Saturday 23 Mar 2013 The Guardian Nigeria

S A T U R D A Y

E D I T I O N

TheGuardian Conscience, Nurtured by Truth

Vol. 29, No. 12,504

Saturday, March 23, 2013

www.ngrguardiannews.com

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Achebe, Big Iroko, Falls ‘

For us, the loss of Chinua Achebe is, above all else, intensely personal.

We have lost a brother, a colleague, a trailblazer and a doughty fighter. Of the “pioneer quartet” of contemporary Nigerian literature, two voices have been silenced – one, of the poet Christopher Okigbo, and now, the novelist Chinua Achebe. It is perhaps difficult for outsiders of that intimate circle to appreciate this sense of depletion, but we take consolation in the young generation of writers to whom the baton has been passed, those who have already creatively ensured that there is no break in the continuum of the literary vocation.

We need to stress this at a critical time of Nigerian history, where the forces of darkness appear to overshadow the illumination of existence that literature represents. These are forces that arrogantly pride themselves implacable and brutal enemies of what Chinua and his pen represented, not merely for the African continent, but for humanity.

Indeed, we cannot help wondering if the recent insensate massacre of Chinua’s people in Kano, only a few days ago, hastened the fatal undermining of that resilient will that had sustained him so many years after his crippling accident.

No matter the reality, after the initial shock, and a sense of abandonment, we confidently assert that Chinua lives. His works provide their enduring testimony to the domination of the human spirit over the forces of repression, bigotry, and retrogression.

’

— J. P. CLARK & WOLE SOYINKA

Jonathan Reacts — P. 2 Tributes — P. 2, 4 There Was A Man… — P.5 Dreams Of Nigeria — P.6

THE GUARDIAN, Saturday, March 23, 2013

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Jonathan, Mark, Obi, Anyaoku Others Mourn Achebe

By Godwin Ijediogor (Lagos), Madu Onuorah and Azimazi Momoh (Abuja) and Uzoma Nzeagwu (Awka) IKE most great men and Lhuman women in different fields of endeavour, Nigerians

and indeed the world never stopped talking about Prof Chinua Achebe before his death, and his name would continue to reverberate even death. in The literary icon and author of the classical Things fall Apart, died on Thursday night in a hospital in Boston, Massachusetts, United States (US), at the age of 82.

The Ogidi, Anambra Stateborn David and Mariana Fisher Professor of Literature at Brown University had been sick for some time and there was anxiety over his health recently.

Born on November 16, 1930 and one of Africa’s best fiction writers, Achebe’s last book, There Was A Country: A Personal History of Biafra, is still a subject of intellectual discourse.

Things fall Apart, published in 1958, which focuses on the traditions of Igbo society and the clash between Western and African traditional values, has sold over 10 million copies.

Achebe, also known as the Eagle on the Iroko, has over 20 works to his credit, some of

which are fiercely critical of politicians and a failure of leadNigeria. in ership He had been living in the US since 1990, following injuries from a car crash, which confined him to the wheelchair.

South African writer and Nadine laureate, Nobel Gordimer, in 2007 when she was among the judges to award Booker Man the him International Prize in honour of his literary career, referred to him as the “father of modern literature.”

African In his reaction, President Goodluck Jonathan expressed “immense sadness” over his death.

A statement by his spokesman, Dr. Reuben Abati, noted that Jonathan joined Achebe’s family, his friends, colleagues, past and present students, admirers and all, who have learnt indelible lessons of human existence from his award winning works of literature, in mourning him.

Similarly, Senate President David Mark described Achebe as “an accomplished writer and a world celebrated author who lived a life worthy of emulation.”

A statement signed by his Special Adviser on Media, Kola Mark said Ologbodion, received the news of Professor Achebe’s death with shock.

Jonathan stated that as the world mourns the literary icon, they should be “consoled by

the knowledge that Achebe will live forever in the hearts and minds of present and future generations through his great works which brought him enduring international fame and countless honours.”

The statement added: “The that believes President Achebe’s frank, truthful and fearless interventions in national affairs will be greatly missed at home in Nigeria, because while others may have disagreed with his views, most Nigerians never doubted his immense patriotism and sincere commitment to the building of a greater, more united and prosperous nation that all Africans and the entire black race could be proud of.”

He recalled that with maturity and global stature, Achebe fearlessly spoke the truth as he saw it and became, as he advanced in age, a much revered national icon and conscience of the nation, who will be eternally honoured for his contributions to national discourse, as well as the immense fame and glory he brought to his fatherland.

He, on behalf of the federal government and Nigerians, extended condolences to family.

Achebe’s Mark said Achebe “was a patriotic Nigerian, who used his lit-

erary prowess to seek a better society for our nation. We shall all miss him.”

He urged the present generation of youths to emulate the steadfastness and determination to succeed, which the late Achebe stood for.

“Our younger generation should rise up and be counted in their various careers,” he said.

Former Secretary General of Commonwealth, Chief Emeka Anyaoku, said: “The death of Achebe represents the fall of a globally acknowledged Iroko in the literary forest.

“His several novels and essays established him as a master storyteller in simple and very readable English language.

“He was also unusually gifted,

incisive observer and critic of the politics of his country, Nigeria, and the rest of Africa.”

He added: “The universal admiration, nay almost veneration of Achebe, led to his appointment as the David and Marianna Fisher University professor of African Studies at the world renowned Brown University in the US, where he inspired the establishment of the Chinua Achebe Colloquium, which draws distinguished academics, policymaker and others every years to Brown University.

“I was myself a participant in the 2010 Colloquium and so can attest to his unique contributions to regular, far-reaching discourse on African affairs.”

Anambra State Governor Peter Obi lamented that Nigeria and indeed the literary world has lost one of its finest minds.

In a statement in Awka by his Senior Special Assistant on Media and Publicity, Valentine Obienyem, Obi said: “I woke up early this morning and saw two missed calls from Achebe’s son, Dr. Ike Achebe, with whom I have been in regular touch to ascertain his father’s well being.

“I immediately returned the call and to my greatest shock and disbelief, he informed me that his father had just passed on.

“The world has lost one of her finest minds. Africa and Nigeria have lost one of their greatest global ambassadors.”

Achebe’s Family, Community Await Formal Confirmation From Chuks Collins, Awka HOUGH there was no formal word on the passing of the Anambra born literary giant, Prof Chinua Achebe, the family members at his Ikenga-Ogidi community yesterday said they were yet to get formal word from his close family members, especially those staying with him in the United States of America (USA).

Also, efforts to get comments from his son and university don at the History Dept of Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Prof Chidi Achebe hit a dead end as his phone lines remained unanswered.

Everything remained calm at the family’s coun-

T

try home overlooking the Ogidi-Abatete-AlorOraukwu highway. The black gate, as always, remained locked.

The President General of Ogidi Union Nigeria (OUN), Dr Eric Obiakor in his reaction said he just heard the information like any other citizen, but could not say more, ‘until I hear a formal word from the family” Another citizen of Ogidi and the President of Nkwelle-Ogidi Community Development Union, Chief Maurice Ebo, admitted he heard the news as a rumour, especially when it was not confirmed yet by the direct family.

Achebe’s Works Have Immortalised Him, Says Fayemi From Muyiwa Adeyemi (Ado Ekiti) KITI State Governor, Dr. E Kayode Fayemi, has described the death of literary icon, Achebe, as a great loss to Nigeria and Africa.

Fayemi, in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary (CPS), Olayinka Oyebode, said Achebe has immortalised himself through his literary works, which attained global importance and acceptance.

He said Achebe used his novels to positively project the image of Nigeria in the international community and advocated a better society through his works.

The governor, however, urged Nigerian authorities to address the problems afflicting the country, which made Achebe to reject the national honour of the Commander of the Order of the Federal Republic (CFR) in 2004 and 2011.

He described Achebe as the father of modern African writing, an activist who spoke against injustice and corruption, a role model to generations of writers, whose works inspired the younger ones and paved way for the emergence of a vibrant literary community.

Achebe’s literary prowess, according to Fayemi, traversed novels, short stories, poetry, essays, criticisms, non-fiction, political commentary and children books.

He urged activists and stakeholders, who believe in the cause of Achebe, not to relent in their quest to enthrone true federalism, rule of law, equity, justice and fair play.

‘He Left An Indelible Mark’ FORMER President General of Ohaneze Ndigbo, Dr. Dozie Ikedife, said: “It is a great loss to the country.

“He was one of the greatest writers of Nigeria in this century. He left an indelible mark on the firmament of world literature.

“His death is the will of God and I prayed for the repose of his soul and for God to give the family the heart to bear the loss.”

‘He Was The Numero Uno

Amongst His Peers’ FORMERgovernor Of Anambra State and Senator representing Anambra Central in the National Assembly, Dr. Chris Ngige, described Achebe as a literary giant with a special style that captures events in a classical natural ways, with the environment being the normal Nigerian rural setting or city.

“He was the numero uno amongst his peers in the literary world, having his flagship novel “Things Fall Apart,” ranking one of the most read all over the world having been translated into more than 53 languages.

“Anambra Central and Nigeria have lost one of her activist, literary prince, welfarist and worthy ambassador,” Ngige said.

‘A Great Loss To Humanity’ LAGOS State Governor Babatunde Fashola, while expressing grief at the passage of Achebe, described his death as a great loss not only to the literary world, but also humanity.

Fashola, in a statement by his Special Adviser on Media, Hakeem Bello, recalled his meeting with Achebe, said: “I am particularly saddened by the fact that when I met him at Brown University last December, I never realised it will be my last with him.

“He is a towering African figure, whose personality transcends the walls of ethnicity and religion and whose literary prowess has taken Nigeria and, indeed, the African continent to the pinnacle of international recognition.”

He added: “I must say, without any reservation, that Achebe’s ingenuity as writer and the power behind his words influenced my generation to no small extent and opened our eyes to the rich culture, tradition and belief of our people.

“And here, perhaps, lies his greatest contribution to the Black race; for through such world classics as Things Fall Apart, Professor Achebe was able to keep our culture, tradition and belief alive in spite of

the onslaught of other cultures,” the governor said.

Fashola said Nigeria, Africa and the Black race owe Achebe a wealth of gratitude and honour “for his uncompromising stand against all forms of colonialism and man’s inhumanity to man,” adding that both nationally and internationally, the literary don agitated for

equality and objectivity.

“Indeed, Professor Achebe has left an indelible print in all our hearts but, especially, all literature lovers globally. He will continually live in our hearts as one who shaped and influenced African Literature and one who passed one of integrity’s truest tests, a constant abiding with principle,” he stated.

They Said It: CHEBE’S frank, truthful and fearless A interventions in national affairs will be greatly missed at home in Nigeria, because while others may have disagreed with his views, most Nigerians never doubted his immense patriotism and sincere commitment to the building of a greater, more united and prosperous nation that all Africans and the entire black race could be proud of.

— President Goodluck Jonathan ‘Before I too go my way, my wife and I will always remember Chinua with fondness.

Our thoughts are with Christie and the children. So let him rest.’ — J. P. Clark ‘I’m just devastated. I only heard about half an hour ago, and I don’t want to say anything yet. I’m just devastated.’

— Wole Soyinka ‘His life work is done. May he finally rest in peace. No more of the physical pain of ill health. No more of pain from controversy.’ — Chinweizu ‘The death of Achebe represents the fall of a globally acknowledged Iroko in the literary forest.’ — Emeka Anyaoku

THE GUARDIAN, Saturday, March 23, 2013

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THE GUARDIAN, Saturday, March 23, 2013

NEWS

CHINUA ACHEBE (1930 - 2013)

Eminent Nigerians Eulogise Chinua Achebe Eminent Nigerians yesterday spoke glowingly about literary icon, Prof. Chinua Achebe who died yesterday in Boston, United States aged 82.

By Our Reporters

that was uniquely his own.”

Arewa Consultative Forum In a statement signed yesterday by its National Publicity Secretary, Mr Anthony Sanni, the Arewa Consultative Forum said: “ It is a sad news to all Nigerians. There is nothing we can say beyond the usual platitude that God should give the people and government of Nigeria the fortitude to endure what cannot be changed, since death is an inevitable end for all mortals.

The Professor is gone in flesh. But in many ways, he is very much around, considering he needs no tombstone to remind us of his legacies”.

Isa Yuguda (Bauchi State governor) His literary works ranked amongst the best not only in Nigeria, Africa but in the whole wide world. He was an icon that will be celebrated again and again”.

Project Nigeria PROJECT Nigeria, a group of eminent Nigerian leaders, expressed grief over the death of Achebe, who it described as one of its associates and supporters.While commiserating with his family and country, the group, jointly led by elder statesmen, Prof Ben Nwabueze and Alhaji Maitama Sule, in a statement in Lagos signed by its National Secretary, Olawale Okunniyi, said: “We wish to state, as we mourn this irreparable loss to the peoples’ movement, that Achebe, at different times, demonstrated exemplary courage as a general of the peoples’ army and a literary icon of the progressive movement, whose interventions were dreaded by oppressive governments.

Liyel Imoke (Cross River State governor) His literary offerings made name for Nigeria, while his moral interventions ignited and deepened national discuss on several key issues in the country. Nigeria has lost an international figure; a writer whom Nelson Mandela said that “in his company, the prison walls came crashing down.”

Ikemba Odumegwu-Ojukwu CentreThe DirectorGeneral of Ikemba Odumegwu-Ojukwu Centre and former Minister of Education, Prof Fabian Osuji has described the death of Chinua Achebe as a great loss to the Igbo race in particular, the nation and the world at large. “We feel that the nation has lost a very distinguished writer, a very distinguished author, and a novelist who has contributed a whole lot to African Literature and in fact, he is regarded as the father of African Literature because before him, there was nothing like real, genuine and authentic African Literature. It was his classical novel, Things Fall Apart that created a new awareness about African writers and African Literature. To that extent, we feel a terrible sense of loss by his death.

Wale Okediran (former President, Association of Nigerian Authors) What can I say? It’s very shocking although we shall all have to go one day. His is a great loss to the Nigerian literature and country. He’s done very well, played his part, left behind great works; he was even controversial at the very end. I’m proposing a state burial for him. As a giant literary figure, he deserves a state burial. FG should name something after him; maybe a stadium or one of the great universities. development.

Prof. Charles Nnolim (University of Port Harcourtbased teacher and literary critic) I was shocked; I didn’t know he was ill at all. But we have to look at the bright side of his life. He was our icon in the area of literature; he was very original and courageous. He lucky in that he had advantage of early start; he was original and didIgbo In The United States n’t have anybody to copy from. He was couraChairman of Igbo World Assembly (IWA) and geous in attacking Nigeria in his book, The Trouble top executive of the Ohanaze Ndigbo, with Nigeria, A Man of the People.

Anambra State-born California-based physiLike I said, he was courageous in attacking cian, Dr Nwachukwu Anakwenze said yester- Nigeria’s corruption; he was a leader in the first day: “I spoke to his family this morning. He class order. He pioneered African Writers Series was to be honored this weekend at the (AWS), Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA); he CISA/IWA retreat at Staunton, Virginia. started Okike magazine, which is still running. He “We will still honor him. What a great man had to reject an honour from Nigerian governand academic star who was fearless to tell the ment on account of bad leadership. He is the truth as he sees it. May his soul rest in perfect man from who all Africa learnt from, a writer of peace. world-class.

Things Fall Apart is one the best 100 books in the Aka Ikenga world. We hope that writers coming after him AKA Ikenga, an Igbo group, said: “Achebe will have his genius and courage. bestrode the world of letters like the colossus that he was. He was a wordsmith! He was a Prof. Abiola Irele (literary critic and Dean, College master storyteller. He was an artist in the use of Humanities at Kwara State University, Ofa) of words. He was the palm oil with which we Well, Achebe’s death is a great loss to us in assimilated literature. He was the custodian Nigeria. As one of pioneering writers, he gave of our values.”

Africa a decided image, a high profile. My only regret is that he did not get the Nobel Prize! It Rochas Okorocha (Imo State governor) would have been a great honour to him and Prof. Achebe was no doubt an asset. While I Nigeria. But his works will endure. sympathize with the members of the family, I however urge the Federal Government to Prof. Femi Osofisan (retired academic, playimmortalize his name as a great Nigeria. His wright, poet and novelist) demise is a colossal loss to Nigeria and Igbo It is still a shock even though he was old enough. nation. He contributed to the growth of the Achebe was one of the truly great minds of his education sector in his literary works, congeneration, who could be both grandly right and structive criticism, uncompromising war grandiosely wrong. That is perhaps why he has against social malpractice with extraordinary ended amidst a burning controversy, for such is intellectual background. always the paradox of genius. Only the small stars die without a noise. I am convinced that Achebe Rauf Aregbesola (Osun State governor) will continue to speak to us, perhaps even louder Through his writing, he carried the Nigerian now from the grave. cultural values to the whole world and with the translation of his works into several lanEmeritus Professor Ayo Banjo (former Vice guages across the world, the history and cul- Chancellor, University of Ibadan) ture of our people, especially those of the Igbo We have lost the most outstanding writer our extraction, have been etched permanently on country has produced. He started a tradition, the psyche of the world. There is no doubt which many people admit is unique. This was that the place of the likes of Achebe will be somebody, whose influence has been very strong hard to fill as he promoted a genre of writing in Nigerian literature over the last 50 years or so.

He started a tradition in Nigerian literature in English language, which has inspired many people to write. It’s unfortunate and regretful that his life was characterized by controversy.

But that doesn’t taint the contributions that he has made to African. He’s among the heroes of Nigeria literature; and he’s go to go on inspiring Nigerian literature in the future.

Unoma Azuah (novelist and U.S.-based academic) Achebe’s passing has left a huge void in my life as a writer. I met him at Nsukka as an undergraduate student at University of Nigeria, Nsukka. His daughter, Nwando, is a friend and, of course, the affirmation he gave me and continues to give me as a Nigerian writer lives on.

He taught me the need to have my own voice and to tell my own truth no matter how peculiar it may seem. He was a warrior who defended and protected our stories. He was a warrior that fortified and celebrated our literature.

Like he said, and I paraphrase: if the hunter is left to tell the story of a hunt, he’ll always proclaim himself the victor. Achebe will be greatly missed.

Odia Ofeimun (poet and social critic) He gave his best. His best remains forever phenomenal. We can quarrel as we please with aspects of his works and days. What we all owe him makes him triumphant. I wished we argued more with him than we did. But he was always treated like the wise old one even when he was 30, and not quite right. He will be remembered for as long as stories are told.

Hyacinth Obunseh (former Association of Nigerian Authors General Secretary and promoter of African Writers Forum) Achebe, Africa’s, nay, the black world’s biggest and most celebrated novelist, has passed on.

He was one of the finest minds of his generation. He will be greatly missed by his family, friends and the literary world. In his lifetime, he was humble, self-effacing, and lived the life he preached. He loved and believed in his people and Nigeria.

For so many years he lived abroad as a result of a fatal accident he sustained several decades ago. Had he stayed back home in Nigeria, chances are that he would not have lived long enough to make the contributions he made to

world literature since then, till he passed away, as a result of our poor health and medical facilities, which has led influential members of this and previous administrations as well as the rich to go abroad for medical reasons.

We call on the Federal Government of Nigeria to declare a State of Emergency in the health sector to arrest the situation and save Nigerians.

We also seize this opportunity to call on the Federal Government of Nigeria to grant State Pardon to General Mamman Jiya Vatsa and Mr. Kennule Saro-Wiwa, in the spirit of national reconciliation. Their contributions to Nigerian and African literature and environmental struggle cannot be over emphasised.

Issues concerning their deaths at best remain complicated and inconclusive. Indeed, this government has in the very recent past granted State Pardon to state terrorists and other persons convicted of crimes against the state.

Granting Vatsa and Saro-Wiwa State Pardon at this time will go a long way to show government’s seriousness in ‘not wanting people to suffer for too long’ for whatever crimes they may have committed against the state.

The families, friends and associates of Vatsa and Saro-Wiwa have suffered so much these past years, and we believe the government should dry their tears and end their sufferings at this time by pardoning them officially for whatever crimes they were accused of committing, even as those crimes were not proven then and now.

Tade Ipadeola (poet and President, Pen Centre Nigeria) African literature has lost a fantastic storyteller and a man of huge literary ambitions. As first and most enduring editor of the African Writers Series, he made his most remarkable contribution to world literature for no other series or editor has managed to come close. He died before the controversy surrounding his last book died down but he will be remembered, hopefully for a lot more than the controversies he cultivated.

Richard Ali (novelist and PRO, North, Association of Nigerian Authors) Chinua Achebe was a selfless writer who sought to use his considerable intellectual stature and literary prowess to tackle the identity question of Africans generally.

The Heinemann African Writers Series, of which he was Founding Editor, was instrumental in placing writing by African writers on the global stage.

THE GUARDIAN, Saturday, March 23, 2013

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NEWS

CHINUA ACHEBE (1930 - 2013)

There Was A Country. . .

And There Was A Man

By Gregory Austin Nwakunor and Victor Olusola, with Agency reports HURSDAY, March 21. The cloud had moved T slowly across the skies of Boston, Massachusetts. Everywhere was silent, as the soft, cool wind whispered its way across. The weather the previous night had fluctuated, but was fairly okay for a good night rest.

A good night rest it did provide Albert Chín ál m g Àchèbé, who bid farewell to Mother Earth after giving the country a template for restructuring in his There was A country.

In a statement, Achebe’s family requested privacy, and paid tribute to “one of the great literary voices of all time. He was also a beloved husband, father, uncle and grandfather, whose wisdom and courage are an inspiration to all who knew him.”

Though his last published work, There was A country, stirred the hornet’s nest, the death of Àchèbé, has further depleted the arts clan.

Like Okonkwo, his fictive character in Things Fall Apart, Achebe was well known throughout the world, beyond nine villages and even beyond of Umuofia and Mbano.

The poet Jackie Kay hailed Achebe as “the grandfather of African fiction” who “lit up a path for many others”, adding that she had reread Things Fall Apart “countless times.”

Born on November 16, 1930, in Ogidi, Anambra State, Nigeria, Achebe became a world citizen with magnum opus, Things Fall Apart (1958), the most widely read book in modern African literature.

Achebe’s parents, Isaiah Okafo Achebe and Janet Anaenechi Iloegbunam, were converts to the Protestant Church Mission Society (CMS) in Nigeria. The elder Achebe stopped practicing the religion of his ancestors, but he respected their traditions. Achebe’s unabbreviated name, Chinualumogu (“May God fight on my behalf”), was a prayer for divine protection and stability.

The Achebe family had five other surviving children, named in a similar fusion of traditional words relating to their new religion: Frank Okwuofu, John Chukwuemeka Ifeanyichukwu, Zinobia Uzoma, Augustine Nduka, and Grace Nwanneka.

In 1936, Achebe entered St Philips’ Central School. Despite his protests, he spent a week in the religious class for young children, but was quickly moved to a higher class when the school’s chaplain took note of his intelligence.

One teacher described him as the student with the best handwriting in class, and the best reading skills. He also attended Sunday school every week and the special evangelical services held monthly, often carrying his father’s bag. A controversy erupted at one such session, when apostates from the new church challenged the catechist about the tenets of Christianity. Achebe later included a scene from this incident in Things Fall Apart.

At the age of 12, Achebe moved from his family to the village of Nekede, four kilometres from Owerri. He enrolled as a student at the Central School, where his older brother, John, taught.

In Nekede, Achebe gained an appreciation for Mbari, a traditional art form which seeks to invoke the gods’ protection through symbolic sacrifices in the form of sculpture and collage.

In 1944, Achebe sat entrance examinations for and was accepted at both the prestigious Dennis Memorial Grammar School in Onitsha and the even more prestigious Government College in Umuahia.

Modelled after the British public school, and funded by the colonial administration, Government College, which Achebe attended, had been established in 1929 to educate Nigeria’s future elite.

It had rigorous academic standards and was vigorously elitist, accepting boys purely on the basis of ability. The language of the school was English, not only to develop proficiency but also to provide a common tongue for pupils from different Nigerian language groups. Achebe described this later as being ordered to “put away their different mother tongues and communicate in the language of their colonisers.”

The rule was strictly enforced and Achebe recalls that his first punishment was for asking another boy to pass the soap in Igbo.

Achebe excelled at school and won a scholar-

ship for undergraduate studies. He became fascinated by world religions and traditional African cultures, and began writing stories as a university student.

In 1948, in preparation for independence, Nigeria’s first university opened. Known as University College, (now the University of Ibadan), it was an associate college of the University of London. Achebe obtained such high marks in the entrance examination that he was admitted as a Major Scholar in the university’s first intake and given a bursary to study medicine.

After a year of gruelling work, he changed to English, history, and theology. Because he switched his field, however, he lost his scholarship and had to pay tuition fees. He received a government bursary, and his family also donated money – his older brother, Augustine, gave up money for a trip home from his job as a civil servant so that Chinua could continue his studies.

From its inception, the university had a strong English faculty; it included many famous writers among its alumni.

After graduation, Achebe worked for the Nigerian Broadcasting Service (NBS) and soon moved to the metropolis of Lagos.

He gained worldwide attention with Things Fall Apart in the late 1950s; his later novels include No Longer at Ease (1960), Arrow of God (1964), A Man of the People (1966), and Anthills of the Savannah (1987). Achebe writes his novels in English and has defended the use of English, a “language of colonisers”, in African literature. In 1975, his lecture An Image of Africa: Racism in Conrad’s “Heart of Darkness” became the focus of controversy, for its criticism of Joseph Conrad as “a bloody racist” and was later published.

When Biafra broke away from Nigeria in 1967, Achebe became a supporter of Biafran independence and acted as ambassador for the people of the new nation. The war ravaged the populace, and as starvation and violence took its toll, he appealed to the people of Europe and the Americas for aid. When the Nigerian government retook the region in 1970, he involved himself in political parties but soon resigned due to frustration over the corruption and elitism he witnessed. He lived in the United States for several years in the 1970s, and returned to the U.S. in 1990

Achebe

…for some time now I have watched events in Nigeria with alarm and dismay. I have watched particularly the chaos in my own state of Anambra where a small clique of renegades, openly boasting its connections in high places, seems determined to turn my homeland into a bankrupt and lawless fiefdom. I am appalled by the brazenness of this clique and the silence, if not connivance, of the Presidency

after a car accident left him partially disabled.

“I miss Nigeria very much. My injury means I need to know I am near a good hospital and close to my doctor. I need to know that if I went to a pharmacist the medicine there would be the drug that the bottle says it is,” he said in 2007.

Achebe’s novels focus on the traditions of Igbo society, the effect of Christian influences, and the clash of Western and traditional African values during and after the colonial era. His style relies heavily on the Igbo oral tradition, and combines straightforward narration with representations of folk stories, proverbs, and oratory. He has also published a number of short stories, children’s books, and essay collections. Since 2009, he has been a professor at Brown University in the United States.

Achebe won the Commonwealth poetry prize for his collection, Christmas in Biafra, and was a finalist for the 1987 Booker prize for his novel, Anthills of the Savannah, and in 2007, won the Man Booker international prize.

Chair of the judges on that occasion, Elaine Showalter, said he had “inaugurated the modern African novel”, while her fellow judge, the South African Nobel laureate Nadine Gordimer, said his fiction was “an original synthesis of the psychological novel, the Joycean stream of consciousness, the postmodern breaking of sequence”, and that Achebe was “a joy and an illumination to read”.

He also won the $300,000 Dorothy and Lillian Gish Prize, which recognizes artists who have had an extraordinary impact in their field. The award, named after the silent film stars, will be delivered at a ceremony on Oct. 27 in New York.

Past winners include Robert Redford, Ornette Coleman, Merce Cunningham and Frank Gehry.

Achebe, 82, played a critical role in establishing post-colonial African literature and is known to students all over the continent for his seminal novel, Things Fall Apart. Achebe’s masterpiece has graced countless school and college syllabuses and is translated into 50 languages worldwide.

It is often cited as the most read book in modern African literature and has sold more than 12 million copies.

Achebe also was an essayist and an outspoken critic of successive Nigerian governments, poor leadership and institutionalised corruption. He passed up national honors in protest.

Achebe twice rejected the Nigerian government’s attempt to name him a Commander of the Federal Republic – a national honour – first in 2004, and second in 2011.

In 2004 he wrote, “for some time now I have watched events in Nigeria with alarm and dismay. I have watched particularly the chaos in my own state of Anambra where a small clique of renegades, openly boasting its connections in high places, seems determined to turn my homeland into a bankrupt and lawless fiefdom.

I am appalled by the brazenness of this clique and the silence, if not connivance, of the Presidency ... Nigeria’s condition today under your watch is, however, too dangerous for silence. I must register my disappointment and protest by declining to accept the high honour awarded me in the 2004 Honours List.”

Achebe taught Africana Studies at Brown University and before that at Bard College in New York.

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THE GUARDIAN, Saturday, March 23, 2013

Chinua Achebe (1930 - 2013)

Chinua Achebe:What Nigeria Means To Me Chinua Achebe looks back on his troubled relationship with his country.

IGERIAN nationality was for me and my N generation an acquired taste like cheese.

Or better still, like ballroom dancing. Not dancing per se, for that came naturally; but this titillating version of slow-slow-quickquick-slow performed in close body contact with a female against a strange, elusive beat. I found, however, that once I had overcome my initial awkwardness I could do it pretty well.

Perhaps these irreverent analogies would only occur to someone like me, born into a strongly multiethnic, multilingual, multireligious, somewhat chaotic colonial situation.

The first passport I ever carried described me as a “British Protected Person”, an unexciting identity embodied in a phrase that no one was likely to die for. I don’t mean it was entirely devoid of emotive meaning. After all, “British” meant you were located somewhere in the flaming red portion of the world map, a quarter of the entire globe in those days and called “the British Empire, where the sun never sets”.

It had a good ring to it in my childhood ears – a magical fraternity, vague but vicariously glorious.

