise avenue of providing job opportunities for unemployed that friends, family and well-wishers of the Okoya family Nigerians. According to her, that is the family’s little way of conthronged the church and the palace in large numbers. tributing to the development of the society. Following in the footsteps of her husband, who had been a chief- “By God’s grace and help, I believe the sky will be the starting tain of the land for some years, Shade Okoya was honoured with point. Every time I get honoured, it encourages me to do more. the title of Ajisewa of Oke-Ona Egba, swelling the list of her chiefIn Ogun State, we have future plans for a new industrial site with taincy titles. more production lines, which will go a long way in contributing In recent years, she has been recipient of a number of chieftaincy to the development of the State,” she added. titles and awards of recognition owing to her humanitarian services in the society, service to mankind in the areas of education, and commitment to the cause of the youth and women. Speaking after the ceremony, an elated Chief (Mrs) Okoya expressed gratitude to God for making it possible and was highly appreciative of Oba Dr. Tejuosho for the honour bestowed on her. While wishing the monarch a happy 75th Birthday, she prayed that God would continue to guide and protect him, and grant him the privilege of celebrating many more years in good health. “Honouring me with the title Ajisewa of Oke–Ona Egba is a big privilege and honour. I see this as a call to service; it motivates one to do more. I am highly appreciative of His Royal Highness Oba Adedapo Tejuosho.

Following in the footsteps of her husband, who had been a chieftain of the land for some years, Shade Okoya was honoured with the title of Ajisewa of OkeOna Egba, swelling the list of her chieftaincy titles. In recent years, she has been recipient of a number of chieftaincy titles and awards of recognition owing to her humanitarian services in the society, service to mankind in the areas of education, and commitment to the cause of the youth and women.

...with her husband, Chief Rasak Akanni Okoya and Chief (Mrs.) Modupe Oguntade

Chief (Mrs.) Okoya, the Ajisewa of Oke-Ona, Egba

TheGuardian

26 Saturday, February 23, 2013

Conscience, Nurtured by Truth

Weekend

CELEBRITY

Ladidi Fagge:

Kannywood’s Answer To Nollywood’s Ozokwor By Shaibu Husseini F Nollywood has produced an actress who exhibits a wicked disposition in almost all her screen appearances in the popular actress Patience Ozokwo, Kannywood has produced its own answer who also exhibits tough mien and has become something of a wicked woman in every movie. Enter the adorable, personable and humble actress of many credits, Hajiya Ladidi Fagge who is affectionately known all over the movie industry up North called Kannywood, as the Patience Ozokwor of Kannywood. Star of a number of successful Kannywood movies including Jakadiya, Jalaluddeen and Carbin Kwai, Ladidi is an actress whose influence reaches all around the North. Not only is she adored and respected by fans and colleagues, the Fagge, Kano State born widowed actress (Patience Ozokwo is widowed too) has risen to become ‘a must use’ for any producer who wants his or her movie to ‘sell like pure water’, as they say in the industry. Nicknamed Jakadiya by fans, an alias the mother of one daughter earned after she put up a beautiful performance in a movie of same title, Ladidi grew up watching Indian films. She was a great fan of Hindi films and watched it as ‘a religion’. She was so addicted to Hindi films that she would choose to help a neighbour to do house chores so that when they turned on their television set, she could stay to watch films. She loved the actors and their performances and wished that one day she could get on stage or screen to act. But everyone she asked how to, stressed the need for her to be trained formally or informally. That was how she joined Tauraruwa, an acting association led by Shehu Kano. “That was how I started. I didn’t just jump into it. I was trained,” she recalled. Ladidi cut her teeth as an actress with Tauraruwa. She was there until fate twinned her with popular Nollywood actor, Ali Nuhu whom she described as her “mentor and godfather”. Nuhu it was who provided the platform on which she has ridden to stardom. He gave Ladidi an opportunity to star in Carbin Kwai, a movie that was well received and that announced Ladidi’s entrance to the scene. “It was my breakthrough movie,” she said. “The movie was so successful and it made me so popular that I asked Ali Nuhu to forget my artiste fees,” she added. Indeed, Ladidi was lavish with thanks to the award-winning actor for believing in her. “I will forever be grateful to Ali Nuhu. I will continue to pray for him and his family. He will never lack anything in life. I owe my success in the movie industry to him. He believed in me when others didn’t. Ali Nuhu is Allah sent to me. I pray Allah to continue to be with him,” she said. With Carbin Kwai, her breakthrough movie, Ladidi who close friends describe as hardworking

and full of life, was ready for Kannywood. Producers sought her out and heaped scripts on her. So far, Ladidi who looks forward to settling down again, has featured in over 100 Kannywood movies including Ahlil Kitabi, Kishiya Ko, Yar’uwa, Inna Wuro and Wasila 2010 where she was cast in a romantic role. “I can play any role I am given and that is what Wasila 2010 where I played a romantic scene with Bashir Nayaya has proved. It may look as though I enjoy playing wicked roles, but it is not my fault. Producers prefer to give me such no-nonsense roles and I cannot refuse the roles because I am an actor and I am paid to act. But those who know me know that I am not wicked. I am soft, but I can be stern, especially if people want to take advantage of my soft disposition. So, it is not my fault that you find me playing the wicked woman. It is the role that I am given that I play and I am happy that there are some producers who have tried me in other roles”. Of all her movie appearances, Ladidi, who described her first day on a movie set as “dramatic and memorable”, named Carbin Kwai her break out movie and Jakadiya, which earned her an alias, as her most memorable movie appearances. “I had a tough time memorizing my lines especially with Jakadiya because the script was very long. I delayed shoot most times because of that. But I have overcome all those challenges that come with stage fright,” she said. Ladidi’s career ambition is to remain relevant in her chosen profession. The actress, who revealed that she longs to have more children from her next marriage, is happy as an actress and would want to remain one. “I would have gone into business but this is what destiny has for me and I like it and I am enjoying every bit of it. I am happy in the profession and will choose it over and above any other profession. I know a few bad eggs have made people to build up negative impressions about what we do but I tell you that it is a noble profession and it is a profession that you can engage in and live comfortably. “I have heard people say that acting does not pay. That is not true at all. It pays even though it can be better and like I always say, it can only get better with good investment especially from government and the private sector. Most times people compare us with India but India is what it is because of the monies that government and the private sector has pumped into their industry. They have studios, equipment and funds to work. It is the funds and the right facilities that we lack. But there is hope that things will be better. The future is bright.”

Celebritygist… Nse Ikpe Etim Is Well Married E mentioned sometime back that the popular actress Nse Ikpe Etim has been taken. Well, the actress of many credits, has moved from the status of being engaged to the status of being married. It is indeed official. Nse is now well married. Her long time boyfriend, Clifford Sule flew into town to say ‘I do’ to the star of Mr. and Mrs. and Phone Swap. The couple exchanged marital vows at the Court House in Lagos and later they moved to Eko Hotel for a quiet reception.

And The Light Dims On Veteran Actor Justus Esiri… ALL this a season of death for entertainers and you would not be wrong. It began with the death of Sam Loco Efe, then Enebeli Elebuwa, then the Yoruba actress Bisi Komolafe, then Pete Eneh and only recently Goldie Harvey and Lugard Onoyemu. Indeed, as if it is on a mission to reduce the number of top Nollywood veterans and practitioner, death yesterday struck again, this time claiming one of Nigeria’s foremost actors, Justus Esiri. Esiri, 71, passed on late on Tuesday night at a medical

Sources say husband and wife have since jetted out to begin the first leg of their three-month staggered honeymoon.

facility in Lagos after a brief illness. A source said the actor complained of “body weakness and pains” and was taken to the hospital for medical attention where he died three days later. His dentist son turned pop-singer, Onoriode Esiri who is popularly known as Dr. Sid, announced his demise first on twitter. He had posted the picture and short bio-data of the actor and closed with a ‘RIP Dad’. An actors actor of vast credit who was awarded the national honour of Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON) in recognition of his contribu-

tion to the growth of the motion picture industry, Chief Esiri was last seen in Abuja at the formal launch of the centenary logo held at the Presidential Villa two weeks ago and in an industry function in January but a family source said the

septuagenarian actor had been secretly battling an age related illness for a while. Born in November 1942 in Oria, Abraka, Delta State, Esiri who shot into limelight as an actor after living delightfully the role of the Village Headmaster in the long rested series of same title, had his early education at the Catholic Secondary School, Warri before proceeding to Maximillan University in Munich, Germany. While in Germany, Esiri, who is survived by a wife and six children, attended Prof. Weners Institute of Engineering, West Berlin and was later trained at the Ahrens School of Performing Arts.

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THE GUArDIAN, Saturday, February 23, 2013

FITNESS With Oyinkan Talabi (Bodyworks)

Good Choices

When Eating Out A

vast majority of us eat out at least once a day, five days a week. People who eat out more often, particularly at fast food restaurants, are more likely to be overweight or obese. This trend can, however, be managed if you consciously make better choices. The three main things to focus on when eating out are What you are eating and drinking, How much you are eating and drinking How your meal is prepared What are you eating and drinking? As much as food is to be enjoyed, it has a purpose. It is first and foremost a source of fuel for your body. Everything you put into your mouth must be contributing to this purpose. The same way you don’t intentionally buy adulterated fuel for your generator is the same way you shouldn’t eat randomly. Let’s look at what you are eating and drinking from a day’s point of view and also per meal. Per day: if eating is to fuel your body. What quality of fuel are you putting into your body? Compare the meals you have had that day before you decide on what to order. Did you have a high starch / fat meal for breakfast? If yes, should lunch also be high starch / fat as well? How much oil have you consumed in the day already? Per meal: how much oil is in the food? Does it come with vegetables? Do the vegetables come mixed with dressing or is it on the side? What is your daily eating goal? Does this meal you are about to have contribute or hinder? What are you drinking with your meal? Water, soft drink alcohol? How does this add up considering what you have already had in your day? How much sugar have you consumed in your coffee, tea or soft drink? Some alcohol taken moderately can be a part of a healthy diet. Try not to have more than 1 drink per day for women and 2 drinks per day for men. Bear in mind that some drinks contain a lot of calories. Many alcoholic drinks have between 100 to 400 calories each. How Much Are You Eating? Some places serve large portions and most of us will unconsciously eat more because of this. More food mean more calories. A way around this is to share your meal with a friend, ask for a side plate and eat from that (so you serve yourself from the main plate) and ask for half the remaining food to be packed up for you to eat later. You can also have an appetizer as your main meal. “To thine self be true” if you know overeat at buffets, avoid them. Order from the set menu. How Is Your Meal Prepared? How your meal is prepared is what determines how good it is for you. A slice of boiled yam is better for you than that same slice of yam fried. Go for food that has been roasted, steamed, grilled, or broiled instead of those that are fried. Avoid choosing foods with the following words: creamy, breaded, battered, or buttered. These words show that the food is higher in calories. Also, ask for salad dressings, sauces, and syrups “on the side” so you can add only as much as you want. These sides are often high in calories—so don’t eat much of them. Love your body…and it will love you right back

WELLNESS & BEAUTY By Victoria Ekanem Muesli - whole grains NCrEASING your servings of oats and muesli will boost your intake of essential fats, B vitamins and the potent antioxidant, vitamin E. B vitamins could easily be called the ‘skin vitamins’ because a deficiency often shows up as itchy, dry skin. Whole grains have all three parts of the grain – the bran, endosperm and germ. refined, white-flour based foods like bread, cakes, cookies and so on, miss out on the bran and germ, which is where all these goodies are. HFG tip: Make a tasty muesli meal by combining whole grain oats, almonds and dried fruit. Soak overnight in low-fat milk and enjoy with extra fruit and yoghurt. Nuts - nutrition nuggets

Steps To Healthy Skin, Hair And Nails (3)

Nuts are little nutrition nuggets – packed with essential fats, vitamin E and B vitamins. In a study where people who had had a heart attack were asked to eat 50g of peanuts a day for 6 weeks, two women in particular noticed a huge improvement in their hair and nails. It’s likely that, after years on low-fat diets (to control their heart condition), the peanuts gave these women some much-needed essential fats. HFG tip: Nuts make a good snack: a small handful daily will give you energy and keep your hair and nails in good shape. Kiwifruit and citrus - vitamin C Vitamin C is essential to make collagen, the structural cement of the body. Under the skin, collagen is the fibrous tissue that plumps it up giving support and shape. As skin ages it loses collagen.

When we breathe car fumes, cigarette smoke and stay in the sun, harmful oxidation reactions happen in our skin and body. Vitamin C, E and betacarotene are potent antioxidants that mop up the harmful by-products of oxidation and slow down damage to the skin. Large doses of vitamins C, E and beta-carotene help protect the skin from sunburn and improve its resilience to things that could irritate it. But when taken as supplements, sometimes the antioxidant activity shifts to harmful pro-oxidant activity. How to prevent this? Skip the pills and eat lots and lots of antioxidant-rich fruit and vegetables. HFG tip: Eating plenty of kiwifruit, oranges, lemons and grapefruit may not have the same instant ‘plumping out’ effect as a collagen implant but with its vitamin C and hundreds of anti-aging antioxidants it is natural beauty therapy at its best.

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THE GUARDIAN, Saturday, February 23, 2013

HOME&DECOR

Decorating with Curtain Rods By Ekwy P. Uzoanya ODS do not just hold curtains and drapery in place; they are decorative as well. They give a special beauty touch to curtains and make them stand out against the window. The rods come in many styles and designs that will appeal to anyoneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s taste and dĂŠcor. For instance, a bay window could call for curved poles. They are available in a variety of materials including wrought iron, wood, crystal, ceramic, glass, copper and brass. And the types of curtain rods have different qualities. For instance: Wooden rods: These offer natural look and colour. So, for a living space designed and painted using natural colours, wooden curtain rods are good choices. Besides blending with wooden furniture, there are various designs to suit everyoneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s taste, and at the same time, create a modern look. Wrought rods: This versatile metal is elegant and durable. It is complementary to many different styles of furnishing in the home, and even in the office. It brings its elegance to bear on the overall look of the place. It can be installed in living rooms, bedrooms, kitchens, and dining rooms. Accessories such as rings and finials complete the look of curtain rods and make them refine the beauty of any interior. When buying curtain rods, consider the following points: Windows: They have different sizes, according to the plan of the house when it was built. For people moving into rented apartments or newly bought homes, they should take note that window sizes are not standard for all types of houses. Therefore, it is very important to measure windows first before buying the rods. Bear in mind that as a rule, the rods should always be longer than the window by as much as five inches. This ensures total coverage for windows. Strength of the of the curtain rod: It is best to choose rods according to their strength and capacity to hold a certain type of drape or curtain to avoid sagging or unattractive look. For heavier curtains, it is best to go for stronger, more solid rods like wrought iron. The supporting devices like brackets should be strong enough to provide end-to-end support for the rod, as well as support for the middle portion of the curtain rod. Budget: Curtain rods made from quality materials can be very expensive. Hence, if expensive ones are not within your reach, stick to the ordinary ones. Do not spend more than what your budget can accommodate just to decorate your house.

Living With Chest HESTS should have a place in the home, whether it is a first time furnishing of an apartment or making some changes here and there. An elegant one can transform the look of a room. They are used to plan for the way one works and lives. Like all other furniture, chests come in a variety of shapes, colours and sizes that appeal to the senses. Some touch of craftsmanship can make them eye-catchers in any space. They can be tall, low, wide or trim. Different shapes such as square, rectangle and oval can be made out of wood types such as mahogany, teak and masonia. Though metal is also used for chests, wood appears to be more

favoured. Wooden chest are more widely used in homes. They look classic and there is no end to which they can be put. In the living room, a two-drawer chest in a corner sitting conspicuously will help to store items and also create a beautiful ambience. In the bedroom, the bedside is another place to put a small chest. In the bathroom, a space-efficient freestanding storage can be added to an existing scheme. This can be used as hideaway for bathroom articles such as toothbrushes, toothpaste and towels. For the dining, use them to hold cups, cutlery dishes and linen. In the lounge, it can be used decoratively to elevate the look of the place.

THE GUARDIAN, Saturday, February 23, 2013

FOOD&DRINK

Ideal Food For Athletes (Boiled Spaghetti And Chicken Served With Orange Juice) By Chinelo Nwagbo F you are among those looking for nutritious and easyIrecipe, to-prepare food, here is a solution for you. Todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s spaghetti with chicken is highly nutritious, affordable and easy to prepare. Eating this tasty meal will leave an unforgettable memory that you will a want to include it in your food menu. What makes spaghetti with chicken a unique and healthy food is that it has both animal and plant food. Research has shown that plant foods supply all the vital nutrients that nourishes the body, prolongs life and purifies the blood. The predominant nutrients in spaghetti with chicken are carbohydrate and protein. It is also a good source of vitamin A, B1, B2, B6, B12, C, E, potassium, magnesium, iron, folic acid and selenium. Carbohydrate provides energy to the body, which makes one to be at alert, agile and energetic. Consuming spaghetti with chicken is essential to children and youths because they need a lot of energy to grow and carry out some activities such as running, playing, swimming and reading. According to Dr. Judith Wurtman, one of the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s leading authorities on food and mood and her team at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, United States of America, the ultimate calming lunch is one based on carbohydrate foods, which boost levels of the hormones serotonin in the brain which help to prevent/overcome stress, fatigue and depression and dish is a good source of carbohydrate. This nutritious dish is therefore recommended to those that want to overcome stress, fatigue and depression. Spaghetti with chicken is an ideal food for athletes for good performance. It helps pregnant women to have successful pregnancy and also prevents birth defects. Consuming spaghetti with chicken helps in preventing and treating anaemia. The underweight can gain weight through consuming this nutritious dish, and for the sick, it hastens their recovery. Intake of spaghetti with chicken boosts the immune system, improves appetite, promotes healthy vision, skin, bone growth, and supports proper muscle function. Eat spaghetti with chicken and enjoy all its health benefits.

Put water in a pot and allow to boil, add spaghetti, salt to taste and a spoon of vegetable oil. Allow to cook for 8 to 10 minutes. Sieve water out of the spaghetti. Serve cooked spaghetti in a clean plate and garnish as desired with stir vegetables and chicken laps.

priately, depending on your preference. Transfer to a glass and top with ice cubes. Serve orange juice chilled with the main dish. E- mail: chineloeby@yahoo.com

Orange juice Orange juice is among the most favoured drinks in the whole world. It is naturally sweet without addition of artificial sugar. Orange juice is a good source of vitamin C (ascorbic acid), potassium, thiamine, phosphorus, folic acid (Vitamin B9) and vitamin B6. In addition, it does not contain cholesterol, sodium and fat. It is also rich in phytonutrients, which are known as flavonoids. Flavonoids help support the immunity process and promote a strong heart. Intake of orange juice helps to protect against cardiovascular disease, rheumatoid arthritis and cancer; boosts the immune system, lowers elevated cholesterol level, and prevents kidney stones formation. Ingredients Oranges

Quantities 6 medium size

Method of preparation Peel the outer covering of the orange and separate the pieces. Remove the seeds and the white covering of each of the orange pieces and use only the pulp. In a mixer jar or in a blender, add orange pieces and water and grind them all until you obtain a neatly blended juice. Extract only the orange juice from the pulp by filtering it appro-

Ingredients Quantities Spaghetti 250g Green chili pepper 25g Red chili pepper 25g Green capsicum pepper 25g Spring onions 50g Vegetable oil 2 tablespoons Salt to taste Parsley sprig to garnish as desired Method of preparation Thoroughly wash all vegetables. Slice into julienne strips, the clean chili, capsicum pepper and onions. Stretch the spring onions and parsley sprigs. Stir-fry vegetables in hot oil and drain.

Picking Party Wine By Ekwy P. Uzoanya

INES feature prominently at parW ties. Whether it is a housewarming, birthday, or chieftaincy title celebration, the host normally makes arrangement for wine for the guests. This calls for bulk buying and identifying what will serve the purpose. Wines used for parties should be simple, tasty wines that are available and affordable. Some people drink only white wine while others drink only red, therefore it is good to have both types. From the red wine group, Pinot Noir is a good selection for parties. Pinot Noir flavours and aromas include roses, fruits, black cherry, berry, and currant. Its other characteristics include high acidity and low tannins. Petite Sirah is a heady, lusty, lively wine. It comes with spices and great acidity, but the tastes you experience most are juicy blackberries and blueberries. Cabernet Sauvignon is a red wine, which enjoys widespread popularity. It offers concentrated flavours and refined textures. Muscadet, a white wine that has juicy tastes of tropical fruits and melons on a foundation of minerals is a

good pick. Clean and refreshing, it has less alcohol than many white wines. Sauvignon Blanc is liked by just about everyone. It is juicy and mouth-water-

ing, with lime, passion fruit, minerals and hints of green pepper. There are many brands available in the market.

GARDENING

THE GUARDIAN, Saturday, February 23, 2013

With Sereba Agiobu-Kemmer

sereba.agiobu.kemmer@ngrguardiannews.com

Roses Are For Real OSES are very thorny, prickly plants with and moss roses, but also modern types. Many R extraordinary flowers which mostly come are richly fragrant. with fragrance. They are demanding of time and

Standard roses on display at Hampton court flower show

Shrub rose china town yellow

Back yard border planting of landscape roses

attention as their cultivation is fraught with ups and downs. Roses are prone to many dangers as pest and diseases and need regular fertilizing and pruning to blossom. Gardens, like the home, reflect your personality, so if you are the soft romantic type, you will have a soft spot for roses. Your relationship with garden reflects in you. There is something to be said for specialist gardens. Such gardens look good, because the choice of plants is restricted, giving rise to a comparatively simple design. Once you have decided the overall style of your garden, we can decide the layout and plants. In this instance, it is the Rose. Roses are good for the person who likes simplicity and tidiness, everything neat and orderly, because roses require neat symmetrical bed layout or in blocks, wooden boxes, stones and clay pots. For this, you are better of growing Hybrid tea (modern) roses, rather than the old-fashioned (Old garden) varieties as the climbing roses. On the other hand you might not want to be a ‘specialist’, that is to say, you don’t want a garden full of roses, but still want the roses to grace your garden. In that case, you may choose to make it the focal point of your garden, like having a carpet lawn of grass, then create a romantic corner, say by the wall with a beautiful, sprawling shrub rose with the rough grass. You could have a climbing rambler for training on lattice on your entrance wall or for pergolas and pillars built in the garden. You can have dwarf clustered flowering bush, neat remontant shrubs, with sprays of flowers potted for your patio. But remember, even a single potted plant requires the same constant attention and care. Planting Climbers And Ramblers Do not plant climber and rambling roses less than 15 inches from a wall or fence. To avoid dryness at the roots, slope the roots away from the wall. When planting, fan out the main stems and tie them loosely in position with garden twine. When roses are being replaced in old beds that have grown roses for more than 15years, fill in the planting holes with fresh soil taken from another part of the garden where roses have not been growing. Distance Planting distance depends on the type of rose and variety. Standards These striking roses are formed from hybrid tea and floribunda varieties budded on 3-3 ½ feet brier stems half standards are 2-2 ½ feet high. Rambler varieties are used for weeping standards which have 5-6 feet stems and trailing growth reaching almost to ground level. Plant standards at least 4 feet apart or up to 3 feet, from bush roses. Weeping varieties need be 6 feet apart. Yellow varieties tend to have short lives and are not recommended. Hybrid teas Still the most popular of roses, hybrid varieties are unsurpassed for the beauty of their large and shapely individual blooms. The buds are long and graceful. Many hybrid teas are sweetly scented. Heights vary from 2 1 / 2-4 feet; a point to bear in mind when planting beds of mixed. Plant two feet apart, except peace which needs 3 feet. Include varieties as superstar, stella message, fragrant cloud, blue moon, pink favorites, etc. Floribundas The colourful and popular floribundas are derived from R. multiflora. Multiflora, meaning many flowered, had as its Greek equivalent polyantha, and thus the multiflora roses were also known as polyanthas. They combine the free flowering of R. Multiflora with the elegant shape of hybrid tea blooms. Their special value lies in providing a mass of colours; the flowering being borne in large trusses. For best effects, plant in groups of a single variety. Heights are 2-7 feet, depending on variety, soil and pruning. Plant two feet apart, except varieties like dearest, iceberg, magenta and masquerade which need the 3 feet. Climbers and Ramblers The true climbing roses include climbing hybrid teas and climbing floribundas. They have sturdier, more erect growth than the ramblers. They are suitable for walls and tall fences. However, ramblers are better for relatively low screens and pillars. Ramblers have small blooms and flower briefly. Climbers have large blooms and many are repeat flowering. Plant both climbers and ramblers eight feet apart. Shrub roses This classification includes many old (antique) and showy types of roses such as hybrid musks

Plant individually, either as specimen shrubs or in a mixed border, as they can make large bushes up to six feet or more high. Even poor soil are suitable and little pruning is needed. Shrub roses can be used for informal hedges. Many are repeat-flowering except varieties like rose centifolia bullata (rich pink). Others include prosperity white, china town yellow, burnt orange, scarlet. Species roses The species roses grown as shrubs in the garden derive from wild roses found all over the world. They go back to the earliest gardens of which we have record. R. gallica, the Red Rose of Lancaster, was cultivated by the ancient Greeks, and R. alba, the white Rose of York, was introduced by the Romans. The flowering period of these old fashioned roses tends to be brief, but many have attractive foliage and colourful hips. Rosa moyeshi has bottleshaped hips after flowering. Rosa rubrifolia is almost thornless, is 4-8 feet high and grown principally for its distinct foliage. Miniature rose These delightful little plants are ideal subjects for tubs, pots, window boxes, patio or for growing in a rock garden. There are numerous varieties, some more compact than others. Potgrown specimens can be brought into the house while in bloom, but should remain outdoors at other times. General planting rule When planting container or potted roses, plant at the soil level of the pot. Bare roots must be positioned carefully. In cooler climates such as mountain zones, bare roots must be planted with the bud union (the swollen joint between the roots stock and the scion or grateful cane) at soil level and hot or hard areas should bury the bud union two inches below the soil level to ensure the survival of the scion. Some roses today are being sold on their own root stock (species usually are) so don’t panic if you can’t detect a bud union; there may not be one. Remember, bare root must be planted while dormant. Propagation By budding, grafting, or hard wood-cuttings and from seeds. Roses may be planted if the soil is dry or just moist. Roses are about as fussy as any plant about soil condition so give them the fluffy light soil they like.

climbing hybrid tea roses

climbing red hybrid tea rose PHOTOS: SEREBA AGIOBU-KEMMER

THE GUARDIAN, Saturday, February 23, 2013

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THE GUARDIAN, Saturday, February 23, 2013

32 |

SOCIETY

Prof. Akinyemiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

Book

Presentation Former Minister of Foreign Affairs, Maj.-Gen.(rtd.) Ike Nwachukwu, Gen. (rtd.) Ibrahim Babangida, Gov. Olusegun Mimiko of Ondo State and Prof. Bolaji Akinyemi

Faces at the presentation of two books written by former Minister of Foreign Affairs, Prof. Bolaji Akinyemi, at the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs (NIIA),Lagos, recently.

Mimiko

Chairman of Silverbird Group, Mr. Ben Murray-Bruce, Erelu of Lagos, Princess Abiodun Dosumu and Mr. Kunle Olumide

Former Ogun State Governor, Brig.Gen. (rtd.) Tunji Olurin; Former National Security Adviser to the President, Brig.-Gen. (rtd.) Haliru Akilu ; Mr. Sunmi Smart-Cole, Chief John Edozien and Chief Regan Ufomba

Senior Special Assistant to the President on Foreign Affairs, Amb. Thaddeus Daniel Hart;H.R.M. Oba H. A. Owolola and Dr. Akinwunmi Akinyemi

Former Ekiti State Governor, Adeniyi Adebayo and Editor-in-Chief of The Guardian, Mr. Debo Adesina

Chief Great Ogboru,Yakubu Mohammed, Dan Agbese and Gen. Babangida

Former Vice-Chancellor of Obafemi Awolowo University, Prof. Wale Omole, Col.B.D.M. Turufa and Brig.-Gen. Femi Orimogunje

Editorial Executive Consultant of The Guardian, Mr. Lade Bonuola;Chairman of Zinox Group, Mr. Leo-Stan Ekeh and Editor-in-Chief, Political Economist, Mr. Ken Ugbechie

Vice-Chancellor of Sokoto State University, Prof. Huhu Yaqub;Barr. Stella Ugboma and Prof. Thomas Imobighe of the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS), Kuru, Jos.