My earliest awareness in the town of Ogidi did not include any of that British stuff, nor indeed the Nigerian stuff. That came with progress in school. Ogidi is one of a thousand or more “towns” that make up the Igbo nation, one of Nigeria’s (indeed Africa’s) largest ethnic groups. But the Igbo, numbering more than 10 million, are a curious “nation”. They have been called names such as “stateless” or “acephalous” by anthropologists; “argumentative” by those sent to administer them. But what the Igbo are is not the negative suggested by such descriptions but strongly, positively, in favour of small-scale political organisation so that (as they would say) every man’s eye would reach where things are happening. So every one of the thousand towns was a mini-state with complete jurisdiction over its affairs. A sense of civic attachment to their numerous towns was more real for precolonial Igbo people than any unitary pan-Igbo feeling. This made them notoriously difficult to govern centrally, as the British discovered but never appreciated nor quite forgave. Their dislike was demonstrated during the Biafran tragedy, when they accused the Igbo of threatening to break up a nation-state they had carefully and laboriously put together.

The paradox of Biafra was that the Igbo themselves had originally championed the Nigerian nation more spiritedly than other Nigerians. One proof of this: the British had thrown more of them into jail for sedition than any others during the two decades or so of pre-independence agitation and troublemaking. So the Igbo were second to none on the nationalist front when Britain finally conceded independence to Nigeria in 1960, a move that, in retrospect, seems like a masterstroke of tactical withdrawal to achieve a supreme strategic advantage.

At the time, we were proud of what we had just achieved. True, Ghana had beaten us to it by three years, but then Ghana was a tiny affair, easy to manage, compared to the huge lumbering giant called Nigeria. We did not have to be vociferous like Ghana; just our presence was enough. Indeed, the elephant was our national emblem; our airline’s was the flying elephant! Nigerian troops soon distinguished themselves in a big way in the United Nations peacekeeping efforts in the Congo.

Our elephant, defying aerodynamics, was flying.

Travelling as a Nigerian was exciting. People listened to us. Our money was worth more than the dollar. In 1961 when the driver of a bus in the British colony of Northern Rhodesia asked me what I was doing sitting in the front of the bus, I told him nonchalantly that I was going to Victoria Falls. In amazement he stooped lower and asked where I came from. I replied, even more casually: “Nigeria, if you must know; and, by the way, in Nigeria we sit where we like in the bus.”

Back home I took up the rather important position of director of external broadcasting, an entirely new radio service aimed primarily at our African neighbours. I could do it in those days, because our politicians had yet to learn the uses of information control and did not immediately attempt to regiment our output. They were learning fast, though. But before I could get enmeshed in that, some-

Achebe thing much nastier had seized hold of all of us.

The six-year-old Nigerian federation was falling apart from the severe strain of regional animosity and ineffectual central authority. The transparent failure of the electoral process to translate the will of the electorate into recognisable results at the polls led to mass frustration and violence. While western Nigeria, one of the four regions, was going up literally in flames, the quiet and dignified Nigerian prime minister was hosting a Commonwealth conference to extricate Harold Wilson from a mess he had got himself into in faraway Rhodesia. But so tense was the local situation that the visiting heads of government had to be airlifted by helicopter from the Lagos airport into a secluded suburb to avoid the rampaging crowds.

Nigeria’s first military coup took place even as those dignitaries were flying out of Lagos again at the end of their conference. One of them, Archbishop Makarios of Cyprus, was in fact still in the country.

The prime minister and two regional premiers were killed by the coup-makers. In the bitter, suspicious atmosphere of the time, a naively idealistic coup proved a terrible disaster. It was interpreted with plausibility as a plot by the ambitious Igbo of the east to take control of Nigeria. Six months later, northern officers carried out a revenge coup in which they killed Igbo officers and men in large numbers. If it had ended there, the matter might have been seen as a tragic interlude in nation building, a horrendous tit for tat. But the northerners turned on Igbo civilians living in the north and unleashed waves of brutal massacres, which

Colin Legum of the Observer, was the first to describe as a pogrom. It was estimated that 30,000 civilian men, women and children died in these massacres. Igbo’s were fleeing in hundreds of thousands from all parts of Nigeria to their homeland in the east.

I was one of the last to flee from Lagos. I simply could not bring myself quickly enough to accept that I could no longer live in my nation’s capital, although the facts clearly said so. One Sunday morning I was telephoned from Broadcasting House and informed that armed soldiers who appeared drunk had come looking for me to test which was stronger, my pen or their gun.

The offence of my pen was that it had written a novel called A Man of the People, a bitter satire on political corruption in an African country that resembled Nigeria. I wanted the novel to be a denunciation of the kind of independence that people were experiencing in postcolonial Nigeria and many other countries in the 1960s, and I intended it to scare my countrymen into good behaviour with a frightening cautionary tale. The best monster I could come up with was a military coup d’état, which every sane Nigerian at the time knew was rather farfetched. But life and art had got so entangled that season that the publication of the novel and Nigeria’s first military coup happened within two days of each other.

Critics abroad called me a prophet, but some of my countrymen saw it differently: my novel was proof of my complicity in the first coup.

I was very lucky that Sunday morning. The drunken soldiers, after leaving Broadcasting

House, went to a residence I had recently vacated. Meanwhile I was able to take my wife and two small children into hiding, from where I finally sent them to my ancestral home in eastern Nigeria. A week or two later, unknown callers asked for me on the telephone at my hideout. My host denied my presence. It was time then to leave Lagos.

My feeling was one of profound disappointment. Not because mobs were hunting down and killing in the most savage manner innocent civilians in many parts of northern Nigeria, but because the federal government sat by and let it happen. The final consequence of this failure of the state to fulfil its primary obligation to its citizens was the secession of eastern Nigeria as the Republic of Biafra. The demise of Nigeria at that point was averted only by Britain’s spirited diplomatic and military support of its model colony. It was Britain and the Soviet Union that together crushed the upstart Biafran state. At the end of the 30month war, Biafra was a vast smouldering rubble. The cost in human lives was a staggering two million souls, making it one of the bloodiest civil wars in human history.

I found it difficult to forgive Nigeria and my countrymen and women for the political nonchalance and cruelty that unleashed upon us these terrible events, which set us back a whole generation and robbed us of the chance, clearly within our grasp, to become a medium-rank developed nation in the 20th century.

My immediate response was to leave Nigeria at the end of the war, having honourably, I hoped, stayed around long enough to receive whatever retribution might be due to me for renouncing Nigeria for 30 months.

Fortunately the federal government proclaimed a general amnesty, and the only punishment I received was the general financial and emotional indemnity that war losers pay, and some relatively minor personal harassment. I went abroad to New England, to the University of Massachusetts at Amherst, and stayed four years and then another year at the University of Connecticut. It was by far my longest exile from Nigeria and it gave me time to reflect and to heal somewhat. Without setting out consciously to do so, I was redefining my relationship to Nigeria. I realised that I could not reject her, but neither could it be business as usual. What was Nigeria to me?

Our 1960 national anthem, given to us as a parting gift by a British housewife in England, had called Nigeria “our sovereign motherland”. The current anthem, put together by a committee of Nigerian intellectuals and actually worse than the first one, invokes the father image. But it has occurred to me that Nigeria is neither my mother nor my father. Nigeria is a child. Gifted, enormously talented, prodigiously endowed and incredibly wayward.

Being a Nigerian is abysmally frustrating and unbelievably exciting. I have said somewhere that in my next reincarnation I want to be a Nigerian again; but I have also, in a rather angry book called The Trouble with Nigeria, dismissed Nigerian travel advertisements with the suggestion that only a tourist with a kinky addiction to self-flagellation would pick Nigeria for a holiday. And I mean both.

Nigeria needs help. Nigerians have their work cut out for them – to coax this unruly child along the path of useful creative development.

We are the parents of Nigeria, not vice versa. A generation will come, if we do our work patiently and well – and given luck – a generation that will call Nigeria father or mother. But not yet.

Meanwhile our present work is not entirely without its blessing and reward. This wayward child can show now and again great intimations of affection. I have seen this flow towards me at certain critical moments.

When I was in America after the Biafran war, an army officer who sat on the council of my university in Nigeria as representative of the federal military government pressured the university to call me back home. This officer had fought in the field against my fellow Biafrans during the war and had been seriously wounded. He had every right to be bitter against people like me. I had never met him, but he knew my work and was himself a poet.

More recently, after a motor accident in 2001 that left me with serious injuries, I have witnessed an outflow of affection from Nigerians at every level. I am still dumbfounded by it. The hard words Nigeria and I have said to each other begin to look like words of anxious love, not hate. Nigeria is a country where nobody can wake up in the morning and ask: what can I do now? There is work for all.

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THE GUARDIAN, Saturday,March 23, 2013

NEWS Arewa Youths Blame Jonathan For Unabated Insecurity From Saxone Akhaine, Northern Bureau Chief OLLOWING the unabated security challenge confronting the North, Arewa youths rose yesterday, to condemn President Goodluck Jonathan for allegedly politicising the Boko Haram insurgency in the region, as they urged the 19 Northern governors to consider granting the militant group amnesty in order to end the mayhem.

The Northern youths, under the banner of the Arewa Youth

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Urge Northern Governors To Consider Amnesty For Boko Haram Forum (AYF) held an emergency meeting in Kaduna, where the forum extensively discussed the State of the Nation and what they also termed “the ongoing challenges and possible crises of extinction threatening Northern Nigeria.”

In the statement issued after the deliberation, the President of Arewa Youths, Mallam Gambo Ibrahim Gujungu said that “we have been following

with utter dismay and despair how President Jonathan’s led Federal Government has been playing politics and exhibiting such sophistry anda high sense of insensitivity in handling the Boko Haram insurgency and further compounding the series of challenges confronting Northern Nigeria.

“As at today our economy is gone; the age-long togetherness of Northern Christians and Muslims is totally gone.

There is also no political cohesion in the North. And there is no sign that this ugly trend can be contained; if the Federal Government continues its flagrant display of insensitivity and nonchalance then, we will be threading the path of fire and bloodshed.”

According to Mallam Gujungu, “It is based on all these concerns that Arewa Youth Forum resolves that the 19 Northern State Governors

should as a matter of preserving the Northern Nigerian region from extinction and attaining a Failed State status, grant amnesty to the Boko Haram sect and all other groups responsible for the restiveness in Northern Nigeria.”

The youth group contended that judging from the manner Jonathan has been handling the insecurity problem and his utterances on the crisis facing the region, the north may be left to face into extinction.

Lawyer Docked Over Seditious Publication From Chuks Collins, Awka HE Anambra State Police T Command yesterday docked an Awka-based legal practitioner, Mr. Franklin Iguh, before an Ogidi Magistrate Court for allegedly publishing illegal, unauthorised and seditious statements in a national daily (not The Guardian) on Feb 7, 2013.

The publication, according to Police Prosecutor, Mr. F.E. Okoi, in suit No. MD/114c/2013 dated March 19, 2013, said the statements might injure the reputation of Chief Maurice Ebo, who is the incumbent Executive Chairman of Nkwelle-Ogidi Community Development Union and the management of Davis Real Estate Limited, an

estatedevelopmentcompany,by exposing them to public hatred, contempt or ridicule and damage.

Iguh, whose wife is currently a sitting Senior Magistrate in the state, was accused of committing an offence punishable under Sec.

325 of the Criminal Code Cap 36 Volume11LawsofAnambraState.

Chief C.J Asiegbu, leading a team of 12 other lawyers, however, stormed the court in defence of Iguh.

Asiegbu told journalists shortly after the session that he and his

colleagues were irked that Iguh was arrested and charged for doing his job as a lawyer in representation of his client.

Mr. Bogzy Uzoechi, representing Chief Ebo and Davis Real Estate Limited, said the defendant, thoughacolleaguewascaughtin

the web of professional overzealousness by causing a publication without proper authorisation.

The suit has been adjourned to April 21 and 30 for accelerated hearing.

Fayemi Under Pressure To Replace Ailing Deputy Governor From Muyiwa Adeyemi, Ado Ekiti KITI State Governor, Dr. E Kayode Fayemi is under pressure to replace his ailing deputy, Mrs. Funmilayo Adunni Olayinka, who is on sick leave.

A source close to the government yesterday, confided in The Guardian that top politicians in the state were already present-

ing candidates to the governor to replace the deputy governor, who is believed to be receiving treatment for an undisclosed ailment in Lagos.

Mrs. Olayinka has been in and out of the country several times for treatment but the government had during the week urged the public “to remember her in their prayers.”

A statement during the week signed by the Commissioner for Information and Civic Orientation, Mr. Tayo Ekundayo said, “Ekiti State Government wishes to inform the general publicthattheDeputyGovernor of the state, Mrs. Funmilayo Olayinka, has taken leave to attend to issues relating to her health.

“We urge all well-meaning citizens to remember her in their prayers.”

The elder brother of the deputy governor, Chief Olusegun Famuwagun, told The Guardian that the family was aware that jostling for her office has begun, but condemned the politicians for being unfair to her sister.

2015: Enugu North Fumes Over Ekweremadu’s Ambition

By Onyedika Agbedo GAINST the backdrop of A the emergence of the campaign posters of the Deputy

Senate President, Chief Ike Ekweremadu, for the 2015 governorship race in some parts of Enugu State, Nsukka Leaders of Thought has

reminded all those jostling for the position that it was the turn of Enugu North Senatorial Zone to produce the next governor of the state.

In statement yesterday, the leaders expressed shock that Ekweremwdu was nursing the ambition to govern the state, even when his zone would have ruled for 16 years by 2015 when the incumbent governor, Sullivan Chime, would hand over power after two terms of four years.

The leaders, comprising Chief Maximus Ukuta, Chief Nick Ojike, Prof. Damian Opata, Dr. Chuka Ezema, Chief Emmanuel Alachi, Sir. Albert Nnamani and Major General Godwin Ugwoke (rtd.), expressed worry over the development, noting that it was a mindless calculation “for political jobbers in their warped imagination to craft the possibility of the governorship seat still remaining in the same old Enugu zone beyond 2015 and even worse

in the same senatorial zone where the present Governor, Sullivan Chime hails from.”

The statement reads in part: “May we, therefore, remind these faceless groups behind this devilry even at the risk of over flogging the issue, what is common knowledge in Enugu State politics that the state is made up of old Enugu and Nsukka Zones.

Governorship seat has been in old Enugu zone since 1999 and by 2015, it would have been 16 years in that zone.

Nsukka Cultural Zone, which is 52 per cent of the voting population in the state has been held down for the two senatorial zones of old Enugu Zone to have their turn of eight- year tenure each consecutively as governor of Enugu State.”

Imo Denies Okorocha’s Private Jet Purchase

By Samson Ezea (Lagos) and Charles Ogugbuaja (Owerri) OLLOWING the allegation FChief that the Imo State Governor, Rochas Okorocha used public funds to purchase a private Gulfstream jet at the cost of 9.4 million dollars before December last year, the Imo state government yesterday stronglydeniedtheallegation.

It was alleged that Okorocha purchased the jet through a proxy, a business magnate from one of the Southeast states.

Reacting on the allegation in chat with The Guardian in Owerri yesterday, the State Commissioner for Information, Strategy, Culture and Tourism, Mr. Chinedu Offor said his boss bought his private jet at the age of 34 when he had not been the governor of the state.

According to him, he had

made such arrangement to purchase a presidential jet before now, maintaining that since Okorocha became Imo State governor in 2011, he has not acquired new jet.

He said: “It is absolutely false that he purchased a private jet before December last year. He owned jet by the time he was 34. Presidential jet he bought at a time. Since he became governor, there is nothing new he has bought, even private car, private house, nothing”.

When told about how the purchase was allegedly done by Okorocha using proxy in the person of an Anambra State born business magnate, Offor said that it was not true because his boss do not engage in shady deals.

He said: “The allegation is the handiwork of mischief makers who have corruption charges on their heads, but are busy looking for whom to go down with.”

Sambo Convoy In Auto Crash, Two Feared Dead From Saxone Akhaine, Kaduna HE convoy of the Vice T President Namadi Sambo was involved in an auto crash in Kaduna yesterday, just as two people were feared dead.

His spokesperson, Umar Sani, said the bus involved in the crash belonged to PDP supporters, who came to receive the vice president ahead of the peace and reconciliation meeting of the party involving northwest zone.

According to eyewitness account, the victims of the accident were taken to 44 Military Hospital for medical attention.

Sani confirmed the death of two of the PDP supporters, while the four other persons involved in the crash were receiving treatment in the hospital at the expense of the Kaduna State government.

Omoniyi’s Family Thanks The Guardian, Others HE family of Dr.Tope T Omoniyi has thanked The Guardian for the publication of a story on Folashade Adedeji, who was diagnosed with a hole –in-heart and required an urgent surgery last year December.

Unfortunately, Folashade passed on. But the family thanked medium and those that read the story and sent their donations.

Edo College Old Boys Meet Tomorrow DO College Old Boys’ E Association (ECOBA), Lagos branch, will tomorrow hold its bi-monthly general meeting at the Zasarii di Lusso Hotel, 13, Cornelius Odinjor Street, off Hameed Kasumu Street, Chevyview Estate, Chevron Drive, Lekki, Lagos at 3.00 p.m.

The meeting, which will be chaired by the Chairman, Senator Victor Isa Oyofo, will be hosted by the Class of ‘83.

Religious Rally Holds In Lagos LL roads shall lead to the A Fountain of Life Church, Ilupeju, Lagos, this tomorrow as men from all walks of life gather to deepen their knowledge at the first Discovery for Men Rally of the year.

Tagged as the biggest gathering ofmeninLagos,thethemeofthe rally billed to commence at 4 p.m. in the church auditorium is “The King”.

The first of the quarterly rally, which will be hosted by Pastors Taiwo and Nomthi Odukoya, would also have ace TV presenter, Patrick Doyle as the compere, while Obi Shine, a gospel artiste, will minister in songs.

Economic Forum Holds Session HE World Economic T Forum Global Shapers will host interactive session today in Abuja on the theme: “The Business of Fashion.”

The event, which takes place at Bamboo House, will show case young designers to international audience.

According to the organisers, there will be an interactive session where each designer will share their experiences with the audience.

thE GUArDiAN, saturday, March 23, 2013

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NEWs

FG Explains Power Drop, to Commission 10 NiPP From Mohammed Abubakar, Abuja hEfederal government has blamed the ongoing repair at the shiroro Power Plant in Niger state as the main factor responsible for the drop in power supply currently being experienced in the country. however, it assured Nigerians of improved power

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supply as soon as the repair works are completed. this is even as it re-stated its determination to work towards meeting the projected 10,000 megawatts.

Governor Gabriel suswam of Benue state and the Permanent secretary of Ministry of Power, Godknows

igali while addressing state house Press after the 27th Board meeting of the Niger Delta Power holding Company (NDPhC) in Abuja, also unveiled a phased commissioning programme of 10 National integrated Power Projects (NiPP) across the country.

rising from the meeting chaired by the Vice President, Mohammed Namadi sambo, suswam announced that a special committee to embark on a road show before the privatisation of the 10 NiPP projects to foreign nations would be announced at the next board meeting of the NDPhC.

The Head of Service of the Federation, Alhaji Bukar Goni Aji (right); his predecessors Chief Abu Obe (left), Mallam Yayale Ahmed, Engr. Ebele Okeke, Mr. Stephen Oresanye, Mr. Oladapo Afolabi and Alhaji Isa Bello Sali at the hand over ceremony to Aji at the Federal Secretariat, Abuja, yesterday.

PHOTO: PHILIP OJISUA

implement Oputa Panel report, Diya Urges Jonathan

By Seye Olumide (Lagos) and Anietie Akpan (Calabar)

.Cleric Hails Pardon For Alamieyeseigha

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his commendation came as former Chief of General staff, Gen. Oladipo Diya (rtd) appealed to President Goodluck Jonathan to publish and implement the Oputa Panel report. isong, in an interview with newsmen in Calabar pointed out that, “if we give Mr. President the power to pardon anybody he so wishes, i am wondering why we would

hE Chairman of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN), Cross river chapter, Bishop Emmah isong has commended the amnesty granted the former governor of Bayelsa state, Diepreye Alamieyeseigha, by President Goodluck Jonathan. he said the gesture was in order as far as the president was acting within the confines of the constitution.

be questioning him over who he pardons. it is like serving me a plate of food on my birthday and telling me to eat meat, but don’t eat fish.” he added: “Let us say we are all wrong to give him the power in the Constitution. if the power is legally given to him, then why are we protesting over what we gave him power to do.”

Diya pleaded with President

Jonathan on the need to address the aspect of the report that deals with the phantom coups of 1995 and 1997 where himself other officers and civilians were framed. speaking at a press conference yesterday, Diya expressed gratitude to the President for his kindness and courage in finding it expedient to implement the power vested in him by section 175 of the Constitution to grant him and his colleagues state pardon.

NUJ Condemns Abduction Of NtA Female reporter in Akure From Niyi Bello, Akure hE Nigerian Union of Journalists, Ondo state branch, has condemned the abduction on thursday, a practising journalist and nursing mother, Mrs. Olubunmi Oke, by unknown gunmen as she was driving home from the premises of the Nigerian television Authority (NtA), Akure, Ondo state, where she is a reporter and newscaster. it was gathered that Oke was

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seized by a four-man gang of kidnappers who used their vehicle to block her side of the road in front of a new popular hotel located along the road to Oba-ile, a suburb of Akure where her office is located. the gunmen, after stopping her, were reported to have ordered her out of the car and drove her away in their own vehicle to an unknown destination, leaving behind her baby and housemaid who

were in the car with her. the NUJ yesterday said the Ondo state Police Command has recovered Oke’s car at igbara-Oke, a border town with Ekiti state. the union in a statement signed by its General secretary, Ebenezer Adeniyan, appealed to security agencies to ensure that the abducted reporter is freed without harm.

According to him, “Mrs. Oke, a nursing mother was abducted

shortly after she read the news on NtA that evening and was with her child and housemaid when she was abducted and driven away in her car, with the baby and maid dropped from the car.” he added: “her car has since been recovered along igbaraOke road at the outskirt of Akure, leading to the suspicion that she may have been taken outside the state to an unknown destination.

Police Deny Knowledge Of Arrest Of Boko Haramsuspects in Lagos

By Odita Sunday AGOs state Commissioner of Police, Alhaji Umar Manko yesterday said his command was not aware of any arrest of Boko Haram suspects in Lagos.

Men and officers of the Operation Mesa (OP Mesa), a joint security outfit comprising members of the armed forces and those of the state security service (sss), had on thursday raided the ijora 7-UP area of the state and arrested some suspected Boko Haram members.

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the raid was conducted barely weeks after the state government stormed the area with a contingent of riot policemen and bulldozers to demolish many homes and shanties suspected to be harbouring criminals.

Although there were varying reports on the number of persons arrested, sources said devices suspected to be explosives were recovered during the raid. the suspects were said to have concealed some devices sus-

pected to be explosives in boxes, which were stacked in the ceiling of a house they were occupying. Also recovered alongside the suspected explosives were two AK47 rifles. the spokesperson, 81 Division, Nigerian Army, Colonel Kingsley Umoh, had confirmed the raid although he could not confirm if the suspects were Boko Haram members as speculated. the police boss, who spoke with The Guardian on telephone noted: “i was not informed of any-

thing like that, my command was not involved so i don’t know what happened.”

On why the Commissioner of Police was allegedly not carried along in the raid, Umoh told The Guardian that he was not in a position to comment on that.

“OP Messa is a joint operation of all the security agencies. if the police was not aware of the raid, i am not in a position to comment on that, probably this particular operation does not have police component involved,” he said.

he said the meeting focused on the commissioning of NiPP projects, the privatisation of the companies for efficient management of the company and the road show to market the companies in various countries before the privatisation. suswam said: “We want to embark on a road show before the privatisation proper will commence. We want to generate interest and find very competent companies or enterprises that can manage these companies properly. With that, there will be a committee that will be set up for that purpose. “it is not going to be done by the Bureau for Public Enterprises (BPE), it is going to be done by a special committee that we will be set up by the NDPhC Board. At the next meeting of the board, we will probably be able to have the people that will constitute the committee for the purpose of these companies.”

On why there was drop in power supply, suswam said, “i think that happened because shiroro plant was off for quite sometime and that also accounted for the drop. We need to engage in maintenance and that is back on track now. i think that the drop has been addressed.” igali, who also shed more light on the development, said: “i don’t think it will be completely fair to say that we have witnessed a considerable drop.

We are on track; we are ensuring that we have appropriate generation level, distribution level and transmission level on track.”

tambuwal Calls For special Prayers Over insecurity From Isah Ibrahim, Gusau PEAKEr of the house of representatives, Aminu Waziri tambuwal has called on Nigerians to embark on special prayers with a view to seek for Allah’s intervention over the persistent upsurge of insecurity in the country, saying that Nigeria is in dire need of prayers from citizens. speaking yesterday in Gusau, Zamfara state, at the opening ceremony of the 27th National Qur’anic recitation competition organised by Centre for islamic research, Usman Danfodio University sokoto, hosted by the Zamfara state Government, tambuwal said the state of insecurity being experienced in the country was a sad development for democracy in the country.

According to him, none of the religions being practised in the country encourages its believers to be violent, and therefore appealed to the their leaders to continue to teach their followers the importance of living in peace with one another for the development of the country. the speaker expressed happiness with the effort of the organisers of the programme, particularly their commitment to make it a reality annually, adding that it will encourage Muslim children to show more commitment in memorising the holy Qur’an. in his address, the state governor, Alhaji Abdul’aziz Yari Abubakar, said the state had made adequate arrangement for the states delegates to have conducive atmosphere and security throughout their staying in the state.

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NCC slams N90m Fine On MtN, to Flag Off Mobile Number Portability in April From Nkechi Onyedika, Abuja hE Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has again placed a N90 million sanction on MtN Nigeria for poor quality of service.

Director, Public Affairs of the Commission, Mr. tony Ojobo who disclosed this while briefing journalists in Abuja said the sanction became necessary following a drive text carried out in December 2012 in which MtN failed to meet the minimum standard of quality of service including the Key Performance indicators (KPi) set out by the commission. he noted that the amount is expected to be paid latest on April 3, 2013.

Meanwhile, the Commission has concluded plans to launch the Mobile Number Portability (MNP) regime by April 2013.

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Doctors Endorse herbal Drugs At Lecture

By Joseph Okoghenun hAt seemed like a tacit endorsement for herbal medicine by medical doctors came yesterday when some medical doctors, including consultants, purchased en masse some herbal medications—taccumi, nutri-max and bask maca supreme herbal products—after a public lecture on erectile dysfunction organsised by Bask Nutrition and herbs Limited in Lagos.

Medical doctors have been at the forefront in the war against herbal medicine for reasons bordering on safety and measurements. But that skepticism disappeared at the occasion as soon as a renowned professor of Obstetrics and Gynaecology from the College of Medicine University of Lagos (CMUL) said the herbal products have been in his medical practice for the past three years with positive response from patients.

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Alamieyeseigha: Don Berates Jonathan Over Pardon From Emmanuel Ande, Yola rENOWNED Professor of Mathematics and controversial social critic at the American University of Nigeria (AUN) Yola, Prof.

Leonard Karshima shilgba, has said the presidential pardon granted to former Bayelsa state governor, Diepreye Alamieyeseigha, by President Goodluck Jonathan, was not only a disgrace to Nigeria, but also a confirmation that the country was a breeding zone for merciless criminals.

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Church Dedicates Auditorium hrist the King’s Glorious C Church (the City of the Lord) willtodayandtomorrowdedicate its auditorium at 3, Ayelabowo street,offGovernor’sroad,ikotun, Lagos at 11 am.

According to a statement, the General Overseer, Pastor s.O Omojola, will lead other anointed men of God to perform the ceremony which is expected to be attended by eminent citizens, including religious leaders.

Guests will be entertained at the same venue.

THE GUARDIAN, Saturday, March 23, 2013

Truth Has No Elder Brother...

Lighthouse

they fought and are still fighting Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, another Southerner over his attempt to be president come May 2011. It is all to”ruthlessly prevent a change of power.” After all, they are to use the South “as conquered territory and never allow them have control over their future” The reality is that Britain handed over Nigeria to the Northern elite With the latest killings in Kano and Plateau states, taste behind the backs of Awolowo, Enahoro, Nnamdi Azikiwe and the the piece below. It was first published in January 2011. other vocal nationalists. Indeed, some years ago, a British colonial officer, Harold Smith, published accounts confirming how Britain H! You wonder why bombs are flying around? Where were you rigged the very first election in Nigeria to ensure power goes to the when some Jihadists threatened to make the country North. ungovernable over the zoning palaver? You heard it too? Why This clique cares for nobody except its class. Not even for the averthen do you wonder… It is in their character. age Hausa man. The average northerner, in fact, has for long been a No. This is beyond the 2011 elections. It is about the very bitter truth victim of this elite few—-even before Nigeria came into being. All of what we call “our country”. It is about the slaughter in the last 50 efforts are made to keep the masses of the North uneducated and years of thousands of Nigerians, especially Southerners —- individual- impoverished till today. ly and in groups. They have always been at war with the rest of Northern progressives should team up with the rest of Nigeria to Nigeria. break the stranglehold of this self-seeking jihadists on the North.

No. Don’t hate the average Hausa fellow, he’s a victim too. This clique This northern clique cares nothing for religion, God or Allah –- they of Northern elites are in fact the worst enemies of their own people. employ these only as smokescreens for obtaining power. The You didn’t know that too? Get somebody to compute for you the Northern elite has proved true to character by keeping the majorinumber of Southerners who have been slaughtered by the blades of ty of its people in abject poverty despite half a century of political their private army of almajiris: lecturers, youth corp members, domination and plunder of Nigeria’s resources. The current backwomen, children, babies. The number will shock you. They deliber- ward state of Nigeria over which normal citizens agonise —- no ately maintain an unofficial army of uneducated youths who can be roads, no power, no jobs, no hospitals, no education, no planning — brainwashed and mobilized at short notice against the rest of us. A - is Paradise to the North— just like decay is Paradise to maggots. recent estimate puts the almajiri population at 10 million. The ten- Indeed the struggle for a better Nigeria, politically and economicaldency is to think of almajirs as kids of the streets. But what do they ly for which many have died since independence is a struggle grow to become? Adult almajiris —- who can find their ways into posi- against the North’s rapacity. Reason why hardly any northerner is tions of power, including the Army. on the casualty list: Ken Sarowiwa, Fajuyi, Aguiyi Ironsi.

It’s always been their ambition to conquer the whole of Nigeria and What has all this got to do with the unending slaughter in Jos? For dip their swords in the Atlantic. answer, hear what another spokesperson of the North, Malam Bala Call me names. I don’t mind . You still live in your dream world of Garuba, said in the West African Pilot Newspaper of December 30, unity, one Nigeria, democracy—- all those playthings they feed you to 1963: ”The conquest to the sea is now in sight. When our god-sent keep you occupied while they pursue their age-old agenda.

God! Your naivety forces me to go down memory lane…

See, just eleven days after independence, on October 12 1960, while the nationalists, mostly Southerners, were basking in the glory of a battle fought and (so they thought) won, the Sardauna of Sokoto and Premier of northern Region, Sir. Ahmadu Bello, granted an interview to the Parrot Newspaper. There, he brazenly declared the agenda of the North for the new nation: “The new nation called Nigeria should be an estate of our great grandfather, Uthman dan Fodio. We must ruthlessly prevent a change of power. We use the minorities in the North as willing tools, and the South as conquered territory and never allow them to have control over their future.”

Imagine such mindless evil, such treachery.

That is the plan of the North for the rest of us. And it has never changed. There has always been an inner caucus that keeps this Jihad agenda alive –—and pursues it.

Can any Sultan claim not to be in into this?

It is no accident that Chief Moshood Abiola, a Southerner who won the 1993 presidential election, had to be killed. It is no accident that the death of the then President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua’s had to be concealed for so long with brazen brutishness. It is no accident that

Born To Ruin...

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Ahmadu Bello said some years ago that our conquest would reach the sea shores of Nigeria, Yemi Ogunsola Some idiots in the yemiogunsola@gmail.com South were doubt- 08069074718 ing its possibilities.

Today, have we not reached the sea? Lagos is reached. It remains PortHarcourt. It must be conquered and taken.”

Jos is being taken already. And some “idiots” from the South do not know.

The erstwhile GOC, 3rd Armoured Division in Jos, Major-General Saleh Maina, who was widely accused of taking sides with the Hausa community in the Jos crisis was so scared of revelations that could be made in the course of an investigation into the killings that he fought desperately to stop an inquest. If he was not guilty, why is he afraid to release transcripts of desperate calls from Jos indigenes under attack by Hausa fighters which he allegedly ignored?

Former Chairman, Joint Chiefs of Staff in the General Ibrahim Babangida regime, General Domkat Bali, a four-star general had this to say on Maina and the Jos crisis: “… I believe and a lot of people believe so too, that the GOC (Maina) is playing games with us, and that they are part of the problems... I am talking about something very serious. This is not just about Plateau, but the whole of Nigeria. You see, the Chief of Army Staff is an Hausa man; the GOC is an Hausa man; they dictate who should come here and who is to serve in what position.

“My feeling is that they should remove Maina, because he has shown bias for Islam and it is a dangerous thing not just for Plateau, but for the whole country…”

Bali added: “When I schooled in Kuru here, it was the most peaceful time that Plateau was. We then were celebrating Salah as though we were Muslim children, and they were celebrating Christmas with us as though they were Christians. The conflict began when the interest to dominate grew. And of course it met with resistance; that was when the problem started. The issue is: why must it be the Hausas that want to dominate Jos? Why not the Yorubas or the Ibos? That’s the problem.”

Today, no one is talking of probing Maina. And those Hausa/Fulani attackers and killers of women and sleeping babies are usually spirited away from Jos to escape prosecution.

The Jos crisis is not religious. The North is only using these misguided army of fanatics, which it deliberately breeds, to carry out its jihadist agenda. Now they have graduated from knives and arrows to bombs. And , believe it or not, they are heading for the Atlantic.

By the way, why is the main road that leads to the Atlantic named Ahmadu Bello Way? Sorry to shock you, but some of those reading this piece may (unfortunately) die of jihadist bombs/knives. That’s Nigeria for you!

Have you heard that a camel bred in the Sultan’s palace in Sokoto has now been promoted a corporal in an Army Barrack in Lagos?

THE GUARDIAN, Saturday, March 23, 2013

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METRONOTES

‘How We Survived Calabar Boat Mishap’ From Anietie Akpan, Calabar OR almost two days (last Friday and Fwhich Saturday), two survivors of the boat mishap occurred off the coast of Calabar, Cross River State clung to an oil installation without food but later on the second day, when hunger was really hit them hard, out of the blue came a floating bottle of soft drink.

Quickly, Kive Sani, 27 from Togo grabbed it, opened it with his teeth and shared with Hafst Zakari, 13, from Benin Republic. Minutes later, a can of energy drink floated close by and they grabbed it and shared.

The drinks served as meal until they were rescued on the third day, Sunday. Two other passengers who also clung to the installation with them were not so lucky. They got exhausted and drowned.

Last Friday, a giant wooden boat had left the shores of Oron heading for Gabon with 128 passengers but half way into their journey in Ado near Addax platform, the boat capsized.

Ninety-nine passengers are feared dead while 29 survived.

Sani and Zakari were rescued by Addax workers on Sunday afternoon. They were taken to Calabar on board a drilling vessel being operated by Addax on Tuesday at about 6.30 pm.

Sani who spoke in broken English at the Bakor Clinic along the Murtala Mohammed Highway where they were admitted, said the tragedy was caused by the boats failed engines. As a result, were started entering the boat.

He said they were in the water from 9pm on Friday night when the incident happened, till Sunday at about 3pm when they were rescued. Ssani When the engines stopped working, Sani said the captain asked them start praying. “The Muslims prayed first then the Christians and he told us our life was at the end. Some were shouting Allah, others were shouting Jesus.

Ten minutes later, water was still entering the boat and people started jumping into the water.”

Sani who had paid his master 300,000 CFA to get a job in Gabon and to pay the balance of 200,000 CFA after getting the job, said there were 128 passengers and five crew members and he acted as an interpreter to those who understood only French.

He revealed that after jumping off, he saw an oil installation in the water and held unto it with his master and two other young ladies.

“My master at a point got tired and exhausted and could not hold on again and he fell into the water. Later, the second lady lost grip and fell into the water too but I told the remaining lady to hold on and pray.

“At a point, when she almost gave up. I asked her to climb my back as she was very weak. She did and we remained there battling and hoping to survived. On the second day, we were terribly hungry and weak but later in the day, we saw a bottle of Coca Cola floating to our direction. I grabbed it and drank then gave half to the lady. A few minutes later, we saw a can of Bullet energy drink. Again, we got it and shared. This was what kept us. At this point there was nothing again we could do so I asked the girl her religion, she said Muslim and she asked me mine and I said Muslim as well. We prayed and hoped for rescue.

“On the third day (Sunday), I saw smoke from a distance in the morning and I told the girl to Hafisat continue to lie on my back as I decided to pick up courage to swim towards the smoke. I swam with only one hand with the other clinging to the cylinder and the lady on my back in the morning until about 3pm when we saw a white man in a boat in the direction of the smoke. Immediately, he ordered his men to come and rescue us. They came with a smaller boat and picked us. It was just God that did it for us,” Sani said.

He said on Tuesday they were brought down to Calabar and to the hospital for treatment and check up. Sani gave the names of the 133 or 166 as speculated,” he said. mishap boat crew members as Theo, Kpakpa, Aquah added that out of the 128, only five Ibrahim, Daniel and Francis. They are all were crew members and “so far, the number Nigerians but “most of the passengers were we can say died are nine and 29 survived while from Ghana, Togo, Niger, Benin.” the remaining number are still missing. Two Hasaft, who spoke only Yoruba through an survivors are in Calabar while 27 more surinterpreter, said she did not remember much, vivors found were taken to Oron.” but only that the engine stopped working The Coordinator of the Eastern Zone of close to an oil field and they were in great danNigerian Maritime Administration and Safety ger. “We were asked to start praying when the Agency (NIMASA), Mr Olayemi Abbas said last accident happened,” she added.

Meanwhile, the Director General of the Cross Sunday at 21.30 hours, they got a message from Kaztec Engineering Limited who are River State Emergency Management Agency operators for Addax Petroleum that there was (SEMA), Mr. Vincent Aqua has confirmed that an unfortunate mishap at sea, that a vessel car99 passengers are still missing. “From all indirying passengers allegedly capsized at about cations, 128 persons including the crew memthe oil field OML 123 which is 40 nautical miles bers were on board the ill-fated boat and not

On the second day, we were terribly hungry and weak but later in the day, we saw a bottle of Coca Cola floating to our direction. I grabbed it and drank then gave half to the lady. A few minutes later, we saw a can of Bullet energy drink. Again, we got it and shared. This was what kept us.

At this point there was nothing again we could do so I asked the girl her religion, she said Muslim and she asked me mine and I said Muslim as well. We prayed and hoped for rescue. off the Calabar.

“In the ensuing search and rescue operation embarked on by Addax, nine bodies were recovered and two survivors. The NIMASA team from the local office in Calabar and the zonal office in Port Harcourt which I head, immediately swung into action and we received the bodies on Monday 18 at about 6.30 pm at the NPA terminal operated by Ecomarine Terminals.

“They were brought on board a vessel called SWAL LINK SIX and the bodies were immediately taken to the University of Calabar Teaching Hospital for embalmment and safe keeping.

The bodies were bloated and all nine bodies were women and unfortunately, one of them

was heavily pregnant at the time of death.

They were brought in well packaged in body bags in a dignified manner. Also recovered were two bags containing clothing, shoes and other personal effects.

“The other items recovered were a vital clue to a foreign SIM card belonging to one of the passengers and the SIM card is operated by a company called MOOVE, apparently operating in Gabon. When we did an analysis of the SIM card, we were able to recover some of the numbers on it and made contact with some of the people who claimed to know the owner of the telephone number and identified him as Joe marine who is still missing. He was identified as a Nigerian living in Oron with his family,” Abass said.

A marine transporter at the Calabar Inland Waterways, Mr. Ikechukwu Egwu said the traders came from the South East and headed to Oron in Akwa Ibom to board the wooden boat to Gabon and “they are mostly Igbo traders who headed to Oron to board the wooden boat because it was cheaper.”

So far, the wreckage of the giant wooden boat has not been found and The Guardian gathered that the casualty was so high because the boat, as it is the case with other boats plying that route, did not carry life jackets.

THE GUARDIAN, Saturday, March 23, 2013

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SOCIETY Faces At Seminar On Transforming Nigerian Power Sector ERTURBED by the myriad of problems beP devilling the power sector in Nigeria, Akindelano Legal Practitioners- a Lagos-based law firm recently organised a seminar themed “Transforming the Nigerian Power Sector: Challenges and Solutions” at the Metropolitan Club, Victoria Island, Lagos.

The three sessions seminar, which is the second in the series of ALP Seminar series, at-

tracted delegates from the Power Industry and an extensive cross–section of the corporate sector. Speakers and Panellists included prominent stakeholders within the Public and Private sectors, including regulators, government officials, generating and distribution companies as well as Financial Institutions.

Here are some faces at the seminar:

John Delano (second left) with other delegates at the seminar

Country Manager, International Finance Corporation, Mr. Solomon Adegbie-Quaynor; Senior General Manager, Tata Power Delhi Distribution Limited, Mr. Sanjay Banga; Partner, Akindelano Legal Practitioners, Mr. Olayode Delano; Managing Partner, Mr. Oluyele Delano (SAN); CEO of Power, Honeywell Group Mr. Chris Bale; Director, FBN Capital, Mr. Patrick Mgbenwelu; Commissioner for Rates & Markets Competition, Mr. Eyo Ekpo; Partner, Mr. John Delano and CEO, Niger Delta Power Holding Company Limited, Mr. James Olotu

Director, FBN Capital, Mr. Patrick Mgbenwelu; Senior Vice President, Power, Africa Finance Corporation Mr. Batchi Baldeh; Head, Mining Power & Infrastructure, StanbicIBTC Bank, Mr. Soji Omisore; Adegbie-Quaynor and Olayode Delano

C00 of Sahara Power Group, Dr. George Oluwande; Senior General Manager, Tata Power Delhi Distribution Limited Mr. Sanjay Banga; General Manager, Lagos State Electricity Board Mrs. Damilola Ogunbiyi and CEO of Power, Honeywell Group Mr. Chris Bale

Some delegates

Some participants

...When Methodist Boys Clocked 135th Methodist Boys High School, Lagos recently celebrated its 135th founders day in Lagos.

Below are the guests at the occasion.

THE GUARDIAN, Saturday, March 23, 2013

12 |

SOCIETY

THE PRESIDENT’S DINNER with top Nigerian CEOs in Abuja as part of Nigerian Centenary celebration... recently

L-R: Mr. Ikechi Odigbo, M.D. DDB Lagos, High Chief Edem Duke, Minister of Tourism, Culture and National Orientation, Senator Anyim Pius Anyim, SGF, Mr. Ken Igbokwe, Senior Regional Partner, Price Waterhouse and Coopers.

L-R: Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) Senator Anyim Pius Anyim, President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan and the Vice President, Arch. Namadi sambo

L-R Dr. Cosmas Maduka, chairman Coscharis Group, Mr. Segun Agbaja, CEO, GTBank PLC, Mr. Uche Okpuno, Group Chairman, ULO Consulting, Olorogun Oscar Ibru, Vice Chairman Ibru Organisation and Hon. Eme Mukoro, former member, Delta State House of Assembly.

L-R: Mr. Tunji Durosimi-Etti, Chairman, Swift Oil Limited, Mr. Ken Igbokwe, Senior Regional Partner, Price Waterhouse and Coopers, Mrs. Sola David-Borha, Group Managing Director, Stanbic IBTC and Holdings and Mr. Doyin Adeyinka, CEO, Acorn Petroleum.

L-R: Mrs. Diezani Alison-Madueke, Hon. Minister of Petroleum Resources, Mr. Olusegun Awolowo, Legal Practitioner and Mr. Victor Gbolade Osibodu, chairman, Vigeo Holdings Limited.

L-R Dr. Raymond Dokpesi, Chairman, DAAR Communications PLC, Alhaji Ibrahim Maccido, retired Diplomat, and Bala Yesufu, Public Affairs Manager, Nigerian Breweries PLC

Mrs. Folorunsho Alakija, CEO, FAMFAN Petroleum, and Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Hon. Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minster of the Economy.

L-R: Mrs. Omobola Johnson, Minister of Communication Technology, Senator Anyim Pius Anyim, SGF, and Mrs. Arunma Oteh, Director General, Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).

L-R: Mr. Hakeem Ogunniran, CEO, UACN Property Development Company PLC, Mr. Reginald Ihejiahi, CEO, Fidelity Bank PLC, Mr. Enyi Odigbo, Chairman, CASERS Group, and Mr. Wale Adedotun, CEO, Magenta Consulting.

L-R Mr. Ferdinand Agu, Special Adviser to the Secretary of the Government of the Federation, and Mr. Ken Igbokwe, Senior Regional Partner, Price Waterhouse and Coopers.

Mrs. Diezani Alison-Madueke, Hon. Minister of Petroleum Resources and Mr. Victor Gbolade Osibodu, Chairman, Vigeo Holdings Limited

L-R: Mr. Ikemefuna Mordi, Project Director, DDB Lagos, Mr. Ikechi Odigbo, Managing Director, DDB Lagos and Senator Anyim Pius Anyim, SGF.

L-R Olorogun Oscar Ibru, Vice Chairman, Ibru Organization, Chief Ifeanyi Uba, MD, Capital Oil Limited and Hon. Mukoro, former member, Delta State House of Assembly.

THE GUARDIAN, Saturday, March 23, 2013

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THE GUARDIAN, Saturday, March 23, 2013

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THE GUARDIAN, Saturday, March 23, 2013

AFRICA

Not Yet Uhuru For Kenya As ICC Trial Gets Complicated

By Debo Oladimeji (with agency reports) LAWYER for Kenya’s Deputy A President-elect William Ruto, who is charged with crimes against humanity, disclosed on Tuesday that a key prosecution witness has withdrawn, potentially complicating another case related to election violence five years ago.

Ruto is facing a trial at the International Criminal Court (ICC) where President-elect Uhuru Kenyatta is also charged with orchestrating ethnicfuelled violence after the 2007 presidential election. Both men deny the accusations and have pledged to clear their names.

If confirmed by the prosecution, the loss of the witness in Ruto’s case could further hurt the image of the ICC and its ability to hold to account those charged with masterminding the violence.

“A significant prosecution witness got in touch through a solicitor in Nairobi saying he didn’t want to be a witness any further,” David Hooper, lawyer for Ruto, said on Tuesday.

He said the identity of the witness, who is covered by the Hague-based court’s witness protection scheme, was confidential. Newspapers in Kenya named him.

The case against Kenyatta on charges of crimes against humanity over bloodshed in the aftermath of Kenya’s 2007 election, has been further complicated by his victory in a ballot which was held largely peacefully this month.

The case is also an important test for the court which was set up more than a decade ago as the world’s first permanent war crimes tribunal but has only secured one conviction.

Kenyatta and former civil servant Francis Muthaura were among six suspects initially charged by ICC prosecutors with orchestrating violence after the 2007 election, when some 1,200 people were killed.

But on March 11, prosecutor Fatou Bensouda said the decision of a key witness to recant testimony forced her to drop charges against Muthaura. She said that would have no impact on Kenyatta’s case, which was closely linked.

The status conference, or pretrial hearing, was called by the judges in The Hague at 3 p.m.

(10:00 a.m. EST) to look at the consequences of the withdrawal of the charges against Muthaura for the case against Kenyatta.

Kenyatta’s lawyers will call for the case against him to be dropped or at least postponed, said one lawyer who is familiar with the case but did not want to be quoted by name. “The collapse of the case against Muthaura has a profound impact on the viability of the prosecution’s case against Kenyatta,” he said.

The prosecutions are based on a lot of the same evidence. Both men have always denied any wrongdoing.

Kenyatta, elected by a slim margin, faces a big challenge in bridging Kenya’s ethnic divides even without the court case.

His opponent, defeated presidential contender Raila Odinga, challenged the election result in court on Saturday, alleging widespread ballot rigging.

Prosecutors could be expected to resist any moves to drop the charges against Kenyatta, which were brought by Bensouda’s predecessor.

However, lawyers for Kenyatta

could also say the prosecution’s case has changed so much in the past year that the case should be moved back to the pre-trial “confirmation of charges” phase.

The prosecution would then have to show again that it has a strong enough case to go to trial.

Kenyatta’s lawyers have argued that so much information was disclosed by prosecutors at the last minute that the case is fundamentally different from the one judges initially approved. Judges have not yet formally dropped the case against Muthaura.

The political coalition of Deputy Prime Minister Uhuru Kenyatta, son of Kenya’s founding president accused the British High Commissioner in Kenya of “shadowy, suspicious

Uhuru and rather animated involvement” in efforts to get the election commission to make a decision on how rejected ballots should be counted in the overall vote total.

Kenyatta’s party also asked the High Commissioner, Christian Turner, to explain what it called “the sudden

Ruto upsurge of British military personnel” in Kenya. British troops attended a six-week training course near Mount Kenya before deploying to Afghanistan. A new battle group arrived the week before Kenyans voted.

Britain’s Foreign Office said claims of British interference

Odinga “are entirely false and misleading.” The British soldiers in Kenya are part of a regular training programme planned nine months ago “completely unrelated to the Kenyan elections.” It said Britain has no position on how to handle the rejected votes, saying that the election commission or the Kenyan

courts should decide.

“We have always said that this election is a choice for Kenyans alone to decide. We urge all sides to ensure calm, avoid inflammatory statements, and to take any disputes to the courts.”

Kenyans later held their first presidential vote since the nation’s disputed election in 2007 spawned violence that killed more than 1,200 people.

Prime Minister Raila Odinga and Kenyatta were the top two contenders.

William Ruto, Kenyatta’s running mate, had also blamed “foreign missions” for swaying the electoral commission on its ballot decision. The decision “is meant to deny us a first-round win,” Ruto was quoted as saying by The Standard newspaper.

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THE GUARDIAN, Saturday, March 23, 2013

TheGuardian

Saturday, March 23, 2013 17

Conscience, Nurtured by Truth

Love&Life

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True Confession:

‘I’ll Never Forget The Night I Slept With My Wife’s Sister’ Love Adventure:

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CONTINUED ON PAGE 18

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two young boys. I actually met my sister-in-law before my wife as we had a mutual friend, but she was already in a serious relationship. That ended messily a couple of years ago.

We have always had a laugh at family get-togethers. She was always pretty but lately she’s lost weight, changed her hair and the way she dresses and has become really foxy.

She flirted with me all evening at my parents-in-law’s anniversary party.

My wife went to bed early with a headache, and we stayed up drinking and laughing until the early hours. I kissed her good-night, and her eyes held mine and it was electric. The following weekend she offered to babysit but when it came to it, my wife said she was shattered as she’d been up all night with our youngest.

I was happy for us to stay in and

Love Adventure watch a DVD but she said she wanted to go out for a drink with her sister who was feeling a bit down.

We had a wonderful evening, I felt like a teenager again. It didn’t even feel wrong because I had my wife’s blessing. I drove her back to her flat and I went in for a drink, but ultimately, we couldn’t keep our hands off one another. We had mind-blowing sex like I couldn’t ever remem-

ber having with my wife.

I left straight afterwards and told her that it must never happen again because I love my wife too much to destroy our marriage. I have avoided her for a month but my head is full of her. Even though I know it’s wrong, I can never forget the night I had sex with my wife’s sister. And I know that if the opportunity arises again, I will go for it in full force and she will too.

Courtesy: divagist.blogspot.com

ThE gUARDiAN, Saturday, March 23, 2013

18 |

LoVE&LiFE ‘I cheated first, but I can’t forget my wife’s infidelity’ M Dear Love Doctor, Y wife has had sex with another guy and the thought turns my stomach, yet i think i deserve it because i cheated on her first. i’m 39 and she is 32. We’ve been together 17 years and we have two kids of 13 and 11.

My wife and i had a great relationship, never falling out and we had a brilliant sex life. Then an ex-girlfriend popped up on Facebook. i hadn’t seen her for over 20 years. our flirting got more intense and then we met up – and there was an instant attraction between us.

She’s a single woman, also 39 and a dietician. She’d not lost her looks and at that moment, everything i felt for

my wife was turned off. i wanted to be with this other person at any cost.

We started meeting up for sex and i was blinded with infatuation for her. i left my wife last year – she didn’t know about the other woman. i just said i’d fallen out of love with her. i went back home two weeks later and was shocked to see her. She looked terrible, she’d lost so much weight. i stayed another month, then left again when i couldn’t resist the pull to my lover. i left four times in eight months. i know how bad that sounds. i’m back at home now and deter-

True Confession mined to make my marriage work.

We’re stronger now. We don’t take each other for granted, we text saying how much we love each other. i found out my wife had been with a guy one of the times we were separated just before Christmas. i feel so bad. i brought all this on myself i know -- but i can’t get what she did with this other guy out of my head. i tried to talk to my wife about it but she said, “it’s none of your business.

We were apart. End of discussion.”

i know it’s my own fault but i feel so betrayed.

Advice: i’m sure you realise how hypocritical you sound.

She had a quick fling when you had repeatedly left her and you’re letting that get to you? Your wife didn’t stay with this guy, she chose to welcome you back and that says a lot.

Think of your best moments with your wife, make them into a sort of internal video and play them in your head every time thoughts and images pop up of your wife with that other guy.

Focus on positive plans for the future for you, your wife and kids.

Work towards that so you’ve no time to dwell on the past. This will help you make your marriage stronger than ever.

*Send your comments/stories to Love Doctor. E-mail: ireto007@yahoo.com if you’re in a crisis, call 07031028714 or 08023700641. For free marriage/relationships counseling, call Love Doctor Mike 07031028714, 08023700641 or Chris 08023913619.

Visit www.romancestory.org

Love News

Woman uses sperm from oral sex to impregnate herself

ChiCAgo doctor claims his ex-fiancée stole his sperm A by performing oral sex -- and then using his seed to impregnate herself.

Richard Phillips admits that six years ago he and Sharon irons, also a physician, had a brief romance. he insists that during that time they had oral sex three times -- but no intercourse.

But irons’ lawyer said Phillips is simply trying to get out of paying child support for their five-year-old daughter. “it’s the first time i’ve had a guy use this excuse,” the lawyer, Enrico Mirabelli, said. “his complaint is the best work of fiction i have read since ‘The Da Vinci Code.’” in a lawsuit alleging that irons engaged in “extreme and outrageous” conduct, Phillips claimed she used subterfuge to get pregnant. he said he broke off their relationship after discovering that irons was still married.

The illinois Appeals Court last Wednesday agreed that Phillips, 54, can press a claim for emotional distress, but ruled that irons didn’t steal the sperm.

“She asserts that when plaintiff ‘delivered’ his sperm, it was a gift,” the decision said. “There was no agreement that the original deposit would be returned upon request.”

The court did not rule on Phillips’ claim on how irons got pregnant and sent the case back to Cook County Circuit Court. “it’s a pack of lies,” irons, 40, told the Chicago Sun-Times. irons said Phillips got her pregnant the old fashioned way and was “very happy” at first. But when Phillips got cold feet and split, irons said, she had to haul him into court to get $800 a month in child support.

Several fertility experts told the Sun-Times the sordid scenario Phillips described could “theoretically” result in a pregnancy.

Looks like his lawyer tried the sperm-stealing trick to get him out of paying child support?

Courtesy: The Chicago Sun-Times. http://www.judicialaccountability.org/articles/suitonspermstolen.htm *if you want to advertize or sponsor Love & Life call 07031028714, 08023700641, 07032944123.

Love Dictionary is a sexually transmitted disEight-year-old boy ThiS What Is Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID)? ease (STD). Pelvic inflammatory disease (or disorder) (PiD) is a term Romantic Jokes

accused of rape!

for inflammation of the uterus, fallopian tubes, and/or ovaries as it progresses to scar formation with adhesions to nearby tissues and organs.

This can lead to infertility. PiD is a vague term and can refer to viral, fungal, parasitic, though most often bacterial infections. PiD should be classified by affected organs, the stage of the infection, and the organism(s) causing it. Although an STi is often the cause, many other routes are possible, including lymphatic, postpar“Life isn’t about waiting for the storm to pass, it’s about learning to tum, postabortal (either miscarriage or abortion) or intrauterine device dance in the rain.” (iUD) related, and Vivian greene

An eight-year-old boy is accused of rape. in court his lawyer holds the boy’s dick out as evidence saying, “Your honour, see this, can he rape with this tiny tot?”

The boy whispers: “Don’t shake it, we’ll lose the case!”

Words Of Wisdom

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 17

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hematogenous spread. Two thirds of patients with laparoscopic evidence of previous PiD were not aware they had PiD. in the United States, over 750,000 women are affected by PiD each year, and the rate is highest with teenagers and first time mothers. PiD causes over 100,000 women to become infertile in the US each year.[1][2] N. gonorrhoea is isolated in 40–60% of women with acute salpingitis.[3] C. trachomatis is estimated to be the cause in about 60% of cases of salpingitis, which may lead to PiD. however, not all PiD is caused solely by STis;

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organisms that are considered normal vaginal flora can be involved, and individual cases of PiD can be due to either a single organism or a co-infection of many different species. 10% of women in one study had asymptomatic Chlamydia trachomatis infection and 65% had asymptomatic infection with Neisseria gonorrhoeae.[3] it was noted in one study that 10–40% of untreated women with N. gonorrhoea develop PiD and 20–40% of women infected with C. trachomitis developed PiD.[4]

Diagnosis Symptoms in PiD range from subclinical (asymptomatic) to severe. if there are symptoms, then fever, cervical motion tenderness, lower abdominal pain, new or different discharge, painful intercourse, or irregular menstrual bleeding may be noted. it is important to note that even asymptomatic PiD can and does cause serious harm. Laparoscopic identification is helpful in diagnosing tubal disease, 65–90%positive predictive value in patients with presumed PiD.[3] Regular Sexually Transmitted infection (STi) testing is important for prevention. Treatment is usually started empirically because of the serious complications that may result from delayed treatment. Definitive criteria include: histopathologic evidence of endometritis, thickened filled fallopian tubes, or laparoscopic findings.

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THE gUARDIAN, saturday, March 23, 2013

| 19

LOVE&LIFE

ROMANTIC PLACES, FLIGHTS & CRUISES

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

Matsigira Waterfalls: Wonder of

ATsIRgA Waterfalls takes its source from springs on the M Kagoro hills cascading from four different natural funnels off the sheer rock cliff from about 25 metres to form a large pool at the bottom. situated in Madakiya close to Kafanchan, about 227 kilometers south of Kaduna, the water at Matsirga Waterfalls drops 30 meters into a gorge that has been supported by beautiful rocks. The fresh cool breeze around the area has something to offer for tourists.

HE common dread swept over me when I T received the invitation in the mail for my 20-year high school reunion. “You have to go!” my teenage daughter Chelsy, giggled when I rolled my eyes. There didn’t seem much point, I had only kept in contact with a handful of friends since high school. I was, however, a little curious as to how some people had turned out. Especially sarah-Jane...