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THE GUARDIAN, Saturday, February 23, 2013

SOCIETY

Former Minister of Industry, Mrs. Nike Akande and Prof. Jide Osuntokun

Barr. Bola Latinwo and retired Chief Judge of the Federal High Court, Justice Roseline Ukeje

Jigawa State Commissioner for Education,Prof. Haruna Wakili and Nwachukwu

Prof. Bimpe Aboyade and Mr. Gboyega Banjo

Ogun State former Governor, Olusegun Osoba and former Inspector General of Police,Musiliu Smith

Former Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT),Hamzat Abdullahi and DirectorGeneral of the NIIA,Prof. Bola Akinterinwa

Olurin and Chief Taiwo Alimi

Amb. George Obiozor and Amb. B. A Clark

Akilu and Col. (rtd.) Tony Nyiam

Amb. Mark Egbe and Amb. B. A Adeyemi

Mrs. Ola Toyo and Dr. Bisi Abiola

Plateau State former Governor,Brig.-Gen.(rtd.) Habibu Shuaibu and Mr. Abe Ibraheem

Mr. Francis Ogboro and President of the Nigerian Polo Federation, Dolapo Ogutua

Mr. Hassan Mohammed and Mr. Kassim Afegbua

Chief Bishop Okonkwo and Chief Myke Nwankoni

THE GUARDIAN, Saturday, February 23, 2013

34 |

SOCIETY Primate Ayodele Celebrates Birthday, Launches Golden TV INRI Spiritual Evangelical Church marked the birthday of its founder, Primate Babatunde Elijah Ayodele with the launching of Golden TV, the pioneer white garment satellite TV in Nigeria. Below are the dignitaries at the event in Lagos.

Founder/ Spiritual Head INRI Evangelical Church, Primate Babatunde Elijah Ayodele (JP), Chairman of Ijaye Local Government, Toba Oke and the National Coordinator of the Oodua Peoples Congress, Gani Adams at the launching.

Church members participating in Holy Communion at the event

Primate Ayodele in a chat with General Manager Sijuwade Group of Companies, Chief Dejo Adejobi- and some of the traditional rulers that represented Oba Okunade Sijuwade, Ooni of Ife at the event.

Primate Ayodele with the INRI Church Matron Mama Ope Lawal.

The Head Teacher of Akinbaye Primary School, Isolo, Mrs FL Komolafe, during a courtesy visit and presentation of educational materials and public address systems by Primate Ayodele to the school.

Primate Ayodele at the Palace of the Oba of Agodo Kingdom, Oba Mudashiru Odejobi during a prayer and thanksgiving visit.

Cross section of guests at the event

The Chairman, Ifako Ijaye council Dr. Toba Oke

Dr. Toba Oke with the representatives of Ooni of Ife.

General Manager of Golden TV, Mr. Bode Ayo Phillip with others at the occasion.

THE GUARDIAN, Saturday, February 23, 2013

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Get The Celeb Look Dress your tress in these celebrity hairdos as seen Rihanna wavws on the red carpets for 2013 By Nike Sotade you are yearning to vary or IthisFspice up your hairstyles for year, then female celebrities have got you lined up for what new tresses to sport for 2013. Seen at the recent Grammy Awards and other A-list social gatherings, celebrities such as Rihanna, Beyonce, Solange, J Lo, Janet Jackson and others have been seen sporting hairdos that could take any stylish woman from the everyday look to the red carpet glamour. Rihanna’s look at the Grammy’s (top-left) was romantic and feminine with her honey-blonde ombré hair falling in soft, cascading waves. It’s a look that can turn any woman into a Grecian goddess in no time. Jeniffer Lopez opted for Bob sophisticated elegance with her red-carpet hairstyle (top right). This look will accentuate your facial features and adds a touch of chic to any outfit. Proving that sometimes simple is best was Beyoncé’s slicked-back, low-slung ponytail (top middle). Get this look by straightening your hair and tying it into a ponytail at the nape of your neck. Using a small section of loose hair, wrap the hair around the base of your ponytail and secure it with a hairpin. You can also decide to go natural with your curls à la Solange Knowles. Simply shampoo and condition your hair, style as you wish and let it dry. From short bobs to pixie styles, tight up-dos, twisted braids, highlights and curly hairstyles, here are some of the celebrity hairstyles that will remain dominant this Kinky curls year. Simply take a cue to dress your tress.

Beyonce looks

Braids

THE GUARDIAN, Saturday, February 23, 2013

36 |

FASHION

Take It Up A Dressing for work does not have to be a bore but rather stylish with the right combination of clothes and accessories. By Ibukunoluwa Kayode HO says women cannot W be sexy at work and who says work clothes cannot be playful? Most women look fabulous going to other places but to work, they just look drab. It is usually an unknown trend to just sport a basic suit or a plain blouse and skirt. Whatever happened to the romantic blouses, the pin-up skirts and sexy work dresses? Frankly, truth be told, women can be sexy and professional. Most times the way ladies dress to work is a tad bit retro, the language given most times is that office wears makes them tired and stuffy, but they can be very stylish and efficient. Many a times people fail to understand that looking their best is good therapy. This boosts the energy and efficiency levels and ups one’s confidence. To achieve this, every woman must put in her best to look trendy on the outside. Women who truly mean business in winning her clients should learn to pretty up their suits with chic footwear or a statement bag. Even if your outfit your outfit is dull, accessories are just the spice you need to get things going. Those who work in a less formal environment can wear a print dress and pair it with a cool jacket. There are also lots of stylish corporate wears out there like a frilled A-line skirt that can easily be paired with cool nice accessories. If you want your business partners, colleagues, and ultimately your clientele to take you seriously, you don’t only have to put on your game face, but also your fashionable Armour. So women can take their

office style from “drabulous” to fabulous office chic, feel good about themselves and be more efficient. Also, just because you work in a professional setting doesn’t mean you have to look stuffy. Here are few guidelines to keep you on track in making bold stylish statements at work. Wear clothes that fit you: You don’t have to be a size 4 to look good but you do need to wear clothes that fit you properly. Don’t stuff yourself in under and over sized clothes. If your trousers bunch around your thighs and waist, they’re too small. If you can’t cross your arms in front of you without your sleeves exposing your wrists or your buttons gape at the front your shirt, it is an undersized shirt. Mind you, do not wear anything too large, either. Choose clothing that fits you without being baggy or floppy. Shorten hems on trousers and sleeves if necessary. Keep your hair and makeup simple: Official makeup should not be a work of painting like an artwork; it must be kept mild and simple without making any noise. Oftentimes most women overdo or mix up a makeup meant for dinner or performance with work makeup. Try to keep your morning routine for hair and makeup under or at about 30 minutes. You’ll avoid looking overdone. So, find a balance between good grooming and endless primping. Accentuate the positive: If you have great legs, wear skirts. Just make sure they’re an appropriate length, not more than 2 inches above the knee. Great figure? Don’t wear an overtight skirt if it doesn’t convey seriousness to your clients. Looking good is modesty not body exposure. Keep it modest. A V-neck sweater or blouse is fine, but don’t wear skirts that are too short, necks that are too low, or anything that is see-through or overly tight. Keep it all simple, to be well addressed.

Laserdam ProvidesCutting-Edge Beauty Technology ASERDERM, a specialist skin clinic Lareathat is first of its kind in the Ikeja of Lagos, is about to bring its professional services to Victoria Island. The beauty clinic offers the latest expert trends with cutting-edge technologies, techniques and treatments that include Laser hair (removal of unsightly and facial hair), Pseudofolliculitis Barbae (treatment of ingrown hair as a result of shaving), skin rejuvenation (solving skin prob-

lems from acne, acne scarring, psoriasis, pigmented skin lesions and patches), lines and wrinkles treatment (an age reversal treatment), hyperhidrosis (treatment of excessive sweating, typically under armpit area), removal of leg & facial veins and Onychomycosis (treatment of fungal nail infection). Medical experts, Dr Osi Awudu and Dr Andrew Nnadi, with their team of doctors who are also trained in Aesthetics and Laser treatments would be providing the latest treatments to keep women looking and feeling good. For most women who are obsessed with hair removal and have tried everything from shaving, waxing, sugaring, tweezing, epilators and finally laser hair removal, laser treatment is an excellent option, as it is fast, effective and virtually painless. Laser hair removal was made commercially available in the late 90’s and became increasingly widespread in parts of America, UK and Europe, and Laserderm now offers such safe, tried and tested

laser hair removal treatments just as it obtains anywhere else in the world. For a tighter, smoother, youngerlooking skin, women can opt for DermaPen miracle treatment. This is an innovative way to tackle issues one may be having with acne, acne scarring, pigmented skin lesions and patches, lines and wrinkles and problems with leg and facial veins. DermaPen is a new technology in the Nigerian beauty industry at the moment and is the world’s most advanced skin micro-needling device which was voted as the best professional skin rejuvenating device of 2012 by Aesthetic practices throughout the UK and USA. Another treatment for acne, breakouts and skin rejuvenation is the usage of hyaluronic acids. Basically, Vitamin B12 is one of the hyaluronic acids used to treat skin problems and rejuvenate the skin reducing stress and fatigue, improving memory, cardiovascular health and maintaining a good body weight. It also assists the body in converting proteins, fats and carbohydrates into energy and is nec-

essary for healthy skin and eyes. Mesolift is right for those looking to tackle aging signs. No one wants to show signs of aging, even though there are many products out there from creams to treatments that claim to be able to prevent or reduce them, there are few products that actually work. Mesolift is an exciting, new procedure that works from the inside out, not the other way around. It can be used to tone the skin on the face, neck, legs, abdomen, arms and hands. It is also used to treat and slow this process of ageing. This treatment results in a dynamic skin with improved tonicity, elasticity and appearance of the skin – a clear attractive complexion. If Mesolift is started at a young age, between the ages of 35 and 40, there is an increasingly good chance that a woman will never suffer from the appearance of cellulite and her skin would retain a younger, wrinkle-free appearance up to 15 years longer than other treatments.

TheGuardian

Saturday, February 23, 2013 | 37

Conscience, Nurtured by Truth

Entertainment

Sony Neme nemesony@yahoo.co.uk 07054576639

The Dead Wood VERYONE desires and hopes to live long and E grow old someday. In Nigeria and probably elsewhere in Africa, those who served their nation in their youthful days are forgotten when old age comes calling. All have been painstakingly packaged into a docudrama that has attracted and has continued to attract rave reviews. A must watch, “The Deadwood” was directed by Stanley Ohikhuare and produced by Enuma Chigbo and Grace Oboba Edwin-Okon. The Deadwood is a wakeup call for the Government to put a functional framework in place that clearly rewards service and addresses the plight of retirees who gave their time, knowledge, energy and youth for the Nation. Those who are employed in pension offices must do their duties religiously and show respect to these elders. It is a piece inspired by Dr. Gilbert Chigbo’s Newspaper article based on a personal experience as a pensioner. It captures real experiences of real resourceful Nigerians –-- used in their prime and dumped in their frail state; a death sentence some have unfortunately served already. Yet, many more are on the waiting line –-- agonizing, praying, hoping… This masterpiece which features Dr. Chigbo alongside Grace Ezi-Ashi, mother of Obioma LiyelImoke, the Cross River State Governor, recently landed a milestone – winning the top 10 Nomination on AfriNolly’s short film and documentary competition. Julius T. Gbayange explained the movie thus: “On a hot day, when the blazing heat sends temperature gauges to their peaks, a quiet rest under leafy trees (with light winds filtering through the leaves) offers such a deep, natural satisfying relief that is completely far ahead of man’s scientific attempts at solving the cooling problem. It is totally uncommon. Scientists

make us understand that this experience is one that is provoked by man’s harmonious resonance with nature. “In this symbiotic relationship between two committed partners each selflessly addressing the need of the other – a simple solution is proffered for a very complex and important question – sustenance of life itself. In very simple terms, human beings depend on oxygen to survive but ‘give up’ Carbon dioxide in the process which living trees (and plants) need to stay alive. In this simple but important exchange, a key factor is addressed – life and living. Conversely, the absence, death or eventual cessation of functional capabilities of one drastically impacts negatively on the other in terms of climatic change, desertification, food supply etc. How does this compare with relationship between the Nation and Civil Servants who provide such services geared towards nation building? How sad it is to see the once thriving forest – home to rare species and singing birds become nothing more than an abandoned deadwood! …. Leafy trees once stood here!” The Deadwood under reference here is not a forest; it is a presentation that captures the essence of a cruel reality. This is the interpretation of the keen mind of Dr. Gilbert O. Chigbo in his reaction to an unwholesome remark made by a serving State Governor in Nigeria at a time, a man who was elected by his people to lead. The remark was directed at pensioners. “If these old pensioners have no children to look after them, let them go back to their villages and die!” the governor hadreportedly said. Dr. Chigbo who is himself a pensioner has seen and tasted it all, but little did he know at the time of writing that ‘Pensioners are Deadwood’ an article he wrote in reaction to the governor’s statement, which was published in July, 2010 was a spark that would ignite the blazing flame needed to illuminate and reveal to the world the true pains and dramatically capture and address the plight of Nigeria’s senior citizens.

Giddy’s Place Continues With Tradition T

Chigbo Enuma

Grace Okon

HE Valentine has come and gone but its echoes conitinue to reverberate across the country and beyond. Though it ended a sad day for the industry with Goldie’s death, the day had begun on a beautiful note as Nigerians trooped out to make the day a memorable one. Just as Lagosians were rocking and rollicking, so were many others, especially couples at Asaba, Delta State who kept with the Giddy’s Place tradition on the ever-busy Nnebisi Road. Aptly tagged Couples’ Nite 2013 and packaged by Big Jay Productions with music and comedy by TK1 and Frank De Don, respectively, it was a huge success. Couples and families had a good time grooving to beats of TK1while rolling with laughter from wise jokes from Gideon Nwaomu De Don. This year’s event was sponsored by Nigeria Breweries Plc and Campari who have continued to re- said with a bigger picture in the horizon, he has no remain in solidarity with the entertainment industry in grets as he is focused on restructuring and restoration the oil-rich state. They gave out quality products like of lost years. microwaves, big standing fans, pressing irons Coincidentally, Venerable Augusting Ashiedu, who branded tee shirts, especially to deserving couples blessed the land in 1998 was also at Giddy’s Place while who won from different games and dancing compe- the interview lasted. tition. Nwaomu, who was hosting a cream of retired profesThe new Giddy’s Place is the third spot since the sionals in his office who had gathered for the Super Eaforceful eviction from the one and half acre situated gles’ final game, four days to the shindig recalled the close to Government House along Summit Road. It is ordeal thus: “When things happen to you, you will disone of the very few entertainment spots that have cover your inner strength. When they broke that place, faith in the state’s tourism industry. I thought it was over for me. But today, you are in In a chat with the proprietor, Mr. Gideon Nwaomu, Giddy’s Place though in another location, and you can penultimate week at his Asaba office, he bared his see the crowd. We are managing this place, while efmind on what has remained his staying strength as he forts are on to reclaim my land because I have my Cerbattles to reclaim the sealed Giddy’s Spot. However, he tificate of Occupancy and have been there for 13 years.

THE GUARDIAN, Saturday, February 23, 2013

38 |

ENTERTAINMENT

‘Nigerian Idol Boosted My Confidence’ cided to put it together like Alexander The Great,” he recalls. The name and brand has stuck. Picking the Idol’s form was not his wish, however. It was after a rigorous persuasion by his friend who believed in his ability. Emmanuel had lost all hope in reality programmes. Though he saw some commercials on it, he was not moved. He confesses that he had previously made several attempts to feature in MTN Project Fame and a few related programmes. But his friend, Lolu Niyi Akerele (now Udoh) kept mounting pressure on him to give Idol a shot. “I told her to forget it and at that time I just finished my NYSC, so there was a lot on my mind. But another friend who had interest in it also urged us to pick the form. “So we did the auditions and I kept scaling through until I bowed out as the last man standing. Yeka Onka won the edition, Naomi Mac was the first runner up and I was the second runner-up,” he explains He admits however that the show boosted his confidence and talents. “It made me believe in myself because it is not easy for people to bank on you. From week to week, people kept voting. I felt good because people considered me worthy of their money and time. Though I wasn’t timid before then, I learn more on how to interact with the audience. I met people, mingled and socialised,” he smiles. He believes everybody is uniquely endowed no matter the similarity. “So I am unique in my vocal, talent and lyrics. I sing when I get inspired. I can sing any kind of music; it depends on my inspiration at that moment. But the songs I do most are pop and Rnb.” Emma does fashion by the side too. He is the CEO of Jews Gallery, a fashion consortium. He desires to be a force to reckon with in the entertainment industry someday. “I want to do music that would stand the test of time and I want to be that musician many will remember for a long time.” While admitting he fancies Timi Dakolo, Omawunmi, Waje, Tiwa Savage, Banky W, and Darey, he still feels the industry is not where everyone wants it to be. For a young aspiring act, he agrees that the music terrain is so tough. “You have to be focused, get an education for a plan B, keep doing what you do, be passionate about it and never give up regardless of what

By Victor Olushola LTHOUGH he bowed out at the most crucial stage of the Nigerian Idol season I in 2011, Patrick Emmanuel Dioha’s vocal range and unequal skills made most of the reality TV followers to tip him to go places in the near future. And two years after, it seems the verdict is becoming a reality. At the maiden edition, ‘Emmanuel The Great’ as he was popularly known did enough to earn himself the last man standing and the second runner-up. Since then, Dioha, an indigene of Imo state native and a graduate of sociology has refused to give up. He has been going in and out of the studios, recording songs and working tireless to deliver his best. It has now paid off with the release of his two singles, Iwo Ni Kan and Simply Grateful, and a video to send out a strong message. The video is being aired on most of the local stations and hopefully would be aired international soon. According to him, Iwo Ni Kan is a song he cowrote with a friend. “We were looking beyond the blue sky, imaging that wonderful lady.” He adds that his friend helped him out since the song is rich in Yoruba dialect and “I am Igbo.” The song, he said, is enjoying attention. “ I just premiered it. The responses have been good as a lot of people have called to congratulate me and wanting to know when my album will come out,” he said of his new effort. However, Emmanuel admits that he is still testing the ground. He knows that Nigerians fancy commercial music, but he is interested in doing evergreen songs and positioning himself in the industry. The third of the four children of Mr. Patrick Dioha and Mrs. Grace Dioha, Emmanuel got acquainted with music at a tender age. “Though my father and mother are business people, they also sing in the church choir. Despite being in the choir too, I was always around singers at my tender age. I had a rich music background.” Emmanuel tells the story of how his father gave him the name, ‘Emmanuel The Great,’ when he was growing up, the older Dioha always geared him up, saying, “the great man, the great Emmanuel!” So, on that fateful day when he was asked what he would like to be called, “I quickly remember those days with my father. So I de-

Emmanuel

Kalakuta Anniversary

2Face’s Campus Connect Targets 12 Schools

By Sony Neme

By Tony Nwanne

S part of activities to commemoA rate the 36th Anniversary of the burning of Kalakuta Republic by “unknown soldiers” during Obasanjo’s Military Administration on February 18, 1977, Fela’s Egypt 80 Band, led by Seun Anikulapo Kuti will be performing live at the New Africa Shrine on Saturday February 23, from 10:00pm. According to Dafe Oghoghome, Media relations of Egypt 80, “Seun Kuti, who is currently working on his third album due for release in the last quarter of the year, has promised to thrill his fans with the best of heavy Afro Beat vibes from his last album “From Africa With Fury”, RISE and Fela’s evergreen repertoire. The show promises to be very exciting for Afro Beat Lovers with lots of mind-blowing yabis and political commentaries by Seun Kuti on the failing state of the Nigerian Nation.”

VER twelve potential campuses O over Nigeria have been selected to host the upcoming 2Face tour of

Tuface

higher institutions also known as Campus Connect. The schools were voted for by, students of the institutions on http://www.2faceonline.com/ platform to decide what campuses would be visited. 2Face’s return to campuses, which was lauded and met with cheers by attendees of the Playas’ Ball event held in his honor back in December when the announcement was made, will see him performing at 4 of the 12 possible locations. Some of the twelve locations include: University of Lagos (Unilag), University of Benin (Uniben), University of Ibadan (UI), University of Calabar (Unical), University of Ilorin

(Unilorin), University of Jos (Unijos), and Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU). The other locations are: University of Abuja (Uniabuja), University of Port Harcourt (Uniport), Lagos State University (LASU), Benue State University (BSU) and Institute of Management and Technology, Enugu (IMT). Voting for the definite 4 slots continues on http://www.2faceonline.com/ and will close on February 20 by 10pm with a possibility of additional locations included in the final list. Some of the artistes expected to join 2Face on the tour includes, Olamide, Dammy Krane, Rocksteady, EFA, Sheyi Shay, Durella, Capital FEMI, Harrysong, Sound Sultan, Crystals, Basket Mouth and Timi Dakolo. The last time 2face visited a campus was in 2006; he has since attained a number of milestones. He has re-

M.I Delays Release Of Single

J. Martins In Africa Homestead

over here. I would like to thank my fans for their patience. You know me, AP royalty and Chocolate City Vice it would be more than worth it,” he President for Music, MI Abaga, has explained. moved forward the release date for the Chocolate City hinted that the rapper first single off his upcoming album is working on a major collaboration. from February 21 to March 7. The post- “While we are apologetic that we have ponement is due to an extension of his to postpone the release, we are certain trip which started with an engageM.I’s fans will be happy we did. It’s not ment at Harvard University earlier in about how soon the song is released, the month. “I would love to be back in but that we are getting the good stuff Nigeria for the release of my single. We out there. We believe they would love are moving this forward so that we can it!” said a source that pleaded perfect everything we are working on anonymity.

ONG writer, singer and producer, J. they remain listeners’ delight any Ssibilities Martins is living up to the respon- day. as a United Nations Ambas- This debonair lyricist is not one to

By Sony Neme

sador for Peace and as a responsible Nigerian youth by employing the farreaching effects of music to keep the kindred spirit in African youths waxing stronger. Need we remind you of his many hits, most of which celebrate Africa as a people with one colour, one voice and above all, one God? His ageless numbers and pulsating percussion; Good or Bad, Oyoyo, Eva, Fine Fine Love, E No Easy among several others still resonate as

rest on acquisition of many laurels and recently, he made a frantic effort to flutter his fans’ hearts once again with a Pan African video he shot across the continent. The new video, first from him in 2013, aptly dubbed Good Life was shot by the master of the craft, Sesan. The song, a stimulant for divine appreciation, is such that provokes the will to thank God ultimately for the grace of life.

leased three albums the latest of which is his 5th studio album ‘Away and Beyond’ which was released to critical acclaim. He also went on the nationwide ‘Buckwyld and Breathless’ tour which broke new grounds in 2012 as it was held in Port Harcourt and Abuja for the first time, as well as Atlanta, New York and Chicago in the United States. Without any doubt the most accomplished artiste of his generation, 2Face Idibia put out his first recording Body & Soul as a member of the trio Plantashun Boiz in 1999. Thirteen years later, having gone through more ups and downs to scare even a seasoned stockbroker, the artiste has emerged a newer, stronger brand winning several awards for all of his past releases. This year, he added another album to his catalogue. The album is titled ‘Away and Beyond’.

J.Martins

THE GUARDIAN, Saturday, February 23, 2013

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ENTERTAINMENT Stories By Sony Neme RINCESS Unu (Claire Merle) had started out at an early age when her grandfather regaled her with fairy tales, folk songs and cultural festivals that got her interested in music and art in general. A familiar turf for the Paris-based descendant of Ewohinmi monarchy in Edo State. This she took further on arrival in Lagos in the early 90s. The fire got further kindled when she met with other teenage girls who have been exposed already in the music industry before jetting out to Paris where she spent 17 years to become what she is today; a painter, singer and and French language instructor. Princess who sees late Fela Anikulapo Kuti as her source of inspiration in music said: “I met these girls and we were always singing at nigt clubs and karaokes across Lagos. That was when I started composing my songs in the early 90s.” She said she got hooked to music instead of other forms of art that her people in Edo State are known for because, “Music is a universal medium through which you can send messages to lots of people either through your CDs or at concerts. And I feel good when I look into fans’ eyes and I see excitement. I love making people happy and all these are easier for me through my expressions in music.” Presently, she has performed at numerous shows in Paris, French Cultural Centres and recently at Cotonou, Benin Republic where she has just started a seven-man band that thrills patrons at the French Cultural Centre and other locations. “For me, music is a passion, but I am first and foremost a painter. But now that I am back to Nigeria, I am working on getting my album, an Afro-Jazz beat with heavy percussions out into the local market. If you must know, apart from Anit Franklyn, Houston Whitney for her charisma/voice and Barry White for that baritone voice, my main source of inspiration is Fela Anikulapo kuti. All these I am bringing to the dance

Claire, With Love From Paris

N furtherance of her social entrepreneurship effort, the Fountain of Praise has moved to improve the lives of over 120 orphans and children recently. In October 2012, Fountain of Praise hosted her yearly benefit concert, Worship for Change at The Shell Hall, Muson centrein Lagos. Artistes such as Eben, Wale Adenuga, Freke, Psalmos and Nathaniel Bassey, performed at the concert to raise funds in excess of N3 million. On Thursday, N1.5 million was disbursed to Cerebral Palsy Centre, Surulere founded by Mrs. Nonye Nweke. The centre caters for children with cerebral palsy and the money is expected to resolve property lease fees as well getting resources and tools that will assist in the therapy of the children. Also, Raco Child and Rural Care Initiative founded by Daniel Nwaka got a cheque of N1.5 million to help the construction of a school. The school will cater for 109 poor children in Araromi town, Ibeju Lekki Local Government area of Lagos State.

Princess Unu floor,” she further explained. She said the late Afro beat creator’s selfless lifestyle and relationship with the masses is a source of trength in music. “He understands their needs, so I try to make everybody important in life. So I am trying

to raise the music bar with love from Paris. Our artistes are trying their best, but some of us believe we can do it better. I will say the music scene is huge, which is a credit to the practitioners, but there is something disturbing as everybody does almost the

same beat and rhythm. In the face of that, I have decided to be more creative and original thereby making a difference. That will make my music an evergreen package as we propose to hit the air waves by summer time, precisely by June this year.

Azino, DJ Humility, Others Storm Koga For ‘The Love Jones Edition’ OR many the month of February should be dedicated to Love, but for hip-hop devotees that all may not be going down well like an Olympic silver medal for Usain Bolt –not to worry. Reason is that the definitive purpose-built vehicle for the true blue hip-hop head provides succour with Str8 Up, Hip-hop: The Love Jones Edition.

Fountain Of Praise Funds Charity Homes

So love remains in the air this February as The Love Jones edition is scheduled to hold on Saturday, 23rd Feb, 2013 at Koga Studios, Oregun Road, Ikeja. It will feature the whole nine: magnificent graffiti art display, breath-taking Bboy and emcee battle sessions, moving spoken word by Efe Paul Azino and Toni Payne with superb

DJ Humility and OZ on the wheels. There will also be special guest performances by the Ruthless Vet, Ill Bliss AKA Dat Ibo Boy and Phyno. The recent re-launch edition was a blast for the niche urban monthly networking event for Hip-hop heads and intellectuals with the theme ‘State of the Union Forum’. It had focused critically on the mat-

ters arising from the controversial ‘There Was A Country’ by Chinua Achebe. The “Love Jones Edition” which will be hosted by veteran femcee, Blaise, is a production of Now Muzik En.Core in partnership with Beat 99.9 fm. Str8 Up Hip-hop! Celebrate the art form, live the culture!

Wizkid, Chidinma, Others Dazzle At TopTea Valentine Fiesta AGOS Mainland was brought to standstill doing a freestyle playing his guiter. LFiesta last week when the 3rd Edition of Valentine G.T The Guiterman took up from there held in grand style at Octopus Reand he gave a good account of himself loaded, Yaba. The event which shook the landscape of Lagos mainland to its foundations was witnessed by a mammoth crowd and saw popular and talented acts performing. The event, which kicked of at about 9pm with a colorful red carpet session where different flavours of Top tea where served chilled and hot was anchored by two foremost broadcasters, Dotun (Cool fm) and Gbemi (Beat Fm). Kola Soul, a Soul singer was the first artiste to entertain the audience. He performed to his hit song, Orekelewa and he was applauded endlessly. The Media Manager of Top Tea, Mr Festus Akobundu, officially declared the event open, while Dr. Radio, a fast-rising comedian came on stage after the event had been declared opened to do what he knows how to do best . He gave an entertaining presentation and he got a resounding applause. Next was Nigeria Idol star, Yeka Onka . The pretty dark-complexioned singer thrilled the audience with her silky-smooth voice. After her was , korede Bello . The young act dazzled the audience

thrilling the guests with his mastery of his guiter. He sang a couple of songs and he left the stage for Excellence who added fun to the event by performing to his hit song. Ossai climbed the stage after Excellence and gave a lively performance after which Dammy Krane stormed the stage to send the audience wild with his electrifying performance. He perfomed three songs before Classiq, a new wave-making artiste entertained the crowd. Shortly after that, a comedian, Mc Galaxy thrilled the audience with some rib-cracking jokes. After reeling out his funny jokes , Project Fame star, Chidinma climbed the stage to perform. The event was brought to a higher note when Wizkid came out to perform. He gave a spell-binding performance. Valentine Tea Fiesta is from the stable of Motbensonz , a reputable promotions company owned by Mr Omotoye Benson. The event is sponsored by Top Tea, a product of Promasidor. The firstst edition held in 2011 at D’Place Ikeja, Lagos and it was headlined by World Famous , DJ Jimmy Jatt.

Funke Akindele And Davido To Thrill At LaffMatazz By Tony Nwanne OME Sunday March 31, 2013 at the C upscale Jogor Centre in the heart of Ibadan, Oyo State, fans and associates of the popular comedy brand, Laffmatazz with Gbenga and Friends, will experience the unusual as the duo of Nollywood Actress and Brand Ambassador, Funke Akindele and the Omo Baba Olowo Crooner and HKN Superstar, David Tokunbo Adeleke popularly known as Davido will entertain at this year’s Laffmatazz with Gbenga and Friends. The dynamic and popular duo will lead other stars on stage such as May D, Skales, Dammy Krane, Seyi Shay, Capital Femi, LKT, Jaywon, Seriki, Kayefi,Isaac Geralds, SB, DJ Van Vicki and DJ Sexy. Many fans are already expectant ahead of the event because it would be the first time the duo of Funke Akindele and Davido will share the same stage at any event. The two respected Brand Ambassadors are expected to thrill fans with their wittiness and ecletic music performance at the much anticipated event. The event which already has the blessings of the Oyo State Governor’s wife, Mrs Florence Ajimobi, will also feature performances from comedians such as Seyi Law, Omo Baba number 1, Lepacious Bose, Baba Gboin, Laffup, Obama, Peteru, Shete, Bash and Eteye. Tickets have already gone on sale: N2,000 for regular entry, N3000 for VIP and N60, 000 for VVIP table of 8. The official radio station for the event is Beat FM, Ibadan.

TheGuardian

40| Saturday, February 23, 2013

Conscience, Nurtured by Truth

Travel&Tourism

... Explore, experience the best of destinations!

DESTINATION

Trinidad And Tobago Pledges Transformation Of Abuja Carnival Dr. Hyne Lincoln Douglas is Trinidad and Tobago Minister for Arts and Multiculturalism. In a chat with ANDREW IRO OKUNGBOWA during the 2012 edition of Abuja Carnival, he spoke on the collaboration agenda between Nigeria and his country and what to expect from subsequent editions of Abuja Carnival as his country partners the Ministry of Culture, Tourism and National Orientation in its packaging and other related issues What is the level of the ties between Nigeria and Trinidad and Tobago? RINIDAD has been doing oil and natural gas, oil in particular for over 75 years while gas is a recent development. So we have a long history of a country that is petrol - chemical industry-based. That comes with a number of things. One, it gives you a level of perspective that is so challenging and development-based. Another area that requires serious commitment is culture. It is good for your country to try to move ahead in terms of economic development without forgetting the significance of culture. That is why I am happy to be here with your Minister of Culture, Tourism, and National Orientation, Chief Edem Duke. Because culture is the foundation of a society, it is what gives your people stability. If we don’t make it as we want it to be, we take what other people give to us and that is not beneficial to us. So it is important to have events like carnivals, A scene from the 2012 edition of Abuja Carnival (INSET: A team from Trinidad and Tobago at last year’s Abuja Carnival) that gives us opportunity to see ourselves, revive our cultural heritage in terms of what we want, the Catholic religious calendar. There was a period before lent when you get to enjoy yourself so that the values and symbols that demonstrate our values are reflected in the masquerades and the when the Holy Week starts, you go for confession and get forgiveness. movement of the people. So, it is a combination of letting go of all that and These things are very important, especially when we have diversities and complexities and going into a place where you can now reflect. All one of the differences between Nigeria and us is carnivals reflect much of that in that sense, but the one that I have seen here is more culturally, rethat we are a small country and it is easier to contain everybody in one small space, but when flecting the indigenous sounds, perceptions and you have a huge country like yours, which is di- values of the people and that is a great thing. ...On the various carnival elements vided between north and south, west and east, you need some mechanism for everybody to be … The active participation of people in the aged group, and I love the fact that there were elements able to see each other and accept each other that attracted a lot of people in the older generahence we tend to fight and destroy what we tion and they participated enthusiastically… don’t know about. I saw a lot of men and women participate also enOur culture gives us that opportunity to bring all our people together to see each other and to thusiastically and I thought that was exceptionally commendable. It also has opportunity for each accept each other. In the long run, when you age group -- children, teenagers, youths and the look at it what are the things that give us naelderly. That is something that should be kept. tional pride? It is our sport people and our culI think I like the Durbar event, it made an imprestural people. That is what holds us all together. So I am really honoured to be here to participate sion on me. It is some kind of traditional thing that you don’t see walking about the streets. Their in the carnival and to see the contributions of the various states, the various parts of the coun- performance was so enthusiastic and so vibrant. To me, it just seems like something that came out try, the various ethnic groups and see their culof nowhere, so representative of the people’s tantural values coming forward and preserving Dr. Hyne Lincoln Douglas, Trinidad and Tobago Minister for Arts and Multiculturalism with Chief Edem Duke, Nigeria’s Minister of Culgible and intangible culture that must be prethat as a nation. ture, Tourism and National Orientation served. What is your pereception of the Abuja Carnival? haven’t seen much of those as part of the whole ... On Trinidad and Tobago’s collaboration with changes in Abuja Carniva?l What I have seen has been very impressive to Nigeria We look forward to bringing more of the mu- cultural thing. So I want to see more of literary me, the demonstration of creative abilities, the and visual arts. I think we have focused more We have signed economic and cultural partner- sicians, the popular musicians like calypso use of natural talents, the opportunity for the ship with Nigeria and we are working hard trying and soca, which are our traditional music, and on the performing art and cultural art. Those development of small creative industries that encourage people in the communities, subscrip- to develop some collaboration within Africa and in terms of the cultural performances, we look would be our next frontiers in terms of our culAfricans in The Diaspora. As a matter of fact in Jan- forward to sharing more of those indigenous tural participation and agreement. tion to indigenous tourism that are within the What is your Impression of Nigeria? uary next year (2013) we are expecting a cultural culture kind of arrangement. communities and those things are on display As a minister, I am more focused on literature This is my first time in Nigeria, but I haven’t here and all of those things have been very, very and economic team to visit from Nigeria to continue with the dialogue and negotiations. as well. So we would cover the depth of culture seen Lagos, I came straight to Abuja. Abuja impressive to me and I feel great. seems to be a growing place of course. Before The president of Nigeria and his wife with a con- as a representation of a people, covering all In Trinidad, our carnival has moved over a petingent of over 80 people visited and participated the aspects –— the performing art, the literary coming to Nigeria we have a sort of stereotypiriod of time because we have been doing carnical knowledge of Nigeria. That Nigeria got in our Emancipation celebrations (last year). So, art, cultural art and historical art, intangible val over a long period of time and it is a huge we continue to share those collaborations because and tangible heritage. All of these things have ‘smart people with swags.’ But they tend to be event. But if you trace the carnival you will see it is important for us as Africans in Diaspora and to been taken together and so you have to find very ingenious people who would make things that there is a transition that moved from the happen. We have a huge amount of Nigerian Black people in other countries to touch base with a way of incorporating all of them. very cultural to popular or modern. doctors in our country and most of them are Because it is more a mass of enjoyment and re- Africa for them to see where they come from and I know Nigeria has a great work of literature, doing very well. have a better sense of whom they are. That is very so I will like to see more collaboration along laxation. In fact, the word carnival itself means Your people are welcoming, warm and emsome of the literature and the visual art. I ‘get out of the flesh.’ All carnivals are still tied to important. bracing …. What are some of the areas that we should expect

THE GUARDIAN, Saturday, February 23, 2013

| 41

DIARY

Factory Manager, Nestle Agbara; Swiss Ambassador to Nigeria, Amb. Hans-Rudolf Hodel; Swiss Federal Councilor and Minister of Justice and Police, H.E Simonetta Sommaruga; Chief Executive Officer of Nestle Nigeria, Mr. Martin Kruegel; Counsellor/Deputy Head of Mission, Swiss Embassy, Mrs. Tamara Mona and Swiss Hon.Consul, Chief Marlies Allan, during working visit of the Swiss Councilor, H.E Simonetta Sommaruga, to Nigeria…recently.

Swiss Embassy Attache’, Miss Anna Maria Capul; Ambassador Hans-Rudolf Hondel; Swiss Honourary Consul, Chief Marlies Allan; Swiss Federal Councilor and Minister of Justice and Police, H.E. Simonetta Sommaruga; Members H.E Sommaruga’s delegation from Switzerland, Councilor Deputy Head of Mission, Swiss Embassy,Mrs. Tara Mona, during working visit of the Swiss Councilor, H.E. Simonetta Sommaruga, to Nigeria…recently.

Hon Consul of Switzerland, Chief Marlies Allan and Swiss Federal Councilor and Minister of Justice and Police of Switzerland, H.E. Simonetta Sommaruga during working visit of Sommaruga to Nigeria…recently.

Deputy Country Senior Partner, PwC, Uyi Akpata; Lagos State Accountant General, David Sunmoni; Managing Consultant, Brandsmith Consulting, Akin Ambode and Global Public Finance/Accounting Partner, PwC, Patrice Schumesch, at the conference on Global Accounting and Financial Reporting by Governments held in Brussels, Belgium…recently.

Adam Smith Professorial Chair of Corporate Governance at Cambridge University UK, Prof. Gishan Dissanaike ; Academic Programme Director, Cambridge Judge Business School (CJBS),Harold Chee; President and Chairman of Council, Nigerian Institute of Management (NIM), Dr. Michael Olawale-Cole; CJBS Business Development Director, Afua Osei and NIM Director Capacity Building Sola Obadimu during visit by NIM to the Cambridge University Business School, UK…recently.

Mrs. Olayinka Agunsoye, Lagos State former Commissioner for Health, Dr. Leke Pitan; Bishop of The Trinity Church Council, Rt. Rev. Sunday Oluyemisi Ogunlere; and Mrs. Toyin Onanuga, at the opening ceremony of the 25th Synod of The Trinity Church Council held at the Methodist Church of The Trinity, Tinubu, Lagos... recently.

Principal of James Welsh Grammar School,Barr. Prosper Ezoh; Sir. Benjamin Ogbalor, Rt.Rev. John Aruakpor,Bishop of Oleh Diocese, Dame Lilian Okpako and Arch Deacon of Emevor,Ven.Edogbeji during the inauguration of boards of governing council of three schools in Isoko, Delta State…recently.

President of South-East/South-South Professionals, Emeka Ugwu-Oju; Minister of Mines and Steel Development, Musa Mohammed Sada; Consul General, People’s Republic of China, Liu Xianfa and Executive Director, WEMPCO Group, Lawrence Tung, during the minister’s visit to WEMPCO…recently.

Miss Nkeiruka Ethel Okoro flanked by her father,Dr. Meckson Okoro and mother, Mrs.Gathel Okoro during her graduation from the University of Lagos…recently.

Miss Funmi Lapite, Mr. Damilare Solademi and wife, Bolarinwa with Mrs. Olufunmilayo Okoghenun after the couple’s wedding in Onipanu, Lagos…recently

TheGuardian

42 Saturday,February 23, 2013

Conscience, Nurtured by Truth

Arts&Culture Jos Swims In Theatre Festival By Gregory Austin Nwakunor th

HE 7 Jos Festival of Theatre (JFT) opens today with Wale Ogunyemi’s epic play, T Queen Amina of Zazzau, taking centrestage. Organised by the Jos Repertory Theatre (JRT) since inception in 2004, JFT is the longest surviving independent theatre festival in the country. It has grown in importance and significance, taking into consideration the new plays, new writers and new directors that have been thrown up. Due to the state of insecurity in the city, the 2010 and 2011 editions couldn’t hold, but JRT continued to stage plays in cities across the country. Last year, after the opening show, bomb rocked the city of Jos, which led to scaling down the events. According to the Festival Director, JudePatrick Oteh, the theme of the 2013 festival is Challenge Perceptions. “This theme was arrived at after the series of conflicts in Jos recently. It is hoped that the theatre would provide a platform for discussing some of the issues that plague the city,” he said. Queen Amina of Zazzau, which recently completed a successful run in the nation’s capital, Abuja, tells the story of the legendary Queen of the ancient Empire of Zazzau, her administrative skills, her love for her people, her formidable spirit in war and her love life, which proved to be a ‘tragic flaw’ in her greatness. Tomorrow, February 24, it is the turn of August Wilson’s Jitney. Set in a taxi (jitney) park, it is the story of a father’s bitter disappointment with his son and his inability and unwillingness to forgive his son before his own death. His son had shot and killed his white girlfriend in circumstances that could have been avoided. Vaclav Havel’s Audience will be staged on Monday, February 25. The performance is in collaboration with the Embassy of Czech Republic. It tells the story of life in the former Soviet Republic when workers and neighbours were not sure of who was an agent of the police or the Soviet KGB — Komitet gosudarstvennoy bezopasnosti (Committee for State Security). It will be recalled that Havel was the first President of former Czechoslovakia, and later, the Czech Republic. The story is told through the eyes of Havel’s alter ego, Vanek. Tuesday, February 26, is the performance of Tennessee Williams’ Cat On A Hot Tin Roof. Wednesday, February 27 is the repeat performance of Cat On A Hot Tin Roof — the story of a dysfunctional family, with a very sick patriarch, who meets to possibly share his property, while the man is dying. One of his sons, a lawyer, believes he should be the rightful heir, the son favoured by their father, is an alcoholic, who does not care for anything except his drink. Thursday, February 28 is Femi Osofisan’s Midnight Hotel. It is a metaphor of a sick nation ruined by greed, waste and addictive corruption — it is midnight and the cover of darkness gives room for all sorts of vices and arrangements. Friday, March 1 is the closing ceremony and will feature modern dances and final performance Midnight Hotel. The fiesta was preceded by a pre-festival play, Banana Talks, staged last Sunday. In this play, two characters meet to examine their previous lives and compare these with their present existence. Oteh said the festival would feature workshops in Arts Management, Directing, MakeUp and Salsa dances and training throughout the duration of the festival. All the workshops will hold during the day while the performances will be in the evening from 5pm. The festival will also be introducing the songs of Joy Okeshola. “There would be post performance discussions between the audiences and the cast after each performance for everybody to contribute to the on-going discourse on the city of Jos,” he said. “Two American plays are featuring in the festival as part of the yearly African-American History Month celebrations. It is hoped that the festival will provide answers to the raison d’être why people do the things they do. Above all,

A Scene from the play

the festival will give us the avenue to celebrate ourselves and our work.” He said the festival would continue to be a nurturing ground for new talents for the Nigerian stage. “This year, we are featuring Jumoke Olatubosun as our new director for the Nigerian stage, as she joins Osasogie Efe Guobadia, a graduate of the Nigerian Film Institute and Leonell Echa, a graduate of Theatre Arts from the University of Jos. Guobadia and Echa had their professional debut at the last festival.” The plays for the festival, chosen by a panel, will examine issues ranging from greed, disappointment, cowardice, heroism, selflessness and duty to society. The workshops will provide alternative career prospects for young people and aspiring actors to look deeply into the arts of the theatre as another viable means of work and a further challenge to their talents. The festival will be extended to the nation’s capital, Abuja starting March 8 and for three weekends, there will be performances of plays from Jos, thrilling those who might not be able to come to Jos. ITH the support of the Ford Foundation W and following the dearth of theatre festivals in Nigeria, JRT has funded and hosted the Jos Festival of Theatre (2004), which idea is to feature various plays with as much diversity as possible in five weekends of performances during the months of March/April. The first edition featured four plays and a dance drama including the premiere of Our House, which was part of the British Council’s Connecting Futures programme. Our House successfully toured the UK in 2005. The second Jos Festival of Theatre (2006) was devoted to new plays, new playwrights and new directors and featured the participation of the Glasgow-based Clyde Unity Theatre as well as the participation of Project Phakama, the youth project arm of the London International Festival of Theatre (LIFT). The Repertory Theatre was founded in 1997 as a not-for-profit, independent theatre organisation, which seeks to use the theatre as a means of confronting and challenging crucial issues that affect our daily existence.

Under the artistic directorship of Oteh, who holds a Master of Arts degree, Theatre Arts (2005) from the University of Ibadan, as well as a Master of Arts in International Law and Diplomacy (1990) from the University of Jos, the organisation has engaged in activities ranging from play/poetry readings, production of formal (scripted) plays and the creation of informal (TheatreFor-Development) plays. Backed by experiences from over two decades of theatre practice, having taken part in theatre-related activities in Sierra Leone, Cote d’Ivoire, Kenya, Italy, the United States of America, United Kingdom, the Repertory Theatre has been involved in training programmes for artistes, including amateurs, the creation of Theatre-For-Development plays, which include Valley Cry (2001), with which it toured four states – Plateau, Nasarawa, Niger, Kaduna — and the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja. This was closely followed by Community Call (2002), which also toured the above states and the FCT, Abuja. The Ford Foundation sponsored all of these projects.

Joy Okeshol

e Guobadia

Osasogie Ef

tubosun

Jumoke Ola

THE GUARDIAN, Saturday, February 23, 2013

ARTS

When The Magic Flute Lifted MUSON Festival DOCUMENT By Bayo Ogunyemi ERFORMANCE, appreciation of classical arts music climaxed once again at the Musical Society of Nigeria, MUSON on February 17, 2013. The rare event was the presentation of an Opera buffa (Comique opera), The magic flute, by the MUSON Symphony Orchestral and Choir. A classical period opera written by Austria composer, Wolfgang Amandeus Mozart. The performance was an encore performance. It actually formed part of 2012 festival of the society but had to be reproduced due to popular demand to commence the yearly festival of the Society. In clear attempt at establishing a perfect link with the audience, the production, originally in German was adapted to Nigeria and the general African Culture. It was hilarious and interesting. From the overture, opera singers dressed in African attire, props and set depiction a natural African setting. To further drive home the MUSON’s deliberate desire of domesticating the Opera, the service of a narrator was employed to carefully lead the audience in the story. Although, laudable innovation, indeed, the scholars of music, the conservatives may resent the efforts. The magic flute, a story of love and intrigues. An opera with dialogue, a mixture of allegory, fantasy and pantomime was written around two protagonists, Tamino, Guchi Egbunime and Papageno, John Paul Ochei. Tamino, a handsome prince, who is lost in a distant land was in quest of Pamina, Prisca Enyi accompanied by the bird catcher Papageno. Their quest for Pamina, the daughter of The queen of the Night, Ranti Ihimoyan who was already held captive by Sarastro, Obinna Ifediora, a wicked sorcerer. The queen however gave Tamino the task of delivering her daughter from Sarastro and as a reward he will receive his hands in marriage. There, the intrigues began. Papageno who had also longed for marriage developed interest in taking Pamina. Not only him, Monostatos, John Lucien Eclou, a British officer, whom they met in Sarattro’s castle, suddenly became an interested suitor. The Opera which, believed to have been inspired by Mozart’s interest in freemasonry was a combination of low comedy and high ideals. The libretto, the text of the opera , written by Emmanuel Schikanneder, himself a freemason, can be traced to Jacob August Liebeskind’s which

MUSON Choir was published in christoph Martin Wieland’s collection of fairy tales ‘’Dschinnistan’’ In its original tale, a wicked sorcerer has stolen the daughter of the Queen of Night, who is restored by a prince by magic means. The ordeal of Tamino and Pamina were direct replay of the ceremonials of freemasonry. He also laid the scene of the Opera in Egypt where freemasonry believes its rites originated. In the process of written the music to this Opera, Mozart encountered a little difficulty as the artiste were not equally proficient in the art of singing. While some were actually virtuoso others were ordinary actors who might not possess the skill of Opera singers. He took all these into cognisance and wrote the parts according to each actor’s ability still not losing the basic ingredients of good performance. For instance, Papageno, originally performed by Schikaneder himself and Monastatos were always led in singing by the strings, i.e violin and viola. This enables the amateur singers attain their pitch and remain in tune. Meanwhile, this wasn’t the case for The queen of the night, originally performed by Mozart’s sister in-law who was thoroughly schooled in singing. However, the setting in MUSON on this day,

wasn’t the same. Thomas Kanitz, artistic director of MUSON, put nobody in doubt as to the proficiency of his singers. The night became an occasion for the 25 years old foremost music school, to showcase the best of his graduates and students. Guchi Egbunine, though with a little knowledge of acting, was a distinguished tenor for the night. Calm, confidence and articulate, Guchi was a delight to watch as he glides over his notes and colour them accordingly. His verse experience though, was brilliant. Ranti Ihimoyan, a Chemical Engineer turned singer, remains another colossus for the night. Ranti, a prodigious wide ranged soprano runs wide intervals of octaves with amasement and great comfort. Laide Oyewumi, a first class music graduate from the University of Lagos was another master singer. Maryann Onyebuchi Chiagetu, a mezzo – soprano (ranged between Soprano and contralto) was delightful. Other fantastic singers, who added colour to the night were, Naomi Samuel, Nkiru Andrew, Chuka Ogbuji, franscesca Boyo, Fatima Anyekema, John Lucien Eclou, John Paul Ochei, Obinna Maurice Ifediora, a man with an unbelievable strong and

resonating vocal energy. These young men and women made the experience a memorable one. With their deft singing of aria, duet, trio, quintet they constantly sent the well cultured audience into thunderous applause. Accompanied by a 33 man MUSON Symphony orchestral conducted by Thomas Kanitz and the MUSON choir, directed by renowned musicologist, Emeka Nwokedi, they gave a new experience to classical music performance and rendition in the aristocratic enclave of Ikoyi and environs. Much credit was given to Emeka Nwokedi, who perhaps, contributed in no small measure to the training and development of virtually all the singers that dominated the night. Coupled with effective lightning and amplification of the stage, the spirit of maverick Classical music composer Mozart was literarily exorcised. In the audience for the over two hours duration of singing and acting were Elder statesman Akintola Williams, who actually is the prime mover of the MUSON and a patron, Chief Rasheed Gbadamosi, another member of the board of trustees and an avid music lover. The success of this performance might be posing a greater challenge for the board of MUSON. A repeat performance is scheduled for March 10, 2013 in the same venue. Understandably, Shell recital hall was adapted for use, to accommodate the large turnout, its acoustic remains a serious concern. Not primarily meant to be a theatre, the sitting arrangement was not ideal. The Symphony orchestra, for instance had to locate in the belly of the theatre thereby lost completely in the audience. Suddenly the art music community in Lagos, which for long remained miniature is set to boom, with the new concept of finding means to accommodate the local setting in the performance of great classical works. Not even the smallest member of the audience in the theatre was lost in the story and performance. The synopsis of the place was captured in the brochure. Not only was that, a narrator, Jacob Akindele, on hand to tell the story as the play goes on. It is also noteworthy that the night witnessed more of good singing than acting. The dramatisation of the Opera deserves better attention. Though music is a dominant part of an Opera, the performance still remains a dramatic work. The actors in an Opera are often singing rather than reciting their lines. This can be improved upon in subsequent productions.

Requiem For Bata Dance Master, Ojuade HE transition was indeed dramatic! T “What an exit Daddy,” exclaimed one of his children on his Facebook page. The Bata

Aare Alasa

dance master, orator, culture/Yòrúbá language expert and promoter, Alhaji Fàtáì Oládosù Àdìsá Ojúadé exited last week at the ripe age of 80. He died on Saturday, February16, 2013 at the University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital, Ilorin where he was receiving medical treatment. The eight Fidau prayers come up today at the Central Mosque, Ifétèdó in Osun State. Time is 12 noon. Crowned as Aare Alasa of Ifetedo as a reflection of his cultural and theatrical exploits, Alhaji Ojude lived and died for creative enterprise. He discovered his creative prowess while pursuing his National Certificate in Education (N.C.E.) at the Adéyemí College of Education in 1969. Indeed, his love for the arts was put to test at the college and he narrated how he performed on different occasions projecting the Yorùbá culture through ‘Ewì’ (Poetry), Ìjálá which he performed with Prof. Dibu Ojerinde (the Joint Admission and Matriculations Board’s Registrar). His Troupe’s Career from 1970: Alhaji Ojúadé developed interest in Yorùbá cultural heritage early in life. It was occasioned by his acquaintance with an expert bàtá drummer whose name was Òkunlolá, who occasionally visits Ifétèdó from his home base in Ìbàdàn. He never missed an opportunity to watch his bàtá performance anytime drummer was in town. From listening or merely watching, he graduated to dancing to Òkunlolá’s bàtá drumming anytime he was around. Later, Ojúadé was to groom his own bàtá Master drummer – Late Bádérìnwá Àbèfé Oládosù, a native of Ikirun who was then under the training of Òkunlolá. However, his father (senior Ojúadé) did not cherish the idea of a career in dance for his young son, mostly because of Islamic in-

junctions against dance. But an uncle, Mr. J.A. Gbadebo who saw the boy’s interest, enthusiasm, dancing skills and prowess was instrumental in encouraging and spurring him on. Later, the elder Ojúadé yielded, prayed for his son and even bought him the costume and paraphernalia. In 1970, he formed his dance troupe, built around members of his own family, with a handful of outsiders. He started a troupe consisting of eight drummers and eight dancers that started with him are his daughters, Fausat Ojúadé (Now Mrs. Fausat Ojúdun, a nurse with the General Hospital Ikeja) and Bashirat Folashade Ojúadé (now Mrs. Folasade Muktar-Itai). Later, two of his sons, Mr. Wajeed Ayodeji Ojúade (who works for Exp. Marketing in Lagos) and Dr. Jeleel Olásúnkànmí Ojúade (a Lecturer and Researcher with the Performing Arts Department, University of Ilorin, Nigeria) joined his troupe. In fact, he trained and turned the entire community in Oke-Igbo and Ifetedo to be dancers of repute. The troupe has had an exciting career, which has taken them to a number of continents. The troupe gained prominence as a result of their performance creditably and outstandingly in both the old Western Region Festival of Arts Competitions and those of the Federal Government of Nigeria. In 1970, he won the first place in the Western Region at the grand finale of the National Festival of Arts and Culture at the Liberty Stadium in Ibadan, and was given a prize. This success ensured his participation at the national level in the Festival of Arts and Culture, Festac 77. He was also a guest artiste at ‘Orí Olókun’ in Ilé-Ifè. In 1980, his troupe was invited to participate in a Command Performance for Alhaji Shehu Shagari (former Civilian President of

the Federal Republic of Nigeria) at the Liberty Stadium in Ibadan. The troupe also performed at the ‘royal’ coronation of Prince Okùnadé Síjúwadé on the 6th December, 1980 as the Oòni of Ifè. The highlight of his career came when his troupe was invited in 1982 by the National Theatre of Nigeria in Lagos, to be a part of the Nigerian artistes who would represent Nigeria at the XII Commonwealth Games and Warana Festival in Brisbane, Australia. The troupe was ably represented in the dance, drama titled ‘The Marriage of Princess Sidibe’ written and directed by Edith Uche Enem. The music was directed by Professor Akin Euba. In 1982, the troupe was the guest of two governors- Governor Bólá Ìgè of Òyó State, who invited and took the troupe along as representatives of Òyó State (and perhaps Yorùbá Culture), and Governor Jim Nwobodo of Anambra State was was the general host – The troupe entertained the ‘Progressive Governors’ in their 21st Regular Meeting’ at the State House in Enugu. In 1983, the troupe was invited to represent the country in a cultural exchange visit to the Federal Republic of South Korea. The team performed in three big cities namely Seoul, Pusan and Kwangju. Alhaji Ojúadé entertained Nigerian audience in live performances, on the television and featured severally in radio programmes. He performed for Nigerian Heads of State especially during October 1st (Independence Celebrations) and other state governors. He was invited by Peter Badejo OBE to Birmingham, England in 1993 to take part in the International Summer School tagged ‘Bá mi jó’, where he gave a lecture demonstration on Bàtá and Dùndún dances of the Yorùbá people of Nigeria. He has many awards to his credit.

TheGuardian

44| Saturday, February 23, 2013

Conscience, Nurtured by Truth

Health Natural Health With G. C. Ihesie NAL fistula is an abnormal channel A or duct that develops within the anal cavities through the skin near the anus. Fistulas can appear as holes on the surface of the skin around the anus. In some cases, anal fistula may not be visible on the skin near the anal orifice (anus), but only opens inside the anal cavity. Anal fistula can be very painful and can cause bleeding when moving the bowel. The problem is more common in men, usually between the ages of 20 and 40. Causes of Anal Fistula * An infection and abscess (a painful collection of pus) formed in the rectum – due the perforation or the injury in the perianal skin caused by straining to pass hard and dry stool is the most common cause of fistula. The causes of an anal abscess may also be unknown, especially among the people with immune deficiencies (e.g HIV and AIDS). * Very strong and harsh chemical laxatives, sometimes used in correcting stubborn constipation, have been implicated in anal fistula * In few cases, anal fistulas may be seen as complications in conditions where the intestines become inflamed such as in: Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, irritable bowel syndrome, diverticulitis, growth or ulcer, etc. * Furthermore, there is a small number of cases where anal fistula is caused by sexually transmitted diseases (chlamydia, syphilis, HIV and AIDS), trauma, tuberculosis, cancer of the rectum. The common symptoms of anal fistula include: *Constant reinfection due to the passage of faeces which usually gives rise to recurrent formation of painful abscess that discharges bloody or foul-smelling drainage (or pus) from an opening near

Mobile phone no: 08033065263, E-mail: ihesie84@yahoo.com.