In 20 years it’s unbelievable how much she hadn’t changed. Arrogant, rude and still a bully, she suprisingly nestled next to me for the formal dinner. “so how is everything?” she sniggered insincerely “You look just the same” she chuckled. I had put on a fair amount of weight and dyed my hair blonde, I looked nothing like the girl she went to high school with -- and sarah-Jayne knew it.

Warning myself that I shouldn’t take her comments to heart, I moved to the other side of the room. When I returned, one of my friends Angela, a proud mother, was eagerly showing sarah-Jane pictures of her twins “It looks like you picked them up from the ears!” she gasped into laughter, leaving Angela obviously offended.

Dinner was even more painful, sarah-Jane running a loud commentary on everyone who graced the podium labelling them everything from “Fat” to “stupid”. she even picked on someone’s partner’s hairstyle. It amazed me how none of us, 20 years on, could tell her to shut up.

As she picked her dinner apart, sarah-Jane loudly boasted how she rarely ate cooked food and adhered to a strict raw diet. she also remarked on how ashamed we should all be on how we consume meat like wild animals. sarah-Jane had not drunk alcohol in over 15 years as drinking was only for “weak minded and socially inept people”. By then half of us were on our third glass of wine! As in high school, there was nothing to stop her relentless badgering and I could barely take it -- I retreated to the bar.

I ordered a fruity cocktail blended so smoothly I couldn’t taste a drop of rum. Then, I had a flash of genius. I quickly ordered another, for sarah-Jane. I returned to the table and set it

At the point of impact with the river, the cascading showers of the fall create a rainbow-like mist, which appears and disappears mysteriously.

The river formed by Matsirga Waterfalls increases with the rainy season overflowing its banks. A natural rock shelter at the riverbank forms a cover and resting place for picnicking.

Like a half umbrella, it provides shade for tourists amidst the wondrous continuous waterfall.

A heritage resort known as Madikiya Heritage Resort is being

developed by a private investor within the fall area to serve the relaxation needs of tourists and visitors.

Also, the proximity of the Kagoro Hills and Nok Museum provides an added advantage to tourists visiting the area.

Courtesy: www.cometonigeria.com *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 ruined ‘Miss Perfect’ at the reunion down in front of her smiling sweetly. she assumed it was juice. After one sip sarah-Jayne proceeded to demolish the entire delicious concoction; almost automatically, her eyes glazed over. I could not believe it -- after one drink she was wasted! sarah-Jane began cackling hysterically and waving her napkin about making an absolute fool of herself. she began screeching over the speaker on stage inviting many irritated glares and hushes for her to quieten down.

Everyone on our table stared at her in disbelief, wondering how this once ice-queen

True Confessions From Abroad turned in to such a raving mess.

After an in-depth recount of how she lost her virginity, sarah-Jayne announced to our group “I feel crap” and burst in to tears. As pathetic as she looked I thought it was about time she felt what it was like to be ridiculed. she cried uncontrollably and thrust her mobile phone at me to call her partner.

Within ten minutes, John arrived to pick her up. Incredibly unimpressed (he obviously wasn’t a drinker either) he hauled a hysterical

sarah-Jayne over his shoulders and out of the room. It couldn’t have worked better and I celebrated with another fruity cocktail with my real friends.

Your say: Have you had a similar experience? share your stories and thoughts below.

Have you experienced a similar situation? Tell us your story. Call 07031028714.

Courtesy: womansday.ninemsn.com.au Woman’s Day reader NB: Call Mike on +2347031028714 if you have a story from abroad to share with us.

THe GUARDIAN, Saturday, March 23, 2013

20

ReLATIONSHIP

Handling Jealousy In Relationships

By Alita Joseph T is not uncommon to hear people say that jealousy is a part of relationship so a partner is entitled to his rage if he feels that his position has been threatened. But that’s not true although anybody who is in a relationship has felt jealous at one time of the other. However, jealous partners can be forgiven because they act out of the need to protect their interest and not have another person take over the object of their desire.

But it should not be accommodated because it is a selfish emotion that can cause pain if left unchecked. It is a sign of possessiveness. In it lies violence because the jealous one wants to be in control and in complete possession of that person who has caught his attention. And complete possession of another human being is not possible because the average human being wants to maintain some level of independence no matter how much love he or she has for another person. They want to interact with other people not because they have stopped loving their better halves but they want to enrich themselves with what happens outside their own lives. They want to socialize with work colleagues because the friendship nurtures another aspect of life which on the whole enriches their lives as couples.

So, a person who kicks against the partner having other relationships apart from that which they share does not harbour the type of love that cares and nurtures a healthy relationship.

Guard against jealousy, it is destructive. One would think that with the level of sensitization and awareness about relationship matters that are available these days couples are striving to put their feelings under control and not allowing jealousy destroy a good union. Going by the horrific story I heard the other day, some couples can still allow jealousy to mar their marriages. The 30-year-old woman concerned in the story is sober now, I understand, but her regret does not bring the husband she scarred horribly back from the dead.

Consider this very recent photograph of pretty Miss ether Sunday with the horrendous injury inflicted on her by a so-called lover.

Her assailant inflicted the injury on her by throwing hot stew and stove on esther. But he denies it, claiming that the woman inflicted the injuries on herself. Love must have existed at a time and even up to the time of that argument that caused so much destruction.

But the amount of jealousy that a lover shows may depend on his suspicions that his relationship is threatened. He may feel helpless to handle the threat. If the union is already shaky, a partner would be jealous of any move and may even suspect a child.

I

Insecurity is a major cause of jealousy as can be seen with the case of Basirat Raimi, a 400 level student of the Lagos State University. She did not see her excellence in academia as a threat to her relationship with Yusuf Salau, an auto mechanic. He feared that the lady would reject him one day and to him, the solution was to deform her with acid.

But the degree of jealousy a partner feels may depend on suspicions that his relationship is seriously threatened and he may be helpless to handle the threat. If the union is already shaky, a partner would be jealous and see even a child as a threat. When there is no reason to worry, an insecure person may

imagine disaster because he/she has seen his lover in the company of a more attractive or successful person. So he worries and begins to pay more attention to the fault of his partner. We begin to spy on a partner.

Some people may become happy when a partner questions the choice of spaghetti strap to that office party and put it down to his rekindled interest at last. This is alright.

But make sure that he does not speak from an intensely jealous mind. Although his interest is a boost, he may be adding up clues to back up his suspicion that you are having an affair with that colleague of yours. Nip jealousy in the bud by allaying his fears.

Dealing With Him When He’s Horny

By Kemi Amushan eN get horny almost all the time. So when your man feels horny, do you find it disgusting and perverted? I don’t because it’s only normal. So you need to be careful how you respond to his advances, which can either strengthen your relationship or destroy it!

Most ladies feel offended when their men say or act horny? Are you that woman that feels disgusted? Do you feel angry at how he “just sees you as an object?” If you feel any negative emotions against your man’s sexual advances, I have two things to tell you. First, if you and your man are still dating, and are not going steady yet, then it’s okay to feel disgusted and offended. And if he insists on having sex with you, even if you’ve told him you didn’t want to, then it’s best to just part ways with the horny little prick. But if you’re married or planning to get married soon, then please be careful! If you show any disgust or anger towards his sexual advances, he just might lose his love for you. No joke. This is serious stuff. And I’ll try to explain why.

All men need satisfying sex. You read that right -- as perverted or primal as it sounds, all men need satisfying sex with the woman in their lives. And it’s a really, really big need. Trust me. Let me give you an idea of how strong his need for sex is.

Think about your need for affection.

When it comes to love and affection, your need for it is very strong. Right? His need for sex is just about that strong.

Now here’s another question: What do you do when your man doesn’t give you the love and affection you need? You look for that love and affection else-

M

where. Right? You meet your girlfriends.

You go shopping. You chat online with complete strangers. Some women go to a male friend who’s sweeter, more caring, and more affectionate than their current partner. And as you might guess, a lot of affairs have stemmed from this!

And it’s all because the man didn’t meet his wife’s need for love and affection.

Here’s the bad news: When you don’t fulfill your partner’s need for sexual satisfaction, he does the same thing, he looks for it elsewhere! He turns to pictures of naked women on the Internet, watching porn, erotic literature. And some men turn to a female friend who’s more sympathetic. Have you ever lost the love of a man because you didn’t or wouldn’t meet his needs?

Now a simple way to affair-proof your relationship or marriage is showing your man a lot of affection. Let me say that again: Affairs start when a woman doesn’t receive the affection she needs from her husband, or when a man doesn’t receive the sexual satisfaction he needs from his wife. That’s why dismissing, criticizing, or feeling dismayed at his sexual appetite is dangerous. You instantly put your relationship at risk! The more you satisfy his need for good sex, the more he’ll give you the love and affection you need, which in turn makes you more open to satisfying his sexual needs and so on and so forth. What’s more, a man whose needs are met will also be able to give you the other things you desire from him -- time, financial support, hours of intimate conversation, and so on. Here’s the lesson: The most effective way to affair-proof your relation-

ship or marriage is to simply meet your partner’s needs. Now, some of my girlfriends have said to me that it’s not their fault, that if he showed more love and affection first, then they wouldn’t hesitate giving him the sex he needs!” If you feel that way, then I’ll tell you the same thing I said to my girlfriends: “You mean you’re too proud to make the first move? What’s more important, your pride, or a happy, loving, nurturing relationship with your man?”

Today, sadly, too many women choose their pride and then they blame their husbands for destroying their relationship.

It’s pretty crazy. These women had the power to save their relationship, but wasted it. All because of a silly thing called “pride.” I hope you never make that mistake! The fact remains: If you want your man or husband to love you and only you, then you’ll have to find ways to satisfy his sexual needs no matter how “perverted” you may think they are. Why? Because when he realizes you can satisfy his sexual needs -- every single one of them—- then he’d be crazy to look for his sexual satisfaction elsewhere!

Of course, sex isn’t a man’s only need. He has other important needs: Fun, respect, visual stimulation, a quiet and peaceful home, etc. And yes, these are needs that you’ll also want to meet or else your relationship will never be 100% affair-proof.

So, change your attitude today and give your man what he needs, that’s the only way he knows you cherish him and love him. Don’t give pride a chance to destroy your relationship.

To the happiness we all deserve, good luck in love and life. Cheers.

What Is The Cause of Jealousy?

Fear is present. The jealous one is afraid of losing a relationship. He is not sure what could become of him in the future when his object of desire is taken from him. But insecurity is mostly the cause. He may feel inadequate when he thinks that his lover is intelligent, attractive and successful. So he worries.

Result Of Jealousy It is always anger. He feels hurt and resentment.

He regrets all the sacrifices made in the past.

Then there is emotional outburst. Some people have maimed or killed their better halves out of mere suspicion that they have betrayed them.

Others have taken the anger personally and committed suicide.

Coping With Jealousy Jealousy can destroy a good relationship along with the people concerned. But it can be successfully dealt with if given enough attention.

First, you should admit that you do feel jealous.

Although it is not encouraged, it is normal and unavoidable. It gets out of hand, however when couples give it free rein.

Control it and do not feel shameful when you are jealous. Do not accept it as part of you, you are in control of your feelings, think of it as a reaction to what you did not like.

Save Your Relationship Jealousy destroys relationships because the jealous person feels too proud to work on his issues.

Rather than admit his mistake, he allows the union to die. But self-interest would not protect from the pain that must result.

You Can Survive If you have decided that you cannot live with the aftermath of jealousy, whether you are guilty and think it is better to part ways than continue to stay together, you will heal. It may take some time before you get over the pain, but you will, eventually.

To reduce the pain, keep busy. Go to work, have your trusted friends around you. If the outburst had been particularly hurtful, discuss it with those who understand and can help you come back to your normal life. Say exactly how the incident has affected you.

But always remember that the best shield against jealousy is the feeling of self-worth and self- confidence. Have it at the back of your mind that losing your lover to another person does not make you a worthless individual. It does not mean that you are no longer attractive or you cannot be desired by another person. That your lover prefers another person does not make you bad.

Guard against jealousy, smile through life. There is always something to make you laugh when you are faced with a situation that may cause such a violent reaction.

THE GUARDIAN, Saturday, February 16, 2013

LOVE & LIFE 21

08033832503 Email: amara@amarablessing.com

WEEKEND withAMARA

SIBLINGS And Married Women E have said so much about the relationship of women with in-laws. No doubt, a good number of in-laws are difficult to relate with. But like I always say, we are all inlaws in one way or the other. Whatever you sow, you shall reap.

What about the issue of siblings in our homes? Just like the in-laws, siblings have torn many homes apart. Women most times get too attached to the siblings that it begins to affect their relationship with the man.

Yes, I know you have to be close to your family (parents and siblings), but if you don’t put certain things in check, you are bound to go beyond the healthy zone and then such relationship becomes harmful to that with your man.

When two people are joined together in holy matrimony, the priest always reads the Bible passage that says, “Therefore shall a man leave his father and mother and cleave unto his wife and the two shall become one.” Is the Holy Scripture just referring to the man alone? Certainly no; the woman has to also leave the parents and siblings and become one with the man.

So many women pray for a disconnection of the man from his family when they are also very much attached to their own family.

You know there are times we pray without understanding. You spend your time complaining about the man and his family members not allowing you to enjoy your home. Madam, are your own family members allowing you enjoy your home?

We have this understanding in the African society that anyone from the woman’s immediate family wishes her well in marriage.

I can tell you today that your very own blood sister and mother could be your own worst enemies. Wondering why I said this? Read on.

A girl I know very well got married and was childless for eight years. The prayer contractors that surrounded her were quick to tell her what she wanted to hear —- the motherin-law was a witch. It was not until a genuine pastor revealed to her that her mother was behind her misery that her freedom came.

The man told her that the mother must die if she should have a baby. They did a lot of things and later the mother died. She conceived thereafter and today, she is a mother of four.

I once attended a wedding where a woman gave her innocent daughter out in marriage to her lover. This she did just to hold on to the man’s wealth and also for easy access to her lover.

W

Girl, you may not believe this, but I can tell you that a lot of mothers are having secret affairs with their sons-in-law. This is why I tell people never to trust anyone.

Now to the issue at hand —-your siblings. I believe so many people have gone through so much in the hands of their siblings. Some have been able to identify the source of their problems and make amends while others are still living in ignorance.

I once spent my holiday with a family friend as a child. Being very ignorant about the issues of life, this woman had so much going wrong in her home. Her husband will always come home during the day and take the sister to bed.

Several times, I saw them cuddling each other. I really felt for her, but there was nothing I could do.

Sometime in 2008, just a few houses away from my office, a woman travelled out of the country for her studies. She sent the house help to stay with a friend while she was away but left her sister at home with the husband believing she would protect her interest. When this lady got back to Nigeria, she was locked out of the house with so many false accusations. The sister was already pregnant for the husband who bought her a brand new SUV even before the lady returned. That was how she lost her home.

Enough of the story of infidelity. Your siblings have contributed to your husband’s negative attitudes towards you. A man once sent me a text telling me that his problem in the home has nothing to do with the wife, but the sister.

This young girl who is still in secondary school goes out and doesn’t come home early. According to this man, the wife is not doing anything about it. He on his part doesn’t want to hurt the wife by sending the only sister out of the house because anytime he threatens to do that, the wife becomes moody.

I have seen siblings who will insult the man and his relations without the wife scolding them. I have watched some men enter the kitchen to serve their guests while madam’s sibling sits in front of the television. This is absolutely wrong.

Another reader called me to ask if it is right for the woman to gather her own people to come and beat up the husband. Trust me; I didn’t answer that question until I asked to know what led to that. He beat the woman who in turn called her people to come and fight for her.

They beat the man and left him with injuries. I told him that no responsible man beats his wife, which, is the height of irresponsibility. He said he did that out of anger, I also told him they beat him out of anger. But seriously, girls, don’t call your siblings to beat up your hus-

house when this happened. It was only when he later went on a visit to his in-laws that he saw his shirts hanging in the wardrobe. The wife suddenly became a thief in her own house. I don’t believe I should hide when I want to give things to my siblings. If my husband is a part of me, then he should be aware and also be supportive about it.

Your own family has the right to go to your pot, enter your husband’s room, drive his car, and in some cases, wear his clothes. But the moment your mother-in-law and his siblings go to your kitchen, there is fire on the mountain. Your own sister has the right to stay in the living room and watch her favourite series while you cook in the kitchen, but you start barking like a mad dog the moment your sister-in-law does that.

Why live a life of hatred and discrimination? Why should your husband train your own siblings in school only for you to stage a fight the moment he sends money to his sick mother? For how long will you continue to buy Italian shoes and handbags for your own sister only to remember you have to manage as a good wife whenever it’s time for your brother-in-law to go back to school?

I once heard a woman telling her female child never to go into the brother-in-law’s Moral decadence? room. She told the house help that the daughter is allowed to go to her own brother band. The insult is yours. but definitely not the in-law. Are they not It also doesn’t speak well of you when you both guys? You are afraid of your daughter allow your siblings use your husband’s car. being sexually abused. Remember, your own You stop the man’s people from visiting your brother could be the devil around you. home. Your own people don’t just stop at the Sisters have planned the death of their marvisiting, they have the right to enter your mat- ried sisters out of jealousy. You may find this rimonial room at anytime (even when you are hard to believe, but your own sister may not relaxing with your man). They pick up your be happy that you are the only one providing husband’s car key and drive to wherever they for them. You think she is happy when you like. This has to stop. Give the man all the re- tell her your experience in your last trip spect he deserves. If they must drive his car, abroad. So many young girls have refused to his permission must be sought. get married because they want a man who Many women have the habit of discussing will be able to help them stage a competition their husband with siblings. What do you against their elder sister in terms of clothes, want them to take the man for? Your margood cars, and holidays. They believe they deriage is with the man and no third party serve better things than their elder sister. should come in. If you cannot keep calm and This article is not meant to stir up animosity keep the man’s reputation, I would advise you between your family members and you. I get closer to your in-laws. The man feels more write this for you to be able to make amends, respected when you report him to his own become more alert and treat everybody family. Most times, you talk and say so many fairly+. Once you get married to a man, the derogatory things about your man without two families become one. You should be able knowing your very own sister is interested in to love your in-laws as much as you love your him. She will act the good sister you want her own people. This is the easiest way to get your to be and then go back to the man to destroy husband to love and accept your own family. you —- household enemy.

Also drop that “mummy’s girl” attitude beA friend once told me how he lost about ten cause that won’t take your marriage anydesigner shirts that were in his wardrobe. Ac- where. Your mother and siblings should stay cording to him, no relation of his was in his off issues in your marriage.

08167089656 (SMS only).

IMAGE AND ETIQUETTE WithPamela E-mail:regalgraces@yahoo.com CANNOT recall the Itlenumber of times I’d setdown in front of my We Stoop To Conquer computer or at a desk with a pen poised upon a blank sheet of paper without an inspired sentence to put down. Every now and then I am faced

with this humbling reality; I cannot give anything more than I have. Anyone can conjure up something to fill in the blank spaces; but as witty as they might come, that will not change the fact that they are empty words.

When it comes to speaking to hearts, answering real needs, being a solution to stubborn problems, etc., no one can give you more than they themselves already have. So I’d sit there and pray; “Father, please help”. Sometimes inspiration comes all at once and at other times after a while. However, as surely as I wait on Him to answer He always comes through...

Every human being is limited to his or her experiences and intelligence or intuition and there is nothing new under the sun.

Everything therefore is at best a good imitation. However, when we look up to the One who is boundless, our resources will be according to His own riches and capacity.

Why Are We Here?

No one can tell you as clearly and precisely the purpose of your life like only God can. Before we were formed, God already had a purpose in His mind and based on that purpose He made every aspect of our being. The Bible says we are “fearfully and wonderfully made”! (Psalm 139:14). We are so precious in

God’s sight that He knows when even a strand of hair falls from off our heads! God created everything and holds everything by the power of His word (Hebrew 1:3); the same way he created Adam and Eve and gave them a purpose before giving them a form from the dust of the ground is the same way His words are imprinted in our spirit. There is a specific purpose we have been designed to fulfil and unless we find out what it is from God, we will never know peace or happiness much less fulfilment. Regardless of your area of vocation, to remain relevant and answer real needs you need true knowledge and insight that can only come from God. A Sense of Stewardship There is no place on earth that is Heaven, yet, in some places compared to others, the people are less selfish (or, in other words, have a greater sense of common ownership) and therefore the community or society is more developed. This is such a contrast to the underdeveloped world where even the little patch of land in front of a person’s house is seldom considered an occupants responsibility, either by impartation or adoption. If you have no sense of stewardship, either to God or to man, you will most probably never answer any human need but your own –— of which no one can share the joy or victory.

We Stoop To Conquer We must humble ourselves to the truth that we are nothing without Him. We cannot give anymore than He has already given us and He gives daily, sufficient to the day. If you remain

This heart aches! humble, you will always strive for more and endeavour for the best that can possibly be given. If you are humble, giving will come easy and receiving to an overflowing capacity a definite in your life. To those who are generous to what has been placed in their custody (for we are all stewards), more will be added to them.

Is it not to be a blessing to the world in the area the Lord has called us to work that we are here for? Our stooping is before the Master, and if we know that He is always with us, we should always abide by His instruction.

An Ever-increasing Demand So long as you are called by God, you are to grow from grace to grace, from great light to greater light in every aspect of your life. If you haven’t seen such light manifest in your life, then you have disconnected from your source of Light. The need in the world for what God has deposited in your life is everpresent for you to fulfil it. “With great power comes great responsibility” – Movie: Spider Man This quote seems to come from a derivative of Jesus’ words “...For unto whomsoever much is given, of him shall much be required…” Luke 12:48. The point is that you don’t get something for nothing. God worked six days and rested for one day. This gives us a sense of God’s work ethic and the manner of diligence He expects from us —- for He made us in His own image and likeness. We must all work hard, in every area we have been called to be of service, diligently as working unto God. For He alone can give us our true wages.

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 Wellness 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, March 23, 2013

MARITAL SEX

Don’t Let Erectile Dysfunction Ruin Your Sex Life

By Ebere Ameh ODAY, we are discussing a very T common yet hardly discussed area of health known as Erectile Dysfunction (ED). In spite of our freedom of speech and information, issues about our sexuality are still discussed in hushed tones.

Because no man wants to have anything to do with impotence, discussing it with a doctor is also difficult for most men. This has led to discord between some married couples as such men rather refrain from the sex act than give poor performances.

Though we are in the information age when all kinds of information are got at the press of a button, getting the right ones from the right source is always a Herculean task.

It is on that note that we present to you excerpts from an interview with Dr. Funmilade Omisanjo, a Consultant Urologist. As an expert in the field, he has given us the facts, including, causes and treatment options for the disease as contained in the following.

What is erectile dysfunction?

Erectile dysfunction is another name for impotence. It is the inability of a man to achieve or maintain an erection that is satisfactory for sexual intercourse. It may be a total inability to achieve erection, an inconsistent ability to achieve erection, or the ability to only sustain a brief erection.

Having erection trouble from time to time is not necessarily a cause for concern. But if it is an ongoing problem, it may cause stress, relationship problems or affect ones self-confidence.

According to the National Institute of Health (NIH), up to 30 million men are affected with ED. Causes A number of factors contribute to ED. According to Dr Omisanjo,

“ An onan knew that the seed should not be his; and it came to pass, when he went in unto his brother’s wife, that he spilled it on the ground, lest that he should give seed to his brother”

“erectile dysfunction is a spectrum and is caused by so many factors. It could be stress, injury to the blood supply to the penis, hormonal problems, aging process of some sort, and chronic diseases.”

One major cause of erectile dysfunction is premature ejaculation.

This is the inability of a man to maintain an erection long enough for mutual satisfaction. There is primary and secondary premature ejaculation. Primary premature ejaculation is a learned behaviour that begins when a man becomes sexually active. Secondary premature ejaculation is the one that occur after years of normal ejaculation and intercourse grow progressively shorter and ejaculation, more quickly. This type is always caused by some underlying ailments, which affect the penile arteries and veins.

Other causes of ED include performance anxiety, depression, diabetes, venous leak, neurological causes, hormone and drug-induced impotence among others.

The risk factors or the things that make people prone to ED include medical problems like hypertension, diabetes, vascular disease, low testosterone, high blood cholesterol, smoking, alcohol abuse and drug.

Treatments for erectile dysfunction It is always advised that patients see their doctor instead of resorting to self-medication and the patronage of quacks, ED is not an exception.

Most men resort to the use of Viagra and other performance enhancing drugs and drinks to manage their impotence. It is unfortunate that some go to the extent of using concoctions like paraga, burantashi and other local concoctions that enhance their performance on a daily basis. The most unfortunate is that both people with erectile dysfunction and those without it, now resort to these medications for enhanced performance without considering the implications on their

longed erection could be a side effect and the person should be treated for that.” “Viagra is made for men who are unable to have or maintain an erection that is satisfactory for sexual intercourse. We don’t encourage people who do not have ED to be taking Viagra just to enhance sex. The drug is a prescription drug and generally safe but we do know that when people are on some other medication or have some cardiac diseases they have to be cautious in the use of Viagra and should opt for other forms of treatment because it can have fatal consequences,” he added.

On Paraga, he said “We hear about paraga used by the Yorubas and burantashi, by the Hausas. They are all mixtures of herbal extracts and roots. The bottom line is that we don’t know what they contain. Some of them do enhance sexual performance but beyond that, it is thought that when they are abused or used for long periods, they may have damaging effect on the kidney and the liver. These side effects may not be

Premature Ejaculation

– Gen. 38 vs 9.

REMATURE ejaculation is defined P as the inability of a man to control his ejaculatory reflex. Once he is sexually aroused he will reach orgasm very quickly, sometimes even before he penetrates a women’s vagina.

Some men reach orgasm more than half the time before their partners does. However, the time it may take for a woman to reach or need to reach orgasm during a sexual encounter, is highly variable. It depends on the woman.

For a man to be good in bed, he must be able to engage in fore play while he is in the state of sexual excitement without reaching orgasm before his partner does. This will require good self-control and training. What are the causes of premature ejaculation?

1. Prostatitis, or infection and inflammation of the postrate gland, for example may cause premature ejaculation. It could also because by syphilis and multiple sclerosis. It is important to visit the hospital so that there can be a thorough examination of the man’s urinary and nervous systems to find out if a disease or injury

health and general wellbeing.

It is good to see your doctor because he will assess you to know your age, your overall health and medical history. He will also try to find out the extent, cause and nature of the condition, your tolerance for specific medications and procedures among other things, which, put together, will help him determine the right one for you.

According to Dr. Omisanjo, “There are other treatments besides medication, which may just be to change your lifestyle, change a medication, or tackle psychological stress. It may be to lose weight, reduce alcohol intake or do more exercise. All these can only be detected if you seek medical help instead of depending on performance enhancing drugs.”

He added: “the primary use of Viagra is to correct a deficit, to restore a normal erectile function. The patient requires a stimulus to have an erection and it eases off after sex so that he has something close to a normal experience. An abnormally pro-

is responsible. It could also be psychological, and a number of techniques may be used to effect a cure.

2. It could be caused by a deep-seated neurosis, and therefore would need some psychoanalysis.

from the roots and herbs but the alcohol that it is mixed with or the dosage, which is not standardised, among other things. Generally, we discourage self- medication and the consumption of these concoctions,” he concluded.

According to Paula Hall, a psychotherapist , the long-term side effect of Viagra is still unknown. “I worry about so many people becoming habitual users of Viagra. We simply don’t know what the long-term effects might be. The producers deny the possibility of dependency, but admits it is not possible to predict the long-term impact,” she noted.

Though sexual problems may seem awkward to discuss even with a doctor, it is very important to forget ones ego, summon courage and talk about it because it may be a warning sign of a heart disease, diabetes or other ailments that require urgent attention. Treating the underlying problem may just be enough to reverse your ED and save your sex life. prevalent enough for it to be considered one of the major causes of sexual dysfunction. Instead of reaching orgasm and ejaculation too soon, as in premature ejaculation, this person will take much longer than usual to reach this phase of sexual excitement, and in some cases may not reach it at all.

penis less sensitive to sexual excitement, and thereby delay orgasm.

Thought this method is not conclusive, there is no harm in trying it.

Drugs and other physical issues may contribute to it, but in most 4. There is the squeeze method. Where cases, however, the man’s inhibithe man squeezes the penies when tions against ejaculation during stimulated and about to ‘come’ just sexual intercourse has a psychologibelow the rim of the glans. It will make cal reason. Sometimes it is anxiety the erection subside. This can be or fear of ejaculating, especially repeated several times. He can also when the man sees his partner as a stimulate his penis manually until he ‘mother figure’ and may not want feels he is about to experience orgasm. to ejaculate in her vagina because At this point, he stops until the sensa- he will ‘soil’ her. Or by holding back, tion is gone. After three or four he may be expressing anger, hostilistroking sessions, the man will ejacuty, or guilt complex, caused by late. If he does this, after several weeks, some difficulties in their relationhe will be able to tolerate the experiships. A man is usually encouraged ence indefinitely. It does help. in counseling, to be relaxed during sex, or even to have erotic fantasies Counseling is absolutely necessary in during intercourse which help him solving sexual problems. Open comto let go and reach orgasm and ejacmunication and proper ulation. Many times the man’s partunderstanding and acceptance is nec- ner will be asked to assist in the essary. Love and intimate trust in each treatment. Here oral, or manual other is a huge help. Couple’s should stimulation (masturbation) is highlearn to put their fantasies aside and ly recommended. Gradually the Sometimes it may mean that the man enjoy what each partner has and is expressing an intense and uncon- understand what turns one each part- man will overcome the inhibition. scious hostility toward women. There ner be very patient, loving and under- Have a better sex is need for counseling and in most standing.