Anal Fistula: Causes, Symptoms And Natural Therapies the anal orifice. The pain and the discormfort may decrease when the abscess is drained. *Irritation and swelling around the anus which gives rise to painful bowel movements and constant anal pain that may be worse when sitting down. *The abscess may give rise to a general feeling of being unwell, general body weakness (fatigue) and a raised body temprature (fever and chills). *There may be loss of weight, loss of appetite, nausea and vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhoea, etc, if the fistula is caused by inflammation of the intestines such as ulcerative colitis, irritable bowel syndrom, etc. Anal fistula is usually diagnosed by a competent health-care provider who will normally look at the medical history, carry out a physical examination in the anal region or perform a digital rectal examination (DRE). Other tests that may help the healthcare provider to establish a definitive fistula diagnosis or to rule out other diseases include: Anal Endosonography (ultrasound scan), Computerised Tomography (CT) Scan, and Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) scan. Natural Therapies Fistula can be healed naturally with changes in diet, oral intake of herbal antibiotics and internal sore-healing herbs and good hygien. Such herbs include: goldenseal, horsetail, horse chestnut and oat straw, Aloe Vera,

lemon juice, onion juice, garlic, cloves, sage and rosemary. External treatments Herbs that have emollient (external wound-healing properties) are usually applied externally as compresses, poultices, or as herbal washes to help in the healing of most of anal problems such as anal fistula, anal fissures and pruritus ani. Such herbs include: Horsetail, Neem (leaves and roots), Resurrection Plant, Chickweed, Onion juice, Aloe Vera gel, etc. Garlic boiled in coconut oil, chickweed and calendula (marigold) ointments or a cream made with vitamin E or vitamin A can be applied topically to help in relieving itching and in healing fistula and fissure. Sitz Bath: This is a bath in which the patient immerses only the buttocks and hips in a suitable washtub or a large plastic tub containing hot or cold water or herbal extract (decoction) which is sufficient to cover the hips up to the umbilicus. The hip bath increases the circulation of blood within the lower abdomen and the pelvic region thereby removing congestion and pain. For the treatment of fistula, the sitz bath is done using any of the following herbs: Mango leaves, Neem leaves, Horsetail, Yarrow and Epson salt. Chronic fistula like chronic fissure may be very difficult to heal due to the recurrent reinfection and the constant forma-

tion of painful abscess arising from passage of faeces. In worse cases, fistula may be treated or be repaired surgically by a method known as Fistulotomy. However, it is important to mention that fistula may reoccur even after fistulotomy in about 21% of cases.

PetLife With Dr.Tunji Nasir N most cultures, the cat is regarded as a Iman prime house pet whose association with dates back to centuries and is infact taken as companion with assigned social responsibility in the household. You may wonder why many have let the gracious animal into their hearts. Variously, many writers have locked horns on the cat’s ability to steal into the household of many famous men and women. In time past, it is simply fashionable to have a cat purring its life away by your feet. And it is still much so. Great men like Sir Winston Churchill and Prime Minister Harold Wilson were known as great cat lovers. The legendary Abraham Lincoln was certainly a cat man. There is also a contentious belief that the cat is the preferred animal for poets and writers. The list is certainly very intimidating. From T.S Eliot, Victor Hugo, Balzac, Picasso, Mark Twain, Olivia Mannings, to Duman and Samuel Butler, James Mason etc- its cats life all the way. Religious leaders have also been recorded in history as great cat men. Mohammed (PBOH) was said to have taken a pair of scissors to cut away the hem of his cloak before standing up rather than disturb his sleeping cat. That was how serious his afffection was for his mousy friend. At this level, let us brew up an arguement. A cursory look at most cat owners in comparison to dog owners who will reveal that a lot of cat owners are highly independent, busy and intelligent people who do not seek affection and admiration from people, but are rather natural show stoppers in their own right. This infact cannot be a coincidence because the animal they adore is said to have bought its independence from man. Rudyard Kipling wrote a story called the cat that walked by itself, telling how the dog and the horse both gave up their independence

Cats And Cats People

in return for food and safety, while the cat made a bargain with man to catch rats and mice for him and to be kind to children. In return, the cat was to receive milk and a place by the fireside but otherwise, he was to remain completely independent of the human race. He has remained independent ever since. The cat is not a park animal like the dog and does not look up to humans for any level of affection. Humans do not seem to understand the needs of the cat. They have their own needs and are infact selfish and independent. The fact is that dogs usually obey orders, but cats simply will not be commanded. Despite this independent streak, the cat is winning more converts, because to be quite honest, urban dogmanship is full of difficulties. Cats are certainly less trouble to handle than dogs and are equally affectionate in their own way. They reqiure less attention and little organized exercise, need no licence (at least for now), are cleaner in their habits, cheaper to feed, do not bark and generally are easy to ambulate with. I am quite certain that we have all heard about the expression of a person living a dog’s life or ‘you this dirty dog’ , but is it a mere coincidence that gorgeous girls are not only know as ladies, dames, broads, birds, dolls, but have also been refered to as pussy cats? Even though this may be provocative, it can infact be delightful (if you know what I mean). The mythical belief in most African homes that the cat communes with spirits in high places is certainly what it is- a myth. However, I belive that the cat has been drawn to this rather derogatory abyss because of its extra-sensory perception and supersensory abilities, which may not have been quite explicable to an ordinary mind. I am sure; we shall deal with this later. My question is, what is so special about cats? Worshipped by ancient Egyptians, feared and hated by Medieval Christians, derided by some societies for unproven mythical beliefs, the cat is arguably a subject of sentiments; so what is really happening?

THE GUARDIAN, Saturday, February 23, 2013

HEALTH INERVIEW 45

HEALTHINTERVIEW

‘You Can Save Yourself from Cervical Cancer’ Dr. Femi Olaleye is the Founder and Medical Director of Optimal Cancer Care Foundation. He spoke with OLAMIDE OLAYIWOLA FADARE on cervical cancer and how it can be tackled or totally eradicated in the country. HAT exactly is cervical cancer?

It is cancer affecting the cervix (the neck of the womb) and it is a common cause of deaths of in Nigeria. In fact, it kills a woman every hour in Nigeria and a total of 56,000 women across Africa annually. Cervical cancer happens when cells in the cervix (situated at the neck of the womb) grow out of control. Before cancer forms, the cells that are on the cervix change and they become abnormal. These abnormal cells grow slowly, over 10 to 15 years in most cases. Who can suffer cervical cancer? Any woman that has had sexual intercourse before is at risk of cervical cancer, irrespective of age of sexual debut. What causes it? Almost all cases of cervical cancer are caused by Human Papilloma Virus (HPV), the commonest sexually transmitted virus all around the world. The virus is acquired by men as young boys and then resides around the genital region as a normal flora without causing any discomfort or illness. However, once the virus is passed on to the woman, it stays within her and with repeated and persistent infection, changes (abnormal cells) start to show on her cervix. The virus can then be easily shared across multiple sexual partners (and this is why it remains the commonest sexually transmitted virus). Majority of these HPV infections will clear over time through the natural immunity of the woman, but a proportion will go on to develop full-blown cancer over time if the abnormal cells are not detected and subsequently removed. What are the symptoms of cervical cancer? In the early stages, cervical cancer may not give the woman any sign or symptom, unless of course, she attends screening test and the disease is detected.. Symptoms include foulsmelling brown discharge from the vagina, often stained with blood, associated with post-coital bleeding (bleeding after sex). Postmenopausal bleeding (bleeding after menopause) can occur in women who had previously stopped menstruation. Difficulty in passing urine and loin pain characterize end-stage complication of blockage of the tubes (ureteric obstruction) and finally, the patient may show symptoms of renal failure – the commonest cause of death of patients suffering from cervical cancer. Why should women be screened for cervical cancer? As a doctor who had previously worked in the UK and had witnessed the efficacy of the NHS cancer screening programme as a lifesaving tool, I absolutely find it unacceptable that millions of Nigerian women are being kept in the dark about scientifically-proven and universally-adopted tools of cancer prevention. Majority of Nigerian women with the HPV infection (associated causal agent of cervical cancer) are at risk of developing fullblown cancer at a later stage in life. And this is the sad situation across several communities and regions in Nigeria where cervical cancer screening programmes have not been instituted. Consequently, scores are dying from cervical cancer every day! These can be stopped through regular screening. Screening women therefore means finding cervical cancer early, at the pre-cancerous phase, thankfully at a stage when the condition can be treated through simple and effective procedures such as excisional biopsy (removal) or freezing of the abnormal cells (cryotherapy). What screening tests are done for cervical cancer? Pap Smear test, also known as cervical cytology and VIA tests are both effective screening tests available to detect pre-cancerous diseases of the cervix. Both are painless and simple tests that can be done for women from about three years after commencement of sexual intercourse till age of 65 years. What is the average cost of screening and treatment? Pap Smear test costs about five times more

Femi

than VIA (depending on where it is done) and it comes with a few challenges that have made it difficult to recommend it as a universal screening tool for a developing country like Nigeria. However, VIA test cost between N1N2,000 and is very effective and sensitive enough to detect the lesions on the cervix. Researchers from all around the world have done studies comparing both VIA and the Pap smear test and they have all come to the same unanimous conclusion that VIA should be adopted in low-resource developing countries as a screening tool, thereby offering members of their female population an opportunity to fight cervical cancer. Cryotherapy treatment at our centre is about N40, 000, including the cost of the 1st dose of HPV vaccine (now available for women and girls from age 10). For women who cannot

afford the cost of treatment, we ask them to apply for subsidy from my Foundation and we go ahead to treat them once we get the funding support from generous donors and sponsors. Does Cryotherapy treatment affect daily life? Cryotherapy is a safe, painless and effective treatment of pre-cancerous lesions of the cervix and there are no long-term side-effects or complications. It takes less than five minutes, and the woman can actually continue her normal daily activities after the procedure. We ask the woman to avoid sex for maximum of two weeks, and avoid the use of tampons and swimming. How often should a woman be screened

As a doctor who had previously worked in the UK and had witnessed the efficacy of the NHS cancer screening programme as a life-saving tool, I absolutely find it unacceptable that millions of Nigerian women are being kept in the dark about scientifically-proven and universally-adopted tools of cancer prevention. Majority of Nigerian women with the HPV infection (associated causal agent of cervical cancer) are at risk of developing full-blown cancer at a later stage in life. And this is the sad situation across several communities and regions in Nigeria where cervical cancer screening programmes have not been instituted. Consequently, scores are dying from cervical cancer every day!

for cervical cancer? Depends on the outcome of the screening. However if the result is negative, we generally ask for it to be repeated in 2 to 3 years, until the age of 65. What can be done to prevent cervical cancer? Screening and vaccination against HPV offer 100% prevention against cervical cancer. The vaccine allows a woman to develop immunity against the HPV, such that it is rendered harmless to the woman, even though she is exposed to it throughout her sexually-active and reproductive life. In developed countries, governments are achieving impressive vaccination rates of their teenage girls, as they want to eradicate the cancer in future generation of mothers. I think this is something parents, schools and health authorities in Nigeria should start thinking about too. We have actually started a few school vaccination programmes in partnership with some private secondary schools in Lagos State. Where can women go for a free cervical cancer screening? We recognize that the normal cost of N2, 000 may be unaffordable for some of our women, so we offer free cancer screening for women (both breast and cervix) every friday (from 10 to 5pm) as part of our commitment to helping Nigerians fight the scourge of cancer at our Foundation’s cancer screening centre – situated at 118 Bode Thomas Street (Opposite Starcomms) in Surulere – Lagos. (Tel 0808 1076646) We also recognize that some women may not be able to physically attend, especially women in the grassroots and market women, so we launched the free cancer screening for market women across Lagos State, where for one day in the week, we take our cancer screening awareness and screening programme to a popular market and screen all the women who turn up free. We are grateful for the endorsement and support of this initiative by Her Excellency, Abimbola Fashola, of Lagos State. We appreciate the support of 7UP Bottling Company Plc for giving us a grant to screen these market women especially at the Ijora Badia market close to their bottling plant at Ijora - Lagos as part of their Corporate Social Responsibility for the community around them. I think this is worthy of emulation by other corporate bodies out there looking for ways to impact positively on their immediate environment. We also appreciate the support of donors and individual supporters, sponsors and volunteers of the Foundation for their donations, support and the time spent volunteering for the Foundation. How equipped is Nigeria in handling cancer cases? We are currently facing a healthcare crisis in cancer care in Nigeria. Our public healthcare facilities are struggling to cope with the challenges of delivering such specialized care within the economic and infrastructural context of our country! It is terrible that thousands of Nigerians are handed a diagnosis of cancer yearly, but care is not available or priced out of their reach. What are the types of cancers that plague people? All the cells of the human body are capable of forming a cancer, with the exception of the hair and fingernails. The risk of developing cancer is actually 1:3 during the lifetime of any individual. The commonest ones afflicting Nigerians are Breast, cervical and prostate cancer (commonest cancer in men – especially men above 50s). In what ways can cancer be reduced to the barest minimum in Nigeria? Through cancer screening and avoidance of known predisposing factors, e.g Vaccination against HPV, avoiding smoking (both primary and secondary smoking), and early detection and availability of cancer treatment centres for prompt diagnosis and effective cancer therapies (curative and palliative) that majority of Nigerians can afford and are geographically accessible to them. How much will it cost to build a comprehensive cancer center? Iam focusing on building a cancer screening and treatment center and I have a budget of less than a N100 million. Am actually working with a group of investors on how we can set up one like that and use it as pilot to convince others that, we can set up others across all the regions of Nigeria. We don’t need to go to Indian for treatment.

46 YourMoney

THE GUARDIAN, Saturday, February 23, 2013

BRANDINTELLIGENCE

With DESMOND EKEH desmondekeh@yahoo.com; 08023215535

Brand Synergy: How Love United Brands At Valentine By Adeshola Ogbodo

HE much anticipated Valentine celebrations have come and gone with the attendant glitz and glamour associated with the period. Just like lovers, brands too had cause to celebrate the day. Boxes of chocolates, sweet smelling roses, perfumes, bottles of wine and other wonderful gift items have been exchanged. Vows have been taken and renewed. Despite the enormous meaning attached to Valentine’s Day, some have criticised its relevance. One of their arguments is that lovers shouldn’t wait until a particular day before their love can be expressed adequately. Despite this argument, the celebration of Valentine is still done with vigor and passion all around the world every year. Here in Nigeria, the Love in the air was indeed palpable. All across the country, people were seen mostly in twos, holding hands, some with boxes of gifts; restaurants were filled to capacity. The colour of love, red, was conspicuous almost everywhere you went. Valentine is certainly a big deal for many Nigerians. Lovers seized the opportunity to restate their commitment to their partners in a very special and wonderful way. Despite the huge attention and activities that heralded the Valentine celebrations, many may not have understood the concept of love, which was celebrated. But for those who had the rare opportunity of witnessing the grand spectacle at the “Love… Like a Movie” musical concert last weekend at the Eko Hotel and Suites, the concept of love took a different dimension and a much deeper meaning. Two brands, Darey Art Alade, the grandmaster of R/B, and Fayrouz, the uniquely different premium soft drink from the stable of Nigerian Breweries Plc took the audience on the thrilling journey of love, the essence of the season. The great spectacle was one that had never been experienced in this part of the world. The strong pre-media attention the concert attracted didn’t give the slightest indication as to what the audience was to expect at the concert. The ambience at the ‘Love...like a movie’ musical concert is best captured by the words of Duke Orsino in William Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night: “If music be the food of love, play on, give me excess of it; that surfeiting, the appetite may sicken, and so die.” In its literal sense, love like we know in the movies or in other literary works, is usually portrayed as the purest kind of love. The type where against all odds, true love always triumphs. It was therefore not out of place when Fayrouz, decided to synergise its brand essence and attributes with the ‘Love… like a movie’ concert. The premium soft drink was served as the cocktail drink for the celebrities that graced the event. The unique synergy – to the applause of the audience - brought the uniqueness of the brand and the concert to the fore. Speaking at the event, Marketing Director,

Nigerian Breweries Plc, Mr. Walter Drenth, disclosed that Fayrouz is a premium and stylish soft drink that often looks out for opportunities to treat its consumers to exciting experiences. “We thought it worthwhile to partner with Darey on this event which is premium, stylish and extra ordinary, values which are associated with Fayrouz. The show has brought a new dimension to the music and entertainment industry in Nigeria. It is a marriage of two different and unconventional brands which has offered maximum satisfaction to consumers and guests.” In her comments, Senior Brand Manager Fayrouz and Climax, Nnenna IfeibighHemeson, said Nigerian Breweries Plc as a corporate brand and Fayrouz, as a product brand, do not get involved in anything that is not unique and impacting. “Fayrouz is different, original and unique; it’s in a class of its own. The same goes for the concert that combines Circque du Soleil theatrics and music to present a different kind of experience in this part of the world. It shares great attributes and values with the Fayrouz brand; that was why we decided to partner Darey on the show. It is indeed a lifelong experience and we are excited to have been part of it,” she said. She added that the event also provided the platform to share the brand’s new innovation with consumers through the introduction of Fayrouz cocktail to offer them a different kind of experience and taste of the brand in another unique way. To ensure that its consumers are not left out, the brand provided consumers the opportunity to witness the show live with platinum tickets to the concert, which were won through a live radio show on UNILAG FM. One of the winners, Oluremi Henix, said: “It is an honour to win the ticket to the biggest concert especially at this time of celebration of love courtesy of the finest and premium drink Fayrouz. I am happy to have witnessed the exciting time and the unique creativity of Darey Art Alade.” Another winner, Ishola Daniel, said: “This is a moment I will live to remember, because Fayrouz has given me an opportunity to meet Nigeria’ biggest stars. Fayrouz is truly sharing love at this time and I say a very big thank you for the experience.” Commenting on the show, the producer, Darey Art Alade, disclosed that they were able to make a new statement that offers music lovers the best of music, art, drama and dance with live performances. He thanked his friends who made appearances—2face, 9ice, Iyanya, Timi Dakolo, Praiz, Waje and others who combined with Circque du Soleil. “These are guys using sand to draw what I am singing. Our normal concept is just to come on stage, either lip-synching or jumping up and down with dancers when the CD

Senior Brand Manager Fayrouz and Climax, Nnenna Ifeibigh-Hemeson (left); Weird MC; and Marketing Manager, Non- Alcoholic, Nigerian Breweries Plc…at the event

Senior Brand Manager Fayrouz and Climax, Nnenna Ifeibigh-Hemeson (centre) flanked by two Valentine ticket winners at event. you would release starts playing; what we have been able to bring to the fore is different and unique,” he added. The show kicked off with the appearance of the much-publicised American reality TV superstar, Kim Kadarshian. Darey was ably backed up by four of Nigeria’s greatest vocalists Banky W, Timi Dakolo, Praiz and Tolu (of the Project Fame season 3). The show also brought to the fore the innova-

tive use of technology such as had never been seen before anywhere in this part of world. The audience watched in amazement as the surprises kept coming. From the beginning to the end of the ‘movie’, the love story continued with different songs including Endless Love, A whole new world and a few others which contributed to the buildup of the story until it was wrapped up with the remix of Asiko, one of Darey’s smash hit songs.

APCON Reforms: Matters Arising By Ntia Usukuma N the last few months, Nigeria’s Ienced advertising industry has experiunprecedented turmoil following the shaky implementation of APCON’s new reforms aimed at curtailing the perceived capitalistic encroachment of foreign agencies. Veterans and former close pals are now pitched against one another in this war of wits. And the worrisome aspect to practitioners is that the entire issue is like a piece of biscuit. Nobody knows the point it will break next. Already, it is reported that Airtel, a leading telecommunication company has pulled out her portfolio of brands from Prima Garnet, a feuding partner, to avoid being hit by any crossfire in the current imbroglio. APCON’s ideological bent which has found expression in the current

rave of protectionism has invariably pitched Mr. Lolu Akinwunmi’s Prima Garnet, against her former partner, Ogilvy Africa over an alleged breach of partnership agreement in allowing into the Nigerian market, Scanad Nigeria, an agency owned by Scan Group, the same group that owns Ogilvy Africa. Indeed, industry observers are monitoring the complex affiliation web, which is the bane of an ensuing litigation. Already, it has been reported that a Lagos High Court has issued an interim injunction, which forbids Scanad from operating in Nigeria until the determination of the suit. APCON and Association of Advertising Agencies of Nigeria (AAAN) have also shown swift and renewed interest to curtail the perceived capitalistic excesses of foreign agencies by speedily reeling out

new reforms meant to be executed promptly. The last press conference held by APCON and its ancillary bodies was indeed a reflection of that determination to tighten their grip on the industry via the new advertising practice reforms. According to the chairman of APCON, Mr. Lolu Akinwunmi, ‘‘APCON in pursuance of its statutory obligations, and within the laws establishing it, and working with its various professional components, has taken a decision to review various parts of the advertising professional practice laws with a view to ensuring that they conform to global standards and compensate local interests.’’ Akinwunmi’s opener clearly states APCON’s commitment to reduce, to its barest minimum, foreign intrusion in the Nigerian advertising industry. However, some practition-

ers have expressed great discomfiture with the frontline posture of APCON’s Chairman, who is also championing the court case against Ogilvy Africa. They feel this can strongly dilute the good intentions of APCON. Commenting on this, a top advertising practitioner in Ikeja, Lagos, who spoke on grounds of anonymity explained that, “most people were expecting the Chairman of APCON to lie low or even step aside in the interim to eliminate any doubt about conflict of interest and in the areas of objectivity and transparency. Anything hazy has the capacity to destroy or distract people from some salient issues APCON has raised in this case. Some people might even think that the angle of litigation is responsible for APCON’s hard line posture. Like other practitioners, I feel this distraction is not the best for

an industry trying to rise up from the economic downturn. Just like the APCON Registrar hinted, the regulatory body should have sorted out this obstacle before it got to this level. We sincerely need a strong mediator to step in and stabilise the situation to avoid further backlash.” Speaking on the litigation between Prima Garnet and Ogilvy Africa, Registrar of APCON, Alhaji Bello Kankarofi, said: “That matter is still in court and we cannot make comments on it”. However, when The Guardian asked the Council the role APCON can play in such a dispute between two agencies, the APCON Head said the Council’s role is strictly advisory. “If both parties approach us before going to court, we can mediate as a regulatory board. But as long as the case is already in court, we are not

THE GUARDIAN, Saturday, February 23, 2013

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THE GUARDIAN, Saturday, February 23, 2013

BRANDNEWS

BRANDINTELLIGENCE

Jumia Unveils Winner of $1,000 Pauline Fredericks Clinches Two Super Eagles’ Triumph A Victory ‘Scream Jumia’ Competition For The Nigerian Nigerian Content Juicy Accounts Fredericks & Co, a agencies. number one online retailer, opened its doors Development, Says Okoye PAULINE creative and strategy driven The NIMC business involves PR NIGERIA’S recently to gentlemen and ladies of the media to present

By Debo Oladimeji

HE Chairman of Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE) Nigerian Content Committee, Engr. Chris Okoye has described the victory of Super Eagles over Burkina Faso in the last African Cup of Nations in South Africa as a victory for the Nigerian content development. Okoye who has on several occasions advocated for the implementation of the Nigerian content in all sectors of the economy said that it is an undeniable fact that a pervasive mentality amongst Nigerians posits foreign management as the most efficacious, depriving the local talent of a chance to contribute in the process. “Our willingness to foist our socio-economic future in foreign hands is an anathema to the very future we seek to ameliorate. Therefore, one must learn from our local-propelled achievement in South Africa and seek to replicate the winning formula of local talent as the driver of economic and social development. “One certainly hopes that the Legislative, Judiciary, and Executive bodies of our government follow suit in affirming the self-evident truth: investing in our people for future growth is an unshakable imperative. “If the foregoing argument strikes some as somewhat quixotic in its appeal, one need look no further than the financial efficacy of cultivating and fostering local talent as the foundation of socioeconomic development. Simply put, a profusion of funds were saved during the AFCON by hiring local hands, and much more funds will be saved if we adhere to the blueprint so expertly executed by the Super Eagles,” he said. According to him it is often reiterated that some of the greatest lessons in life are acquired after the fact. “That is to say, the aftermath of the Super Eagles’ success may very well prove to be the linchpin of future triumphs—provided one is able to sustain our march into a local-driven future. One need only cast their gaze back to the site of, perhaps, our most famous foot balling triumph in the Atlanta Olympics of 1996. The ensuing effort to sustain that unprecedented gold-medal win never materialised, precipitating a collapse in sporting fortunes that was only just overturned this past Sunday,” he said.

firm in Lagos, recently clinched the multi-million naira Public Relations (PR) businesses of financial powerhouse, Ecobank Nigeria and the National Identification Number project of the National Identity Management Commission. In a very competitive pitch that involved several agencies, Pauline Fredericks, led by Omoba ‘Yemi Odusote, emerged the preferred agency by these two organisations, even while the NIMC account was shared amongst two

and Social Media Awareness Campaign across three geopolitical zones of Nigeria, covering 17 states while the Ecobank business shall cover corporate and product brands communication of the bank. The NIMC has saddled the Agency with the responsibility of ensuring effective communication and understanding of the concept of the National Identification Number project and also to drive mass participation during the registration exercise in the regions it covers.

Lanre Adisa Heads Young Lions Creative Jury ANNES Lions representatives in Nigeria, Chini Productions, C organisers of the Young Lions Competition, has announced the make up of the jury to decide which teams will represent

to the public for the first time, the winner of its ‘Scream Jumia’. The online service initiative which is meant to bridge the gap between Nigerian shoppers and products also had the presentation of the $1,000 gift voucher to Mr. Abokede Adebayo, a confidential secretary in Ebonyi State, who emerged winner of the Scream Jumia competition. As part of proceedings of the day, the co-founders of Jumia Nigeria, Raphael Afaedor and Tunde Kehinde gave a presentation titled Jumia: Nigeria’s Number One Online Retailer. According to Raphael Afaedor, “Jumia Nigeria provides the easiest means to meet the needs of customers in the most stress free manner”. He also stated that Jumia is the most trafficked and most capitalised online store with the resources to meet the demands of clients. “Jumia Nigeria has come into the e-commerce business with a view on the very long haul, along with investments from some very strong investors helping to build a business for a future that will see Jumia delivering goods and products to every nook and cranny of Nigeria. So, anyone anywhere can be able to find anything on jumia.com.ng and have them delivered to them at his/her home.”

Nigeria in the Young Lions creative competitions comprising the Young Lions Film Competition, Young Lions Cyber Competition and Young Lions Design Competition. Managing Director of Noah’s Ark Communications, Mr. Lanre Adisa, will act as the jury president. Other members of the team are Anthony Ekun of SO&U Saatchi & Saatchi, Fome Ozuwo of LTC-JWT, Dipo Adesida of Verdant Zeal, Ola Olowu of Insight Communications and Oladipupo Fafunsho of IMS Advertising. The creative jury will be saddled with the responsibility of selecting the best team in each of the three categories to represent Nigeria at the international competition during the 60th Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity in June, this year.

PRCAN Holds Workshop To Develop Manpower In PR HE Public Relations T Consultants Association of Nigeria (PRCAN) has scaled

Super Eagles Chief Coach, Stephen Keshi (left), Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Guinness Nigeria Plc, Seni Adetu; and Second Vice President of the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF), Chief Mike Umeh, at the event.

Campari Unveils 2013 Calendar HE much-anticipated T Campari Calendar 2013 has been unveiled across the world and the 14th edition of this iconic template is used to inspire people to face their fears with optimism and passion. The calendar was first launched in 2000 and it has grown to become a globally celebrated annual event. Each year only 9,999 Calendars are printed across the globe and are not available to purchase – they are gifts for friends of Campari – making it a much sought after piece of work. This year marks the 14th edi-

tion of the Campari Calendar. The calendar showcases Campari’s latest female protagonist in 13 visually stunning shots, as she defies some of the world’s greatest superstitions. Posing in a number of magnificent dresses, the brand heroine has passion and charisma, inspiring confidence as she engages with each mystical scenario. Campari is present in every one of the Calendar’s shots as the leading lady raises a toast to confidence, proving that self-belief is the ultimate pleasure.

Afrinolly Short Film Competition Shortlists 10 Finalists FTER two weeks of screening and pruning, organisers of the A Afrinolly Short Film Competition have announced a shortlist of 10 finalists each in the contest’s Short Film and Documentary categories. An international jury comprising creative experts such as documentary filmmaker, Femi Odugbemi (head of the jury), Tunde Kelani, Emem Isong, Franklin Leonard, Obi Emelonye, Mahen Bonetti, Tolu Ogunlesi, Nmachi Jidenma, Juliet Yaa Asante, Carol Kathurima, and Bongiwe Selane, had the hard task of selecting 20 of the best shorts and documentaries out of over 200 eligible entries. The successful films from Canada, Ghana, Nigeria, South Africa, United States of America, United Kingdom, and Zimbabwe are now online for the public to view and vote for their favourite films. Over 500 entries were received from 14 countries in this initial edition of the Short Film Competition. A pre-selection team was responsible for screening out ineligible submissions like music videos, shorts exceeding the stated time frame and other such entries that were not in compliance with the Afrinolly Short Film Competition rules. The 20 finalists, ten each from the short film and documentary categories, were selected on the basis of the narrative’s imagination and originality, the plot’s ability to attract and retain the viewer’s attention, clarity of purpose and an overall professional impression.

up its Public Relations Masterclass Workshops with the introduction of tiered workshops segmented into three categories to enable focused development of professionals in Public Relations (PR). The PRCAN Masterclass series is a platform for exchange and impartation of theoretical and practical knowledge on various aspects of PR and business communications. The faculty consists mainly of agency heads and similar persons with sound training and vast experience from client, media or other supplier’s side of the business.

PRCAN said it is now introducing programmes at three levels of basic, intermediate and advanced in place of the one-size fits all workshops of the past. Commenting on the workshop, which will began yesterday at the Lagos Sheraton Hotel, Training Coordinator and Secretary General of PRCAN, Muyiwa Akintunde said the segmented programmes were designed to meet practitioners at their point and level of need. Akintunde said the programmes were redesigned in response to feedback from organisations as well as past participants who seek to master the various sub-sets of PR at their level of need.

LG Showers Love On Loyal Customers At Valentine G Electronics gave a treat to some of its consumers in its Lbration. Home Appliance category to mark this year’s valentine celeThe event, which took place at “The Blow Fish”, Victoria Island, Lagos, witnessed customers from all works of life who patronised the brand during its Valentine Promotion which was ongoing for a couple of weeks. Speaking at the event, the General Manager, Home Appliances Division, LG Electronics, Mr. Hyunwoo Jung, said: “As a responsive organisation, we have put together this event to celebrate our loyal customers who have stood by us through thick and thin. They have been a major motivating factor in LG’s quest to continually make available to the Nigerian people “Good Life.” Also speaking at the event, the Managing Director, Fouani Nigeria Limited, Mr. Mohammed Fouani, said: “LG Electronics as a global leader and technology innovator in home appliances has decided to reward its loyal customers in this season of love so as to further strengthen our commitment and buttress “Africa is at the heart of LG.”

Product Marketing Manager, Home Appliances Division, LG Electronics West Africa Operations; Managing Director, Fouani Nigeria Limited, Mr. Mohammed Fouani; LG Customers, Mr. & Mrs. Rotimi Afolayan; and General Manager, Home Appliances Division, LG Electronics West Africa operations, Mr. Hyunwoo Jung, at the event.

Co-founder Jumia Nigeria, Raphael Afaedor (left); Community Manager, Jumia Nigeria, Opeyemi Adetomiwa; Winner, Scream Jumia Competition, Abokede Adebayo; and Co-founder Jumia Nigeria, Tunde Kehinde at the event...recently.

Capetex Bags ‘Best Wall Coating Paint’ Award ARMORAN’S Wall Coating Paints, produced by Capetex M Industries Limited, has been awarded the “Best Wall Coating Paint 2012” by the Institute for Government Research Leadership Technology. The award was presented to the company at a recent ceremony held at the Hotel Presidential, Port Harcourt. Speaking during the awards ceremony, the Chief Executive of the Institute, Ambassador Moses Essien, disclosed that high quality, value, track record, acceptability, affordability, and passed quality tests are some of the key indicators taken into consideration before selecting the paint. He said that Marmoran’s Wall Coating Paints are good for master architectural buildings, private, commercial and industrial use, adding that the paint conforms to global standards in terms of quality. Reacting to the awards, Acting Managing Director of Capetex Industries Limited, Mr. Mudasiru A. Adekunle expressed his appreciation to the institute for recognising Marmoran’s Wall Coating Paint as “the finest paint”. “You can be rest assured that we shall continue to produce high quality products that are first-class and also competitive in the international market,” he said.

Dark and Lovely Mobile Saloon Berths In Lagos Campuses ARK and Lovely AntiD Breakage, the premium hair product from the stable of L’Oreal Nigeria, has continued to engage major stakeholders in its business line as it took the first ever hair treatment mobile saloon to University of Lagos on valentine day. Other tertiary institutions lined up for the Dark and Lovely Anti-Breakage brand activation include College of Education, Ijaniki, Lagos State Polytechnic, Isolo and Ikorodu, Lagos State University, Ojo and Yaba College of Technology, Yaba, amongst several other designated institutions in Lagos. It would be recalled that in 2012, L’Oreal embarked upon pan-Nigeria hair professionals’ activation campaign in Lagos, Aba and Abuja for Dark and Lovely Anti-Breakage,

which proved to be more than successful. Speaking on the consumer’s focus campaign this time, the Head, Education and Training, L’Oreal Nigeria, Mrs. Titilola Igri-Offor said that the brand activation this time is to engage the end-users by offering free hair touch up to students, and enlightening them on benefits of antibreakage product. On whether the campaign will be limited to Lagos, Mrs. Igri-Offor said, “for the schools, we have decided to go to schools in Lagos such UNILAG, YABATECH, College of Education, LASU, Lagos Polytechnic amongst others. Therefore, we will be going to other states of the federation when we are done with Lagos; certainly other locations will be picked but Lagos is the first location.”

TheGuardian

49 Saturday, February 23, 2013

Conscience, Nurtured by Truth

Cover

Jonathan

Dasuki

Ihejirika

Boko Haram: The Dialogue Dilemma By Godwin Ijediogor HE Federal Government appears to be in a T dilemma over whether or not to dialogue with militant Islamist sect, Boko Haram, in its

what I have studied, I do not think there is a faction within the group. “But I do believe there are independent persons or other existing groups who could be as violent as Boko Haram.” In August last year, the northern governors inaugurated a 40-man committee to scout for the leaders of the sect and dialogue with them to bring an end to the insecurity ravaging the region, and by extension the country, a mission many saw as an uphill task. The Presidency had on several occasions contradicted itself over the issue of dialogue with Boko Haram and whether there was an ongoing dialogue between it and the group. At a point, Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, Dr. Reuben Abati, said unlike the conventional negotiations between parties, there was no face-to-face meeting in which government officials and members of the sect sat on opposite sides of a table. But he tacitly admitted that government was focusing on tackling terrorism through back room channels of reaching the members of the Boko Haram sect and through multi-level, constructive interventions. “When government says it is already talking to Boko Haram, the form of that dialogue must be properly understood.

bid to end the spate of insecurity in the country. Conflicting signals from government officials in the last one year give credence to this. The situation has been worsened by the emergence of an obviously more militant splinter group, Ansaru, which has upped the ante lately. Not quite long ago, a man claiming to be second-in-command of Boko Haram, one Sheikh Abdul Aziz, announced a ceasefire at the Borno State Radio and Television (BRTV) conference hall, on the conditions that its arrested members were released and the destroyed mosque of its leader, the late Mohammed Yusuf, is rebuilt. He said: “This ceasefire being announced today is a goodwill message from the Jamaatul Ahlus Sunnah Lid Dawatil wal Jihad (Boko Haram), following series of meetings with government officials and leaders of thought in Borno State.” He added: “I am announcing this ceasefire with the consent and approval of the leader of Boko Haram sect, Sheikh Abubakar Shekau. “We, therefore, call on all our members to stop all acts of violence immediately and await further directives.” But rights activist, Shehu Sani, said: “From my own study of the group, their way of operation and their own strategy and tactics, and their own predisposition to dialogue or talks, I doubt the authenticity of the statement ascribed to Boko Haram. “We all want this violence to come to an end. Terrorism is an abhorrent crime; we cannot continue to function as a country when innocent people and individuals are killed continuously. “But if we want to get out of this problem, we shouldn’t deceive ourselves by taking the path of deception. A genuine dialogue and peace process can only be done through the government and the genuine leadership of that group. “You cannot end violence or achieve peace if you are dealing or talking with the wrong people.” He urged Nigerians to disregard the offer until and unless Shekau makes a categorical statement through the You-Tube or e-mail, saying it is only then that they should take the offer serious. He doubted the existence of factions in Boko Haram, adding: “From what I know and from Abubakar

“I think a lot of people are under the impression that the dialogue involves a situation whereby government officials are sitting on one side, Boko Haram persons are sitting on the other side in an air-conditioned room and there are negotiations across the table. That is not the form of the dialogue. “The form of the dialogue is that back room channels are being used to reach across with the sole objective of understanding what exactly the grievances of these persons are, what exactly can be done to resolve the crises, in the overall best interest of ensuring peace and stability in Nigeria and the security of life and property,” he stated. That was after the group denied engaging in any talks with representatives of the Federal Government. The National Coordinator of Counter-terrorism and Counter-insurgency in the office of the National Security Adviser (NSA), Maj-Gen Sarki Bello (rtd), at the National Defence College in Abuja recently, was reported to have said members of the sect must renounce violence before there can be any dialogue with them. Speaking during a visit by the Capstone Course of the National Defence University in the United States (US), Bello announced the establishment of multinational strategies with Niger,

Chad and Cameroun, following intelligence reports that Boko Haram camps also exit in those countries. He was optimistic that the ceasefire recently declared by the sect would be effective. The following day, last Tuesday, he dismissed reports credited to him that government was ready to offer amnesty to Shekau should he renounce violence. Analysts believe an alleged rift within the leadership of the sect and its inability to achieve its objectives through violent means may have led to its opting for dialogue with the Federal Government. However, former Chief of General Staff (CGS), Commodore Ebitu Ukiwe (rtd), has cautioned against dialoguing with the sect, asserting that considering the type of crimes committed by its members, they were not fit to go into any type of dialogue with the federal government. “If they can drop bombs in worship places, assassinate people, commit suicide bombing, and now they want to talk to somebody. How am I sure that they are not coming with a bomb-laden tommy to talk to you. “My attitude doesn’t go for dialoguing with the man who is bombing.” But the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, believed it would be better for the Federal Government to dialogue with the faction that declared ceasefire, as a means of getting across to the other splinter groups within the sect. He welcomed the ceasefire offer and urged government not to throw away the opportunity with a view to ensuring peace in the polity. The Sultan said no good Muslim or Christian would take up arms to kill another person of different religion and called Boko Haram members to stop using the name of Islam to terrorise. The recent abduction of seven foreigners working for a construction firm in Bauchi State has added more confusion to the menu. Ansaru, which has claimed responsibility for the abduction linked the action with the French intervention in Mali. The attackers used dynamite on a protective wall, killed a security guard and took over the compound, taking away an Italian, a Greek, an Englishman, three Lebanese and a Filipino. Even that has now been aggravated by Tuesday’s abduction of seven members of a French family at Sabongari, about seven kilometres from the northern village of Dabanga, close to the Nigerian border.

THE GUARDIAN, Saturday, February 23, 2013

COVER

‘Boko Haram Members Are From Saxone Akhaine, Kaduna

Leader of Northern Civil Society Coalition, Mallam Shehu Sani, spoke on the controversy trailing on whether the Federal Government should dialogue with the Boko Haram sect or not; the recent cross-border kidnapping and the capture of seven foreign nationals in Nigeria, and other issues of significance. HAT is your assessment of the Federal W Government’s renewed move to negotiate with the Boko Haram or its splinter group? First of all, this issue of negotiation has been raging for a very long time. It has become a recurring issue and confusing, because it is shrouded in a lot of doubt and controversies. The dialogue with the Islamic sect is possible and it is also possible to achieve results, but a good result cannot be achieved until both sides are willing to sit down to talk. What we should ask ourselves is whether the government is ready to honestly sit down and discuss with the insurgents. Those on the side of the sect, can they sit down with government after all attempts at various times in the past failed? I think for us to achieve results, there is need to have an honest programme that is accessible to both sides. Secondly, there is the need to get the commitment that whatsoever is agreed to be implemented, should be established with honesty. These are the things that have been lacking and that is why we have false hopes about having a dialogue, which have not been able to produce a good result. But how can government dialogue with a group that is seemingly faceless? Well, this issue of facelessness has continued to come up, but sometime ago, we took the initiative of facilitating a talk between former President Olusegun Obasanjo and the family of the late leader of the group. I believe that people in Maiduguri, Kano, Yobe and other states that have been experiencing most of this violence cannot say the people are faceless. If they are faceless, they couldn’t have sent and give their approval to Dr. Datti Ahmed to sit down with government and talk. We cannot make any meaningful progress on this issue until we are honest to express our intentions to resolve this problem. A situation where people are profiteering from this violence and what they derive out of it, I think it is something that needs to be looked into. I have said it consistently that security contractors and defence entrepreneurs, with the whole security votes allocated to tackling the problem of this insurgency, are the ones that have continued to negatively impact on the ability of the Nigerian state to have a solution to this problem. So, the problem is sustained by the economics of warfare, and they are not at all faceless. Would negotiation by government with one faction mean acceptance by all those involved in the insurgency facing the country today? And if truce is finally struck with one group, would that translate to truce with all that are involved? What we know for now is that the two names that are prominent, as far as this issue of insurgency is concerned, are Boko Haram, which has been here with us over three years, and also the Ansaru. If we want an end to this problem, we have to do the best we can to end the insurgency with the groups that we know. If we can have an end to Boko Haram insurgency, it would psychologically have an effect in bringing down the violence perpetrated by other groups. This is because, as we have now seen, it is as if we are fighting a main front. If we are able to achieve one, it will have an impact on the other. So much was expected when Col. Sambo Dasuki (rtd) took over as National Security Adviser (NSA), but not much has happened since then. Yet, people are not calling for his head, as they did in the case of the late Gen. Andrew Azazi. Why do you think this is so? Well, to be candid with you, Sambo Dasuki is far better than Azazi in terms of addressing this issue, but he is also incapable of tackling the problem. Comparably, put side-by-side, he is better than

Sani Azazi. In fact, like I always say, Azazi worsened the situation before Sambo took over. When the insurgency was at its infancy, it was a golden opportunity for the late NSA, who did not advise the President properly. However, the security challenge that is facing the country today is beyond the power of an individual to address. When you have a dysfunctional government and leaders that are incapable, what an individual can do is simply complementary. What is clear is that comparatively Sambo Dasuki is better than Azazi, but people are not calling for his head because he is not making the situation to get worse than during Azazi’s time. The very fact that he appears humble is also within the right direction. But the government has not yet taken the right steps, in terms of addressing the fundamental problems. It is still the same approach of selfdeception, use of force and the fact that certain individuals in institutions of government are benefitting from the continuity of this violence. The job of an NSA is to advise and coordinate the activities of security agencies. We know now that the challenge is how to bring the problem to an end. I have always said that if you are very far away from where bombs are

exploding and where gunshots are fired, you will have a range of opinions and options. But if you live with bombs and bullets, you will only have one option, which is doing everything possible to bring the problem to an end. So, Azazi as NSA aggravated the problem by misadvising the President on a number of occasions and scuttling a number of peace efforts by thinking that the use of force could easily bring the problem to an end. He was not in control of the situation and was directly responsible for some of the missteps the government took. How can the President of a country go to a Nuclear Summit in South Korea last year to make a pronouncement that by June that year, the violence would have come to an end, while we have seen the escalation of the violence and the killings more than at any other times since this insurgency began? So, I think Dasuki can only make a difference if this violence is stopped once and for all. But the only problem we continue to have is that there is still violence going on and the wrong approach is continuously been followed and the right channels and persons, who are supposed to help in bringing this problem to an end, are not being patronized. Nigerians would accept nothing, as a positive

Well, this issue of facelessness has continued to come up, but sometime ago, we took the initiative of facilitating a talk between former President Olusegun Obasanjo and the family of the late leader of the group. I believe that people in Maiduguri, Kano, Yobe and other states that have been experiencing most of this violence cannot say the people are faceless. If they are faceless, they couldn’t have sent and given their approval to Dr. Datti Ahmed to sit down with government and talk.

credit, apart from an end to this violence. In an insurgency of this kind, it is either it is brought to an end or nothing else, because even the death of one person is a serious loss and unnecessary. Is negotiating with what some people regard as a terrorist group the best option? If you are faced with this kind of insurgency, there are two things you can do. First is to use force to bring it to an end, and the second is to negotiate to end it. What we should understand clearly is that bringing the problem to an end is what is needed. If they are called terrorists and you have the capacity to crush the terrorism, there is nothing wrong with that. To me, terrorism is a crime against humanity and must not be condoned. Wanton destruction and the taking of lives of other persons by intimidation and harassment are totally wrong. When you take an option and you want to be committed to it, you also have to ensure that you do a lot of balancing. But what we are having now is that we have more innocent persons killed and maimed; we have gross human rights violations perpetuated by security agencies, and we have more crimes committed by security agencies in the name of crushing the insurgency. What we should also understand is that we are in a democracy and a democratic government must balance the security exigencies with the responsibility to protect the rights of Nigerians. I am very much in support of the use of all means necessary. But now, we cannot opt for something that we do not have, that is, the capacity to bring this problem to an end by the use of force. In a situation like this, you can apply force to contain the insurgency and to limit their ability to strike, and also safeguard the lives of other persons. You should also use the carrot approach in reaching out to them. You may not be able to win over all of them, but there are moderates and those that have some possible reasons for getting into such kind of armed struggle for which you can win them over. But now, it is all through deceptions. Some people say we shouldn’t negotiate with terrorists, and if we take such a decision, we must have capacity to end terrorism by the use of force, which we don’t. Has the decision to negotiate with terrorists worked anywhere in the world? Well, you know there are a number of examples where the use of force has been able to crush insurgency, as in Algeria, in the aftermath of the annulment of 1992 elections. We have seen the Islamic Salvation Front, which later became the armed Islamic group, and started an armed insurgency that the state was able to crush with the use of force. We have also seen how the Tamil Tigers in Sri Lanka taking the road of armed insurgency, but were also crushed by the state. But today, we have seen that the government and the rebels of Colombia are sitting down and talking in an insurgency that has been on for 40 years. We have seen how the Taliban and Afghan Government of Hamid Khazai have also sat down to talk. I am of the view that our current problem could be tackled either way, whether through the use of force or through negotiation. There are series of examples that have worked in other parts of the world, and I think we should simply look at the reality of our country, the implications of the steps that we have taken and the need to minimize bloodshed in an attempt to find a solution. Don’t you think the factionalization of Boko Haram is a sign of things becoming complicated and escalating? I still believe that the group being referred to as Ansaru is still the Boko Haram, given that most of the activities/violence going on are being carried out by the Boko Haram. What you should understand is that if there is an Ansarudeen armed movement, it must have a leader who will bring himself out. In an armed insurgency of this kind, when the leader brings his face out, it is the foot soldiers that cover their faces. But we are yet to see anyone claiming to be the leader of Ansaru. Also, the factionalization of an armed insurgency simply worsens the situation, because if you have to deal with one body, you have to deal with so many, which is not good, either from the military angle or from the side of the negotiation. I think if there are clear signs of a faction

THE GUARDIAN, Saturday, February 23, 2013

COVER

Not Faceless’ emerging, the state should quickly move towards resolving the problem with the bigger faction, as this would later have an effect on other new factions to fall in line. Do you think the military is succeeding in containing the situation? Well, if you go to the areas where this violence is taking place, the residents would tell you that they have more fear of security agencies than they have for the insurgents, because for now, the insurgents have actually killed most civilians than they have killed the military, and the military have killed more innocent persons than they have killed the armed groups. There is also a fear on the side of the security agencies as it is on the side of the insurgents. But we should understand that the duties and responsibilities of the agencies that have been deployed is to protect lives and property and contain the insurgents, not to commit human rights violations. I deal with field reports of people whose rights were violated by security agencies in the name of fighting insurgency. For example, we have been receiving calls where people are randomly arrested on suspicion of being insurgents, or their privacy violated by soldiers or policemen raiding their houses in the name of searching for insurgents. There are also people who have been detained beyond the requirements of the law and constitution, molested at checkpoints, or made to undergo dehumanizing checks, all because we are fighting terror. So, we cannot fight insurgency in this kind of way. There is need for a rethink and change in strategy. You cannot win a war against terror by eliminating the people and fighting the people.

Do you then consider the Federal Government weak in curbing insecurity in the country? Rather than say weak, I would say they are virtually confused and impotent and have engaged in taking wrong decisions. When you put all these together, you would see why the insurgency is sustained and we have been unable to find a solution to the problem. As a government, they have the role and constitutional responsibilities to protect lives and properties, but it is very clear that Nigeria has never been so insecure and Nigerians have never been so vulnerable, nor has the country been so unsafe in its history. So, I think all the measures government has taken have never been able to address the challenge. Under these prevailing circumstances, what would you say on the recent cross-border kidnapping of seven foreigners recently? The kidnap of foreigners is a new dimension to the insurgency that is going on. It could be linked to perhaps the event in Mali or the fact that the insurgents are desperate to attract more international attention to themselves and put the government at a very tight corner. Kidnapping of foreigners is an appalling crime, a serious disaster and tragedy to our country. It gives the Northern part of Nigeria a very bad name and puts our country on a negative spotlight of the world. For every Westerner that is kidnapped, it is our image that is tarnished; it is our country that is condemned and considered unsafe. Kidnapping Westerners would not bring about an Islamic state in Nigeria; it would not lead to the realization of the demands of the insurgents. It would not in any way help the North as a region.

‘Some People Are Using Boko Haram To Defraud Nigeria’

The North needs experts from the other parts of the world to help develop our economy and raise the standard of living of our people and help realize the dreams of our children. We should not condone the kidnapping of foreigners, hoping that it would advance any

lenges in Nigeria, what will you include in the proposal? The Centre for Criminal Justice Reform and Awareness of Nigeria had an international summit on global terrorism at the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs (NIIA) in November 2011. During the summit, we made a wide range of submissions to the government, pointing out the way forward. I was the convener of the conference. I had written to President Goodluck Jonathan directly. I had also written to the Secretary to The Federal Government, and the National Security Adviser (NSA). I said in concrete terms that I had, and I still have, a good idea of what can be done to contain the oncoming terrorism scourge in Nigeria. But you don’t expect me to say that on the pages of newspapers. In fairness to the president, he directed the NSA to sit down with me and work out some plans. But you see, the president is the chief security

Dr. Paul Obianaso, a security and counter terrorism expert in this interview with AJIBOLA AMZAT, spoke on the Federal Government’s decision to negotiate only with the credible leader of Boko Haram and other topical issues. HAT is your view on the decision by the Federal W Government to negotiate with Boko Haram group on the condition that they present their credible leaders? It is an exercise in futility. Before the re-emergence of Boko Haram in the last three years or so with criminal impetus of killing and maiming innocent citizens which have taken over the whole country, especially the Northern part of the country, the government has not really done a good job by telling us the people behind it. It is all encapsulated in political posturing. What I suspect is that some people have found a new opportunity to defraud the government and the Nigerian people. Is it not the same Boko Haram who said they have put up a ceasefire, and the next day, they continued their killings? They killed doctors and nurses administering polio vaccines in Kano State recently. So government is not serious. And the promoters of Boko Haram have said it to everybody who cares to listen that they have superior intelligence. They are in the Police, the Army, the Navy, the Air Force and even the Presidency. No one should think that they are making empty boast. If you see some of the attacks they have carried out, you will know that it will be a mission impossible without a functional insider. They operate from the position of authority. Nigeria is not just at a crossroad, but our leaders are closer to committing class suicide. This is the only country where nothing is learnt from the past. People just wake up, do whatever that catches their fancy, repeat their follies and play politics with national security. This is a country where, in the administration of security, politics is number one. If you offer your service to Algeria, Libya, Egypt, America or Britain as a security expert who is capable of providing solutions to their problems, they will give you a chance to prove yourself. They will not stop at that, they will also give you all the necessary support to succeed if they find out that you are indeed a better hand. Look at Alan Greenspan, the former Chairman of the Federal Reserve Bank of the United States, he was a Republican, yet President Bill Clinton retained him as the Chairman of the bank. If you were asked to put up a proposal to address security chal-

Sani

Obianaso

course. It is also a clear sign to the world that the North needs economic intervention and support to revive our industries, empower our people, resolve the issue of those who taking the road of violence, and also make the region safe.

officer of the country. Are you saying that there are subversive elements in government? Yes, the entire security system is compromised. We don’t even know how badly things have gotten here. Book Haram is just an umbrella word for a particular group. In the South East, some parts of the South West and in the Niger Delta, you can buy guns at the bus stop or at the motor park. Kidnapping is no longer a crime for the big boys. There are some places you go to in Owerri, or Aba, Port Harcourt where people are kidnapped on a daily basis and they are released after the payment of N2, 500 recharge card. I can tell you that the country is approaching what can be called a criminogenic state. When an environment has become criminogenic, there is a preponderance of crime over all other activities. Look at the issue of the 30 young men butchered and thrown into the river, and the governor was offering N5 million. So the lives of 30 young men are worth only N5 million? Even if they are robbers or kidnappers, which court ordered for their execution in such manner? So when there is an action, there must be a reaction. I predict that it would not be too long before kidnappers or robbers, gather government people, kill them in a similar manner and drop them in the river. The government is not serious about the security. So there is urgent need for negotiation between government and Boko Haram? Whatever I have proposed to government I have not seen it happen. I think the government is playing politics with Boko Haram, while innocent lives are being wasted on the streets. Government is actually preparing for a final breakdown of the law and order. A government that is not preparing for anarchy cannot be politicizing everything. If you have toothache, will you go for chisel or consult a carpenter? Nigeria is a terribly sick country lying comatose in the workshop of crude carpenters from different parts of the country. What do you consider as the way out of the problem? The media should be more serious in alerting the government and the people of Nigeria of the dangers that Boko Haram portends for the country. From what I have seen, this level of terror is just a tip of the iceberg. Boko Haram is getting to a point where Army and Police will attack each other. The thing is going to degenerate, because the entire security agency is sensitized towards military direction. Have you seen the report of the attack in Jaji? The report concludes that the Commandant of Jaji was part and parcel of the Boko Haram people that came to bomb Jaji. He knew they were coming. He was told, he was not even happy that some people survived. And he is a Major General. That was the same crime that General Bisalla and Suka Buka Dimka committed. But today, there are senior officers across the board who are not only supporting Boko Haram, but are funding them. And Jonathan had also said his government has been infiltrated by Boko Haram members, even up to the Presidency.

Is it not the same Boko Haram who said they have put up a ceasefire, and the next day, they continued their killings? They killed doctors and nurses administering polio vaccines in Kano State recently. So government is not serious. And the promoters of Boko Haram have said it to everybody who cares to listen that they have superior intelligence. They are in the Police, the Army, the Navy, the Air Force and even the Presidency. No one should think that they are making empty boast. If you see some of the attacks they have carried out, you will know that it will be a mission impossible without a functional insider.

TheGuardian

52| Saturday, February 23, 2013

Conscience, Nurtured by Truth

Politics We Came In To Save APGA, Says Okwu Former National Chairman of the Citizen Popular Party (CPP) and onetime national Deputy chairman (South) of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), now interim national chairman of the party, spoke on his emergence and its legality and what happened in the past, with a strong conviction that the party would rise again. By Godwin Ijediogor and Samson Ezea ANY of us were surprised with your choice as the Interim National Chairman of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), following the removal of Chief Victor Umeh from office by the Enugu State High Court, even when you have your own party? I didn’t found any party; the last party, which I was the National Chairman, was Citizen Popular Party (CPP), which was initially registered as Green Party in 2002 by Chief Olisa Agbakoba (SAN). When he stepped down in 2005, I took over the party and change its name to CPP and organised its first national convention. I thought then that it was going to be a very short tenure, because I believe I was on sabbatical, waiting for APGA crisis to blow over. But it didn’t; it lingered. Somehow, by dint of fortune, I am back to the party- APGA. There was reconciliation among myself, Anambra State Governor Peter Obi and Chief Victor Umeh in Los Angeles, United States (US) at World Igbo Congress. It was packaged by JSP Nwokolo and since then, I have been helpful to APGA. It could be recall that in September 2009, just as Chief Chekwas Okorie was busy expelling Obi and Umeh from the party in Abuja, we were at Awka adopting Obi as consensus candidate for Anambra 2010 governorship election. At the reconciliation meeting, a number of agreements were reached, and I challenged Umeh to deny it. Well, I am back and my mission is reconciliation and re-integration of all our estranged and aggrieved members into the party. So, you have left the CPP? No, we are cooperating. On Wednesday at Protea Hotel in Lagos, eight political parties adopted my leadership of APGA and promised to work with me to reposition the opposition parties. Did the judgment of the Enugu State High Court that removed Umeh as the party’s national chairman recognise or empower you to emerge as the interim national chairman of the party? That judgment made APGA a party without any leadership, officially. That is why we have come in, by way of transition and doctrine of necessity, because the party cannot be rudderless. Don’t quote for me any constitution, because I am a lawyer of 36 years experience, so I know the party constitution front and back, because I packaged it. The party cannot be kept hanging; it has to move forward. Umeh’s removal cannot kill the party. Of the four ex-officio of the party, which include Obi and his Deputy, and Imo State Governor Rochas Okorocha and hid Deputy, it is only Obi and his Deputy that are remaining, since Okorocha has joined APC. So, Obi has the power to summon a meeting and appoint new leadership, on interim basis, to steer the party and conduct fresh national convention to elect new officers. Is it what the constitution of the party says? It is not expressly stated in the party’s constitution, but as a lawyer, I know that if the party is decapitated and there is no provision on what to do in such situation in the party constitution, won’t we use doctrine of necessity to save the party? It happened in the country and the National Assembly used it to save the country from anarchy. It is a legal concept used to remedy situations when there are no other legal options. Are you saying your emergence as interim national chairman is legal? The Doctrine of Necessity is known by all

Okwu

Nigerians and beyond. There is emergence situation in APGA now that needs to be addressed and that is what we are doing now. What do we do, just surrender? No, it is not possible. Do you think APGA will rise again, with all these crises? APGA will rise again, stronger and better. What do you think is the electoral value of APGA today? APGA has so much potential out there, which has not been properly harnessed. I was there in 2002 and know how popular the party was and the followership it commanded, especially in Southeast zone. I was the late Dim Odumegwu Chekwuemeka Ojukwu’s campaign manager in the 2003 presidential election, so I know everything that happened in the party. The intra-party squabble affected the party so much, because it lingered for so long. I intend to take the party’s stakeholders along to go and apologise to Okorie for the wrongdoing. Having said so, we shall harvest and harness the goodwill. The same APGA has been in government in Anambra State for years now but has not been in

total control of the government, in terms of electoral value? APGA is in control of the state House of Assembly, because they are in the majority. There are members of APGA in the National Assembly. Obi allows things to prevail, according people’s choice and will. But in other states, the governors would be desperate to have their way by all means. So, there is great difference between Obi and others, in terms of approach to politics. What were the major issues that determined your choice to head the interim leadership? The issues are many and consequential. In the press release by Umeh and others announcing the expulsion of Okorie, my name was not there. I said no, that due process was not followed in the expulsion and I challenged Umeh to dispute it. Because I refused to betray Okorie, Umeh went and added my name a month later. I rejoined the party late last year and I am a duly registered member of the party. Before then, I had given up my chairmanship of CPP and I wrote a letter to the Independent national Electoral Commission (INEC) to the effect. I was never part of the crises in APGA. I have always canvassed for due process, which did not go down with Umeh and his allies. I told them that as Deputy National Chairman

That judgment made APGA a party without any leadership, officially. That is why we have come in, by way of transition and doctrine of necessity, because the party cannot be rudderless.