E. C. Samuel cases prayers.

08027173447 SMS ONLY Though not as common as premature Intimatefaithministry@yahoo.com 3. Use of condoms can help make the ejaculation, retarded ejaculation is

TheGuardian

SATUrDAY, March 23, 2013 23

Conscience, Nurtured by Truth

Life&Style Alice Enonche is an Idoma from Akpegede, Orurkpo Local Government Area of Benue State. She started dancing at nine with Ebony Thearter Group in Makurdi. Enonche’s passion for dance is so overwhelming that it virtually crowded out her love life. Little wonder she rose to become the dance captain of the National Troupe of Nigeria (NTN). She spoke to SONY NENE on how her adventures in dancing has taken her to almost all major cities of the world plus her crossover to Nollywood.

How did you start out?

T all started when, as a primary school pupil, I used to watch a theater group at Arabic Primary School, Makurdi. One day I went as usual, and the instructor, Boniface Onogu (boss of Benue State Arts and Culture), after taking the students through a session, discovered they couldn’t remember the aerobics instructions. In anger and frustration, he pointed at me as I watched from the window: “I am sure even this little girl who has consistently watched from that window can remember what has been taught.”

He then called me in. And to the shock of everyone, I actually remembered everything he had taught. And I replicated everything very well. That was how I became an automatic member of the troupe.

Hitherto, no kid was admitted into the group until you are 18.

But I was just nine years old.

So through me other kids who had talents were later admitted into the private theater group.

That led to the formation of the children’s

I

WOMAN

‘It Makes No Sense To Neglect African Dance For Foreign Ones’ group. After the exit of Boniface, we had several members of the National Troupe of Nigeria (NTN), most of who were from Benue State, coming to impart knowledge to us. Hussein was the first to really brush me up. And at 20, in year 2000, due to my dancing prowess, I got employment with Benue State Council for Arts and Culture.

What transpired thereafter?

After three years with the state troupe, I was chosen for the national programme, a biennial training programme by the NTN. They train artistes from various states in Nigeria. Beneficiaries of these programmes then return to their state arts councils to enrich them with new techniques. On my return to Benue after the two years secondment in 2005, the national troupe requested that I return on contract as a resource person. So I came back in 2006 on contract and as dance captain of

the National Troupe of Nigeria.

Thereafter, my contract was renewed every two years as I kept passing on the knowledge very well; and my bosses were very pleased with what I was doing. This officially ended in June, 2012 as I have moved on to Nollywood and other aspects of the industry.

Through the NTN, I have learnt a lot, I have travelled round the world representing Nigeria in dance and other theater activities.

I have participated in workshops and seminars on dance in all parts of the world. With lots of experience to go with, because through dance I have gone into acting, I have done stage plays, dramas and I am now delving into another aspect of theater which is popularly referred to as Nollywood.

Meanwhile, I have done some soap opera like Super Story, No Where To Be Found (which has been running for the past four years). I can say that I have gained a lot of experience as dance has done a lot for me. During this period, I have done my diploma in theater which has so many aspects, and I can say that even in dance you have marketing. I have come a long way and I am grateful to NTN for the opportunities. I am very grateful to God for this.

Of these dance workshops, which would you point to as most memorable and why?

It was the workshop I had in Brazil in 2008.

We went for a festival in Cuba, called Wemilere, where they showcase all types of African culture. There I found that there are people that worship the same deities that we worship in Africa. They believe strongly that their origin is Africa and they are doing everything humanly possible to trace their roots. Same mood or worship, chant and dance were what I saw in Cuba. Then in Brazil I saw the same thing that I had seen in Cuba. But in Brazil it went deeper. We actually went to open a Nigeria House at El Salvador. When we got there, we met a local troupe who made no pretence in trying to prove to us that their origin is Africa. And when we did the African dance, in a total package called Iba, with masquerades from every part of Nigeria, we saw a people who could identify with most of Nigeria’s rich cultural heritages.

It was a beautiful thing for me because through my interactions with some of them, they revealed that through their forefathers they were able to trace their origins to Nigeria, Ghana and Senegal among other African countries. The most beautiful thing is for one to see people in Brazil who worship Sango, Ogun, Obatala and a whole lot of deities same way they are worshiped here —- which is one of the things we portrayed in our package to Brazil. The most interesting part is that when we were merged during the workshop, they chanted the same chant that we took to Brazil, even our dance movements of Oya, Sango they perfected to prove that they have every Yoruba dance movements. We later had a joint performance and it was a blast I can never forget in my life time. One of the best highlight of any workshop I ever had in all my career.

What would you point to as the greatest benefit you derived from

I specialize in the traditional African dance; the neglected dances and nearly forgotten dances. I have come to meet people from different traditional backgrounds, learn their dances and the beauty of it all. dance?

The greatest gift I got from dance is meeting people from all over the world. You meet people from different backgrounds, from different ethnic groups and professions coming together to that common family unity of thetheater. I specialize in the traditional African dance; the neglected dances and nearly forgotten dances.

I have come to meet people from different traditional backgrounds, learn their dances and the beauty of it all. For most people out there, ‘Oh this dance is from Benue State, from Delta State, from Ogun State’ and so on, but they never paused to know the history of these dances, why such steps are taken and why certain movements comes in at what point in time. But I have joy to know this. One particular dance that is referred to as couple dance is Maliki dance from the Kanuri part of Borno State.

It like a ballroom dance, and a royal dance that is comparable to the royal dances in the United Kingdom and France. We have such dance in Nigeria. Dances that showcases your affluence and your wealth.

What would you have done differently given another opportunity?

Tell you the truth, I don’t have anything to regret. I will repeat everything I have done

THE GUARDIAN, Saturday, March 23, 2013

24

WOMAN

‘In Africa, The Bigger The Better’ as it were because I won’t have gotten to the peak of my dance career. I actually count myself lucky because there are lots of good dancers there who never had the privilege to get to the point I reached in dancing. I was able to give out my best physically, mentally and emotionally because I put in my all into the culture of the people. So I took time to learn each of them so that when I am dancing, I put myself into the culture of the people where the dance emanated from. First, I learn the reason for the movement; I learn to understand every bit of each dance that I am exposed to. I am very emotional about the Nigerian dance and its meaning.

As an accomplished theater practitioner, what is your advice to those aspiring to toe your path. And who is a dancer?

First and foremost, most people who went in to read theater arts have this wrong notion that it’s all about acting or directing.

There are a whole lot more —- especially people behind the scene who are making the show possible. Anybody can become a dancer because as you walk, you move with rhythm as dance has to do with rhythm, space and time. When you walk on the street you are walking with space and you carry yourself with a rhythm to it. But in dance proper, you must know why you are dancing; you must know why you are taking a step further than the normal walk on the street, from your sleeping on the bed which has its own rhythm, because if you miss the rhythm you get pain.

My advice to those going into theater arts is that they must know that it goes beyond acting and directing. You cannot teach African studies without having the knowledge of the African dance and their meanings. Most people who call themselves dancers are just exercising and doing something foreign that doesn’t concern them. You cannot do other people’s dance like the owners, and my advice is for them to come back home and put in efforts to develop our own and project it to the outside world because we are owners of dance rhythms.

How has

dance affected your love life? Did you take after any of your parents?

Before now, dance comes first before any other aspect of my life. That has been one harsh decision or hurdle that I had to take as nothing comes in between me and my dance.

I take solace in dance. Once I dance, I get orgasm, once I dance nothing else matters. I am the first in my family to start the dance culture. None of my parents or forefathers were known dancers. So it doesn’t run in the family. It came natural to me. So I woke up every morning looking forward to go and watch the theater performances. I made sure I did my house chore as early as possible to avoid anything that will stop me from going to the ebony people.

I think my purpose in life is dance. So nothing like love life if it was going to disturb my dance. Nothing else matters, I mean nothing.

As at the time I was dancing nothing else mattered, but now I have someone who appreciates me for who I am. I never regretted my romance with dance because it gave me so much joy.

Where are you taking dance after NTN? As a young person there are lots of hopes and aspirations. There are lots of things you think up and one of such is giving back to the society that has given you so much. Yes I have the mind to start a dance academy as soon as fund is available; workshops and seminars are ongoing and lots more. There lots of things going on right now in Nigeria we can change. I am not condemning what people are doing.

But

You cannot do other people’s dance like the owners, and my advice is for them to come back home and put in efforts to develop our own and project it to the outside world because we are owners of dance rhythms.

my focus is on the promotion of the Nigerian dance because I have been taught to learn and preserve it. That I must do with little modernization for the purpose of export and marketing strategies. If I have the opportunity, I will start from our schools as our pupils are being taught foreign dances to the detriment of our local dances.

To me it doesn’t make any sense. You have to learn your own movements first before you learn other people’s culture because. You cannot go to repair another person’s fathers’ house when your father’s roof is leaking. If we have the background of some dances, if we know the history of our own, we can move on to learn others. It breaks my heart when I see this because we are not making efforts to learn their own history.

Teach them from the grassroots. I am very biased when it comes to Nigerian dance history. Why teach them South African dance and Samba in Nigeria? You can’t do these dances better than the owners. If I have the opportunity, I will do my thing and not going to get paid by someone who will tell me what he wants in a dance competition.

You look chubby, but the perception is that a dancer should look trim for easier movements?

That is where many people get it wrong. I am a traditional African dancer. The traditional African woman has got body. It does not matter if you have big thighs or not. The important thing is your ability to move with the rhythm. Ever seen the traditional ethnic group? The bigger you are, the better the dance movements of your body, like the ekonbi dancers in Cross River State. In ancient times, the Efik women came from the fattening rooms to express their body size because they have been taught to take care of themselves and feed their husbands well.

And they showcase their flexible body because our movements are from our waist, thighs and chests. If you are not endowed, you can’t do the African dance movements better.

The traditional African woman has got body. It does not matter if you have big thighs or not. The important thing is your ability to move with the rhythm.

Ever seen the traditional ethnic group? The bigger you are, the better the dance movements…

THE GUARDIAN, Saturday, February 23, 2013

25

PEOPLE

Bishop John Adebayo Alagbala Osa-Oni, was born in Usen, Edo State to the family of Chief and Mrs. Inneh Oni, who were cocoa merchants. As the second child, Osa-Oni started his education late because he had to work in the farm to support the family. But motivated by his younger brothers’ educational career, he sponsored himself through school by doing odd jobs. Today, he is a graduate of Accountancy from the University of Lagos and later bagged a Master’s degree in the same discipline in the same university. He is currently pursuing his Ph.D programme in a university in India. Osa-Oni is the presiding Bishop of Vineyard Christian Ministries Incorporated.

On April 3, 2013, the church will mark its 25th anniversary. High point of the event will be his public installation as Archbishop of the church on April 6. In this interview with CHRIS IREKAMBA, he speaks on what Christianity was in the 80s and what it is today; how he was driven away by his parents for deciding for Christ and his relationship with the late Archbishop Benson Idahosa among other issues.

‘My Parents Drove Me Away For Deciding To Follow Jesus’ How did you get to where you are today?

GOT saved in 1972, which is over 40 years ago. In those days, we were sold out to Christ, solely committed to God and to our leaders. In fact, in those days, you neglect every family relationship. So, your Christian family became uppermost in your life and in your heart, not your biological family. With that push, we got to where we are today.

Those of us who got involved in this kingdom business, God blessed us.

I started with Church of God Mission in 1972 and in 1975, I came to Lagos and started attending Foursquare Gospel Church because it was very close to where I lived at Yaba, Lagos. While on campus at the University of Lagos, I started attending Monday Bible study organised by the Deeper Life Bible Church at Cemetery Way. On campus, I got to know Dr. Tunde Joda of Christ Chapel Int’l Churches. As a ward of Faith Ministry, I went ahead with him.

Meanwhile, I was working with Egunjobi Suleimon & Co as an accountant. I left the company in 1985 having worked with UTC Motors and other places. As the urge to serve God increased, I finally left started a fulltime pastoral work with Christ Chapel on January 1, 1986. After a year plus with Christ Chapel, I left and Vineyard Christian Ministries started on April 3, 1988 in an uncompleted building in Mushin, Lagos and by the grace of God, we are still within the environment that God sent us.

On April 3, 2013, Vineyard will be 25 years old. I think we’ve made great exploits. We are in Abuja, Port Harcourt, Warri and different parts of the country. I also have a branch in Manchester, England. We used to have a branch in Houston, Texas, United States.

What are activities lined up to mark the 25th anniversary .

We intend to visit old people’s and motherless babies’ homes to be a blessing to them; which we have always done every anniversary day. On April 3, which is the anniversary proper, we are expecting Evangelist Ebenezer Obey to perform. Rev. (Dr.) Felix Omobude, now the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN) President is also coming on that day to preach. The celebration is a weeklong event and it will feature my public elevation and installation as Archbishop of Vineyard Christian Churches and many other networks of College of Bishops that I preside over. That is on Saturday, April 6, at 11am.

We are expecting the presiding Bishop of TREM, Mike Okonkwo; Archbishop Margaret Benson Idahosa, Church of God Mission Int’l; Archbishop Duncan Williams from Ghana; Archbishop Joseph Alexander from New York; Archbishop Ken McNatt from Atlanta, Georgia; Bishop Francis Wale Oke, former National Vice President of PFN, Southwest and a whole lot of prelates from different climes.

You’ve been to Deeper Life Bible Church, Foursquare Gospel Church, Christ Chapel Int’l and Church of God Mission. Why did leave?

Nothing happened. I have enjoyed fellowship with all the organisations. Before I left Deeper Life, it wasn’t a church then. It was just a fellowship, a body of Christians who were curious for God and the things of God. Pastor W.F. Kumuyi’s teaching in those days in the campus greatly impacted my life.

When it finally became a church, I had left. I will be forever grateful to Pastor Kumuyi for those fantastic early days teachings, they touched my life. I had a brief stay with Assemblies of God. Where I stayed longer was Foursquare Gospel Church. When Christ Chapel came up in 1983, we were the pioneer members who really brought a new life to

I

Christian fellowship in this part of Nigeria.

People called us all kinds of names. It was a new move. We thank God for the part we played in the 80s and 90s; we brought a new life to Christendom.

What was your parents’ reaction when you decided to follow Jesus?

I 1974, I was driven away from home by my parents; they said I was no longer part of their family. As a matter of fact, I was woken up by 12 midnight and asked to leave the house. I slept in a kiosk in new Benin market place.

That was where life began for me.

Finally, I found my way to Lagos and continued my education. For me, the decision to serve Christ is the best I have ever made in my life. I have no regrets serving Christ. It has brought me fame, it has brought me honour.

I have eaten with senators in America, I have been to fantastic places in the world. And there is no continent of the earth today that I have not visited. Most of the visits are with serious honour.

Having seen what God has done in your life, did your parents eventually reconcile with you?

My mother passed on in 2005. Well, we finally reconciled after I came back from abroad in 1985. And when they saw what God has done

My mother passed on in 2005.

Well, we finally reconciled after I came back from abroad in 1985.

And when they saw what God has done in my life, my parents were very elated. My father would usually say: ‘Iwo ni Jesu ta mo’ meaning, ‘you are the Jesus we know’. And now, very old, he would say, ‘you are the God that we know’. Any time I speak with my daddy, he is usually full of praises and he won’t say any other thing than ‘you are our Jesus, please don’t leave us alone, be there for us.’

in my life, my parents were very elated. My father would usually say: ‘Iwo ni Jesu ta mo’ meaning, ‘you are the Jesus we know’. And now, very old, he would say, ‘you are the God that we know’. Any time I speak with my daddy, he is usually full of praises and he won’t say any other thing than ‘you are our Jesus, please don’t leave us alone, be there for us.’ My father is very enthusiastic about my serving God but in the beginning, it was a taboo for you to say you have given your life to Christ. They were not too informed and we won’t blame them. I was beaten and the mark is still there on my body for deciding for Jesus.

Can you compare Christianity in those days and now?

We can’t compare those days. Today, we are living in the era of computer, Internet and different things. The knowledge today is wider, broader than it was then. In those days, you can forget your money in the church, any member of the church can pick it and hand it over to the ushers. It doesn’t matter the amount. When the rightful owner comes, he/she picks the money. But today, things are quite different. You can’t leave your Black Berry or a good phone, even any kind of phone or anything, on your chair for a minute. It will disappear.

Don’t forget that Jesus said ‘many are called but few are chosen.’ There are people who come to church for different motives. We cannot compromise holy living, holiness is key for us to see God. It is the lifestyle of God. Those who say they are Christians or men of God, your character or behaviour must differentiate you from the unbeliever.

The Bible says by their fruit ‘you shall know them’.

What was your relationship with the late Archbishop Benson Idahosa like?

I can’t forget him. You can see his big photograph here and three of his passports are in my wallet. He impacted my life. There were times Archbishop would slap me and say: ‘how can your church not grow. How can you be pastoring a church of small people?’ He believed in me and I believed in him. I don’t have another father to compare with him. I don’t know Abraham in the Bible as much as I knew Archbishop Benson Idahosa. He pushed me up. I even took him to so many of my friends’ churches in America for him to preach to them. He had the eyes to identify who has the calling, and he knew how to turn your life around. He made me a Bishop 20 years ago and took me to places.

TheGuardian

26 Saturday, March 23, 2013

Conscience, Nurtured by Truth

Weekend

CELEBRITY

Bimbo Manuel An Actor’s Story

By Shaibu Husseini EW personalities in the Nigerian motion picFmovie ture industry are helping to shape the home renaissance in terms of acting and are also committed to ethical practices. The University of Port Harcourt-trained actor, director, producer and television show host Bimbo Manuel, is one of them.Though not one of those whose faces dot most of the industry releases, the actor’s actor who recently clocked 56 has had an considerable impact on Nollywood as an actor.

Observers contend that Manuel, who recently earned a nomination as a leading actor in the 2013 edition of the African Movie Academy Awards (AMAA) for his role in the Niji Akanni 2012 film ‘Heroes and Zeroes’, is one deep actor who is respected for being steady, clear and reliable. Manuel conveys realism in his acting and lights up a movie. Fans say its Manuel’s charm and strong presence that turn them on.

An actor and star of some critically acclaimed flicks like ‘In a Lifetime’, ‘Sitanda’, ‘Tango with Me’, and the two-part movies ‘The Morta l Man’; ‘Shut In’ and ‘Women’s Cot’, what has set Manuel apart from his contemporaries is the self confidence he exudes whenever he takes on a role.

It was in Ibadan, as a student of Ibadan Grammar School and also while growing up that it all started for the leading actor who is married and blessed with children. Growing up in Ibadan, as Manuel recalled, played a significant role in his decision to choose performing arts as a career.

Manuel recalled that he grew up watching some of the best actors in Nigeria on television. He also listened to some of the best voices—“from the incomparable Tunji Marquis, George Joe Batteh, Alex Conde, and folks like Smallet Alamu on the defunct Western Nigeria Broadcasting Corporation, now Radio OYO. Manuel was so thrilled by their arts that he made up his mind to become a disc jockey. He wished it and he became —- after a friend suggested that he attend an audition at the Ogun State Broadcasting Corporation (OGBC). Manuel was auditioned and he got a place to live his dream. “I got a place on a presentation crew that had Gboyega Adeseye who later went on to read the NTA Network News; Femi Sowoolu, the man from ‘Wangawanga’; Bola Makinde and Tunji Babatunde Kuola Musical Madness who later crossed over to the FRCN 2. These were folks who were the ab-

solute best then’’ he said.

One of those actors and entertainment practitioners who have traversed movies, television and stage performances, Manuel moved from OGBC to the Ogun State Television (OGTV) where he had a stint as an announcer ad newscaster.

He later tried his hands on some buying before an opportunity came for him to study at the University of Port Harcourt. Manuel graduated four years later with a degree in Theatre Arts, majoring in directing.

Manuel returned to the turf after what he described as a ‘rounded training in theatre arts’ at the University. “Although I majored in directing, the late Professor Ola Rotimi would not allow you just do directing. You will be trained in acting and technicals,’’ he explained.

Manuel admitted that it was the training at UNIPORT that prepared him for his career and life. There was not much happening on stage when he staged a comeback. So he turned to television and some of the most memorable television productions from ‘SPACS’, to ‘Telemovies’, to ‘Ripples’ and then ‘Checkmate’ by Amaka Igwe carried Manuel’s credit. From television, Manuel joined home movie production when acting there peaked. Some of the most memorable movies, including Tade Ogidan’s ‘Hostages’, ‘Raging Storm’, and the political thriller by Olu and Joke Jacobs ‘Kingmaker’ also carry his credits. Manuel has also featured in a number of quality movie productions with the most recent being ‘Heroes and Zeroes’, which earned him an AMAA 2013 nomination as a leading actor.

So far, the actor and broadcaster, who signed

the Yoruba movie ‘Pasito Deinde’ as producer and director and who has a passion for researchbased projects has taken part in over 50 television projects and just 50 home video productions. He explains why he has few movie credits when some of his contemporaries boast of a hundred movies: “I have not done much on video compared to some of my colleagues and that is because from day one, I told myself that I would not just jump on any set for the sake of acting. I would rather starve than sign any work that will not fly eventually. The other reason is that people don’t want to challenge the actor. They want the actor to play a role as he did in his last work. I reject such offers and when I do, I am termed arrogant. But I am not. I should be able to take on any role by my training. But am happy that things are looking good now. We have more professionals coming into the industry. We need to pay attention to our production from concept to finishing. The story and screenplay has to be right, same for the other details.

The things that we cannot achieve should not be written into the script. We must also give consideration to environmental issues, especially the positive things about us that happen everyday.’’

Of all his screen credits, Manuel, will perhaps be most remembered for his role as Nduka in ‘Checkmate’. Many have not forgotten that screen character who stood for change, especially against conservatism. Manuel played the role so well that it was difficult to separate him from the role.

The actor says of his role in ‘Checkmate’: “I will

always remember ‘Checkmate’ because for the first time … I was working on a set that was close to my professional dream at the time. The cast was awesome and the crew was professional. Aside “Ripples”, I have never been in a single soap with such an array of screen stars and tested thespians. It was a wonderful team we had. We were like family.

We also had a huge following. Till date people still refer to me as “Nduka”. They also ask me about Mildred thinking that we are married in real life. It means that we affected them with the way we carried the roles. We played it beyond belief.’’

Any regrets? “None at all” declared the actor who holds a diploma in textile technology from the institute of Textile Technology, Lagos and who is presently deep into the production of commercials, concepts and copies for radio and television. He says: “I am happy and I enjoy what I am doing and will keep at it. After all, I am in a profession that has no retirement age. The only thing that can stop you is health or incapacitation by age or a total loss of interest ... I will just keep crossing huddles and advancing in levels, while also working to overcome fresh professional and creative challenges.’’.

Celebritygist… An Ojez gig for Bimbo Manuel at 56 HE nation’s film industry otherwise Nigerian, Bimbo Manuel,” Chief Elenu, MC Shakara and Elder O. “This is T called Nollywood will be alive on Sun- Joseph Odobeatu, Chief Executive Offi- our own small way of saying “thank day, March 31 as practitioners gather to cer, O’jez Entertainment Limited, owncelebrate one of their own, veteran actor Bimbo Manuel, who turned 56 last week. The event will hold at the celebrity restaurant, O’jez, inside National Stadium premises, Surulere, Lagos, from 7pm. Manuel will also receive the prestigious O’jez Entertainment Award in an evening that promises to be very exciting. “We are celebrating an icon, we are celebrating one that has done so much for the nation with his exploits in the nation’s film industry—-Nollywood. Now, he’s turned 56 with so much achievement that we are proud of. That is why we at O’jez have decided to celebrate this rare

ers of the chain of O’jez celebrity restaurants and organizers of the monthly O’jez Entertainment Awards, said in a statement signed by his media Company, Media Image Managers (MIM). Nollywood star, Ejike Asiegbu, the chief host and convener of the monthly award, described Manuel as “one of Nigeria’s finest actors who interprets his roles with so much passion.’’

The evening will feature the versatile O’jez Band with octogenarian highlife great, Fatai Rolling Dollars, on the band stand. Also on call are Nigeria’s fastest rising stand up comedians,

you” to Mr. Bimbo Manuel for all he has done for the industry, all the smiles he had brought to homes in his over 30 years in the industry,” Odobeatu said, adding, “O’jez Entertainment Award is the only monthly award in the country till date. I stand to be corrected, and we have been doing it alone without sponsorship for over a decade now. However, early in the year, to make the event have a larger life, we decided to go out and look for sponsorship. So, we are appealing to well-meaning individuals and corporate bodies to partner with the O’jez brand and let’s pay due respect to deserving individuals in the society, irrespective of their field of endeavours.”

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THE GUARDIAN, Saturday, March 23, 2013

FITNESS With Oyinkan Talabi (Bodyworks)

Wellness talk exercise, I know it has been LbleETS very successful in achieving a terrireputation for being hard, sweaty

and exhausting but worst of all is its close association to weight loss. A lot of people just conclude that exercising is for the over weight. When I hear slim people say “I don’t need to exercise or diet, my only problem is my stomach”. I mutter under my breath “Well, a flatter stomach can only be achieved and maintained through proper diet and exercise!”

What happened to the health benefits of exercising and eating right? By the time we hit 26yrs, we begin to lose muscle, our metabolism rate (which is how quickly we digest and burn our food) begins to slow down so we generally pack on the so called middle age spread coupled with the baby carrying fat for the ladies, it really is a losing battle but exercise helps counter this.

Besides, eating is not the only way to feed your body. No, you also feed it by exercising and not only are you are feeding your muscles, your lungs, and your heart, you are also pumping

WELLNESS & BEAUTY

By Victoria Ekanem

Causes of Dark Circles under the eyes (2) Fatigue ACK of sleep is a common cause of dark circles under the eyes. That would suggest that the solution is simple: get more rest. Unfortunately, for many people, that is impossible.

Insomnia affects as many as one in four people. This is not just an occasional difficulty getting a full night’s sleep. Insomnia is a recurrent inability to sleep. It affects the daily lives of sufferers immeasurably.

It’s not just insomnia that can cause dark circles, though. Any loss of sleep can contribute to the darkening of the skin around your eyes. If you’ve been working late, you will almost certainly develop some darkening. Burning the midnight oil isn’t just bad for the skin around your eyes. It’s also bad for the eyes themselves and for the complexion of your whole face.

If you’re having occasional problems getting a good night’s sleep or you’ve been working late, try to get more rest

L

during the day. Take a nap during your lunch break and take it easy whenever you can. Give your body a chance to catch up.

Don’t over-stimulate yourself before you go to bed. Avoid caffeine and high-sugar food and drinks. Don’t over-consume alcohol, though a small glass (and I really mean a small glass!) may help you to sleep. Sit and read for a few minutes before you go to bed, try not to watch the television.

Listen to music but make sure that it’s soothing; heavy metal or rock or pop is not ideal. A warm bath surrounded by scented candles is a great way to relax before you go to bed.

Earplugs and eyeblinds might prove useful to reduce any noise and light that could interrupt your night’s sleep.

To improve your quality of sleep, it’s important to reduce stress. That’s easier said than done, but there are ways to avoid getting too uptight and wor-

ried.

Keep calm and take time to deal with issues rather than allowing them to get on top of you. Try to avoid situations that you know will make you angry or upset, especially later in the day.

Staying calm and preparing for bed properly will help you get a good night’s sleep if you’re having occasional problems. If, however, you suffer from insomnia, you need to seek medical advice. The insomnia itself may be indicative of another, more serious, health problem.

Over-the-counter sleeping medication may not be the best choice for any form of sleep deprivation but, in particular, insomnia requires more careful management.

If the dark circles under your eyes are the result of lack of sleep, the only way to prevent or cure them is to get more rest.

fresh blood, oxygen and nutrients to your other internal organs .

Your immune system will be boosted thereby reducing your chances of getting illness of the heart and diseases like osteoporosis, arthritis, high blood pressure and stress (living in Nigeria? Talk about high chances!)

It’s time for us to be proactive as opposed to reactive. What legacy are we leaving our children? We should be thinking wellness and not illness. Why wait to be ill? Do you really have the time? And if it’s a major illness like heart disease or osteoporosis can you really afford it?

And if you can, wouldn’t you rather spend the money on something more fun like shoes or traveling?

Wellness is the way forward and what we (especially women) should be concentrating on because whether we like it or not, we are the mothers, sisters and wives who have to have to nurse and feed the family.

Love your body and it will thank you…. bodiworks@googlemail.com

THE GUARDIAN, Saturday, March 23, 2013

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FOOD&DRINK

Vegetable Pie: Recipe For General Wellbeing

By Chinelo Nwagbo EGETABLE pie, as the name implies, is V composed mainly of vegetables. Current dietary recommendations say that everyone should make vegetables important part of the human diet, and one has to eat at least five portions of vegetables and fruits to help stay healthy, reduce the risk of major illness, including cancer and heart disease.

Vegetable pie is one of many foods that can be eaten to help keep fit and prevent many illnesses. It is an excellent source of vitamins and minerals such as calcium, magnesium, potassium, folate, iron, beta-carotene, vitamin B-complex, vitamin C, vitamin A, vitamin K, dietary fibre and other nutrients that are essential for maintaining life and promoting good health.

Various studies have shown that consuming diets that contain vegetables and fruits helps to lessen the risk of developing a number of diseases like constipation (difficulty in emptying the bowels, usually associated with hardened faeces), cancer (abnormal growth of the cells), obesity (excess fat in the body), cardiovascular disease, diabetes mellitus (excess sugar in the blood), arteriosclerosis (narrowing/blocking of the artery wall as a result of fat and cholesterol deposit).

Vegetable pie is an ideal food for everybody who wants to live a healthy life like pregnant women and people with certain chronic diseases. They can benefit from this dish to help prevent birth defects, achieve successful pregnancy and quick recovering from illnesses.

Take vegetable pie today and you will never regret its good taste and therapeutic benefits.

Recommendation Vegetable pie is recommended for those that want transition diet from omnivorous (animal-based food) that is, high in fat and cholesterol toward a healthier diet of plant origin.

Ingredients Quantities

Whole flour 400g Brewer’s yeast 1 tablespoon Carrot 200g Mushroom 200g Tatashe (sweet red pepper) 2 medium size Chard 150g Tomatoes 2 medium size Onion 1 medium bulb Green beans (string beans) 150g Water 100ml Milk 100ml Salt A pinch

remaining oil.

Knead until the dough becomes elastic and does not stick.

Divide the dough into two parts, one slightly bigger than the other.

Spread the larger portion over a round, oven pivot piecrust dish, leaving the dough just out about two centimetres from the edge.

Prick with a fork. Place the filling into the crust and cover with the other portion of dough.

Wet the

Method Of Preparation Clean and chop the mushrooms, chard and pepper.

Peel and chop the carrots, tomatoes and onions.

Cut off the tips and remove the threads from the green beans, chop them.

Boil the chard, carrots and green beans.

Heat three tablespoons of oil in a frying pan and sauté the onion. When it is transparent, add the pepper and five minutes later, add the mushrooms. Finally, add the tomatoes and keep cooking until the vegetable juices have evaporated.

Mix the sauté with boiled vegetables and the filling is ready.

Mix the salt and flour. Make a hole in the middle and pour in the water and the

Proseco: Tasteful, Refreshing And Healthy Wine

By Ibukunoluwa Kayode

ITH La Marca Prosecco, what you get is a sparking W Italian wine rich in polyphenol antioxidants. For this reason, this wine is believed to reduce the effects of celldamaging free radicals in the body. The goldencoloured sparkling wine similar to Champagne is made of white grape and can be taken by all.

Prosecco can be purchased from Nigerian winery market at an affordable price from both big and small outlets.

It is more of an apperitif wine unlike other wines. It can be used to celebrate the small pleasures of everyday life such as sharing food with friends. It can fit into any occasion, from indoor parties to big outdoor ones. It can also be seen in bars or hotels where it can be served before or after dinner.

This light fizzy wine has aromas of citrus, peach and honeysuckle with the rich fruity flavours of lemon, apple and a touch of mineral that is delightful.

It is good for diabetics because of its antioxidant contents that help slow down the removal of nitric oxide from the blood, lowering blood pressure and therefore reducing the risk of heart problems and strokes.

With its high acidity, it lends itself well to spicy Asian dishes. It can also pair up with seafood dishes and snack foods due to its low alcohol volume.

For proper enjoyment, Prosecco should be served very chilled.

boarder of the lower dough and fold it over the upper dough, thus sealing the pie. Prick the dough with a fork several times to decorate the pie with strips.

Place the pie in preheated 220oC oven.

Bake for 30 minutes. It may be served immediately or cold.

E-mail: chineloeby@yahoo.com

THE GUARDIAN, Saturday, March 23, 2013

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ELIZABETH DREAM WEDDINGSwithBADEJO elizabethbadejo2002@yahoo.com eb_africadreamwedding@yahoo.com 08097360766

FRESH OR FAKE, Wedding Flowers Creates True Romance...

EDDING Flowers are much more than W mere decorative accessories; they represent symbolism, tradition and much more.

which will stay in the wedding guests minds for a long time. Bridesmaids are also expected to hold flowers in their hands during the wedding Flowers symbolizes celebration, prosperity ceremony, usually a mini version of the bride’s and fertility and above all LOVE and a New Be- bouquet or a single flower. Wrist corsage is an ginning for the bride and her groom. They are alternative and convenient, more affordable essential accents to set the right mood at any than hand tie bouquet and ideal for budget event most especially weddings. brides.

The average Nigeria brides would prefer to THE GROOM; will also be wearing his boutonuse artificial flowers partly because flowers are nieres on the left lapel nearest to his heart. His not as appreciated here as it is in other parts of the world and venue decorators often ill advice the brides as they also take on the role of the florist.

Every bride should have flowers included in her budget and every good florist should be able to accommodate and advice brides on low budget as part of his/her responsibility in helping to fulfill her dream wedding.

Hopefully by now, you will have an idea of the kind of wedding you want. Are you planning a romantic wedding or a classy simply affair?

Your bouquet should be a perfectly distilled version of this theme in order to achieve your desired wedding look.

IMPORTANT THINGS YOU MUST CONSIDER BUDGET; be clear on how much you want to spend on flowers and I mean the total cost so that you don’t blow your budget here and ignore other important elements. A good florist should be able to make suggestions that will accommodate your budget.

SIZE; the size of your wedding should also affect the amount of money you plan to spend on flowers, bouquets, corsages, boutonnieres and little bridesmaids baskets.

STYLE; your style of wedding is also very important as different types of flowers are selected for certain style of wedding.

Classic style will use the best of season’s flowers available; perhaps the most economical of all but you are almost guaranteed an elegant and opulent look.

Romantic style encompasses various styles, using scented and seasonal flowers in a soft and rustic way, this feminine feel suits almost any wedding venue.

Innovative style involves a confident and striking theme, often modest. Flowers which strikes an accord with such themes is black tulips and calla lilies in a structured architectural venue or masses of one type of flowers for all the decors.

THE ESSENTIALS THE BRIDE’S BOUQUET; will be the most important aspect of all the wedding flowers because that will be the one flora accessory

flower will be picked from segments of his bride’s arrangement and usually large and elaborate so that no one mistakes him for his best-man. Today’s groom surely knows what he wants, with flowers becoming more attractive with a huge array to choose from, dashed with sparkles of crystal, stones and embellishments to compliment his brides bouquet. sure to set him apart from the groom’s men who also wear boutonnieres on their left

lapel.

ON THE ALTAR; whether the wedding is taking place in a church, mosque or registry, aim to bring some floral elegance to your special occasion to reflect the theme or colours of the wedding but it is also advisable to check with the person in charge before you order the flowers as a they may have guideline and restrictions.

BRIDE AND GROOM’S SITTING AREA; this should be decorated with flowers, beautiful garlands around the frames if it’s a gazebo style and an elegantly arranged flower centre piece on the couple’s table, GUESTS TABLES; a small flower arrangement may also be placed on the guests tables to compliment the wedding colours but ensure that it is low enough for the guests to chat over or high enough for them to see through it.

FINDING A GOOD FLORIST The best way to find a good florist is by word of-mouth, but wedding magazines can also be a useful resource. There are many florists within reach who can advise on the right type of floral arrangement for your big day and many will be willing to work with your budget irrespective of your preference for fresh or artificial. My advice is to look for local florists around your wedding venue, easier for transportation and they are also likely to be familiar with the venue and will make suitable recommendations too.

TIPS FOR MY DIVA BRIDE -Flowers are great but they can also put a dent on your wedding budget if you are not careful therefore set a budget for flowers and boldly stick to it so that you don’t shortchange yourself in other are important areas.

-Note that decorators are not florists; they are two different skills even though some may have experience in both. Leave your flowers in the hands of florists and not your decorators as you may be paying for dried plants they have displayed at several weddings for the same amount you can get your flowers for if you get a good florist, a better option in the end and good value for money.

-Do not allow a florist to push you towards an arrangement you cannot afford, move on to the next one and make sure you see their portfolio and do not hesitate to compare prices till you find a florist who can understand you.

-To keep the cost down and for less formal receptions, use small potted flowering plants placed in baskets, or consider using dried or silk arrangements that you can make yourself and give later as gifts.

THE GUARDIAN, Saturday, March 23, 2013

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FASHION

Retro Chic Make a throwback to the 60’s in these round retro-inspired sunglasses

By Nike Sotade

A

GOOD pair of shades keeps one looking hip no matter the season. It is even more functional at the moment to stave off the harmful ultra-violet (UVB) rays of the searing sun.

It is cool to match style with function in a pair of round sunglasses that is trending now. With retro sunglasses still in our hearts and back on the runways, celebrities have been spotted all over the streets sporting the ‘60s-inspired look.

Pay homage to music-and inherent style-icons like John Lennon and Ozzy Osbourne and rock a pair of circle spectacles in the hot scorching sun.

Very hip and classy, they come in different shapes and sizes to suit everyone’s taste and style.

Vintage round glasses are also a must-have to complete any old school look. Choose from clear lens Lennon glasses or tinted retro spectacles to big or small spectacles, or flip-up glasses.

Here, they look so fun and stylish on beautiful singers Beyonce and Rihanna, perfectly completing their casual looks.

So if you’re feeling a little retro and yearning for some of yesterday’s styling today, simply take a cue from sensational Bebee and Riri!

Grosvenor Mayfair London Bags Prestigious Royal Warrant G

ROSVENOR Mayfair London, the quintessential shirt makers with style, has been granted a Royal Warrant by Her Majesty, The Queen of England. Grosvenor is renowned for producing collections of stylish shirts and distinctive accessories combining English sartorial tradition with a contemporary edge.

Over time, only the finest goods and garments are awarded entry into the most exclusive club of all- the royal warrant club. To be part of the royal elite, retailers have to sell goods and services to the Queen, the Duke of Edinburgh or the Prince of Wales for at least five years. Only

then will the Royal Warrant Holders Association (RWHA) consider recognising them as preferred suppliers to Britain’s most illustrious family.

More than 850 individuals and companies have bagged a spot on the royals’ hot list. The criteria are straightforward: they have to demonstrate excellence and quality when providing wares to the royal family, but the standards are exceptionally high. Holders of the warrant can range from craftsmen to multinationals, and, among the who’s who of retailers are a number of Mayfair and Belgravia’s most established businesses.

Today Grosvenor Mayfair London has

joined this list of high repute.

Karl Dunkley, Grosvenor’s founder, said: “We are extremely thrilled to have been granted a royal warrant to Her Majesty, The Queen of England, as outfitters.”

The collection is designed and made in London. Skilled craftsmen use a mix of traditional techniques to hand cut and finish every garment, combined with new advances in textile technology. The remainder, which includes the exclusive, luxurious Royal Twill cloth, is produced in partnership with European artisans.

The range of made-to-measure and ready to wear shirts traverses contemporary styles to the classically elegant and everything in between; for ladies, gentlemen, boys and girls.

There are beautiful designs created with Grosvenor’s expert eye, made with the finest materials selected from thousands of swatches, as well as the opportunity to create a unique style at the Made to Measure Shirt Bar. With a library of over 10,000 fabrics with stylists on hand to help inspire sleeves, collars, cuffs, pockets and buttons can be chosen to reflect an individual distinct style.

Due to popular request, shirt tails will soon be smartly tucked into the new comprehensive range of trousers. While there are new additions launching into the existing collection of carefully crafted accessories such as fine leather belts and soft silk handkerchiefs. The final flourish to the Grosvenor look.

THE GUARDIAN, Saturday, March 23, 2013

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FASHION

NTFS, Galaxy Dazzle Lagos At Fashion Show

By Tunde Akinola

N

OLLYWOOD Worldwide Entertainment, in conjunction with Galaxy Television captivated Lagos with yet another successful edition of the Nigeria Television Fashion Show (NTFS), themed: Elegance, last week Sunday.

Hosted by Alero Didiare and Frank O’ Nero, the show was brimming with talented young designers like Dadu Bajo, D-Ware Outfit, Belle signature, Aduni Oge, Mobbs Culture, Eternally Zoe Couture, Iyobosa, Arewa Fashion Creations, Hafshelline, Pamilerin, Nahomi Fashion Statement and more.

On display were attires like Dadu Bajo’s timeless and effortlessly elegant designs, which was amazingly inspired by the African fruit named Velvet Tamarind and locally called Awin.

The designers’ creativity was revealed as the models glamorously sashayed down the runway in their delicate and charming blend of African fabrics such as Ankara and Aso-oke with foreign fabrics like cotton and lace. A tiny sprinkle of Swarovski crystals topped it all off with some brilliance.

The show also featured performances by Olamide, Yemi Alade, Toni Payne and more.

Here are some of the creative designs on the runway.

Style, Innovation At Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week

T

HE African Fashion International Mercedes-Benz Joburg Fashion Week kicked off on March 7 at Newtown’s Mary Fitzgerald Square in Johannesburg, South Africa. The event

showcased the latest autumn/winter collections by names such as David Tlale, Gavin Rajah, Fabiani and Thula Sindi, all through until Saturday, March 9.

Designers Tart, Khosi Nkosi and

Stefania Morland showed their designs on Thursday. Here are some of the dazzling designs at the fashion show.

Pictures by Lucky Nxumalo

THE GUARDIAN, Saturday, March 23, 2013

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THE GUARDIAN, Saturday, March 23, 2013

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GARDENING

Circular water fountain complements iron wrought fence

Formal-style garden water fountain feature as focal point

Wooden footbridge over stream which falls into pond

THE GUARDIAN, Saturday, March 23, 2013

sereba.agiobu.kemmer@ngrguardiannews.com

With Sereba Agiobu-Kemmer

Cobblestone paving with millstone fountain

Cobblestones with millstone fountain

Fountain on the rocks integral to the architectural design

Mini water feature-foggy on the rocks

Rock Grotto built into wall with water falling into pool surrounded by exotic foliage

Small bamboo fountain

Waterfall cascading into pond PHOTOS: SEREBA AGIOBU-KEMMER

Moving Water Projects LTHOUGH a smooth still pond is immensely A attractive and relaxing, the rush of moving water exerts absolute fascination and gives the atmosphere of your garden a completely different dimension. For those situation where a pond is not feasible option, such as where space is limited or where there are young children, a small water feature without surface water is the perfect solution.

Moving water is both relaxing and dramatic, and there are an enormous variety of ways of including it in a garden. A raised rockery can easily house a waterfall which will bring the feature to life with movement, sound and light.

Safety must be absolute priority when installing and operating pumps and other electrically powered equipment outdoors. It is vital to remember that water and electricity can be a fatal combination.

The importance of taking sufficient care in using electricity in the garden cannot be sufficiently stressed. When in any doubt whatsoever, call in a qualified professional to carry out the work.

After your water feature has been completed, virtually all you need do is to sit back and enjoy the results of your work, though there will be some maintenance, these are minimal.

Creating a moving water feature needn’t be difficult. Just a few simple submersible pump placed in a small pond will provide an attractive, sparkling fountain.

Water Fountain A fountain in an existing pond is the easiest way of creating moving water. A submersible pump fitted with a fountain jet is simply placed in the pond, where it creates a beautiful sparkling fountain which can be turned on as desired.

Stream There are few people fortunate enough to have a natural stream in their garden. A stream is an ambitious undertaking but the soothing babbling of running water certainly makes it worth the effort. An artificial stream is reasonably straight forward to construct and makes a wonderful garden feature.

Waterfall Water tumbling down the steps of a waterfall creates a feature that is dramatic, both visually and audibly.

Obviously there is more work involved in the construction than with a fountain, but a waterfall need not be large or grandiose – just two or three “steps” will give a very attractive effect.

As with most features a waterfall can be simple or complex as you wish.

Wall Fountain A wall fountain is supremely elegant feature that will fit into a small space. Its deal for a courtyard or small city garden. An ornamental wall feature is fixed to the wall.

Water is moved by a submersible pump which is concealed and delivered to the feature on the wall. The water trickles through the feature (a mask, sculptural head or figure etc) to a receptacle on the wall below and finally runs down with or without collecting into a pond or surface water.

Cobblestone Fountain A cobblestone fountain is not only quick and relatively in expensive, but also safe for young children. It’s a versatile little feature which can be incorporated in a variety of surroundings. Its size can be varied to suit the available space, down to as little as 45cm (18ins) across.

A water feature of this sort has several advantages over a pond.

The reservoir of water is securely covered underground and therefore safe where there are young children, the construction is simple, inexpensive and very little maintenance is required.

On the debit side, aquatic plants cannot be grown as there is no accessible water, but you can more than compensate by surrounding such a feature with plants that possesses bold handsome foliage such as hostas in cool colors for maximum effect.

A more dramatic effect can be achieved by fitting the pump outlet with a geyser jet, so that water gushes up in a most impressive fashion.

A Millstone Fountain is constructed in a similar way to a cobblestone feature and makes an excellent centerpiece for a garden.

Access to electricity is obviously essential for all the moving water features to power the pump.

Its useful to have a nearby sources of water as its constant circulation over stones, results in steady loss by evaporating, so the reservoir will need regular topping up.

TheGuardian

Saturday, March 23, 2013 | 35

Conscience, Nurtured by Truth

Entertainment

Fifi

so I got that from her. It wasn’t a smooth journey but it is worth all the trouble. But first and foremost, you must have passion for what you do. I have been in it for over a decade, but seven years as a professional.

It all began the day I stepped into Zeb Ejiro’s office in 2002 as a reporter with Kiddie Times Magazine. I was there for a different mission but like a dream come true, an opportunity came with it. My mission was to get an article for my column, Personality Profile, where kids read about their idols. So the quest for a Nollywood star to grace my column took me to Zeb Ejiro’s office. I was armed with a written note from one of his friends, and a respected musician, Mike Okri. The note was for Ejiro to assist me with notable Nollywood stars for interviews.

The ride wasn’t as easy as I thought as the first obstacle was from the receptionist (now my friend) who stood me up for hours, while known faces were strolling in and out of Ejiro’s office. I felt so bad and helpless. Then an opportunity presented itself as I came up with a strategy which had worked for me before. I remember that Nigerians love foreigners with passion. Having lived in Cameroun for years, I can speak their broken English well. I then walked up to the receptionist again, this time as if I was leaving but not without telling her how I felt in that accent, and I saw the expression on the faces around.

Even the receptionist became reasonable for once as she told me they were having a production meeting. I raised my voice a bit in a dramatic fashion as one of the directors, Mr. Mathias Obayagbon stepped out from Ejiro’s office and asked me what the problem was. I told him, ‘I want to see patron but this Cherie just they hamburg e skin’. He started laughing and asked me to follow him and we walked into Zeb’ office who was later introduced to me. Then I almost fainted with joy when Mathias told Zeb that he has found the character they were looking for in me. Again, I repeated same drama when Mathias asked me to explain what happened at the reception. I became the star of the moment as I was given refreshment. Now, they were interviewing me instead me doing the interview that I came for.

Zeb took me aside and explained the reason for the excitement . Nigerian Breweries had contracted him to produce a soap for NTA network, they are ready but a particular character that has to do with a comical pidgin English was missing, and mine was something new. I was further nancially independent. We want to bring in shocked when he offered me a role and I had never acted before. So he took my conmore professionalism. We don’t want tact address and requested for a 5 by 7 size passersby anymore. We are determined to photograph. It was a dream come true as cross that thin line. We want to impart his Manager, Mr Orobogha Animadu knowledge to real members. Nollywood is traced me out. That was how in year 2003. getting bigger and we must move with the moving train. I will also use this medium to I acted alongside celebrities such as Clarcall on those who are yet to be registered to ion Chukwura, Alex Osifo, Uche Iwuji, Lilian Bach and many others in Sweet & Sour take this window of opportunity that our president has offered. And for members who as Maggi, the Camerounian cook at Ibadan. have been sitting on the fence, this is time While on set, our makeup artiste left for for action. Everybody has to be part of this Lagos and never came back, and I have pasmoving train. We want to carry everybody sion for make-up, and with my knowledge along in this new dispensation. My president is very eager to turn the fortune of our with my diploma in Theatre Arts. So, I deguild around for the better. But she can’t do cided to help myself out with the job. it alone. Members have to be committed for When Zeb found out that I did the makeus to earn our deserved respect in the indus- up, he issued me another cheque to take up a dual role. That was how I became the try. We have no choice but to make it work.

How did you get into the industry and what in-house make-up artiste for Zeb. So I went for more training in character effect and were the obstacles?

Creativity is my life. Dress making, drawing beauty make-up. Since then, I have been and painting. My mum is a sewing mistress busy till date, just as I ensure that I do not miss any training to update my skills.

Which other films have you acted in and worked as a creative designer?

Apart from Sweet & Sour, I have done lots of movies, soap opera, reality shows and documentaries with notable practitioners in the future of the country. Artiste mangers are the industry. Among these are, The Presijack of all trade and master of all. The public dent Must Not Die by Zeb Ejiro, I did both image, acceptance or otherwise of your artiste make up and costume; American Nurse, by is predicated on your level of management and Pascal Atuma, a United States-based direcprofessionalism. You must all be united and tor. I was in Secret & Lies by Emeruwa and stand as one if you want your association to Zeb Ejiro. I was the make-up artiste for achieve its full potentials. You must support MTN/UBA sponsored Dragon’s Den by your leaders and never allow greed or any form Storm Vision; Fidelity Bank Plc Documenof bickering permeate your association,” Oko- tary; and Nigeria @ 50, and others too nuroji said. merous to be mentioned.

‘Creative Designers Make Artistes Shine’ FIFI Godwin, a Nigerian-Camerounian born creative designer, was recently appointed Public Relations Officer of the Creative Designer Guild of Nigeria, (CDGN), a key component of Nollywood. In an exclusive chat at her posh Lagos residence, the Theatre Arts graduate of the University of Calabar, took The Guardian through how she came into CDGN, what the guild is all about, and their resolutions as they work towards a virile guild to a greater height.

She spoke on the ongoing membership data base update, ensuring that members earn respect from other practitioners in the industry that they help to beautify and carry out their duties professionally without hitch, with SONY NEME.

Please can you explain what Creative Designers’ Guild of Nigeria is all about?

DGN is an association of production designers that is made up of four main components of the Nollywood industry. It draws its membership from make-up artistes, costumiers, set designers and property managers. We are part of the production crew that plays an important role behind the scenes in movie making. We are saddled with the responsibility of enhancing the looks of actors and actresses from their hair to toe before they go on screen.

We are the creative power of Nollywood because we make the stars to shine.

What is this talk about membership drive and revalidation?

CDGN has started the revalidation of membership because we want to reclaim our deserved placed as a bona fide part of Nollywood and benefit from workshops and seminars. We want to teach members to work with passion so that they will be fi-

C

Artistes Managers Seek Partnership With COSON

T

HECopyright Society of Nigeria (COSON), recently hosted the Association of Music Artistes Managers of Nigeria (AMAMN) at its Opebi, Lagos office. Executive members of AMAMN led by their President, Mr. Sijuade Adedokun were at COSON office on solidarity for the CMO's giant strides in the area of music copyright and sound recording in the Nigerian music industry. “We are here to support the COSON mandate and forge a partnership with

COSON,” Adedokun said. He also sought the support of COSON in its activities especially in the area of its upcoming international conference and other activities.

In his reaction, Chairman of COSON, Chief Tony Okoroji urged members of the association to maintain high level of professionalism in their calling and be united. He also urged them to understand their distinct and important role in the creative industry. “The youth are

Sony Neme nemesony@yahoo.co.uk 07054576639

THE GUARDIAN, Saturday, March 23, 2013

36 |

ENTERTAINMENT

Why Amstel Malta Sponsored AMVCA A

S the lights beamed on the stage, the effect of the varying contrasts of colours was simply magical. The ambience was resplendent, as were the attires adorned by the carefully assembled A-list guests; specially invited to attend the awards ceremony. Delectable Genevieve Nnaji got eyes popping with daring white attire as Africa Magic - in collaboration with M-Net Africa – left no stone unturned in organizing one of the best TV and movie awards ceremony, witnessed in this part of the country.

The organization had an able ally in Amstel Malta, Nigeria’s low sugar malt drink, from the stable of Nigerian Breweries Plc, which was the headline sponsor for the event.

By 7pm, the event went live on national television. On hand to thrill the musical audience were established acts such as Femi Kuti, Tiwa Savage and Iyanya. However, Okechukwu Chukwudi Ukeje and Ivie Okujaye shone brightly among the galaxy of movie and TV stars who converged at the Expo Hall of Eko Hotel for the first edition of the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards. While Okeje carted home the highly coveted ‘Best Actor In A Drama’ plaque for his role in the movie, Two Brides And A Baby, Okujaye was bestowed the ‘Industry Trial Blazer’ award.

Incidentally, the two fledging thespians were past winners of the now rested Amstel Malta Box Office (AMBO) reality TV show. Okeje attained national prominence when he emerged winner of the 2007 edition of AMBO. This earned him a lead role in the movie, White Waters, for which he won the highly coveted ‘Best Upcoming Actor’ award at the 2008 edition of the African Movie Academy Awards. Okujaye emerged the AMBO winner in 2009. As part of her prize, she played the lead role in the movie, Alero’s Symphony.

Ukeje edged out Fabian Adeoye Lojede (Jacob’s

Cross), Kenneth Uphopho (Down & Out), Edward Kagutuzi (Mirror Boy) and Jafta Mamabolo (Otelo Burning) to emerge the best actor in drama. A highly elated Ukeje showered encomiums on the Amstel Malta brand in his acceptance speech. “I’d like to thank Amstel Malta for giving me the platform to be on this stage accepting this prestigious award today. It means a lot to me because the fans actually voted for the winners in this category. I won Amstel Malta Box Office in 2007; and I am grateful for that platform.”

Okujaye was also short of words when she was announced as the winner of the ‘Industry Trial Blazer’ of the inaugural AMVCA. The category is a special recognition category. She said she did not realise her efforts in film making were being noticed. According to her, two of her films have been directed by popular actor, Desmond Elliot, while she is currently working on a short film.

Speaking at the post-event press conference, Mr. Walter Drenth, Marketing Director, Nigerian Breweries Plc, described the inaugural edition of the AMVCA as one of a kind. He lauded the efforts of the African television and movie practitioners for the immense growth and development witnessed in the sector.

On Amstel Malta’s decision to sponsor the AMVCA, Mr. Drenth said: “The industry is developing; you can say that it is the time to celebrate the efforts of the practitioners. We are deeply pleased to be at the forefront of this spectacular event that celebrates truly talented individuals whose valuable contribution to the African film and television landscape is immeasurable. When we heard about AMVCA at Nigerian Breweries Plc, we said this is something that we want to associate with and this is something we would like to support. And we chose Amstel Malta as the

brand to support the AMVCA because a lot of the values which have been reflected tonight are also the values shared by the Amstel Malta brand.”

Drenth added: “The Amstel Malta brand’s pay-off is Be The Best You Can Be. Over the years, Amstel Malta has provided a platform for budding talents to leverage on for growth in key areas of entertainment. So as a brand, it is very important that we celebrate, recognise and give support to talented individuals because we believe they deserve the platform. What we’ve seen tonight is a fantastic show and we are very happy just to be a part of it.” Drenth said that the Nigerian Breweries would also support the second edition of the AMVCA. Other winners of the AMVCA were Nigeria’s Mercy Johnson, who emerged Best Actress

In A Comedy for her role in Dumebi – The Dirty Girl; Ghana’s Jackie Appiah who won Best Actress In A Drama for the movie Perfect Picture and Nigeria’s Hafiz Oyetoro who carted the Best Actor In A Comedy for his part in House Apart. Olu Jacobs was also recognised for his contributions to the African movie industry and was presented with the

Mimidoo Premiers In Makurdi LL is now set for the preA mier of Mimidoo by Papel Image Tech, at Aminu Isah Kontagora Arts Theatre Complex, Makurdi on Saturday , March 30, 2013. Papel are producers of The Bond and the award winning movie 90Ninth Day. Mimidoo is a Tiv

language movie with English subtitle. Mimidoo, which was shot in Benue State, premieres red carpet from 6:00pm. According to the producers, the movie is indeed a must watch for all those who will be in Benue State this Easter season.

Synopsis of Mimidoo explains

a story of a young lady whose true identity haunts her. She poses a fake personality until her near-death experience would take her home where she gains her mother’s forgiveness, and realizes that life is more than wealth, class and style.

The Return of Joker Comedy Club

Naijazz Records Releases Three Artistes’ Singles AIJAZZ Records, a subsidiary of Inspiro ProN ductions has released singles of their artistes Dapo Dina an Afro Jazz Pianist, Victor

He added that Imole Afrika is an Afro Jazz fusion band of young talented musicians led by Joshua Fashina and Segun Atoyebi. “They blend Ademofe a Highlife/Afro-Jazz Trumpeter and high-life dance classics with a fusion of African Imole Afrika of Afro Fusion Band. Each artiste Jazz and world music with rich vocal harmonies, managed by Ayoola Sadare reportedly released intertwining bass guitars, saxophone and excitthree singles with accompanying videos. Dapo ing percussions to make this group unique.

Dina’s tracks rendered in Yoruba are Ile Labo Their unusual instrumentation and vocals are Simi Oko, Aiye and Adura; Victor Ademofe’s are different. This band advocates West African muNo One Like You, Jehovah and Ma kanju while sical styles with a deep traditional tone and aims Imole Afrika’s efforts are Losajo, Ope and Ewi. to convey the true sounds and color of African Siad Sadare: “Dapo Dina, a song-writer, Jazz music all around the globe,” explains Sadare arranger, composer and producer, comes from who added that Imole Afrika has performed at a classical music background, having studied several venues in and out of the country. the piano before turning to Jazz. His composiHe expressed satisfaction with the content and tions are influences from the spiritual and artis- quality of the artistes’ singles. “This is a step in tic wealth derived from his roots. A true the right direction for us as an organization as it Africanist, he has worked with internationally falls in line with our objectives for Naijazz renowned artists from many genres and perRecords which is the identification, developformed at various festivals across the globe. Vic- ment and presentation of distinct, identifiable tor Ademofe is a trumpet maestro, composer, and indigenous Nigerian music. Our artistes and percussion virtuoso and singer. An exponent of platform promote and re-enact the classic style African culture that reflects in his music with el- of the evergreen music of yester-years reminisements of Highlife, Jazz, soul, pop and gospel all cent of Nigerian musical giants like Victor wrapped in the garment of African soul. AdeOlaiya, Eddie Okonta, Victor Uwaifo, Chris Ajilo, mofe is one of the highly sought after trumpet Nico Mbaga, Chief Osita Osadebe, Oliver De players in Nigeria. He has played with great mu- Coque, Bongos Ikwe, Orlando Julius and others sicians like Lagbaja, Tee-Mac, Mike Aremu and who were musical icons and cultural ambassamany more.” dors of our great country. ”

FTER a one-year interval, Peekaboo Global A Consulting, organizers of The Joker Comedy Club are returning with the pre-Easter edition of the comedy talent hunt drive. According to Darlington Abuda, the Managing Director of the entertainment outfit, the comedy club has been redesigned to liven up up the season for Lagosians on the mainland. The maiden edition for 2013 billed to take place tomorrow at Bamboo Spaces opposite Omole Phase 1, will feature comedy giants like Mc Abbey, Ajebo, Seyilaw, Elenu, MOG, Jibade as well as past winners of the comedy competition who will thrill the audience with creative entertainment.