(South) of the party, I was supposed to take over from Okorie. Was your rejoining APGA in anticipation of this development? Yes, I was met by the key party stakeholders who appealed to me to return to the party for rebuilding and restructuring of the party, and I accepted the request and returned. But were you aware that you would be chosen as interim national chairman upon return? It does seem that the plan was already in the pipeline, but I was not aware until I was called upon to take the responsibility. But the same Obi, who seemingly aligned with Umeh over the years, reached out to you. Was it something you accepted easily? I have been cooperating with APGA over the years and there had been some forms of understanding. So, it was not difficult for me to accept. When the struggle for the restructuring of the party started in Ojukwu’s house in Enugu, Umeh offered me a seat in the Board of Trustees (BoT), but I told him that I was not yet ready to retire from politics, because I have plans to contest election in my state (Enugu) in 2015. At that time, he did not raise the issue that I was expelled. The level of attention and contact I am getting now is a good sign of good things to come. With so much backstabbing in APGA, don’t you fear a repeat of the past? If I push my three Rs, which means Re-integration, Re-approach and Reconciliation diligently, it will reduce drastically. It is healthy for party politics, but it is all about control of the party structure and being openminded and sincere in your approach to issues that affect members of the party. I am not going to bear grudges against anybody; I will continue to reach out to Umeh, even if he avoids me. He is my brother and I have no personal grudges against him and will not have any. Are you not afraid of being used and dumped? I am not looking for anything and I know where I am going. Nobody will use me and dump me, because I am not a hungry man. I want to contest election in Enugu State in 2015, not for mere contesting, but to win. I want to be in contention. At what point do you part ways with Okorie? The issue of Obi’s mandate and some discussion with the governor of Anambra State, Dr. Chris Ngige, which I was not in support and part of. I told him that I was leaving the party for good. The non-conduct of council election is a sticking point in Anambra politics that could count against APGA in any election. How are you going to tackle this? I met one of the electoral commissioners recently, who assured that by June this year, there would be council elections. I hope there will be council elections in the state this year. APGA was doing well at time, how are you going to bring back the good old days and make it viable once more? I will reconcile, re-integrate and re-approach. We are going on massive rally and we will do everything possible to bring back our original and foundation members, even if it means kneeling down for them. What is your position on APGA being part of the All Progressive Congress (APC)? APGA is not in APC; even Umeh has made it clear. Powerful individuals in the party can go anywhere they like, but it is wrong, in terms of party discipline, and at the appropriate time, punishment will be meted out to erring members. INEC has said officially that they did not recognise Umeh, whereas he is going about claiming to still be APGA’s national chairman. Do you believe that Obi is a PDP man in APGA, as being insinuated? It is labeling. Obi has not changed political party since he won election on APGA platform in 2003. He is the face of APGA and has consistently promoted and supported the party. Right now, as an interim chairman, he is behind me. APGA is now viable, as others people from all the political parties have been trooping to APGA.

THE GUARDIAN, Saturday, February 23, 2013

ISSUES AND POLITICS

Calling A Spade By Its Name By Sampson Orji

ANY do not fully understand the M unique and complex background from which Abia State recently emerged. Hitherto, it was a failed state in every sense of the word. For eight years, it remained under the stranglehold of demagoguery; it was a regime that was noted for its inconsistencies in words and actions. But, my task here is to draw a parellel between the erstwhile regime and the present one for purposes of clarity. To

begin with, I d o not agree that the yardstick to measure good governance in Abia State today is one offered by former Governor Orji Uzor Kalu. Because, really, Chief Kalu is guiltier of this charge! In one instance, the former governor accused his successor of and his children of ‘amassing so much wealth’ and went ahead to query the incumbent’s ‘source of wealth.’ But, the question is: what do Governor Theodore A. Orji and his children have that a governor can’t legitimately afford? Now, compare that with the former governor who had an airline, a bank in Gambia and two ocean-liners, among others, as a sitting governor. For the avoidance of doubt, these are two extremes, with a marked difference in perception, emphasis, objectives, values and priority. A person’s true greatness does not fully surface until he vacates the scene; otherwise, the private and public life of the present governor would bear true of an ancient injunction that ‘honour be given to whom it is due.’ It insults the sensibilities of Abians to read Kalu trying unsuccessfully to inflict dent on the character and integrity of Orji. Is it Orji’s that Kalu practically frittered away eight years on the altar of glamour and ostentation and embraced actions that were not exactly in sync with the objectives and logic of collective development? Contrariwise, the conscientious, considerate spirit with which Orji has marked his dealings with people has earned him the respect and admiration of people, like me, and we are in the greater majority of

Abians have been “liberated” and we have no apologies to anybody. We rather have vowed to remain grateful to God for his infinite wisdom and mercy that saw to the emergence of Orji, who came in the caste of Moses- serving in the court of the Pharaohs to receive the requisite training for the arduous task of liberation the Abia populace. He has, by consistent moral uprightness, struck a note on the imperatives of selfless service to Abians, considering public good greater than his personal convenience, a clear departure from what it was in the recent past. According to Chief Melford Okilo: ‘Honour is the practice of right actions.’ This statement bears true of the character and person of Theodore Orji, who diligently served Kalu for eight years, being a career civil servant at the time. No amount of propaganda can impugn the reputation of Governor Orji, or any member of his family, in the eyes of Abians, because what stands sure behind Orji is priceless and timeless. It is beyond the mundane and radiates transcendent value. It is the beauty of his humble, but firm spirit, which daily seeks to practice right actions in service to humanity and worship of God. Sorry, it differs from the prestige conferred by wealth and the material privileges bestowed by class that hallmarked the era of the former governor. Abians have been “liberated” and we have no apologies to anybody. We rather have vowed to remain grateful to God for his infinite wisdom and mercy that saw to the emergence of Orji, who came in the

caste of Moses- serving in the court of the Pharaohs to receive the requisite training for the arduous task of liberation. It is history replayed in Abia. Just as Moses endured the stench of injustice against his people until the appointed time, Orji felt the impact first hand and emerged, against all odds, to fit the man God required for the job. He has never failed to inform all who care to hear that he did not perform this feat by sheer strength or sophistication of his own, but by the divine mandate entrusted on him by God. For me, it is the freedom of speech and after the speech, the restoration of the dignity of all Abia politicians to operate without fear that makes all the difference. The provision of infrastructure by Orji’s administration, which is verifiably litters the state, becomes secondary. The Arab Spring is a testimony that freedom is a basic need of all humans, irrespective of creed or race. If all these are acknowledged, I would need to know what else makes Kalu’s definition of good governance, and let all who love justice and freedom say ‘Amen.’ -Orji, a former member of the Abia State House of Assembly, is the Commissioner for Commerce and Industry

To The Distinguished, Intrepid Orji Uzor Kalu, A Salute By Jackson Nwadike APPRECIATE and adore you as a special genius, an intelligent and shrewd businessman of international repute and a fearless and famous grassroot political leader who fears no battle or foe. In fact, you are the intrepid commander of the progressive forces of Nigerian politics. I salute you. Since your grand entry into the Nigeria political scene in 1992 as a vibrant Member of House of Reps, you have successfully changed the face of politics especially in the Southeast. This explains why you were able to make T.A. Orji, Abia State Governor in the April 2007 polls even while he was in the custody of EFCC. You really made history then. So, it is right to say you are a political giant, the Iroko, the sturdy tree specie of Nigerian politics. To be candid, if there is only one characteristic that defines you, it is your resolute commitment to and defence of truth and principle no matter the price to be paid. I really admire and respect you as an enigma, a man of unwavering courage and determination who is bold enough to tell truth to power. In fact, you are bold, strong and reliable in the just fight against malevolent people in power and scoundrels in high places. Enterprising, frank and fearless OUK, thank God, you are finally back to PDP, the house you labored to build from the foundation together with some other committed party members. Shame on your detractors, the ingrates, traitors, turncoats, unscrupulous people who can sell their birthright for a few naira notes. All those pained, all those furious that you are now back to PDP are free to decamp to another party, if they wish. All those who are fighting against you out of

To be candid, if there is only one characteristic that defines you, it is your resolute commitment to and defence of truth and principle no matter the price to be paid. I really admire and respect you as an enigma, a man of unwavering courage and determination who is bold enough to tell truth to power. In fact, you are bold, strong and reliable in the just fight against malevolent people in power and scoundrels in high places. malice shall stumble and fall; their plot against you cannot succeed. No weapon by whatever name called, fashioned or formed against you by your detractors shall prevail and every evil tongue that rises against you in judgment shall be condemned outright. The LORD will cause your enemies who rise against you to be disgraced, defeated before you; they shall come out against you one way and run helter-skelter before you in seven ways. No evil plot against you by your foes shall succeed; indeed, your adversaries will never rejoice over you. By God’s special grace, your foes will sooner or later fade like the grass and whither like the green herb. Surely the LORD will bring your vindication as the light and your right as the noonday. I wish you all the best.

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THE GUARDIAN, Saturday, February 23, 2013

POLITICS By Onyedika Agbedo OR Austin Ighohwo Majajah, a Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) stalwart and chairman of the party in Overijssel, Holland, the recent merger of four opposition parties in the country to form the All Progressives Congress (APC), as a strategy to wrestle power from the PDP in the 2015 general elections, will not deflate the fortunes of the ruling party in the elections. Majajah believed PDP’s chances to remain in the driving seat “still remains bright,” adding: “The APC, which they called mega party, is no threat to our party. We are still expecting to see who and what makes it mega, but for now, it is not different from the existing opposition parties that are even mostly controlled by PDP members who took temporary exist. “However, our party is also strategising to meet future exigencies and I can tell you that both the tangible and intangible noble achievements of the present administration would have become more glaring by 2015 to shoot the party far beyond the general elections.” He noted that President Goodluck Jonathan has a lot of positive plans for the country and urged Nigerians to continue to support the administration. Majajah stated: “The transformation agenda of the government is very laudable. The seeming willingness of the President to building lasting institutions, rather than individuals in governance, is attractive. “This will not only deepen democracy, but will also accelerate development possibilities. The vibrancy of the legislature and the judiciary could only have been made possible with a non-interference posture of the present administration. “The renewed government’s interest in the agricultural sector is also heart warming, as are the resumption of the rail transportation in certain parts of the country, which is very efficient for bulk haulage and takes away pressure from the road. “The government’s decision to free resources in certain areas, especially in the oil sector, and plough same into other areas that need critical intervention is very apt. “So, all in all, the PDP government has not been a disappointing one so far; it has been cumulatively impressive,” he said. He added: “It is no longer news

‘Merger: PDP Remains The Party To Beat In 2015’ that Nigeria has, once again, gained its place of pride in the comity of nations. There is also less intolerance in the political arena and there is a noticeable culture of independence amongst the various arms of government in the country today. “The inflation figures are showing decline and the economy has recorded some growth with huge inflow of foreign investments into the country. “I have seen committed infrastructural regeneration ongoing. I have also learnt of a harvest of power generation coming up by the end of the year. I think this will further stimulate the economy, especially the manufacturing sector, whose capacity utilisation has also increased. “Nigerians need to be a little more patient for some of these things to mature fully and come on stream.” He, however, stressed the need for further investment in the agricultural sector, which employs over 60 per cent of the country’s population, re-training of our youths through certification to make them globally competitive, as well as a foray into solid mineral exploitation. On the level of insecurity in the country and whether it discourages Nigerians in the Diaspora from investing at home, Majajah noted that there is no country of the world without security challenges and urged Nigerians to cooperate with the security agencies to secure lives and property. He stated: “Every country has one security challenge or the other and Nigeria is not an exemption. The Nigeria Ambassador to the Netherlands has been very effective in situating what is happening in Nigeria to us. We also visit home. “So, we know that these security problems are localised. Some of us also know that the security breaches are neither a result of social dislocations nor creation of the present administration, but rather acts of local terror groups. “Therefore, since we have learnt of

Majajah government’s concerted efforts in tackling both social dislocation problems through ancillary service delivery and a coordinated security strategy to isolate the local terror groups, we are not discouraged, as

such. “Security challenges everywhere require the collaborative efforts of all, especially regarding information and intelligence gathering. The local terrorist groups do not live in

the air; so if Nigerians begin to show more commitment and cooperation by giving information about these people, such social vices will soon be history.” Majajah said cases of corruption in high places without speedy and adequate prosecution and conviction could be tackled with effective collaboration of the different arms of government. “Corruption as you know in any given country is not easily defeated because of entrenched vested interests. The executive arm alone cannot arraign, prosecute and make convictions. So, it beholds on all arms of government, the security outfits and all persons of goodwill to contribute and collaborate in the fight against corruption. “I have heard of the introduction of performance bond by this administration for officials, perhaps to ginger or evaluate performance, reduce waste and streamline indiscipline. These are commendable and novel approach to governance. “So, I would say this administration has laid down a good precedent in the fight against corruption. I am hoping that with time and as we institutionalise the process with a sustained and reciprocating support from relevant organs of government and the citizenry, the fight will be more assuring, with more results,” he said. Majajah threw his weight behind the demand for the introduction of electronic voting to enable Nigerians in the Diaspora vote during election. “We are Nigerians only living in the Diaspora. It will be nice for franchise to be extended to us by way of electronic voting to enable us participate in the election of leaders of our fatherland, after all, we meet our customary obligation to families through repatriations, thereby also contributing to the economy,” he argued.

Isoko Politicians Visit Constituents, Promise More Amenities By Sony Neme N most South-South states, the era when Iforpoliticians were seen only during campaigns electoral votes and disappear until another election time seems to be taking a back seat, as politicians, to remain relevant and in touch with their constituents have made interacting with them regular. It was in that the leadership of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Isoko North Council

chapter, including Ovuozourie Macaulay, Secretary to the Delta State Government (SSG), James Manager, Chairman of the Senate Committee on the Niger Delta; and Leo Ogor, Deputy Majority Leader of the House of Representatives; Tim Owhefere, member representing Isoko North in the state House of Assembly; and Patrick Ferife, Commissioner for Land and Survey, recently embarked on a “Thank You Tour” of the 13 wards in the area. For some political analysts it was distinct for

Senator James Manager and other government officials during the visit

many reasons. For Macaulay, this affirms the positive changes in the political climate; an emergence of an opportunity for the electorate to interact with the leaders. He added: “The politicians, ever since, have been some invisible and “too busy” individuals that would not be seen. Not anymore! This visit afforded the people the opportunity of seeing their leaders physically and the leaders meeting with the elders in the community as well. “The visit, more than anything else, is an affirmation of our cultural bond. For the first time, elected and appointed politicians, found time out to visit the electorate after election and when elections are not near yet. It is heartwarming for the natives. “The most significant observation throughout the visit reveals that Isoko North is fully united for the PDP, as all the notable indigenes were present in one voice. “The unity of the PDP in Isoko North transcends personal or individual political interests; the interests of the people must be first served. All thoughts are focused on how to improve the lot of the people,” the former labour leader explained. In solidarity, Simeon Efenudu, former Head of Service and SSG, now Chairman of Delta South Senatorial zone of the party, as well as Goodnews Agbi, a PDP chieftain and former governorship aspirant, were with the group throughout the visit. The message of the politicians, as stated by Macaulay, was clear: “We have come to say thank you for giving us your votes. President

Goodluck Jonathan and Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan send their greetings to you for voting for them in the last elections. “Manager is here to say thank you and to meet you one-on-one. Ogor, your own son, is here to meet you and interact with you. “Owhefere is here too to greet you as well. Ferife is equally here to greet all of you.” As the audience charged with praises for jobs well done, they responded in unison mainly in their native dialect: “Onana no oro sosuo. Uwoma gaga (this is the first time and it is very good)” was on the lips of almost everybody at each stop. Expectedly, the SSG did not just introduce the people; there was a package of democratic dividends for each of the wards, as these projects were already mapped out for the communities and contracts had been awarded in most cases. They range from supply and installation of transformers, fencing and renovation of primary and secondary schools, construction of community roads, provision of water scheme and replacement of wooden electricity polls to concrete ones. In Owhe-Ologbo, the SSG announced his personal projects, in addition to the one by the state, and to expedite action on the listed projects for the communities, the SSG advised youths not to disturb contractors at site. He also urged parents to ensure that their children and wards imbibe the virtue of peaceful coexistence, saying violence does not pay. The wards visited include Ofagbe, Iyede 1 and 11, Ellu/Aradhe/Ovrode, Okpe-Isoko and Oyede. Others were Emevor, Otor-Owhe, Otibio, Owhelogbo and Ozoro I, 11 and III.

THE GUARDIAN, Saturday, February, 23, 2013

Change of Name ABASS: I, formerly Abass Raolat Omolabake now Mrs. Rasheed Raolat Omolabake (Abass). All former documents remain valid. General public take note. ABDUL: I, formerly Miss Adebanke Abdul now Mrs. Adebank RolandYaQhuble. All former documents remain valid. General public note. ABIMBOLA: Formerly Olubukola Adenike Abimbola now Mrs. Olubukola Adenike IsaacO l u w a s a n m i . Documents valid. Public note. ACHUKA: Former Miss Achuka Fidelia now Mrs. Akala Fidelia. Former documents remain valid. General public note. ADEBAMBO: Formerly Miss Theresa Omotolani Adewunmi now Mrs. Adebambo Theresa Omotolani. Former documents remain valid. Public note ADEBOBOYE: Formerly Adeboboye Grace Aduntola now Disu Grace Aduntola. All former documents remain valid. Public note. ADEDAPO: Formerly Miss Adedapo Rasheedat Adejumoke now Mrs. Lawal Rashidat Adejumoke. Documents valid. Public note. ADEKUNLE: Formerly Adekunle Funmilola Abosede now Mrs. Ogunseye Funmilola Abosede. Documents valid. Public note. ADELAKUN: Formerly Miss Aminat Adebola Adelakun now known as Mrs. Aminat Adebola Akeredolu. Former documents remain valid. Public note. ADENEKAN: Formerly Adenekan Busirat Abeje now Mrs. Soyombo Busirat Abeje. Documents valid. Public note. ADENIYI: Formerly Miss Esther Olubunmi Adeniyi now Mrs. Omotoso Oluwabunmi Esther. Former documents valid. SUBEB, public note. ADEOBA: I, formerly Miss Folakemi Faith Adeoba now Mrs. Folakemi Faith Ogundola. All former documents remain valid. Public

take note. ADERIBIGBE: Formerly Miss Dorcas Oluwatofunmi Aderibigbe now Mrs. Dorcas Oluwatofunmi Adesanya. Former documents remain valid. General public note. ADETIBA: Formerly Miss Eunice Temitope Adetiba now Mrs. Ladiran Eunice Temitope. Former documents remain valid. Public note. ADUL-RAHMAN: Formerly Adul-Rahman Abimbola Rasheedat now Mrs. Ibraheem Abimbola Rasheedat. Documents valid. Public note. AFOLAYAN: Formerly Miss. Folasade Olabisi Afolayan now Mrs. Folasade Olabisi Keshinro. Former documents remain valid. Public note. AFUWAPE: Formerly Afuwape Ruth Taiwo now Mrs. Ogunsola Ruth Taiwo. Documents valid. Public note. AGBAJE: Formerly Agbaje Taibat Temitope now Falodun Taibat Tamitope. General public should take note. AGBOGHOROMA: Formerly Agboghoroma Okiemute Maria now Mrs. Omovo Okiemute Maria. Former documents remain valid. Public note. AINA: I, formerly O l u w a s e u n Omowunmi Aina now to be addressed as O l u w a s e u n Omowunmi Oshunkoya. Public take note. AIYEOLA: Formerly Miss Victoria Ronke Aiyeola now Mrs. Victoria Ronke Aiyeola Adebanjo. Former documents remain valid. Public note. AJAYI: I, formerly referred as Ajayi Opeyemi Oluwatosin now wish to be known as Mrs. Ajibola Opeyemi Oluwatosin. All former documents remain valid. General public take note. AJAYI: Formerly Ajayi Folashade Esther now Mrs. Adebiyi Folashade Esther. Documents valid. FGN, Federal Neuro-Psychiatric Hospital Yaba note.

AJE: Former Miss Aje Bilikis Abidemi now Mrs. Idris Bilikis Abidemi. Former documents remain valid. General public note. AJIBOLA: Formerly Ajibola Rukayat Bolanle now Mrs. Mutiu Rukayat Bolanle. Former documents remain valid. Public note. AJIKE: Formerly known as Miss Chimnonso Udy Ajike now wish to be addressed as Mrs. Chimnonso Ojike. Former documents remain valid. General public note. AKINJAGUNLA: Formerly Miss Akinjagunla Febisola Stella now Mrs. Oyeneyin Febisola Stella. All former documents remain valid. NIRA and public note. AKINSANMI: Formerly Akinsanmi Omolola Omowunmi now Mrs. Ogunleye Omolola Omowunmi. Documents valid. Public note. AKINSANYA: Formerly Miss Akinsanya Ruth Ayo now Mrs. Olatunbosun Ruth Ayo. All former documents remain valid. General public note. AKINTOLA: Formerly Miss Temitope Opeyemi Akintola now Mrs. Temitope Opeyemi Falade. Former documents remain valid. General public note. ALI: Formerly Ali Alexander O. now Eneali Alexander O. Former documents remain valid. General public take note. ALIU: Formerly Miss Aliu Iyabode Rachael now Mrs. Makanjuola Iyabode Rachael. Former documents remain valid. Public note. ALOZIE: Formerly Alozie Ugochi Louisa, now Ugochi Louisa Chima Nwambara. Former documents remain valid. Public take note. ALUKO: Formerly Miss Funmilayo Damilola Aluko, now Mrs Funmilayo Damilola Fatunmbi. Former Documents remain valid. Public note. AMAJOYI: Formerly Miss Amajoyi Belinda Nwakaego now Mrs. Williams Belinda

Nwakaego Nwoji. All former documents remain valid. The public take note. AMOUZOUGAN: Formerly Amouzougan Yaovi V. Pepe now Valentine Erick V. Olakunle. Documents valid. Public note. AMUSA-EKE: I am formerly known as Miss Itohan Adesuwa Amusa-Eke of Oredo Local Government in Edo State Nigeria, wish to henceforth be known and addressed as Mrs Itohan Adesuwa Itie from the 21st day of February 2013. All other documents remain valid. ANEKE: Formerly Miss Aneke Odinkema Lovelyn now Mrs. Chigbo Lovelyn Chekwube. Former documents remain valid. NYSC, public note. ANICHEBE: Formerly Miss Anichebe Mariagoretti Ijeoma now known as Mrs. I l o a n u s i o b i Mariagoretti Ijeoma. Former documents remain valid. General public note. ANIJETU: Former Miss Lilian Amaka Anijetu now Mrs. Lilian Amaka Uchendu. NPF and public note. ANIKWE: Formerly Miss Anikwe Ngozi Perpetua now Mrs. Onwe Ngozi Perpetua. Former documents remain valid. UNTH Ituku Ozalla, public note. ANSA: I, formerly Miss Ekanem Eyo Ansa now Mrs. Ekanem Edet Okokon. All former documents remain valid. Public note. ASABIA: Formerly Asabia Ibunkunoluwa Adeola now to be known as Mrs. Akinlade Ibunkunoluwa Adeola. All former documents remain valid. Public note. ATUAH: Formerly Miss Atuah Omoayena Catherine now Mrs. Adeoye Omoayena Catherine. Former documents remain valid. General public take note. AWO: Formerly Miss Awo Ndidiamaka Lynda now Mrs. Igwe Ndidiamaka Lynda. All former documents remain valid. NTA and public note.

AWOSILE: Formerly Olaide Olatokunbo Awosile now Olaide Olatokunbo Oni. Former documents remain valid. Public note.

merly Miss Elizabeth Chinyere Chukwuemeka, now Mrs Elizabeth Chinyere Iwumune. Former documents remain valid. NYSC, public note.

AYANGBILE: Formerly Miss Ayangbile Mary Oluwatosin now Mrs. Adigun Mary Oluwatosin. All former documents remain valid. Rufus Giwa Polytechnic, Ladoke Akintola University and public note.

CONFIRMATION OF NAME: FAROYE: Fidelis Morakinyo is the same person as Faroye Morakinyo Fidelis. All former documents remain valid. National Examination Council, Adekunle Ajasin University Akungba-Akoko and public note.

SHOBOWALE: Formerly Shobowale Adesola Adebimpe now Oguntona Adesola Adebimpe. Documents valid

CORRECTION OF NAME: ODUM: Odum Victor Chinemerem not UzoDum Victor Chinaecher as wrongly spelt in my NECO Certificate – June\ July 2008 with centre and Examination numb e r 011056\80927526BH. NECO, public note.

AYENI: Former Miss Ayeni Adeola Precious now Mrs. Soremekun Adeola Precious. Former documents remain valid. General DAWODU: Former public note. Yetunde Oyeyemi Dawodu now Yetunde BALOGUN: Formerly Oyeyemi Bello. All docBalogun Hafizat Ola- uments remain valid. jumoke now Dr. Mrs. Public note. Sule Hafizat Olajumoke. UITH, MDCN EBOSIE: Formerly Miss Ebosie Ifeoma Scholasand public note. tica now Mrs. Agusoba BAMIDELE: Formerly Ifeoma Scholastica. ForFeyikemi Cheta mer documents remain Bamidele now Mrs. valid. Public note. Feyikemi Cheta Soyoye. Former documents re- EGBARIN: Former Miss main valid. General Chibuzor Nkem Egbarin now Mrs. Chibupublic note. zor Egbarin – Etebefia. BAMISILE: Formerly All former documents Miss Olufunke Oyin- remain valid. Public lola Bamisile now Mrs. note. Olufunke Oyinlola Gbadamosi. All docu- EGBUCHULEM : ForMiss Egments remain valid. merly buchulem Pamela Public note. Obiageri now wish to BANKOLE: Formerly be addressed as Mrs. Pamela Bankole Adejoke Kubu- Okuanyono Obiageri. All former rat now Mrs. Ogundocuments remain badejo Adejoke valid. General public Kuburat Bankole. For- note. mer documents remain valid. Public EGUAKHIDE: Formerly note. Miss Eguakhide Anthonia now Mrs. Ohiafi AnBELLO: Formerly Miss thonia Omua. Former Iyabo Modasola Bello documents remain now Mrs. Asiat Iyabo valid. Public note. Modasola Adisa. Former documents valid. EHIEJAIGBON: Formerly Public note. Augustine Obadan Ehiejaigbon Ikhite now CHIVU: Formerly Chivu Augustus Bobby Ikhite. Akudo Nancy now Former documents reOzuzu –Ejimogu .A. main valid. Public note. Nancy. Former documents remain valid. EKE: Formerly Nwanne Zenith Bank, MLSCN, Henrietta Urum Eke now Nwanne Henrietta ESUT, public note. Okechukwu Onuoha. CHUKWUELUE: For- Former documents remerly Chukwuelue main valid. Public note. Chinelo Angela now Mrs. Nwaokeafor EKEKWE: Formerly Miss Chinelo Angela. For- Ifeoma Ekekwe now mer documents re- Mrs. Ifeoma Izundu – main valid. Public Chukwukere. Former documents valid. Insurnote. nace PHB and public CHUKWUEMEKA: For- note.

THE GUARDIAN, Saturday, February, 23, 2013

Change of Name EHIJE: I, Sowa Patricia Ehije now wish to be known as Sowa Patricia Uzoma. United Geophysical Nigeria Limited, Lagos State University and general public please take note. ERO: Formerly Ero Ayobamiji Deborah now Mrs. Akinmusere Ayobamiji Deborah. Documents valid. Public note. ESIBE: Formerly Miss Roseline Uchechi Esibe now Mrs. Roseline Okoro Isaac. Documents valid. Public note. ETONIRU: Formerly Miss Etoniru Mercy now Mrs. Chukwuemeka Mercy Osita. Former documents remain valid. Public note. EWEJE: Formerly Miss Eweje Folashade Ajoke now Mrs. Kafaru Ajoke. Documents valid. Public note. EYAMBA: Formerly Eyamba Ekpenyong Effiom now Eyamba John Effiom. All former documents remain valid. General public note. EZEANYA: Formerly Agnes Onyemaechi Ezeanya now Mrs. Agnes Onyemaechi Anopueme. Former documents remain valid. O. Mike Ltd and public note. EZEKUDE: Formerly Miss Ezekude Frances Chizoba now Mrs. KenAhukannah Frances Chizoba. Former documents remain valid. GTbank and Public note. EZEMBAKWE: Formerly Sabina Njideka Ezembakwe now Mrs. Sabina Njideka Nkole. Former documents remain valid. Paradize and Partner Nig. Ltd. Public note. EZIHE: Formerly Miss Chinwendu Stella Ezihe now Mrs. Stella Chinwendu Gabriel Egbuchelem. British and German Embassy in Nigeria, Nigerian Nursing Licence Commission, please take note. GIGI: I, formerly Miss Edewede Faith Gigi now wish to be known as Mrs. Edewede Faith ’Lanre-Olugbeje. Former documents remain valid. General public note. GODSON:

Formerly

Miss Godson Odinaka, now Miss Uzoaru Loveth Odinaka. Former documents remain valid. Public take note. IBRAHIM: Formerly Ibrahim Simbiat Arinola now Mrs. Ogundiyi Susan Arinola. Documents valid. Public note. IDOWU: Formerly Mrs. Adeseye Oluwafunmilayo Idowu now Mrs. Adeseye Oluwafunmilayo Abraham. Former documents valid. Public note. IFEKWE: Formerly Miss Precious N. Ifekwe now Mrs. Nnenna Ene Ikpeme. Former documents remain valid. General public note. IGWE: Formerly Miss Evelyn Nneoma Igwe now Mrs. Evelyn Nneoma Alilonu. Former documents remain valid. Public note. IJIE: Former Mr. Ijie Spencer Ibolo now Mr. Ijie David Ose-Ibolo. Former documents remain valid. General public note. IKEH: Formerly Miss Ikeh Lynda Chinasa Anita now Mrs. Ngwu Lynda Chinasa Anita. Former documents remain valid. Public note. IKEYI: I formerly Miss Ikeyi Onoriode Esther now wish to be known as Mrs. Esther Godwin Andikan. Former documents remain valid. General public note. IKHATUA: Formerly Miss Eferi Anne Ikhatua now Mrs. Eferi Anne Iyere. All documents remain valid. Public note. IKWUEZE: Formerly Miss Ikwueze Rachael Chinyere now Mrs. Okenchi Rachael Chinyere. Former documents remain valid. Public take note. ILEOGBEN: Former Kingsley Ikhuosho Ileogben now addressed as Kingsley Ikhuosho Odevbouma. Former documents remain valid. Public note. ILESANMI: Formerly Ilesanmi Bolanle Bilikis now Gbadebo Bolanle Bikilis. Former documents valid. Public note. INYANWACHI: Formerly Miss Inyanwachi

Ukamaka Deirdre now Mrs. Ogbodo Ukamaka Deirdre. Former documents remain valid. Public note. ISMAILA: Formerly Ismaila Muftau is now Ismail Olajide Muftau. All former documents remain valid. Public take note. IWEH: Formerly Miss Iweh Precious Ebere now Mrs. Okoye Precious Mercy Ebere. Former documents remain valid. Public note. IZONFUO: Formerly Miss Ebi-Eri Miedia Izonfuo now Mrs. Ebieri Media Oghene – Ruemu. All former documents remain valid. Public note. JAHO: I, formerly Miss Oghenetega Jaho, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Oghenetega Oneya. All former documents remain valid. General public take note JAMES: Formerly Mr. Patrick Ita James now Mr. Patrick Offiong Duke. Documents valid. Public note. JOUMBI: I, formerly known as Miss Laurence Fondouop Joumbi now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Laurence Ogunbor. All former documents remain valid. General public please take note. KASALI: Formerly Miss Kasali Bilikis Omowunmi now Mrs. Amidu Bilikis Omowunmi. Former documents valid. Public note. KAYODE: Former Miss Omotola Ajoke Kayode now Mrs. Omotola Ajoke Ogundare. Documents valid. Public note. LADIRAN: Formerly Miss Ladiran Funmilayo Ajoke now Mrs. Okeowo Funmilayo Ajoke. Former documents remain valid. Public note. LAWAL-SHANU: Formerly Mrs. LawalShanu Olufunmilola Adedayo now Mrs. Lawal Olufunmilola Adedayo. Previous documents remain valid. Embassies, public note. MACDONALD: Formerly Macdonald Amata, now MacAdonai Josiah. All former documents

remain valid. Public take note. MADAGWA: Formerly Miss Valentina Ese Madagwa now Mrs. Valentina Ese Arodudu. Former documents remain valid. Public note. MAGAJI: I, formerly Miss Lydia Amina Magaji now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Amina Mustapha Ikhina. All former documents remain valid. GSS Karu Secondary Education Board FCT, Abuja. Public note. MARCUS: I formerly known as Miss Faith .N. Marcus now to be known as Mrs. Faith Ama- Anele. All former documents remain valid. IPS, UNIPORT and general public note.

inma, now Mrs Onyebuenyi Faith Erinma, All former Documents remain valid. General public note.

OCHUKO: Former Miss Obire Ochuko now Mrs. Ibeh Ochuko Obire. Documents valid. Public note.

NWACHUKWU: Formerly Nwachukwu Christiana Chiwenwa now Osumakinde Christiana Chinwenwa. Former documents remain valid. Public note.

ODIMEGWU: Formerly Miss Nwamaka Augustina Odimegwu, now wish to be known And addressed as Mrs Nwamaka Augustina Ukeh. Former documents remain valid. General public, note.

NWACHUKWU : Formerly Miss Chibuzo Veronica Nwachukwu now which to be addressed as Mrs. Chibuzo Veronica Chijindu Ebiringa. Former documents remain valid. General public note. NWADILI: Formerly Nwadili Stella Nnenna now Mrs. Oyedu Stella Nnenna. Former documents remain valid. Public note.

MBADUGHA: I, formerly Miss Chioma Victoria Mbadugha now known as Mrs. Chioma Victoria Aboiralor. Former documents remain valid. General public take note.

NWANDU: Formerly Miss Nwandu Gloria Ogechi now Mrs. Ake Gloria Ogechi. Former documents valid. Public note.

MBANALI: Formerly Miss Mbanali Chinonyerem Linda now Mrs. Enoma Chinonyerem Linda. Former documents valid. Public note.

NWANNA: Formerly Miss Nwanna Onyinyechukwu Nkiru now Mrs. Ofoche Onyinyechukwu Nkiru. Former documents remain valid, Zenith Bank Plc, public note.

MEMBERR: Former Miss Memberr Fabiawari Boma now Mrs. Frederick-Ero Fabiawari. Former documents remain valid. Public note. MGBECHETA: Formerly Miss Sabina Chinagorom Mgbecheta now Mrs. Sabina Chinagorom Ofodile. Former documents remain valid, public note.

NWANKWO: Formerly Miss Sarah Nwankwo, now Mrs Sarah Nwankwo Osakwe. Former documents remain valid. Public note. NWEKE: Formerly Nweke Emmanuel now Nwachukwu Emmanuel. Former documents remain valid. General public take note.

MICHAEL: Formerly Miss Michael Mercy Ugonma now Mrs. Ajayi Mercy Ugonma. Former documents remain valid. SUBEB, general public note.

NWIDAH: I formerly Miss Nkechi Nwidah now wish to be known as Mrs. Nkechi Nnaemeka Akah. Former documents remain valid. General public note.

MOSUDI: Former Mosudi Yinusa Paul now Mosud Yinusa Olumoye. Documents valid. Public note. MUMUNI: Formerly Mumuni Jimoh Abu Suberu now Abu Jimoh James Igbehinloju. Previous documents remain valid. Public note. NJOKU: Formerly Miss Njoku Kate Ugonma, now Mrs Egwu Kate Ugonma. Former documents remain valid. Public note. NNANNA: Formerly Miss Nnanna Faith Er-

NWOKOLO: Formerly Miss Nwanneka Linda Nwokolo, now Mrs Nwanneka Linda Ofor. Former documents remains valid. Public note. OBIDIUME: Formerly Miss Obidiume Chisom Geraldine now Mrs. Ezejelue Chisom Geraldine. Former documents remain valid, public note. OBINWAKEZE: Formerly Miss Obinwakeze Ozioma Onyinye now Mrs. Chinyeaka Ozioma Onyinye. Former documents remain valid, public note.

ODOME: Formerly Odome Bestie now Mrs. Bestie Solum Obiora. Former documents remain valid. Public note. ODUTOLA: I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Odutola Morenike Aminat would henceforth like to be known and addressed as Mrs. Molehin Morenike Aminat. General public please take note. OGBEBE: Formerly Miss Philomina Obaruakpo Ogbebe now Mrs. Philomina Obaruakpo Ubuebi. Former documents valid. OGBU: Formerly Ogbu Olivia Chiamaka, Ogbu Juliet Oluchi, Ogbu Ogonna Jenifer now Anayo Olivia Chiamaka, Anayo Juliet Oluchi, Anayo Ogonna Jenifer. Former documents remain valid, public note. OGUNDIPE: Formerly Miss Ogundipe Funmilayo Elizabeth, now Mrs Awoyemi Elizabeth Funmilayo. Former documents remains valid. Public note. OGUNKOYA: Former Miss Yetunde O m o w u n m i Ogunkayo now wish to be known as Mrs. Yetunde Omowunmi Niyi-Ogunremi. Former documents remain valid. Public note. OGUNLADE: Formerly Miss Toluwalola Oreoluwa Ogunlade, now Mrs Toluwalola Oreoluwa Dada. Former documents remains valid. Public note. OGUNLEYE: Formerly Oguneleye Adeniyi Adebisi now Jesuleye Adeniyi Adebisi. Institution and general public take note.

THE GUARDIAN, Saturday, February, 23,

Change of Name OGUNSEYE: Formerly Oluwasayo Oludolapo Ogunseye now Oluwasayo Oludolapo Jimi-Oluseye. Former document remain valid. Public note. OHUNENIESE: Formerly Miss Bosede Grace Ohuneniese now known as Mrs. Bosede Grace Ijagbemi. Former documents remain valid. Public note. OIWOH: Formerly known as Henry Oiwoh now Morgan Clement. Former documents remain valid. First Bank Nigeria Plc, general public take note. OJIEMEN: Formerly Miss Gloria Omobhengbe Ojiemen now Mrs. Gloria Omobhengbe Okhueleigbe. All former documents remain valid. The general public take note. OKAFOR: Formerly Miss Eucharia Chika Okafor now Mrs. Eucharia Chika Anyaigwe. Former documents remain valid, public note. OKENWA: Formerly Miss Joy Nnennaya Okenwa, now Mrs Joy Nnennaya Nnanna. Former documents remain valid. Public take note. OKEDARA; Formerly Okedara Grace Olubunmi now Mrs Martins Grace Olubunmi. Documents valid.nPublic note. OKOH: Formerly known as Miss Ifeoma Lucia Okoh now to be known as Mrs. Ifeoma Lucia Agholor. Former documents remain valid. Public note. OKOLI: I, formerly Miss Love Ngozi Okoli now Mrs. Love Ngozi Moses. Former documents remain valid. Federal Polytechnic Ilaro, Ogun State, NYSC and general public note. OKONKWO: Formerly Miss Chika Joy Okonkwo, now Mrs Chika Joy Nwozor. Former documents remain valid. Public note. OKONKWO: Formerly Okonkwo Tecular Onyinye now Mrs. Anaeke Tecular Onyinye. Former documents remain valid. Public note. OKONMA: Former Miss Okonma Shirley now Mrs. Shirley Okonma Anthony. All former documents remain

valid. Public note. OKOEKPEN: Formerly Miss Anita Ibharobere Okoekpen now Mrs. Anita Ibharobere Esiri. Former documents valid. Public note. OKORO: Former Okoro Oluwasan Tony Toritse Olu Tony. Documents valid. Public note. OKOYE: Formerly Miss Okoye Clementina Onyinye now Mrs. O g u n b o d e d e Clementina Onyinye. Former documents remain valid. Public note.

Miss Oluwatoyin Jane Olokun now Mrs. Oluwatoyin Onigbanjo. Former documents remain valid. News Agency of Nigeria and public take note. OMISORE: Formerly Miss Omisore Sileola Kehinde now Mrs. Areola Sileola Kehinde. Previous documents remain valid. Public note. OMIYALE: I, formerly Miss Omiyale Kehinde Olabisi now Mrs. Idris Kehinde Olabisi. All former documents remain valid. Public note.

Former documents remain valid. Public take note.

Kudus Olasunkanmi. Former documents remain valid. Public note.

ORERHIME: Formerly Miss Orerhime Bridget Emuobo now Mrs. Mekwuye Bridget Emuobo. All former documents remain valid. Public note.

SAMUEL: Formerly Rasheedat Omotolani Samuel now Mrs. Adeleke Omotolani Temitayo. Former documents remain valid. Public note.

ORHEWERE: Formerly Orhewere Solomon now known as Orhewere Reuben Ehibia Solomon. Former documents valid. NPF and public note.

SANYAOLU: Formerly addressed as Miss Sanyaolu Yemisi Olufunmilayo now addressed as Mrs. Popoola Oluwayemisi Oluwafunmilayo. General public note.

OSENI: Formerly Miss Oseni Titilola Olayinka now Mrs Adefuke Titilola Olayinka. All former documents remain valid. Neuro - Psychiatric Hospital Aro and general public note

OKPU: Formerly Miss Okpu Efeoghene Chinedu now Mrs. Owumi Efeoghene Chinedu. Former documents remain valid. Public note.

OMOLAYOLE: Formerly Frances Opeoluwa Omolayole now Mrs. Adelakun Frances Opeoluwa. Documents valid. Zenith Bank, NYSC, public note.

OKU: Formerly Miss Oku Nkeiruka Ulunma now Mrs. Nnawuihe Nkeiruka Ulunma. Former documents remain valid. Public note.

OMOLU: Formerly call Miss Omolu Titilayo Florence now called Mrs. Adewumi Titilayo Florence. All documents remain valid. Public note.

OLA: Formerly Mrs. Ola Stella Olayinka now Mrs. Olarinde Stella Olayinka. Documents valid. Public note.

OMOYIOLA: Formerly Funmilola Omoyiola now Mrs. Funmilola Ajibola. Former documents remain valid. General public note.

OWODUNNI: Formerly Miss Adepeju Oluwakemi Marian Owodunni, now Mrs Adepeju Oluwakemi Marian Hungbeme. Former documents remain valid. Public note. OYELAKUN: Formerly Miss Damilola Olufunke Oyelakun now Mrs. Damilola Olufunke Adekunjo. Former documents remain valid. General public note.

ONIAH: Formerly Miss Oniah Juliet Ogechukwu now Mrs. Onwualu Juliet Ogechukwu. Former documents remain valid. Public note.

OYELOLA: Formerly Miss Oluwaseun Oyelola now Mrs. Oluwaseun Ajetunmobi. Former documents remain valid. General public note.

ONIFADE: I, formerly Miss Onifade Ganiyat Abiodun now Mrs. Oshodi Ganiyat Abiodun All former documents remain valid. Public note.

OYEWO: Formerly Miss Oyewo Oyedamola Olufunmilola now Mrs. O l u m a k i n w a Oyedamola Olufunmilola. Former documents valid. Public note.

OLABANJI: Formerly Miss Olabanji Mojisola Ann now Mrs. Faleye Ann Mojisola. All former documents remain valid. Public note. OLADEJI: Former Miss Tolutope Elizabeth Oladeji now Mrs. Tolutope Elizabeth Kolawole. Former documents remain valid. Public note. OALDELE: Former Miss Oladele Oluwatosin Olusola now Mrs. Odunuga-Tope Olusola. All former documents remain valid. Public note. OLALEYE: Formerly Miss Olaleye J. Olabukun now Mrs. Baiyekusi J. Olabukun. Former documents valid. Public note. OLAOGUN: Formerly Miss Olaogun Oyenike Oyindamola now Mrs. Oladoja Oyenike Oyindamola. Former documents valid. Public note. OLAKANYE: Formerly Miss Susan Opeoluwa Olakanye now Mrs. Susan Opeoluwa Abidoye. Former documents valid. Public note. OLOKUN:

Formerly

ONORIOBE: I, Formerly Miss Vivian Okemute Onoriobe now wish to known and addressed as Mrs. Vivian Okemute Adikankwu. Former documents remain valid. Standard Alliance Life Assurance Ltd. Public take note. ONUGHARA: I, formerly Mr Paul Chibueze Onughara now Mr. Paul Chibueze Mgbeoma. All former documents remain valid. Public note. ONWUKA: Former Miss Ofunne Patricia Onwuka now Mrs. Ofunne Patricia Oghuma. Documents valid. Public note. ONWUZURIKE: F o r merly Miss Onwuzurike Adaeze now Mrs. Philemon Adaeze.

OZURUIGBO: Formerly called Miss Ozuruigbo Linda Adanna now called Mrs. Iwuchukwu Banabas Linda. All documents remain valid. Public note. PIUS: I, formerly Pius Ofoma Cynthia now wish to be known as Adewale Oluwatobi Cynthia. Former documents remain valid. Public note.

SARUMO: Formerly Sarumo Oriyomi now known as Owolabi-Dada Ibrahim Oriyomi. Former documents remain valid. Public note. SOWUNMI: Formerly known as Miss Felicia Oluwabunmi Sowunmi now Mrs. Felicia Oluwabunmi Majekodunmi. All former documents remain valid. Public note.

main valid. Public note. UKONU: Formerly Miss Ukonu Alice Sandra now wish to be addressed as Mrs. Amogu Kalu Ukiwe Alice Sandra. Former documents remain valid. General public note. UWUILEKHUE: Formerly Uwuilekhue Mary Uwaila now Mrs. Ojelabi Mary Uwaila. Former documents remain valid. Public note. USUWA: I, formerly Miss Nkechi Regina Usuwa now Mrs. Nkechi Oriaku. All former documents remain valid. National Root Crops Research Institute Umudike, public note. WILLIAMS: Formerly Miss Chibuzo Ubi Williams, now Mrs Chibuzo Prosper Joseph. Former documents remain valid. Public take note.

THOMAS: Former Olatunde Thomas Kolawole now Mr. Olatunde Isreal Kolawole. Former documents remain valid. Public note.

WODU: Formerly Miss Weleme Amie Wodu now Mrs. Weleme Amie Okafor. Former documents remain valid. Public note.

TIFASE: I, formerly known as Miss Omolola Grace Tifase now wish to be known as Mrs. Omolola Grace Eteriebe. All former documents remain valid. General public note.

YAKUBU: I, formerly Mr. Olanrewaju Yakubu now Mr. Olanrewaju Roland-YaQhuble. All former documents remain valid. General public note.

UANSERU: Formerly Uanseru Kris Idonnua now addressed as Joel Kris Idonnua. Former documents remain valid. Public note. UCHE: Former Miss Uche Nwamaka Jennifer now Mrs. Ejim Nwamaka Jennifer. Former documents remain valid. Public note. UDEALA: Formerly Miss Udeala Hope Egburi now Mrs. Ihediwa Hope Favour. Former documents remain valid. Public note. UDE: Formerly Esther Amaka Ude now Esther Chimbiko Israel. Former documents valid. Public note.

POPOOLA: Former Miss Kafayat Abiola Rachael Popoola now Mrs. Esther Abiola Ogbebor. Former documents remain valid. General public note.

UDEZE: Formerly call Miss Udeze Chiamaka Rita now called Mrs. Okeke Chiamaka Rita. All documents remain valid. Public note.

SALAMI-MAMOOD: Formerly Mr. SalamiMamood Qudus Olasunkanmi now known as Mr. Olaitan

UKATO: Formerly Elizabeth Onosereme Ukato now to be known as Mrs. Elizabeth Onosereme Oziegbe. All former documents re-

YUSUF: Formerly Miss Yusuf Sinat Abidemi now Mrs. Awokoya Sinat Abidemi. Former documents remain valid. Public note.

IF FOR THE PURPOSE OF THIS CHANGE Of NAME YOU WANT TO BUY A COPY PLEASE CALL 0802 306 4437

THE GUARDIAN, Saturday, February 23, 2013

TRANSITION

Adieu, Israel Babafemi Akilo O

NE of the most vivid memories of my childhood is sometime in 1968 in Efon Alaaye when I was walking to school with my Dad; along with a co-teacher and his children. We were descending the slope on the way to Christ Apostolic Church Teacher Training College in the town when I suddenly tripped and fell down by the roadside. I looked up expecting sympathy but my father gruffly pulled me up and we continued our brisk walk to school. Subconsciously, it registered in me that my father wanted a competitive son who would also recognise that life was not a tea party. Another event that defines my memory of Dad happened when he was the Principal of Igbotako Community Grammar School in Ondo State in 1979 or thereabout. A student while cutting grass on the school field cut his leg with the cutlass and was bleeding profusely. Daddy tore the dress he was wearing to make a bandage to stop the student’s bleeding and thereafter took him to a medical centre. Israel Babafemi Akilo was born on July 17, 1932 at Ido-Ekiti. His father was Pa Isaiah Ojo Akilo of the Adejugbagbe royal lineage while his mother was Fateye Akilo of the Asasanyin family of Inisa in Ido-Ekiti. Both parents were Christians and they brought Babafemi and the other children in the household up in the Christian tradition. His siblings are the late Stephen Adeagbo Akilo and Samson Akilo. He started elementary school in January 1942 at Ido Public School, Ido-Ekiti, and left in 1949 after completing Standard Six. At school, he was a notable sprinter who was renowned in Ido and environs, especially during the Empire Day Events. He was baptised in 1944 and confirmed in 1954 at the Anglican Church, IdoEkiti. He attended African Church Teachers’ College, Ikere-Ekiti, from 1954 to 1955 for the Grade III Teachers’ Certificate Course and African Church Teachers’ College, Ifako Agege from 1959 to 1960 for the Grade II Teachers’ Certificate course, both of which he successfully completed. He got married to Mary Onaola Akilo nee Ogunrinde on November 8, 1958, and the marriage is blessed with four boys and one girl. As an ambitious young lad trying to find a way in life, he also attended Wilberforce School of Commerce in Lagos where he stud-

Akilo ied Stenography. While working as a primary school teacher, he obtained the GCE Ordinary and Advanced Levels, which secured him an admission into the University of Ibadan for a degree of Bachelor of Education in English, which he obtained in 1967. At the University of Ibadan, he sponsored himself from his savings, his wife’s contribution and his brother’s (Stephen Akilo) assistance up to the second year. When it became almost impossible to continue in his final year, he had to obtain a sponsorship from the Christ Apostolic Church Teachers’ College, Efon Alaay, to complete his education. This made it imperative for him to join the staff of that college on graduation. He was there until 1975 when he was posted to Ondo Grammar

Ero, Ido-Ekiti, in 1988 and Chairman, Ido Town Development Council from 1987 to 1989. He was also Secretary, Church Building Committee of St. John’s Church, Ido-Ekiti, from 1981 to 1984. As a politician, he was Vice Chairman, Unity Party of Nigeria, Ero Local Government chapter from 1981 to 1983. He was also chairman UNCP Ido-Osi Local Government from 1998 to 1999; and Secretary, Ido-Osi Local Government on the platform of Social Democratic Party (SDP) from 1991 to 1993. From 2000 to 2002, he was Ekiti State Secretary of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) when the Ekiti State Government was controlled by the Alliance for Democracy. He later moved to the Action Congress of Nigeria and was in the thick of the struggle to reclaim the party’s electoral mandate, which eventually came to fruition in October 2010. Until his death, he was an Elder of the party. In his teaching and political careers, he has travelled across the length and breadth of Nigeria; he also visited Israel on Holy pilgrimage in 2002. Dad had a great sense of duty, which was attested to by all he came in contact with. In fact, he was going to perform a duty to a deceased friend’s family when he met his end. May God forgive him his sins and grant him eternal rest. One of the greatest lessons his life taught us his children is that in all his involvement in public life, especially in politics, service and integrity were his watchwords. Politics was more like a hobby than a means of livelihood, and how he enjoyed this hobby! He did not hanker after wealth or position. He left only one School as Vice Principal. He was later posted house, which he completed as a teacher in 1977. to Igbotako Community Grammar School as We are proud of this legacy and we pray that God will give us the grace to sustain it. Pioneer Principal in 1977 and he was there until 1980. In all, as a teacher and later school administrator, he worked in Ikirun in Osun State; Warri in Delta State; Ondo, Idanre, Ode Aye, Igbotako all in Ondo State; and Efon Alaaye, Ayetoro/Iloro and Ido in Ekiti State. Many of his students are successful Nigerians in the academia, business and Civil Service. He retired from the public service in 1986 as Principal, Ogangamodu Grammar School, By Elvis Agbonifo-Obaseki Ido-Ekiti. Outside the public service, he was an astute, HE late Daniel Aigbidodia Agbonlahor was dogged politician and community leader. He born in Ohovbe, Ikpoba-Okha Local Council was the Charter President, Rotary Club of Area of Edo State, on May 10, 1936, into the family of Pa Agbonlahor Oviawe and Madam Ekiomado both of blessed memories. He commenced his elementary education in 1947 at Holy Cross Catholic Primary School, Benin City, where he obtained his First School Leaving Certificate in 1954. He gained admission into St. Patrick’s Secondary Modern School, Benin City, in 1955. He completed his secondary education in 1957 with exIn the field of education, Pa Bakpa believed cellent results, which earned him employment as that the greatest legacy a father can pass unto a teacher at the Holy Cross Catholic School, Benin his child is good education. In this regard he City, in 1958. did not fail in his duties of giving financial and He later sat for and passed the Catholic Proficiency moral support to his children, relatives and Examination in September 1960. Though a student even persons not related to him who needed with strong interest in biological sciences, he was to be assisted in their academic pursuits. This also in love with the arts. He therefore wrote the interest saw him serving in various Parents membership examination of the Royal Society for Teachers Association Committees at Mowoe the Encouragement of Arts, Manufacturing and Primary School, Warri, Essi College, Warri and Commence, London, and obtained a certificate in Ovwian Grammar School. He was also instru- the Second Class cadre. He also sat for and passed mental to the establishment of what is now his General Certificate of Education (GCE) examiknown as Ovwian Grammar Schools I and II nation both in Ordinary and Advanced Levels in when he, alongside other eminent sons of 1967 and 1969, and was subsequently transferred Ovwian like the late S.P. Jigbale, the late Chief to Ugo Primary School, in Orhiomwon Local CounAgboji, the late Chief Okololo, Mr. Walker cil Area of Edo State in 1970. Okoro and others, declared support for Unity While still at Ugo, he enrolled at Ibusa College, Party of Nigeria (UPN) in Bendel State under Ibusa, Delta State, for his Teachers’ Grade 11 Certifithe governorship of Prof. Ambrose Alli and got cate, which he obtained in 1975. He later proceeded approval for the school which is of great serv- to the College of Education, Benin City, where he ice educationally to a number of towns and obtained his National Certificate of Education communities in Udu Local Government Area (NCE) majoring in Agricultural Science. He subsequently transferred his services to the employ of today. In the area of community development, he of- the Institute of Continuing Education (ICE), Benin fered himself for service to the Ovwian Execu- City, from where he retired meritoriously in 2009. After a distinguished and fulfilled life in service to tive Committee for many years brainstorming humanity as a teacher, Pa Agbonlahor became with others to move Ovwian ahead by atten- born again and was a very committed member of dance to conferences, meetings and gather- the Deeper Life Bible Church, Eguadase District. He ings to discuss Ovwian related issues. He was knew, feared and served his Creator even unto his instrumental to the building of the present glorious transition on November 7, 2012. Ovwian Town Hall. He rose to the exalted posi- Known for his strong-will and forthrightness, he tion of Okpakorere of Ovwian and used his brief was a repertoire of proverbs and parables, who stay in the position to promote an atmosphere spoke no sentence without a line of maxim. He was of peace and cordial relationship in the com- a dependable pillar to the Agbonlahor Oviawe fammunity. His political policy was largely based ily, Ohovbe and Agbado communities, whenever on social welfare, good governance and pro- his wealth of wisdom was called upon. He was dismotion of education. He detested oppression ciplinarian per excellence, who took after his father and was a lover of peace and believed in peace- in not spoiling the child by sparing the rod. ful co-existence and religious tolerance. He will be missed by his children Glory, Courage, Pa Bakpa was great in character, resilient in Ruth, Frank, Ekinaduese, Osakpanmwan, Ospursuit of his goals and never gave up or lost asemwen, Osarugue, Osarieyekemwen, Christiana faith in pursuing set goals. He had a blessed and Amadin, grand children, brothers and numerous relatives. ending.