Abuda posited that the show was designed out of the need to satisfy the yearnings of upwardly mobile Lagosians living on the mainland who have been seeking a family styled event that effectively combines wholesome entertainment with a qualitative networking environment with the drudgery of having to drive all the way

to Victoria Island. “This is one of the needs that the redesigned Joker Comedy Club fulfils. We want to give all Lagosians an opportunity to enjoy qualitative entertainment without having to move too far from their homes,” Abuda said.

The Joker Comedy Club which is designed as a combination of comedy talent search and music also offers a potpourri of side attractions to satiate every participant. “We at Peekaboo Global Consulting have continued to develop the show because after a comprehensive look at the industry, we saw that there were plenty of unexplored areas in the Nigerian entertainment circuit.” First held on February 4, 2011 at Terra Kulture, one of Nigeria's foremost cultural centres, the show has witnessed the presence of comedy and music acts like AY, Kefee, Seyilaw and a host of others. All the competing acts are set to face gruelling challenges with the eventual winner going home with N50, 000, cash prize.

THE GUARDIAN, Saturday, March 23, 2013

| 37

ENTERTAINMENT 100 Beautiful Hostesses For COSON Week N a bid to live up to its promises while unveiling the COSON Week at a world press briefing recently, the Copyright Council of Nigeria (COSON) is set for a pageant to select 100 of Nigeria’s beauties who will function as hostesses. The damsels’ brief will also include, but not limited to, exquisitely take care of the guests at the different events of the COSON Week which unfolds on Sunday, May 19 in Lagos. This was announced on Sunday at Rowe Park Sports Centre, Yaba during the second elimination round of the COSON All Stars Table Tennis Blow Out, one of the seven major exciting events promised.

While announcing the contest, COSON Chairman, Chief Tony Okoroji, said it is to keep with his promise that no stone will be left unturned to make the COSON Week the most memorable week in the history of Nigerian entertainment. “Everything associated with the COSON Week will be the best. Last week, we rolled out the red carpet to usher in the preliminaries of the All Stars Table Tennis Blow Out at Teslim Balogun Stadium. In the arena were Nigeria’s topmost celebrities. The equipment used was the best in the country. The officials who oversaw the contest are Africa’s best. The COSON Week will not just be a week of great entertainment; it

I

will be a week of the most fabulous fashion you ever saw,” Okoroji enthused.

He ADDED: “It will be a week that beauty will be on parade. We will not cut corners. We will not have ushers at any of the events. We will have hostesses and each of them will be worth millions in beauty and brains. The modalities for deciding the hostesses and who will make that big decision will be announced in the coming days. Once the hostesses are chosen, we will begin their training.”

Okoroji also informed that “some of the splendor will be in the church, the national day of prayer and invocation which will be transmitted live from the Household of God Church in Lagos on May 19. They will also be at the National Theatre for the COSON Lecture to be delivered by Prof Helge Ronning of the University of Oslo on Monday, May 20, before joining the stars on the streets of Lagos on Tuesday, May 21, when an array of Nigeria’s top artistes meets their fans on the streets.”

They will also be at MUSON Centre when the cream of the society comes together for the COSON Green Ball on Wednesday, May 22. He further assures that anyone who comes to Teslim Balogun Stadium for the finals of the All Stars Table Tennis Blowout on Thursday, May 23 will be wel-

come by uncommon magnificence and fashion. For the COSON Song Awards holding at Eko Hotel and Suites, Lagos on May 25, Okoroji said: “The only way to describe the fashion and beauty that will be on display is wow! Do not forget that our mission is to make Lagos that undisputed capital of entertainment, fashion and beauty in Africa.”

Meanwhile, qualifiers for the next round of the COSON All Stars Table Tennis Blow Out have emerged. They are Blackface; Seyi Allen; CEO of Now Muzik, Efe Omorogbe; Isa Aruna; Kelly Salam; Alhaji SK Sensation; Kween Onokala, Sam Anukam; COSON Chairman, Chief Tony Okoroji; Vee; Bambino and Singer, D’Lyte.

They will join AY, Ruggedman, Queen Ure, Gideon Okeke, Timi Dakolo, Adewale Ayuba, Mike Effiong, Sexy Steel, Yemi Sodimu, Skillato, Sureboy, Yinka Adebayo, Willie Workman and Osy Cole who have qualified for the next round. The finals will take place on Thursday, May 23, at the Multipurpose Hall of Teslim Balogun Stadium, Surulere during which some state governors will also play exhibition matches. The last man or woman standing in the Blow Out will go home with the glittering COSON trophy and N1million cash prize.

By Tunde Eso LUMADE Samuel Oluwadunsin, Popularly known as Saxmuel, having preached the gospel and entertained all sorts of people with saxophone for over a decade, finally launched his first album to expand on his outreach recently at Tamarin Hotel Hall, Ikeja with the titled, Great Things.

Saxmuel who began his musical career at age 12, attended Expressway Primary School where he obtained his first leaving school certificate, Euba Boys’ Secondary School and Lagos State University where he studied Accounting, said his drive for music was because he wanted to preach the gospel to people and lamented that his major challenge so far is lack of stable power supply.

“At age 12, I started with the drum sets, bass guitar, piano and finally the saxophone and I’m a hip-hop, jazz and gospel saxophonist,” he said. The multi- talented musician said his combination of passion

O

Saxmuel Debuts WithGreat Things and skills has given him the privilege to perform at the Black Heritage Concert, Abia State House, TN dinner party, Nigerian Liquid Natural Gas executive dinner, former president Olusegun Obasanjo 75th birthday party and at many churches such as RCCG camp ground, TREM headquarters, First Square Church and more.

He dreams to become a world-class saxophonist in five years to come.

Saxmuel who style of music cuts across all genres, has been privileged to share platform with top gospel artistes like trumpeter, Pastor Kunle Ajayi, Jazz maestro Mike Aremu, Midnight Crew, Femi Micah, Sammy Okposo, and RCCG Praise Team, hope to release his debut video in few months from now.

Crystals Ringtone Video Tops MTN Top 10 Countdown HORTLY after a remarkSNigeria’s able album launch event, Crystals are back

Str8 Up HipHop Plans March Tribute For B.I.G YRICS cannot be divorced L from hip hop, which is why all major artistes like the late American, Christopher Wallace, best known as The Notorious B.I.G, laid emphasis on lyrical style. He has been described as possibly the most skilful ever with

lyrical topics and themes described as a mixture of autobiographical details about crime and violence with emotional honesty. The March edition of Str8 Up Hip Hop to be hosted by Andre Blaise and tagged Lyricism 101, will be a platform to appreciate

lyrics in hip hop. DJ Jimmy Jatt is billed to hold down a definitive B.I.G tribute and a special preview session from Modenine’s Alphabetical Order.

The event which will hold at Koga Studios, Oregun

Road, Ikeja on Saturday, March 28, 2013 with admission ticket of N5000, will also feature breath-taking B-boy and emcee battle sessions as well as graffiti art by Uprizin.

There will also be performances by Butafly (TBB),

Dolapo, Phenom and Five Mics while DJ Ozee will be on the steel wheels for the event which red carpet starts at 5pm. Str8 up Hip hop is a production of Now Muzik En.Core in partnership with Beat 99.9 fm.

in the news as number one for two consecutive weeks on the MTN top 10 countdown. This feat is with their first ever video, Ringtone.

The video of the melodious Afro pop song was directed

by Clarence Peters and has been on heavy rotation on television stations across the country. Ringtone is the first song on their ten track Elevated album which was released on February 20 by Now Muzik Records. The album which features upcoming rapper, Butafly, boasts of production inputs by the veteran, OJB Jezreel among other top producers. These are indeed exciting times for the Now Muzik-signed band which is busy promoting its album and also getting prepared to tour with Africa’s best, 2face Idibia on his Campus Connect tour this year.

MI Returns With World-Wide Premiere Victor Olusola his usual spectacular IViceNfashion, Chocolate City President for Music and Loopy Music CEO, M.I Abaga re-affirmed his position at the top of African entertainment with an historic worldwide premiere of his first single off his upcoming album titled Chairman.

The hit-maker in partnership with Google has engineered a historic live Hangout, which was broadcast live on the Google + and Youtube platform.

“It has been a while,” MI said. “I have taken these three years to build up a solid corporate base and contribute to Chocolate City as Vice President. It has

all been worth it. I thank all my incredible fans for their unwavering support for the music!” It is time for the Chairman, he added.

Also joining the historic Hangout was Cool FM, Top Radio, and City FM Ghana. It also featured stellar appearances by Miss World 2001 Agbani Darego, Loopy Music’s Ruby and fans. The live Hangout was hosted by Nigerian pop-soul siren, Waje.

An approximate one million fans online and 10 million fans followed the hangout live over the Radio portals.

It was streamed live online with the support of blogs and websites.

M.I’s album, ‘Chairman,’ is due for release in June 2013.

TheGuardian

38 Saturday, March 23, 2013

Conscience, Nurtured by Truth

Arts&Culture Ajagun nla... In Defense Of Fatherland

By Omiko Awa T was John Fitzgerald Kennedy, who in his inIJanuary augural address to his fellow Americans in 20, 1961, said, “let every nation know, whether it wishes us well or ill, that we shall pay any price, bear any burden, meet any hardship, support any friend, oppose any foe to assure the survival and the success of liberty.”

This statement, which inspired the Americans to overcome their crisis in the early 60s, was replicated in Duro Ladipo’s Ajagun nla, where themes such as patriotism, cooperation and unity of purpose was played out.

Opening with Oyo Empire in disarray, as a result of the incessant attacks on it by the Ibariba warriors, Oba Oranmiyan worried of losing his kingdom and the assault on his subjects sends for his elder brother Orangun Fagbamila (Ajagun nla) to help him checkmate the invaders.

Mindful of the powers of the gods, Orangun Fagbamila while coming to his brother brings a diviner. And when the Oba tells him the reason he sends for him, Orangun seeks the face of the gods to know how best to stop the incursion.

Speaking through the Ifa oracle, the gods instruct Orangun Fagbamila to form a troop that includes other warlords. Keeping the divine order, an army that includes notable warriors such as Olugbon, Aresa and Onikoyi come to being.

Infuriated by the actions of the Ibariba, the bloodthirsty warriors led by Orangun Fagbamila viciously put an end to the excesses of their enemy.

While celebrating their victory at the outskirt of Oyo town, Ifa through his priest warns that the troop should be wary of the activities of Esu Laalu Ogiri Oko — the Yoruba god of mischief, who is capable of causing disaffection among the united force. Not minding the priest, the generalissimo goes on to celebrate.

True to the prophecy, Esu strikes through a fugitive, Odubale, who concocts a story that makes Omolola, the daughter of Onikoyi, to want to kill her husband, Orangun Fagbamila, but was caught in the act. While Omolola unfolds the evil plan in the bedroom of Orangun Fagbamila, Odubale sneaks to Olugbon, Aresa and Onikoyi to tell them that Orangun Fagbamila wants to kill Omolola to enrich his charm.

Rushing into the commander’s bedroom, the warlords find Omolola pleading to Orangun Fagbamila for mercy, and they immediately concluded that Odubale was telling them the true. This wrong notion breaks the camaraderie that exists among the warlords

Duro Ladipo in one of his outings

and their soldiers, as the threesome withdraws from the camp, leaving Orangun Fagbamila to his fate.

Not long the division exists than the Ibariba recoups and launches an attack on Oyo again, making all the villagers including Oba Oranmiyan to run for dear life. Hearing of the assault meted on the town, he and the other war commanders are supposed to protect, Orangun Fagbamila feels bitter for rejecting the premonition of Ifa oracle; mustering courage he faces the enemy with a few soldiers left with him. Though, he fought gallantly and brought back Oyo glory, he ended up a victim, as he did not recover from the injury sustained from the war.

Produced by Ladepo Duro-Ladipo, but directed by Ayodele Vincent Adesina, the played based on the 14th century wars of the great Oyo empire was recently presented to the public at the National Theatre, Iganmu

Lagos, as part of the projects of Back-To-Mbari Koncept.

Originally written by the late Duro Ladipo in Yoruba, this reconstructed version in English language upped the ante with the introduction of comedy, choreography and songs on topical issues.

Targeted at reaching a wider audience outside the Yoruba speaking areas of Nigeria, one expects to see a generous use dance to project the people’s culture. This lacking element should have also been used to introduce some of the plots to the audience.

The storyline says the threesome — Olugbon, Aresa and Onikoyi — left Orangun Fagbamila, but the audience were not told exactly where they went to; rather they were made to understand that Omolola, whom Odubale used to cause confusion among the commanders left Orangun Fagbamila’s home for Oyo. Could it

then be that the three warriors were indifferent to the plights of Oyo? Or where they not at Oyo when the Ibariba launched their last attack?

Lastly, history has it that Orangun Fagbamila (Ajagun nla) utterly absorbed by the agony of defeat, regrets and pains sustained in his final onslaught entered his groove and sunk into ground, this act should be replicated on a make-believe stage instead of the flat way the play ends.

Since the Back-To-Mbari Koncept aims to do a national and international tour with the play, finding right answers to the questions raised would further project the play in a better light.

However, the message of patriotism, solidarity, unity of purpose and selfless service to their fatherland, which propelled the warriors to fight were well spelt out.

CBAAC... Partnering With Womenfolk For Dream Realisation

By Gbenga Salau order to properly understand IofNwomen’s roles, especially those mothers in the upbringing of

children in keeping with the norms and values of society in propagating African culture, the Centre for Black and African Arts and Civilisation (CBAAC) organised a roundtable discussion to celebrate the 2013 International Women’s Day in Lagos.

In his welcome address, DirectorGeneral of CBAAC, Prof Tunde Babawale, said his organisation held the roundtable in collaboration with Vanguard newspaper so as to direct attention to the challenges that prevent women from realising their God-given endowments and potentials and to also explore ways of surmounting such challenges.

He said, “We have carefully chosen this theme for the consideration of the eggheads gathered here today. Our choice of theme for this year’s celebration is also informed by the need to acknowledge, showcase and celebrate the contributions of African women irrespective of where they are domiciled.”

He said though the theme for

this year’s celebration across the world was ‘The Gender Agenda: Gaining Momentum’, the centre coined its theme as ‘Empowering African Women to Make a Difference’ because of the need to make African meet the demands and challenges of the modern world.

Although he noted that the situation of women in the country had improved considerably as there were women of substance and

quality holding important portfolios in government and corporate organisations, Babawale said governments in Africa and Nigeria in particular must go beyond tokenisms in gender issues and proceed to ensure the mainstreaming of gender into poverty reduction and development programmes. He called for incorporation of gender planning into development plans and tougher laws to deal with those

D-G of CBAAC, Prof. Babawale and female dignitaries at the workshop

who engage in violence against women as deterrence.

He pleaded with women to provide good examples to their children, especially the girl-child.

Wife of the Deputy Governor of Ogun State, Mrs. Funmilayo Adesegun, emphatically maintained that women had not been performing their role of providing right parenting for children, especially the girl-child.

She stated that women in Nigeria needed to have a rethink because the inability of the young ones to imbibe good societal values was because women had failed to put the children in the right path. She pleaded with women not to treat their children with kid gloves but make efforts to inculcate the right values, noting that women must be role models.

She said, “One thing about parents is that we protect our children too much. When we were growing up in the old days we were streetwise; we were taught how to do so many things and how to be conscious of our environment. Parents have to teach their children body language; they have to know what you are saying through the part of your body. We must be role models to our chil-

dren. We must not only tell them to do things right; we must do things rightly ourselves because they watch.”

In her contribution, Mrs. Buchi Okonkwo, said women must be true helpmates to their fellow women, adding, “We don’t help ourselves as women. We rather play ourselves down rather than help ourselves. We should try as much as possible to help ourselves.

If we can empower each other as women, then we can achieve great things. I believe that when we educate women, we are educating a whole nation. You don’t have to really educate women by sending them to school alone; there are so many skills we can teach them.”

Head of Department, Arts and Science Education, University of Lagos, Prof. Ajike Osanyi said many Nigerians did not appreciate the dignity in labour as they preferred quick money-spinning businesses or employment, noting, “We want quick money; money that is flying on the road and that explains why lots of girls go into marriage for economic survival. They are ready to do anything as long as that man will continue to give them money.

They are not ready to actually do something or labour for their own

THE GUARDIAN, Saturday, March 23, 2013

39

ARTS

NCC... Stepping Up Anti-Piracy War And I may decide to give you the right to reproduction and give another the right to distribution.

There are different ways the copyright owner can decide to give out his work.

By Gbenga Salau IRATES are found in every society. They are P usually called economic sabotage because of the negative impact of their activities on the economy of a nation. There activities are illegal so it is shielded in secrecy, so apart from denying creative work owners to fruitfully enjoy the sweat of their labour; they do not also allow the government to get the appropriate tax due it.

However, the rate at which pirates operate from one society to another differs. It is usually high in environment where people do not have laid down rules on ways to reproduced works legally and low enforcement and punishment for offenders.

In Nigeria, the Nigerian Copyright Commission (NCC) is charged with the responsibility of ensuring that the rights of copyrights owners are protected. The establishment of the NCC was by law which also stipulates it roles and how it should function. Many practitioners are of the view that the law in not in tandem with present realities.

There is also the general notion that the NCC is not doing enough, probably understanding the position of many and wanting to provide the right leadership for the sector and ensure that creative owners adequately compensated, the Director General of the NCC has embarked on reforming the Copyright Act. It is not doing it alone, but with inputs from critical stakeholders. One of such engagements was in Lagos last week when the NCC had a two-day stakeholders’ forum with the publishing and film industries.

Many of those in attendance maintained that if the on-going efforts to reform the Copyright Act would make meaningful impact, then there must be a database of all creative works in Nigeria and the Act must contain stiffer penalties that will serve as deterrent.

A renowned filmmaker, Mr. Mahmood Ali-Balogun, said that pirates are killing the creative business and if the pirates must quit their illegality, then the penalty must be one that they will pay through their nose. According to him, the fine should be one that they will find difficult to pay and when they dear to pay, they will find it difficult to continue with the illegal business. He suggested a fifty million-naira fine with the option of long years in jail. This position was re-echoed by many other participants at the forum.

In her contribution, Professor Ruth Okediji of the University of Minnesota, who was one of the facilitators of the programme said that it is important work owners register their works as it would aid the process of verifying who owns the work and who to pay royalties to.

“Through out our consultation with the creative industry in Nigeria, we have been asking what are the challenges and the problems. Every industry has said to me we have a problem identifying the person who owns the copyright.

Somebody comes to me and I said I want to publish the book, how do I know you are the owner.

Or you are selling a book and somebody said you do not have the right to sell the book, how do you defend yourself.

“So there is no system in place for people who want to be legitimately part of the copyright system. To know who has the right, what right do

sultations will not be confined to them. Stakeholders are invited and strongly encouraged to bring up additional and or different issues during the course of this meeting,” Ezekude said.

Also speaking at the event, professor of Law at the University of California and Irvine School of Law said that the consultations seek to engage stakeholders and assist in identifying the most suitable means of advancing the interests of Nigeria’s copyright law, as well as to create sustainable copyright frameworks that will enhance Nigerian society and Nigeria’s economic development.

“The principal objective of this stage of the reform process is preparation of a copyright reEzekude form bill that reflects the unique characteristics of Nigeria’s technology and cultural sectors.” they have, because copyright is not just one right, you have the right to reproduce the work, Arewa noted that copyright has become a key or perform the work in case of a musical work, marker worldwide of economic and business success for both countries and firms. you have the right to distribute the work; we “Nigeria thus joins the company of China, have so many rights.

India, and Brazil in undertaking comprehensive “And I may decide to give you the right to reproduction and give another the right to distri- copyright reform, and becomes the leading country in Africa to undertake such reform. This bution. There are different ways the copyright copyright reform effort takes place in a broader owner can decide to give out his work. global environment in which digital content is “And the problem is, if you are a legitimate becoming increasingly pervasive. Copyright has business and want to purchase in the market, traditionally balanced the rights of creators and you have no way of knowing who owns what other owners of copyrighted materials and the and even check if the person you are buying from is the real owner, and there publishers who are selling books and they do not own the right to the book.

“So everybody is taking advantage of the system in which we have no way to identify legitimate owners of work and it is not good for anybody because people we want to pay end up paying to the wrong person and people who do not want to pay have an excuse not to pay because there is no way to validate. Nigeria used to have a notification system but that has not help but we hope to have a registration system where people can check and people having certificate of registration.”

The Director General of NCC, Mr. Afam Ezekude, in his opening speech said that the meetings are critical to success of the reform exercise being undertaken by the commission.

He said that the goal is to make the reform process to be driven by current experiences and realities in the various sectors of the creative industry in Nigeria.

“The expert working group of the reform process which is made up of both staff of the commission and some renown experts in intellectual property has come up with a number of questions for discussions at this forum. While the questions are meant to provide a general focus for the anticipated discussions, the conMr. Ezekude (middle)at post-raid briefing

rights of users who need access to copyrighted materials for a range of activities, including the development of new works.”

She observed that the arrival of the digital era has challenged existing copyright balance in ways that have affected creators, owners, users, and consumers.

In narrowing her comments to the stakeholders in the publishing industry, she said that the Nigerian literary and publishing sector is a leading force in Africa.

“We undertake the copyright reform process with understanding that the literary and publishing sector in Nigeria continues to face a number of serious challenges, only some of which relate to copyright. In addition to rampant book piracy, publishers in Nigeria face challenges of severe infrastructural problems, including a lack of stable electricity, undercapitalization, challenges related to marketing and distribution of books, issues related to production values and low productivity of inputs such as newsprint and paper, and questions about the robustness of reading cultures and book buying habits of Nigerians.

“In terms of copyright, Nigeria has a high incidence of book piracy. As a result, in addition to those previously mentioned, Nigerian publishers also face considerable challenges of book piracy. Finally, publishers in Nigeria and elsewhere face a number of disruptive digital era technologies that continue to shake up the literary/publishing sector and other industries globally,” Arewa said.

She told the gathering that copyright reform cannot address all of the critical challenges in the industry but a process to create a best in world copyright environment to enable growth and innovation in the publishing industry and other sectors, while at the same time creating sustainable copyright frameworks that enhance Nigerian society and economic development.

LBHF... 32 students paint for honour

By Kenechukwu Ezeonyejiaku

brushes, water colour, paper, colour pencils and erasers to FTER a long preparation interpret their idea of the which comprised of scout- theme. ing for talents in over 400 While speaking at a press conschools and informal centres ference held before the comin Lagos State and screening, mencement of the 32 lucky talents were on competition at Freedom Park, Wednesday put to the test Lagos, Festival Consultant and with sketching boards for the Nobel Laureate, Prof. Wole final contest of the Lagos Black Soyinka said that the competiHeritage Foundation (LBHF) in tion came at no better time the Vision of the Child paintthan now and that the theme ing competition. is a perfect suit with the trend The painting competition, of corruption that is rampant which is exclusively sponand celebrated in today’s Nigesored by Diamond Bank for ria’s society now. the second year running, feaAccording to him, “The tures an unusual but highly theme, which was fashioned topical theme, ‘The Thousand and kept in Diamond Bank’s & One Faces of Corruption’. vault for the past eight The children, who are all months, is planned to demonwithin the age range of 8-12 strate the contestants’ power years old and selected from six of observation as it would districts in Lagos State, were bring to the fore their percepprovided with a bag each con- tion of the society via their taining painting materials paintings. It is time we involve which included a set of the younger generation in the

A

Filmmaker, Tunde Kilani and i-REP Executive Director, Femi Odugbemi at last year’s i-REP Docu Film Fest

dilemma of the society.

“We are now in a society where a criminal who steals billions of naira is given just a slap on the wrist and the children see and hear all these things. They have the right to comment on what they see around them. We want you to let loose your imagination and interpret the theme to the best of your knowledge”.

Festival Secretary, Foluke Michael said the 32 students were selected out of 189, who participated in the last screening exercise that took place between Monday, February 18 and Wednesday, March 20, 2013 from various schools in Lagos State to take part in the painting competition.

She said the exhibition of the 32 works would be opened for public viewing at Freedom Park from March 25, 2013.

40 |

THE GUARDIAN, Saturday, March 23, 2013

SHORT STORY

The Last Straw I

KE was a good, rich lover boy who had an unusual skill and knack for making money and for ‘hooking’ ladies. He rode the latest of exotic cars and had choice houses in choice areas of the country.

Ike was an importer and exporter of motor spare parts. He frequented Europe and America weekly to seal business deals and enjoy himself. He was a very handsome young man, tall, chubby and with a cool and charming disposition. No girl could escape his sugar-coated tongue. He knew what ladies want and would give them without mincing words.

He was also a damn good liar. No woman could escape from his lecherous and amorous moves. No woman could beat his wits in matters of love and romance. Ike’s weak point was women. He could betray his blood brother, or closest friend because of women and could even kill because of them.

There was no denying the fact that he was a philanderer of the highest order.

Ike simply loved anything in skirt. He was so wayward and debauched that he confessed to a close pal one day: “ I can die because of women! Take it or leave it man, I came through that ‘route’ and wouldn’t mind if I join my maker through the same ‘route’.”

Another pastime Ike indulged in was drinking. He could drink urine if cocked in a bottle. He always soused himself in brandy, whisky and rum daily. Sometimes after bouts of drinking and getting high, he would beat the living daylights out of his employees at the slightest excuse. There was a time he became drunk and descended furiously on his driver. It took about 10 ablebodied men to free the hapless driver from the merciless beating he received.

Now, back to Ike’s insatiable thirst for women. He had a way with women that people often wondered how he coped with them. At this very moment, Ike was dating about 50 young girls and ladies alike. Nobody knew where he got the raw energy to satisfy the sexual appetites of such a number of women.

Ike had about three offices in Lagos alone.

He would put 10 girls in his Maryland office; put another 10 in his Surulere office and the rest he would put in his Yaba office. One by one, he would make love to them. He had them in various shapes, sizes and colours.

He had no particular or definite attraction for his kind of woman. Some were slim, some on the chubby and plump side. But the fact was that Ike’s girls were always charming, beautiful and enchanting. His lustful affection for women cut across tribes and boundaries. He had Yoruba, Hausa and Igbo girls. He dated any woman he came in contact with. He was in his late 30s but never gave marriage a thought for he didn’t believe in the institution of marriage. He was neck-deep into the playboy culture and ways. Ike also patronized courtesans and women of easy virtue.

One Sunday night, he showed how loose and spoilt he was. He was driven home in his Lexus Jeep, reeking of alcohol and in company of three beautiful daughters of Eve. They were in skimpy skirts and one was in a tight-fitting Jeans trouser. Holy Moses!

The way these beautiful girls carried themselves delectably would make a monk forget strict religious vows and make a dive or plunge into their waiting arms! So sweet was their gait and charisma that no man could pass by them without taking a second look or even third.

Neighbours wondered what Ike would do with the trio in a row. In the blink of an eye, he took them inside his sprawling duplex.

Right inside his living room, he quickly took off his designer shirt and trousers, leaving only his shorts. The girls were all sitting on a long Italian leather couch. Ike laid his head on the soft thigh of one of the girls and stretched out his legs on the thigh of another. The third girl was busy massaging his bare chest. The three girls in a row were given him a regal treatment meant only for kings and princes. He was also sipping champagne and munching the laps of chicken. God, the young man was in heavenly bliss! What more could life offer!

The split-unit air-conditioner was on, and a cool blues music was blaring from hi-tech CD player.

Ike continued his wayward lifestyle with no fear for the consequences of his actions.

On a particular Saturday evening he drove himself to a popular eatery on the Island. On alighting from his metallic black Navigator Jeep, he sighted a light-skinned young beauty and was overwhelmed by her celestial beauty. The girl was also heading for the eatery. She had a figure and gait that could tempt even monks to do the unthinkable.

She wore a skimpy dress that made her look irresistible and enchanting, and her steps were calculating and mesmerizing. Truly, the girl was charming form head to toe.

Ike was consumed by admiration; he had never seen such a raving beauty in his entire life. To further accentuate her sexual allure, the girl had tiny blue beads around her waists.

“Oh my… my…!” exclaimed Ike, smacking his lips. “Hello, angel, just give me your love and I’ll make you happy with millions!

What’s your name, Angel?.”

“I’m Angela…” She said softly, smiling and showing her white set of teeth.

“Angela! Angela!!” Ike repeated excitedly. “I thought as much. You know, I called you Angel. Remove the last ‘A’ and your name becomes Angel. If I were a prophet, my predic-

tions would always come true. Buy anything you want here and I’ll pick up the bill.”

That night, besotted Ike went home with Angela. With women you can’t beat Ike. Before one could say Ike, he had made love to his new ‘catch’, not minding the fact that she was a total stranger. When it comes to romance, he had no moral scruples and he would take the plunge without hesitation.

Angela was the last straw in Ike’s journey into the maze of romance. A week later, he realized he wasn’t feeling well. His health was gradually deteriorating. He was always having headaches and getting tired.

He saw his doctors and was given medication, but the health problem persisted.

He was so debased, lewd and proud of his bad nature that he would even gloat over his sex appeal.