Richard I. Bakpa (1916-2012) T

HE late Pa Richard I. Bakpa was born to his parents, the late Chief Bakpa Onojator and the late Mrs. Ayomike Bakpa in 1916. His father hails from the Edo family of Ator Quarters in Emadadja and Ekrewogor Quarters, Ovwian while his mother is a daughter of Ogbavwen of Ekrata Quarters, Ovwian. He was the second child to his mother and became the first son of his father due to the untimely death of his elder brother. He had his early education at Catholic Primary School, Warri, and later proceeded to C.M.S School, Warri, but finally obtained his first School Leaving Certificate (Standard Six) from Catholic Elementary School, Ovwian. The changes in his school curriculum was due to the death of their father in 1936 which halted his education for sometime and also accounted for his inability to further his educational ambition beyond Standard Six. He joined the Public Works Department (PWD) in 1946 as a Clerk. He later ventured into business with his late younger brother Chief B.B. Bakpa. They were into the importation of books, medicines, cement, building materials and stationeries and ended by setting up what became known as Unity Press and Stationery Stores Limited Warri. He was also the first to establish a football club, called Unity Press and Stationary Stores Football Club of Warri. His business transactions and engagements took him to places like Burutu, Focardos, Sapele, Benin, Lagos, Onitsha, Ibadan, and Kano, among other places. Pa Bakpa had serious affection for three things in his lifetime. First was his love for the work of God. He was converted to the Christian faith by the preaching of Saint G.M. Urhobo of blessed and eternal memory of the God’s Kingdom Society (G.K.S) and served God faithfully in the church. He rose to become a recognised member of the church and served in various capacities including in the Welfare Committee,

Bakpa which was responsible for the well being of members afflicted in one way or the other. He was also a staunch member of United Brethren Co-operative Society Limited and remained therein even after leaving the G.K.S in 1990 for G.K.M where he faithfully and meritoriously served God until his death. Pa Bakpa brought his children up in the Christian faith and instilled in them the fear of God, contentment, and forgiveness.

Daniel Aigbidodia Agbonlahor (1936-2012)

THE GUARDIAN, Saturday, February 23, 2013

TRANSITION

Bernard Ogbo Edoga: A Message To His Murderers By Evelyn Idoko HIS is a simple message for the thugs involved in the shedT ding of the blood of an innocent man on a humanitarian mission. In the early morning of December 26, 2012, you crudely and senselessly snuffed the life out of a man on a mission. To you, he was just another man. To others, he was a son, a husband, a dad, a brother, and a friend. With this single senseless act, you changed many lives, shattered many dreams, and dampened the hopes of many. With few gunshots heard around the world, you extinguished the bright flame of a soul that epitomised the phrase, a gentle giant. In the dust of your roaring, fiery rifles, you left behind many unanswered questions and momentarily disillusioned the spirits of all who came to know and love Ogbo, as he is fondly called. On that dreary morning, you brazenly stripped a great man off his dignity, power, and honour. Before God and men, you executed an honourable man whose only offense was his devotion for progress and passion for service to his people and community. You gunned him down when you should have cheered him on and encouraged him to do more. You not only robbed Ogbo of money, but you stole his life, his dreams, and aspirations. You robbed a mother her son, a wife her soul mate, a community a hero. You severed a cherished bond that has existed between twins for decades. You have forever deprived Ogbo’s beloved children a lifetime of memories not yet made. His two young children will never experience the physical presence of their dad as they reach their future major milestones. Ogbo will never attend his children’s graduations, walk his daughter down the aisle, or hold his future grandchildren. Ogbo Edoga is the type of person who would have given you the shirt off his back, had you asked, even without the force you applied. Why did you have to kill him? What could possibly be your case against him? Was he the first blood you shed? Will he be your last? I sincerely pray for the latter. The man you senselessly butchered was a hero to many and an enemy to none. With the spirit of peace, unity, and love, he came home to his fatherland wanting to be a part of the change a community desperately deserves. He came bearing good news of a project that will establish a top-quality Comprehensive Medical Center to provide the finest healthcare services to Nsukka environ and beyond. Ogbo, with many other visionaries, had this bold and unifying development effort that will move Nsukka into 21st century global platform. But with one careless, selfish move, on that dusty, rugged road, you allowed greed to cloud your better judgment and robbed a family, a community, Nsukka, and Nigeria at large. You may have silenced a golden voice, forever; but you have also ignited the tenacity of many others like him, who are working even more fervently to bring that Medical Resources Center to its rightful place in our community. You would have loved and respected Ogbo, too, had you gotten a chance to meet him under an amicable circumstance.

Ogbo He was indeed a giant, but not a tree; yet, you cut him down and watched him fall, never to rise again. Ogbo deserved a whole lot better than what you served him. Bernard Ogbonnia Edoga did not deserve to perish at your hands, let alone in such a violent manner. The Ogbo I knew would have forgiven you by now and would have even guided you back on the right path. So, if you listen closely, you will hear his gentle, soothing voice telling you and others like you that you can still re-direct your life. You can still re-write your destiny to become human again; to construct with those hands rather than destroy God’s work of art. I sense the enormous frustrations that can force a man to lose his senses; a young man to lose all hope in life’s opportunities; but committing such a heinous act is no reasonable justification. Killing should never be an avenue of escape from an oppressive life. Perhaps you did not intend to kill

him; perhaps you meant to do it. You have committed this horrendous evil deed and it may seem to you that nobody will find you out. That may be true for a short while, a very short while. Guilt is such an overwhelming burden, which only you can unload. One wise thing you can do now is to make reparations by laying down your weapons and getting your friends to do same. You have killed one too many! You and others with blood-stained hands and tormented souls must choose to make better choices moving forward and you can start now by working to make yourself better. Your future can be better. You may not get another chance. Remember, not many who had followed the path you are on right now, lived to see a happy middle age! You cannot rewrite the history of December 26, 2012, but you can create a better history henceforth. It is not too late. Think about it! Mrs. Idoko is General Secretary, Nsukka-USA.

Moses Abiola Phillips (1927-2013) By Olawunmi Ojo LDER Moses Adekunle Abiola Phillips was born on December 27, 1927 Pa Adio Abiola and Madam Alice Abiola in Ipaja town in Lagos state. He started his early education in 1932 at St. Andrew’s School, Ipaja, after which he left home for a life of adventure. He picked menial jobs before training and completing his apprenticeship in Blacksmithing in 1945. In 1946, he took up a job as a Tally Clerk under Palm Line Shipping Ltd at Elegbata in Lagos. He got onboard as a Steamer in 1950 under Elder Dempster Shipping Company Ltd, where he began a career as a sailor. He later went for further studies, became a certified career sailor and had a fulfilling career that took him to several places across the world. One of the highpoints of his sailing career occurred while he sailed under the flag of the Nigerian Shipping Line. He was one of the first crew that brought the NNL Usman Dan Fodio, the first Nigerian Ship from Europe with the first Nigerian Minister of Finance, Okotie Eboh on board. He rode the waves till 1963 when he joined the Board of Customs and Excise. He excelled in the Customs, rising to become a Customs Marine Superintendent and holding the office of the Higher Beach Master in Charge of the Marine unit at Ibafon, Apapa, until he retired in 1982. At community level, Phillips impacted many lives. He assisted many students in their academic pursuits, helping them become successful in life. In Bello street area of Mushin, where he was honoured with ‘Life Chairmanship,’ he was active in the Street Security Committee. He contributed immensely to the development of water supply through supply services, advisory support and manufacturing of packaged and branded drinking water Phillips products. 1961, together, they built an enduring The late Phillips was a respected family man union, which begat seven wonderful chiland an avowed humanitarian. After his mardren. His delectable wife was instrumental riage to former Miss Alice Aweni Olubodun in

to much of his successes in life. After retirement, Phillips devoted more time to family and got more committed to church activities. He became active in the Men’s Movement in the church and helped with key advice on church administration, management and development. He was ordained an elder of The Apostolic Church Nigeria, LAWNA, in 1995. A thorough, transparent and accountable man, Phillips’ administrative and organisational skills were always commended. Indeed, he led an exemplary life. This, perhaps, explain why tributes have been coming in torrents since his passing on. Speaking about his life and times, his wife, Madam Alice Aweni recalls that her husband was honest and a loving husband. “Right from the time we began living as husband and wife, he started acting as a father figure to me rather than a husband; he treated me like one training his child. Our relationship had no serious challenges; no one knew our secrets or came in between us. He was open and transparent, which perhaps explains why we ran a joint account and operated joint businesses. He had a lot of self-restraint and self-discipline, which was why people found it difficult to stop him once he is determined to achieve any thing,” she said. For his first child and son, Samuel Olatokunbo Abiola-Phillips, his father’s life encapsulates so many things, philosophically, religiously and socially. According to him, the late Phillips was a unique and legendary man, whose many parts could only be seen when observed with patience. “His relationship with people was a kind of tough-love relationship. For everyone he came across, he wanted them to lead an almost perfect life, he pushed people to wake up and get things done. He fought his friends to make them by land and develop their houses. That was the kind of person he

was—selfless. He took up a lot of roles in the community; he was a doyen of community water supply. Personally, he gave me the best training for life. In spite of his status, he never pampered us. That helped in shaping us as very disciplined children,” he said. In Hon. Michael Akinpelu Abiola-Phillips’ view, his departed father was a humble friend. “He is the pillar of my life, my motivator, he was a loving father. His life taught selflessness; the community has lost a great man.” Rev Emmanuel Adeyemi Phillips regards his Dad as a peaceful man. “He is a promoter and supporter of peace. He lived and preached peace till death. In death, his assuring words of encouragement reverberate. In church, he was also quite active. He was a soldier for Christ.” Ebenezer Phillips succinctly describes his father as a very transparent and accountable man. “He was peace-loving in nature. This is one key attribute that endeared me to him and increased my respect for him beyond measure. His life speaks volumes.” Looking back on the life her father led, Mrs. Elizabeth Omolara Ogunbosin describes him as a wonderful father. “His life teaches immense lessons that can help one become successful in the journey of life,” she said. Dorcas Oluwafunmilayo Abiola-Phillips, who resides in Georgia, Atlanta, USA was full of accolades for her departed dad. “Daddy was a very good man that I had a privilege of meeting. It was a very great honour to have him as my father. He taught me the importance of being humble and generous in life. He taught me to be dependent on God for everything in life. He was a rare gem; I thank him for all I have achieved in life.” Tolulope Phillips, on her part, recalls her father to be “straight forward, loving, kindhearted, peaceful and a man of prayer.” The remains of the late Phillips were laid to rest at his family house in Ipaja yesterday.

TheGuardian

60 | Saturday, February 23, 2013

Conscience, Nurtured by Truth

Sports

WILLAMS SISTERS Thrilla In Africa Breaking The Mould Project

Debuts In The Guardian From Friday, March

Sylvanus Okpalla is the assistant coach of the Super Eagles, which won the gold medal at the just concluded South Africa 2013 CAF Nations Cup. A gold medalist as a player when the country first won the trophy in 1980, Okpalla has been with the senior national team since 2011 when Stephen Keshi became the coach. Apart from helping Keshi to train the players and organize the team, the Enugu Rangers former midfielder also has the responsibility (alongside the other coaches) of monitoring the players’ off-camp activities to ensure they don’t go around the bend. Fielding questions from CHRISTIAN OKPARA in his Festac Town, Lagos home on Monday, Okpalla talks about the reception Nigerians gave to the Super Eagles on return from South Africa, the Brazil 2014 World Cup qualifiers, and the Confederation Cup, among other issues pertinent to the continued progress of the senior national team. Most importantly, the coach says the team is programmed to ensure its continuous upward progression.

INCE returning from South Africa, where they beat all comers to merge champions of Africa for the first time in 19 years, players and officials of the Super Eagles have been the toast of Nigerians, with governments at all levels and corporate bodies hosting the heroes and showering them with gifts. At the last count, the team has received from a grateful country more than N500 million, as well as plots of land and other material things. Although most of the foreign-based members of the team have since gone back to join their clubs, their home-based counterparts have been going round the country to honour events organized by states’ governments and corporate sponsors of the team. Such has been their involvement in none football related programmes that some observers are worried that these home-based players in the squad could be lulled into forgetting the reason they are being celebrated and as such fall off the development curve. Examples abound of many teams, whose players were expected to grow to become world beaters after one fantastic outing in the international arena only for the players to fade away without fulfilling their potential. The questions are, ‘to what extent will their newfound wealth work against the home-based players,’ and ‘is the system good enough to ensure that the players do not lose the appetite for hard work.’ Speaking to The Guardian during the week, Super Eagles Assistant Coach, Sylvanus Okpalla, says there is nothing to fear because the coaches are monitoring the players to ensure they keep their feet on the ground. Okpalla says the players know that winning the Nations Cup is just the beginning of their journey to stardom, adding that only a foolish player would throw away his career because of the ‘little fame that has come his way.’ According to the C.S. Marítimo of Portugal former star, “we have a programme that will ensure the players do not lose sight of what is required of them. “We will liaise with their clubs to ensure that these players are doing what they should do and of course, any player that is not playing for his club will have no business in the team. The players in the team are only the best home-based players and they must be consistent to retain their position in the team. “What I am saying is that the national team is for the best Nigerian players and anybody who thinks he has arrived because he was in the team to the Nations Cup is making a big mistake. But these are intelligent players, who know what it means to be in the national team.”

Okpalla (third right) during a reception for the Super Eagles in Lagos … last week.

PHOTO: FEMI ADEBESIN-KUTI

‘Our Programme Will Get The Best Out Of Home-based Players’ Okpalla dismissed the notion that some players should be in the national team at all times because of what they are doing for their clubs, adding that national team football and clubsides are two different things. He added: “People should stop comparing the clubs with the national teams because different things are involved in these teams. That is why Ronaldo scores in every game for Real Madrid, yet he finds it difficult to score for Portugal. The same thing happens with Messi, Rooney and many other players. “The national team is a collection of players from different backgrounds and it takes a very good player to adjust to that level of the game. “In the club, players stay together for a whole season training and learning how to play as a team, but the national team gets together once in a while after which the players go back to their clubs. So some players easily adjust to the national team set up, while some others find it difficult to thrive in such situations. But we give every player the opportunity to show us what he can do because that is the only way you can select your best team.” Okpalla was a member of the 1980 squad that won the first Nations Cup for Nigeria, a victory

that fetched the players and their officials national honours and gifts, including houses in Festac Town, Lagos, and cars, but he treasures the current trophy more because ‘it is quite different from what we experienced in 1980.’ “I am grateful to God that I was part of the 1980 team as a teenage footballer. I was just one year out of secondary school when we won the competition. And today again I have won as a coach. “I value both wins, but the fact that this one is current makes it more valuable. The spirit of this victory is totally different because in 1980 only a few people had access to the stadium or watched the games on television. But this one almost every Nigerian home followed the games, and it has been celebrated more than the 1980 win. “Sometimes, you don’t know the extent of what you have achieved until you experience how people treat you on arrival to the country. What I witnessed in Abuja was so great that I didn’t know that Nigerians could celebrate like this.” Okpalla is still savouring the euphoria of the reception the Super Eagles got from Nigerians on arrival with the trophy from South Africa. “Nigerians, men, boys, girls, women, some carrying babies, lined the streets from the Abuja Airport to the Abuja Stadium, a journey of nor-

mally 10 minutes took us up to six hours. It was so exciting and some of the boys couldn’t help being so emotional that they shed tears of joy. They made us to understand how much they needed to celebrate.” He adds, “There is another lesson from the Nations Cup victory, when we were in South Africa, nobody asked you where you came from, there was no tribalism, everybody fought for Nigeria and on return, everybody trooped out to welcome the team. No Hausa, Igbo, Yoruba, Ijaw, or any ethnic divide, people came out as Nigerians to cheer a Nigerian victory. It is amazing how victory can bring the best in a people.” Having experienced the high of winning the Nations Cup, Okpalla says the technical crew would work hard to ensure that Nigeria remains at the apex of African football. He adds, however, “sustaining the momentum will not be easy because we are up there and we are now the target of every ambitious African team. “Every team will now want to beat Nigeria to measure its own growth, so life will no longer be easy. “We have a World Cup qualifier next month, and we are going to start working towards it.

THE GUARDIAN Saturday, February 23, 2013

SPORTS Uneasy lies the head that wears the crown, we know this. It is not only in Africa, it is also like that in Europe and every other place. “All we need to do is prepare and equip our team better than even before for the challenges knowing that we cannot take any team for granted. There are no more minnows in world football. Niger was in 2012 Nations Cup, which Nigeria did not qualify for. Nobody would have thought that Burkina Faso would play in the final, but it happened. We know that if we relax we would be knocked off the top, so we are going to continue building the team.” On the composition of the squad for the World Cup qualifier and the Brazil 2013 Confederation Cup, which takes place in June, Okpalla said “we have a ready bank of players to work with,’’ adding that more players would be given the opportunity to stake their claim to the team. “We know the players better after staying with them for more than three weeks. So many more of the 23 players would have featured in the games but for illness. Nigerians did not see Gabriel Reuben and Azubuike Egwuekwe because they were ill in South Africa. “All the home-based players were fantastic, but we had no chance of using all of them. We will get some of them that we had no opportunity of seeing to train and see where they can fit into the team.” Reminiscing on the Nations Cup performance of the Super Eagles, Okpalla says one of the things that gave Nigeria victory in South Africa was the disposition of the players. He said, “One thing I must say of these boys is that they were disciplined. Before we got together people had been saying that indiscipline was the bane of the team, but we saw a different thing when we got to camp. “I must thumb up Mikel Obi because he was one of the leaders and he did everything Keshi told him to do. He was totally professional and the other players followed suit. “When Enyimba chairman, Felix Anyansi Agwu visited our camp, he could not believe what he saw because the players were ready to sacrifice everything for Nigeria. He confessed that it was the first time he would see a collection of players ready to die for Nigeria. That is what Keshi wants to maintain in the team going forward.” Outside the national team, one issue that has been worrying Okpalla, who played for Enugu Rangers for four years before moving to Portugal to continue his professional career, is the attitude of the managers of the club to a dispute he has with it. Worried that the management of the club was not ready to fulfill its contractual obligations to him when he was a coach with the ‘Flying Antelopes,’ Okpalla took his case to the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) court, which ordered Rangers to settle to fulfill

its obligations to him. “My case with Rangers has been concluded by the NPL, which told the club to pay me all they are owing me. But Rangers has not paid up,” he said, adding, however, that the case would not stop him from helping the club any time his services are needed. “I played for Rangers for four years, won two league titles and two FA Cups,” he reminisces, adding, “In Nigeria today, people have Manchester United, Chelsea, Arsenal, Barcelona, among others, as their clubs, but I don’t have such allegiance to foreign clubs. “Rangers is my only club and no matter what happens I will

always have a place for it in my heart. Rangers is the only club in the world that will play badly and I will feel bad. I have sympathy for Portuguese clubs because I stayed in that country for long, but my club is Rangers. “We may disagree, but as professionals we don’t keep malice. I am a contractor now, so I can work for any club, go away and come back any time I am needed. That is that. If Rangers tomorrow feels I have something to offer them and they contact me, I will go there to work as a professional. We may disagree but we are not enemies.”

Home-based star, Godfrey Oboabona (right), challenges Burkina Faso’s Aristide Bance during the final game of the African Nations Cup in South Africa…recently. PHOTO: AFP.

Has The Tiki Taka Bubble Finally Burst? I

N the aftermath of Afcon 2013 the world has returned to the diet of the EPL, La Liga and the European Club championships. Although I like Arsenal FC for its consistent struggle to play attractive attacking football, it is Barcelona FC that has completely stolen my heart. Who would not fall in love with a team that brings delight to its fans week after week in all competitions with consistent, regular displays of the best form of football available to the world this past decade? My relationship with Barca has been on for almost 10 years. I do not even recall how it started, but I just know that I have always felt a thing about the Spanish city, and the moment I started to observe that there was something different, unique, refreshing, exciting, and entertaining about its team, its history and its armada of exceptionally gifted, mostly home-grown players, I became hooked for life! Except for the occasional hiccup, we, the fans of Barcelona FC, unlike the more numerous and fanatical of the Gunners, have not been let down. We are in an almost perpetual mode of celebration!

Great changes in how the game of football is played hardly ever happen. There have only been a few throughout the history of the game with the ‘total football’ introduced by the Dutch led by Yohanne Cryuff in the early 1970s as the most significant. Otherwise, changes have been limited to fitter players, increase in the speed of play, slight modifications in beating the off-side trap, attacking full backs, goal-line technology, and all the theoretical jargons of systems – 4-3-3, 4-2-4, 4-4 3, etc indicating how the players more or less organize themselves on the field of play during a match. It is only in Spain and in the team called Barcelona FC that the most radical and revolutionary development in playing style has taken place giving the world something new, unique, delightful and totally different about how the game. I don’t know how it was done, but from the Barcelona youth Academy the world saw the birth of a generation of football players that has held it spellbound for almost a decade. This has also given rise to an army of researchers all over the world attempting to

AC Milan’s midfielder, Sulley Ali Muntari (centre) celebrates after scoring against Barcelona during their Champions League match at the San Siro Stadium in Milan… on Wednesday. PHOTO: AFP

understand and decode whatever has produced the two greatest teams in the world of the past decade, and in my estimation, the two greatest teams of all time and the best player in history – the national team of Spain, the club called Barcelona FC and the man named Lionel Messi. They are all from the same source, conceived in the same womb! So, this past decade all teams have been forced to struggle against the speed, the passing, the movements, the skills, and the complex but smooth pattern of Spain and Barcelona FC. That is why Spain have been the number one national team in the world, by FIFA’s ranking in the past decade, and Barca, the world’s undoubted kings of football. Coaches of other teams (ask Ferguson and Mourinho for their nightmarish experiences) have been having sleepless nights trying to concoct counter-strategies how to stop Barcelona FC in particular. Very few teams have been able to manage and neutralise the style of Barca. In the last two seasons, only Chelsea FC and Real Madrid FC have, with some luck, managed in a few games to cage the rampaging ball players of Barcelona FC. But even those efforts took so much from the two teams that this season they have become a shadow of themselves. But all of that may be about to change. There is a new force in the horizon. Last Wednesday night, notice was served in the manner that the Italian giant team, AC Milan FC, rendered Tiki Taka impotent. In the first leg match of the champions league match between them, the Italians masterfully defeated Barcelona FC with such ease and with such a very simple and effective strategy that, perhaps, a turning point may finally have been reached in the struggle to stop Barcelona FC and by extension, Spain. The playing style of Barcelona FC, even in this match last Wednesday, did not change. They still dominated AC Milan with their ball possession and endless running. But they never looked likely to break down the well–organised defense of AC Milan. The Italians turned almost every breakdown of Barca’s long and ineffective spell on the ball into

a threat at the other end, making the Spaniards unsure of themselves, less creative, even reluctant sometimes to go forward in their usual ferocious manner. Last Wednesday night, even I was humbled by the manner of Barcelona FC’s defeat. And this was a team that had all its best players present, including the World’s best two – Messi and Iniesta! The world is waiting and watching to see what would happen when the two teams meet again at Camp Nou for the return leg. Has the lion been finally caged? Has an antidote for Tiki Taka been found? How Will Barcelona Respond To This Real Threat? That match will provide the first indication of what would happen in Rio De Janeiro in the summer of 2014 when Spain would attempt to continue its dominance of world football by creating history and becoming the first European national team to win the World Cup played in South America; and Lionel Messi will attempt to erase all doubts about who the greatest football player in the history of the game is. With a World Cup medal added to his bulging chest, there will be no doubt whatsoever anymore, even amongst his worst critics, that he is the greatest football player the world has ever seen. Oh, how I hate AC Milan FC now for the ‘damage’ they have done!

THE GUARDIAN, Saturday, February 23, 2013

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TheGuardian

Saturday, February 23, 2013

Conscience, Nurtured by Truth

Mba Never Belonged To Warri Wolves, Says Rangers IGERIA’S CAF Champions N League representative, Enugu Rangers has declared that African Nations Cup hero, Sunday Mba, is its bona fide player contrary to the claims by the team he last played for, Warri Wolves. Mba, who shone at the Nations Cup in South Africa and even scored the championship winner in the final against Burkina Faso, is bound for an overseas club soon. Warri Wolves has maintained the overseas-bound Mba is its player, but Rangers has now come out to dismiss such a claim. Enugu State FA boss, Chidi Ofor Okenwa, said Mba has always been a player of Rangers as he was sent on loan to Dolphin in the first instance. “We don’t have to start joining issues with Warri Wolves on who owns Sunday Mba. Any contractual agreement of a player is with the state FA, and that is Delta State FA. Like when Mba joined Rangers from Enyimba, he was duly registered in Enugu FA and his papers are still on my table,” said Okenwa. “Even his loan deal to Dolphin, it was duly documented. “Warri Wolves are crying wolf. We don’t have any business with them because Mba is a registered player of Rangers. He joined us from Enyimba, then we loaned him to Dolphin, who in turn loaned him to Warri Wolves without our consent,” added Rangers Media Officer, Foster Chime. According to Chime, “Rangers even gave him transport fare to Abuja to team up with Eagles before they left for Faro. He was training with us, his Honda Accord is parked in our Enugu camp and I know he will be glad to team up with Chibuzor Okonkwo, his childhood friend from Jos.”

Barca Looking To Bounce Back ARCELONA will bid to recovB er from the shock of their 20 defeat to AC Milan in the Champions League in midweek as they welcome Sevilla to the Nou Camp today. Goals by Kevin-Prince Boateng and Sulley Muntari put Milan firmly in the driving seat ahead of the return leg of their last-16 tie on March 12. A return to Primera Division action should provide some comfort for Barca, who enjoy a 12-point lead over Atletico Madrid heading into Saturday’s match with mid-table Sevilla. Midfielder Xavi admitted Barca were hurt by the defeat at the San Siro and insisted there are lessons to be learned. “It was a long journey back for the players and coaching staff,” Xavi said. “The result is very, very bad for us. “We have to realise what we did wrong. We have to correct our errors and not have doubts about ourselves, that would be the worst thing. We have to be more united than ever.” The squad’s unity was at least boosted this week by the return of defender Eric Abidal. The Frenchman has spent the best part of a year recovering from a liver transplant he underwent last April. He returned to full training with the squad at the end of December and will now be available for selection for Barca’s remaining games, starting against Sevilla.

Super Eagles’ midfielder, Sunday Mba (left) contests with Mali’s Seydou Keita during the 2013 Orange African Cup of Nations semifinal match at Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban, South Africa… recently.

Pistorius Granted Bail, Ordered To Hand Over Passport OUTH African athlete, Oscar Scharges Pistorius, who faces murder over the fatal shooting of his girlfriend, has been granted bail after a four-day hearing. Magistrate Desmond Nair said the state had not made a case that he would flee, or that he had a violent character. The Paralympic champion denies murder, saying he shot Reeva Steenkamp thinking she was an intruder at his home. The next hearing in the case has been set for June 4. Bail was set at one million rand (£74,000; $113,000). He was ordered to hand over his passport, avoid his home in Pretoria and report to a police station between 07:00 and 13:00 every Monday and Friday. Nair took almost two hours to deliver his judgement. He criticised the testimony of Detective Hilton Botha for not following up important leads and changing his evidence. But the magistrate also said he had

difficulty understanding why Pistorius had opened fire in the way he did. However, he said Pistorius had “reached out to meet the state’s case” and had given a full version of events at an early stage. “I come to the conclusion that the accused has made a case to be released on bail,” he said. Pistorius’s family and supporters in the court gasped and cheered as the magistrate announced his decision. His uncle, Arnold Pistorius, said outside court: “We are relieved by the fact that Oscar got bail today, but at the same time, we are in mourning for Reeva Steenkamp and her family.” The hearing began on Tuesday and both prosecution and defence laid out their cases. Both sides agree that Pistorius shot through the bathroom door four times, hitting and killing Steenkamp. But prosecutors allege the shooting happened after the

couple had an argument at Pistorius’s home in the early hours of February 14. Botha told the court that witnesses had heard shouting, screaming and gunfire from about 600m (2,000ft) away. But later he changed his evidence to suggest the witnesses were much closer. And on Thursday it emerged that Botha faces allegations of attempted murder, and he was removed from the case. Pistorius says he woke in the middle of the night, and thought there was an intruder in the bathroom. The prosecutors sought to portray Pistorius as man with a history of violence who was likely to flee the country. But the defence argued it would be impossible for Pistorius to flee because his prosthetic legs would be noticed wherever he went. Steenkamp, 29, was a model and law graduate with a bur-

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FELIX OGUEJIOFOR ABUGU

E-mail letters@ngrguardiannews.com; www.ngrguardiannews.com

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geoning television career. Oscar Pistorius, 26, won gold medals at the 2004 Paralympic Games in Athens, in Beijing in 2008 and London in 2012.

In London, he made history by becoming the first doubleamputee to run in the Olympics, making the semifinal of the 400 metres.

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