Angela was the last straw in Ike’s journey into the maze of romance. A week later, he realized he wasn’t feeling well. His health was gradually deteriorating. He was always having headaches and getting tired. He saw his doctors and was given medication, but the health problem persisted. He became so weak that he couldn’t do anything. Three weeks later, he became so lean and thin, like a dehydrated horse. Most times, he would vomit any little food he took. About a month later, he had become so gaunt and sunken that his chest bones became noticeable and he looked haggard.

He contacted his doctors again and a test was carried out on him. It was discovered that he was HIV/AIDS positive. Ike became a recluse from that moment; desolate and forlorn. His close friends deserted him. His once bubbling lifestyle came to a stop. He was always lonely in his house.

He sold all his properties and estates to take care of himself. In the end, he became poor, broke and led a pauper’s life. The dashing young girls who not long ago swooned over him at every occasion, left him to his fate.

People avoided him like as if he was a leper.

He lived in pains for another year and died the following year, 2005, alone in his room.

41

THE GUARDIAN, Saturday, March 23, 2013

DIARY

The President, Academy for Entrepreneurial Studies, Nigeria (AES), Dr. Ausbeth Ajagu; the Former Secretary General, Commonwealth, Chief Emeka Anyaoku and a friend during Silverbird Man of the Year Award ceremony in Lagos…recently

Mr. Segun Aina, president and Chairman of Council of the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN) and Rev. Godwin Adolor, Delta State branch chairman of the Institute shortly after the inauguration of the branch in Asaba… recently.

Representative of the Society For Family Health (SFH) Dr. Mrs. Noel Ogamba handing over Microscope to the Director of Administration and Finance, Imo State’s Ministry of Health, Mrs. Mercy Osuji who represented her Commissioner during the Campaign against malaria by SFH in Imo State... recently

Assistant Manager, TV Demand Planning, LG Electronics West Africa Operations, Mr. Sung Oh; Winner of a 32-inch LG Battery LED TV, Miss Nancy Ijeoma Onuke; Assistant Manager, Media Demand Planning, Mr. Young Hwan Cho at the presentation ceremony for the LG ‘Predict and Win’ online competition in Lagos...recently

Wife of the Chicago Superintendent, Christ Healing Evangelical Church (CHEC) , Lady Evangelist Mabel Talabi with a delegate from Chicago, Mary Effange during the 2013 National Convention of the church in Loburo, Mowe, Ogun State …recently

Forum Chairman, Entrepreneurs’ Organisation (EO), Mrs. Funmi Babington Ashaye, President, EO, Nigeria, Mr. AbdlRazak Shittu and Chairman Communication committee (EO): Mr. Dele Agekameh during EO membership meeting in Lagos...recently

The Chairman, Parents Teachers Forum of Hall of Fame Academy, Mr. Ogala Vincent handling over the cup to the Pink House, who was the overall winner of the inter-house sports competition while Mr. and Mrs. Agofure, first and third from the left watch in Lagos…recently

Representative of Medentech Aquatabs, Joseph Ghoul; Chief Executive of Gordon Barrett Limited, Taizir Ajala; Head of Section, School Support Services, Shomolu Local Council, Akinyemi Johnson; Chief Executive of Orbus Global Solutions, Aisha Bello-Tukur and a representative of Medentech Aquatabs, Michel Ghoul; at the council during Bello-Tukur’s donation of purification tablets in celebration of the World Water Day… recently

Nneoma Ilofulunwa during her One-year birthday in Lagos…recently

Nigeria’s Ambassador to India, Mr. Ndubuisi Vitus Amaku, presenting his letter of credence to Indian President Sh Pranab Mukherjee in New Delhi... recently.

Mr. Oluyemi Okunlola of Analyst Data Services and Resources Limited, Samonda, Ibadan and his wife, Elizabeth Adeyeye of Deeper Life HIgh School (DLHS), Abeokuta, during their traditional wedding at Awule Estate, Akure… recently

TheGuardian

42 Saturday, March 23, 2013

Conscience, Nurtured by Truth

Travel&Tourism

... Explore, experience the best of destinations!

DESTINATION

Nigeria Tourism For Showcase At ITB Berlin 2013

Nigeria alongside other countries is set to jostle for the attention of the tourism world as the 2013 edition of ITB Berlin opens next week at Berlin.

ANDREW IRO OKUNGBOWA writes on the global travel and tourism expo T is the second major travel and tourism expo for IMadrid, the year with the first being FITUR, which held in Spain in January. Generally regarded as the

world’s leading travel expo, ITB Berlin, which opens on Wednesday March 6, is expected to hold the attention of the travelling world with its attractive, and imaginative tourism offerings from different parts of the globe.

Otherwise known as the International Tourism Bourse (ITB), the yearly expo, which holds at Messe International Convention Centre (ICC) and organized by Messe Berlin in conjunction with other partners and sponsors, has since its inception in the 1960s continue to attract increasing numbers of participants and visitors with exhibition space growing from 580 sq metres to over 150, 000 square metres.

It has continued to grow in influence and as one of the greatest catalysts for stimulating growth in the industry it attracts the attention of increasing numbers of countries and key exhibitors. In 2012 it recorded a total of 10, 644 exhibitors from 187 countries and 172,000 visitors including 113,006 trade visitors.

Regarded as the world’s leading Business - to – Business (B2B) platform for the travel and tourism industry, over six billion euro business is being targeted for this year with over 180 countries, representing various destinations expected to showcase the beauty of their destinations aside the numerous service providers and other stakeholders in the industry that are expected in attendance.

With the formal opening ceremony billed for the evening of Tuesday March 5, the business end of the five days gathering opens on Wednesday between the hours of 10am and 6pm and ends on Sunday March 10 with the first three days devoted to trade visitors and interactions among the exhibitors while the last two days are opened to the travelling public to savour samples of the destinations and

other travel services and trends on display.

History would be made this year, as the German Chancellor, Angela Merkel, will for the first time attend the opening ceremony. Schedule for 6pm at the Hall 1 of the ICC Berlin, welcoming addresses will be given by H.E. Dr. Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono, President of the Republic of Indonesia, Berlin’s Governing Mayor, Klaus Wowereit and the Chief Executive Officer of Messe Berlin GmbH, Raimund Hosch.

Indonesia, the host country for this year, is expected to thrill guests at the ceremony with a multi-cultural presentation titled, ‘Indonesia, The World’s Heart of Wonders.’

On display at the five days expo would be the many colours of the travel industry as the different continent of the world attempt to put on display the best showpiece of what makes their continent and countries within the continent a must visit by the traveling public.

Besides, the occasion would also promote new trends and discoveries the industry with the World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) among other leading bodies within the sector leading talks centred on improving the lots of the industry.

Some of the specials days to look forward to include Technology, Business Travel,

Hospitality and Responsible Tourism Days as well as ITB Berlin Convention. These are dedicated days meant to focus on topical issues.

Also expected to take centre stage are colourful cultural displays to be hosted by the various destinations at their exhibition stands and designated areas. As expected, the grand cultural display and a befitting end to the five days expo would be the grand finale on Sunday March 10 featuring the Delphic Festival by the International Delphic Council, which holds at the Palais am Funkturm.

It would be a grandiose presentation of artistic highlights from around the world with some of the rare cultural acts with pomp and pageantry on showcase. Hence it is tagged: ‘Experiencing art and culture with all the senses.’ Musicians, singers and dancers will be performing contemporary and traditional works as it promises to be a spectacular finale.

Nigeria is among the over 180 countries expected to showcase their tourism destinations during the five days expo with the Nigerian Tourism De-

velopment Corporation (NTDC) led by its Director General, Otunba Olusegun Runsewe, heading the country’s team made of operators from both the private and public sectors.

To accommodate the large contingent from the country and the increasing numbers of visitors expected at the show, the tourism corporation has acquired a 60 square metre exhibition space. This, according to Runsewe, has been creatively designed to reflect the country’s national colours and cultural identity.

Manning the stand would be the staff of NTDC and various operators ranging from travel agents, tour operators, hoteliers, airlines, ground operators to other service providers.

TRAVEL NEWS Sheraton Abuja Hotel Entices With Live - fired Cooking HE Sheraton Abuja Hotel and Towers is offering its diners new experience in savoury palate with the introduction ‘Live-fire Cooking,’ at it intercontinental buffet restaurant – ‘The Papillion.’

This new initiative, which is expected to be midwife by the hotel’s chefs, according to its General Manager, Mr. Boris Bornman, offers the guests invaluable benefits and opportunity of having meals prepared at their behest in what he described as “simply-prepared healthier fresh foods in a healthful way.”

Bornman further stated, “in my experience the flavors from searing and caramelization are captured and developed in the cooking process whether in fast grilling or slow roast-

T

ing in a wood-fired oven. The food’s moisture is held inside and released at the end when you cut into it just before serving. The seasoned wood or hardwood charcoal fuel imparts additional surface flavor.”

Another benefit he said “is that there is less fat needed in this form of cooking, making the food healthier yet succulent and packed with natural flavor and nutrition. Then there’s the entertainment element, too.

Family and friends gather around the live-fire ‘stage to cheer on the cook as they watch the performance.’’

The live-fire cooking session, he said would be on offer during lunch and dinner periods and would enhance dinning experience with the hotel’s chefs cooking your chosen dish with the ingredients you enjoy, right in front of your very eyes.

According to him, guest can also visit and experience live cooking from our Wok and Stir Fry stations

with Teppanyaki sauce and Pasta, our Tandoor and tikka stations, which offers a unique dining entertainment as our chefs prepare an assortment of dishes with lightning fast hands, skillfully using iron griddles.

Bornman also revealed “our Nigerian live cooking grill stations now offer beef and chicken suya as well as roasted and grilled fish. Customers can choose the ingredients they want, cooked the way they want by our experienced chefs. The fully customizable dishes offer a variety of delicious sauces and ingredients to choose from. These dishes are tailored to your taste.’’

He said this new opportunity in nutrition is extremely rewarding to our guests as you can learn about basic nutrition, making healthier food choices and on the go cooking skills under the watchful eyes of our Master Chefs who demonstrate live cooking skills as they cut the meat,

Natives Restaurant And Hospitality Services Opens NEW eatery and hospitality outfit, A known as Natives Restaurant and Hospitality Services, has opened in Lagos. Located at 5b Oju Olobun Close, off Idejo Street, Victoria Island, Lagos, it has not only swelled the growing numbers of eateries in the island but it also comes with unique and dedicated offers for diners and others seeking new experience.

According to the General Manager (Marketing and sales), Mr. Richard Ehieze, the outfit is devoted to offering high quality African and continental dishes of choice as never before witnessed with special attention to Nigerian traditional dishes hence the name Natives as it is devoted to introducing Nigerians to most of its formerly celebrated but now almost extinct dishes.

The setting here is an inviting one –

calm and serene with a pervading air of opulence, it sure offers diners a relaxing and peaceful ambience to unwind and savour their meals and drinks.

The restaurant is opened for breakfast, lunch and dinner while special dishes ranges from designer jollof rice, chicken nkwobi, ugba to abacha.

Others are ekpan nkukor, masa, Noah’s ark, isi ewu, gbegiri, ikokore, ewedu, ugba and roast yam as well as ukwa. As for traditional soup, they serve well over 25 different types, assorted drinks- wine and mineral, freshly brew juices and palm wine are served as well.

Beside the home coking delicacies, the new outfit also provides outdoor catering services of high value while event planners can also make use of its specially designed 36 capacity seminal hall, which is fitted with massage seats and featuring cinema facilities, patio with over 200 seating capacity and huge HD screens.

TheGuardian

Saturday, March 23, 2013 43

Conscience, Nurtured by Truth

Health Natural Health With G. C. Ihesie

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

Natural Ways Of Boosting Sperm Quantity And Quality (II) OPING with male infertility is not so C easy. This is so because many men usually receive the news of their poor sperm quantity and quality with deep inner emotional shock. Many see infertility as a reproductive insufficiency and failure. Consequently, they feel very angry, frustrated, confused and sometimes depressed, especially when the result of the test is first communicated to the patient inappropriately by the health-care provider.

Many cases of male infertility can easily be resolved if handled correctly.

There are few cases, however, where there are very poor outcome even when the best therapies are given. This is usually seen among those who have had prolonged emotional upheaval.

Severe or prolonged emotional stress often triggers a change in the regular hormonal balance, and this may interfere with certain hormones needed for sperm production.

Among all the factors responsible for low sperm count and therefore male infertility, stress is the most potent of them all. Apart from adopting wholesome dietary habits and lifestyles, managing stress and all forms of negative feelings and emotions – through healthy exercises, simple yoga, listening to soothing classical and healing music, etc., help immensely to cope with and effectively deal with male infertility.

Today, with the increased understanding of male infertility and some of the implicated factors, there are many other treatment options that can help men with fertility problems to become fathers. For example, the following tropical herbs have been found to be very useful not only in boosting sperm count, but also in enhancing sperm motility and correcting abnormal sperm morphology: Cissus populnea (“Ogbolo”in Yoruba): helps in increasing sperm count, sperm quality and the volume of

semen.

Mucuna pruriens (Velvet bean): stimulates the production of the male hormone (testosterone) and sperm cells; increases libido and corrects erectile dysfunction.

Telfaria occidentalis (Fluted pumpkin seed): increases sperm count and helps to balance the male hormone.

The extract from the leaves of this plant, mixed with milk, helps in correcting low sexual power.

Tapinanthus spp. (African mistletoe): helps in balancing hormones. A mixture of African mistletoe and “Stone breaker “(Phyllanthus nuriri) - used as tea, increases libido.

Zingiber officinale (Ginger tea): helps in improving blood circulation to male reproductive organs.

Also, it increases sperm count and libido.

Allium cepa (Onion) and Allium sativum( Garlic): A combination of these when extracted in non-alcoholic Grape wine is an effective antibiotic against Staphyllococcus aureus. The extract also improves sperm count.

Green Tea is a powerful antioxidant.

Other male fertility-enhancing herbs include: Astragalus membranaceus

(Astragalus root) - Increases sperm concentration, sperm motility, and therefore, enhances male fertility generally.

Smilax regelii (sarsaparilla) – enhances the production of male hormones.

Serenoa repens (Saw palmetto) – enhances the overall male reproductive health.

Lepidium peruvianum (Maca) – is useful in increasing libido, male sexual stamina and helps to produce quality sperm.

Panax ginseng (Chinese or Korean ginseng) is a general male reproductive tonic. Eleutherococcus senticosus (Siberian ginseng) increases penile firmness and testosterone levels, sperm count, and sperm motility.

Damiana and Gingko biloba - increase sexual desire (libido).

Sometimes, male infertility may be associated with sexual problems such as erectile dysfunction, premature ejaculation, spermatorrhoea (or involuntary ejaculation). In these conditions, any male reproductive rejuvenating tonic and aphrodisiac herb such as Almonds, Cinnamon, Cloves, Damiana, Garlic, Ginseng or Oat/stinging nettle may be added.

Centella asiatica (Gotu cola) is particularly beneficial because it promotes

adequate supply of blood and nutrients to the male organs and also helps to strengthen erection and enhances libido.

Fresh Ginger And Honey: In Ayurvedic medicine, a teaspoonful of fresh juice made from ginger is mixed with a spoonful of pure natural honey. This is then taken orally at bedtime with a half boiled egg for 30 days.

This preparation is one of the cheapest and safest remedies that have been proven to be very effective in reversing and preventing most of the problems associated with the male reproductive organs, e.g. sexual weakness, premature ejaculation, impotency, etc.

Intake of raw extract of fluted pumpkin leaves mixed with equal quantity of milk once daily for up to seven days will help in the treatment of minor erectile dysfunction or sexual weakness.

Also, a tincture of nutmeg and ginger made by allowing two crushed nutmegs and two fingers of ginger to stand in one bottle of brandy for up to 21 days; and two to three tablespoons of the tincture are taken at bedtime once daily will assist in the treatment of (spermatorrhoea or involuntary ejaculation).

Other means to improve sperm quan-

tity and quality include: - Reducing high scrotal temperature by avoiding wearing tight underwear, tight-fitting jogging paints and jeans, hot baths, saunas and spas, prolonged sitting in overheated vehicles, or working in a very hot environment, prolonged bicycling, etc., which may cause high scrotal temperature which has been shown to decrease sperm production.

- The presence of varicocele can increase scrotal temperature to the extent of inhibiting or arresting sperm production. In some cases, this condition may require surgical repairs.

However, periodic application of cold bath (or shower) or scrotal ice-bath, and regular bowel movement may prevent surgery.

- Limiting sexual activities to two or three times a week. Excessive episodes of intercourse are known to weaken the sperm sac, ultimately leading to low production of sperm cells with good quality.

-Avoiding exposure to environmental toxins, pesticides, insecticides, toxic chemicals like benzenes, toluene, xylene, lead, organic solvents, ionizing radiation, etc. – as these may contribute to low sperm counts.

- Avoiding the use of anabolic steroid (as this may shrink the testicles).

Drinking large amounts of alcohol and smoking tobacco are known to lower testosterone levels, reduce sex drive and cause decreased sperm production.

- All kinds of infections both past and present and fever should be treated adequately.

- Cold sitz baths may help men increase their sperm counts.

Alternating hot and cold sitz baths can improve pelvic circulation in both sexes.

- A healthy body weight should be maintained. Obesity can cause hormonal changes that can increase male infertility.

PetLife With Dr.Tunji Nasir

Aggression In Dogs HERE are various forms of aggression that T may be exhibited by dogs, and some of these are more readily understood than others.

Obviously, the most worrying from the owner’s point of view is aggression directed towards people, but it is also difficult if you own a dog that is continually fighting with other dogs.

On the whole, bitches are less inclined to be aggressive than male dogs and are more ready to accept a subordinate position in the household; but there are wide variations between individual animals. Some dogs are born with a placid disposition while others inherit dominant or assertive characteristics that can lead to aggressive behaviour.

Aggression can arise as a result of bad experiences at the hands of thoughtless or unkind people and a great deal depends on the dog’s early upbringing. An owner should endeavour to correct any form of aggressive behaviour, whether this is growling , barking or snapping, by speaking very severely to the dog and even giving a smack. The dog should be left in no doubt that its owner strongly disapproves of such behaviour.

Many dogs react in this way to people making deliveries, especially postal workers or other callers in uniforms, and this is a form of misplaced territorial aggression. The dog is guarding its home territory, and the behaviour is encouraged and reinforced in the animal’s mind because the person soon departs again.

Often, if the caller stands his or her ground and doesn’t feel intimidated, the dog backs off in confusion. Indeed, some dogs bark furiously

simply because they are themselves afraid and feel threatened.

Unfortunately, if the person on the receiving end of the dog’s behaviour feels frightened, the situation is usually made worse. It is not acceptable or desirable for your dog to cause fear and upset for people calling at your home. If, in spite of your best efforts, your dog continues to rush out furiously barking at the postman or other callers, you should ensure that it is always kept shut away from the front door.

(Of course, paradoxically, circumstances arise when this behaviour is useful and a home with a barking dog is far less likely to be burgled).

If a dog steps over the line of barking and growling and actually bites someone, this is a good deal more serious and the owner becomes involved in a most unpleasant situation. Unless there is a very good mitigating circumstance governing a particular incident, it may be necessary to have the dog painlessly put to sleep. This is certainly the case if you know that your dog cannot be trusted, especially when it is appre-

ciated that the people most commonly bitten and sometimes savaged are children. This is undoubtedly a hard and painful decision for the owner, who is likely to be fond of the dog, but it is the only correct solution.

A dog that is in great pain or extremely afraid may snap or bite, for instance on a visit to the veterinary surgery. It is best to avoid this possibility —- if you suspect that it might arise —by placing a muzzle on the dog. A muzzle can

be bought in a pet shop but one can also be improvised on the spot using tape, bandage or a strip of strong material.

Once a muzzle is in place, the owner can have more confidence in handling the dog and trying to calm it down, and the situation is less stressful for all concerned.

With excerpts from Encyclopaedia of Dog Care published by Geddes and Grosset 1999.

THE GUARDIAN, Saturday, March 23, 2013

44 FEATURE

HEALTHFEATURE

‘Scientific Research Should Be Devoid Of Sentiments, Politics’ The Director General of the Nigerian Institute of Medical Research (NIMR), Prof.

Innocent Ujah explains to JOSEPH OKOGHENUN why the world scientific community does not often take HIV cure claims of Nigerians seriously, saying scientific research should follow laid down processes and procedures.

How is Nigeria faring in health research?

S far as health research is concerned, we are doing our bit. But we could do better and we need to do better. Apart from the Nigerian Institute of Medical Research (NIMR), whose sole mandate is to carry out research for national development, the Nigerian Institute of Pharmaceutical Research and Development (NIPRD), colleges of medicine in universities and other organisations also carry out research at various levels. NIMR is however mandated to carry out basic, applied and operational research. We are doing the best we can within the environment in which we find ourselves.

NIMR has proven its mettle. It is a centre where the first case of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) was discovered in Nigeria in 1986, and NIMR participated in the generic research of antiretroviral (ARV) for people living with HIV/AIDS. It was a multi-country and multi-centre research. The after effect of that was that instead of using branded form of ARV which was very expensive, the generic form of ARV brought down the cost of treating HIV dramatically because it was established that the safety and effectiveness of generic ARV is the same with branded version. In that case, NIMR did its bit.

We are currently tracking the possible resistant to ARVs by the virus. NIMR is the only centre in Nigeria that has the International Standard Organisation (ISO) certification in its human virology laboratory, where we track and do genetic studies of HIV. NIMR acts as national reference laboratory for tuberculosis (TB) and we are doing a lot in Prof. Ujah multi-drug resistant TB. One of our laboratories is being upgraded to bio-safety level-3 limelight that ARV could be used as prevencourtesy of Family Health International (FHI), tive strategy in the treatment as prevention to help us research further into the genetics strategy. I believe that with time, we would of multi-drug resistant TB so that when the find the cure. bacteria-causing TB would no longer respond But while researchers are doing their best, to first line treatment, we could easily switch the public needs to be aware of the value of to alternatives. research because it is easy to ask what we We have just acquired a machine in researchers are doing in health research. response to national prevalence of cancer of The question should rather be what is our the cervix. This machine is to screen meminvestment in research and what is the pribers of the public free of charge of human vate sector’s contribution to research in papiloman virus (HPV) - the virus that causes Nigeria? Research should not be funded by cervical cancer, which is the second comonly government. America’s Bill Gate, who is monest cancer among women. Getting this funding a lot of health and social research machine to screen our women for human globally, is not a government official. The papillomavirus (HPV) would help us to char- private sector needs to invest in research acterise the virus. At the moment, it is only generally because research drives developsub-type 16 and 18 that could be vaccinated ment. against. We need to study the sub-types we Every Nigerian is concerned that we have have in Nigeria so that we can know whether not found a cure for HIV. But what is our there is difference in what is reported in investment to the cure of HIV? The cure is a other parts of the world with that of Nigeria. process; we are not relenting. We are interIf there are differences, we want to know facing with other researchers globally. Some what could be the factors : Environmental, of these things are not just done in one instigenetic or otherwise . We are also expanding tution. Efforts are on. We are saying very our human virology laboratory to be able soon, Nigeria as well as other parts of the carry out cutting edged research in maternal world would be AIDS-free. If we work health TB and HIV. By and large, we are doing towards that we would probably have a the best can. cure.

In order to ensure we meet our objectives, Even the recent announcement of ‘HIV we now have effective e-library to ensure that functional cure’ from John Hopkins our researchers catch up with what is hapUniversity in the United States is a pointer to pening globally. immediate possible HIV cure. We are told With all these achievements, we should by through that breakthrough, that through now be talking of HIV breakthrough or cure from Nigeria since we have one of the highest cases of the disease globally, and in view of the recent ‘HIV functional’ cure?

Research for HIV cure is in progress. Research is not done in a day. It could take over 30 years to look at the possible cure for HIV. It was only last two years that it came to the

A

ARV, there could be functional cure for a newborn baby. We are looking at it and we are excited about the breakthrough. That is a window we need to explore. But it is important to appreciate the process. The beauty of research is that it is reproducible.

Was the issue of reproducibility the reason Nigerian medical scientists shouted Prof.

Isaiah Ibeh of the University of Benin (UNIBEN) down when he announced in January that he had found possible cure for HIV? It is not appropriate to say we shouted Prof.

Ibeh down. Science is not about sentiments; science is about facts. It has protocol and processes. The John Hopkins University findings did not go to the press to make the announcement. What the scientists did was to do their work, present it at a scientific conference, I am sure, at various levels. It is in a scientific sessions scientists would ask questions. It is not enough to say one has possible cure for HIV. Ibeh claims to be using herbs for his HIV cure. The questions that arise are, was the level of toxicity and safety of those herbs established? What was the protocol used? Did he get ethical approval? The last question is very important because researchers cannot use any drug on human beings without ethical approval. We all remember the outcome of the Trovan tragedy in Kano. We must follow scientific process.

What we are saying is that if one claims to

The problem is that Nigerians are very sentimental to ask for facts.

Science is not politics. We would be very proud to see a Nigerian develop a cure for HIV. But if the process is wrong, we would be laughed at in the international world.

cure an ailment, what was the process. Ibeh made that announcement without the knowledge of his faculty and colleagues. The proper thing he was supposed to do was to present the possible cure to his faculty or college, from the college to the university community, from the university community to a national conference and from then to international conference. That is how it is done. It is like Mathematics where one may get the answer and fail if one did not follow the process and procedure. That is what science is about.

In early 2000, I was the one who led the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) delegation to Dr. Jeremiah Abalaka when he said he was curing HIV/AIDS. We told him that he could not. I was mandated by NMA to look at the set up and interact with him to find out whether the set up was possible to cure HIV. Having interacted with him, we said we did not think he could cure HIV. Nigerians shouted Nigerian doctors down and said we did not believe in Abalaka because we could not cure the virus.

Today, what is the outcome? If by 2000, Abalaka announced the cure HIV, why are we excited about the John Hopkins University? It means that by now, HIV would have gone off the face of the earth. We do not want emotion, sentiment and politics to be to be brought into science. Science is devoid of politics.

We believe that what Ibeh was supposed to have done, he did not do it. Till date, he has not come out to say that what he said stands. If he felt he was right, he should have said ‘I am going to present this work for the scientific world to know what I have done.’ What has become of his findings?

The problem is that Nigerians are very sentimental to ask for facts. Science is not politics. We would be very proud to see a Nigerian develop a cure for HIV. But if the process is wrong, we would be be laughed at in the international world.

THE GUARDIAN, Saturday, March 23, 2013

45

DEVELOPMENT

‘Ikere Gorge Dam Must Not Die’

Ikere Gorge Dam

Ikere Gorge Dam is about 35 kilometers to Iseyin, Oyo State.

Apart from fishing and irrigation, the dam can generate six megawatts of electricity that can be linked to the national grid.

Mr. Emmanuel Oke, the vice chairman of Iseyin Elders’ Council spoke to DEBO OLADIMEJI on why the government should revive the dam.

HY your present agitation for the revival W of Ikere Dam? As the vice chairman of Iseyin Elders’ Council which was inaugurated by our Monarch, Oba Adekunle Salau, two years ago, I have been in the vanguard of trying to see that Ikere Gorge Dam does not die.

Since 2004 I have been in that crusade. But my present position gives me a good opportunity to actually intensify my efforts to actualize my dream that Ikere Gorge Dam must not die.

That is why I have been telling the government of Federal Republic of Nigeria to revive this dam. It is designed for electricity generation. It can produce six megawatts of electricity. As far back as 1983, the project was awarded to a French company to produce electricity.

Subsequently, it was abandoned. The irrigation farm which the former president Olusegun Obasanjo commissioned in 2006 has never functioned. This is probably due to error during the start of the execution of the project. We are trying to request our government to ensure the irrigation farm is not dead.

This will also provide jobs to our youths.

A lot has been said about agriculture. It does not take long to produce rice. The dam was designed to have an irrigation farm of about 3000 hectares. It was meant to help Nigerians to produce more food and vegetables.

Are there access roads to the dam?

Today, there is no good road leading to Ikere Gorge Dam. The road that was constructed by the farmers remains there till today.

Before the road became so bad so many institutions and universities used to go there for excursions. We appeal to the Federal Government to make sure that the Ikere Gorge Dam becomes one of the tourists havens in Nigeria. We also want the government to re-assess the electricity capability of Ikere Gorge Dam. If Akosombo Damin Ghana could produce 1,200 magawatts of electricity, Ikere Gorge Dam could do something similar or even better. A natural dam cannot be compared to an artificial one.

What is the government now saying about the dam?

The Minister of Water Resources, Mrs. Sarah Reng Ochekpe, has been so fantastic. The two times we met her, She has attended to us. She even promised during our last visit that she would arrange fingerlings in millions to be dropped into this big dam. But then there is a problem: the dam is so expansive that the supervision may not be thorough. The fishermen should be educated not to use nets that will only catch fingerlings and subsequently destroy the intention of the minister.

Recently, we noted that there is a pivot irrigation farm coming up. Pivot irrigation farm is now coming up. But this is so small for the people in the area.

There is potential for market and tourism. The Federal Government has previously built chalets that could house tourists.

You can go on the dam for about 40 kilometers. It is a natural gorge. Our main issue at that time was to appeal to the federal government to make sure that the access road leading to the dam is constructed. It will encourage first of all tourism. I had personally taken many students to the place before. But today, you can not go there because of bad roads.

I have been to Akosombo Dam in Ghana two times. It is about two and half hours by road from Accra city. Villages are springing up. Even at the back of Akosombo Dam, there is a commerce bank. Tourists from all over the world are now going there. The same thing can happen to Ikere Gorge Dam. If the road leading to the place is made motorable.

What has been the efforts of the government to develop the place?

The Western Nigerian Development Corporation, through Chief Obafemi Awolowo, discovered the dam and eventually transferred it to the Federal Government around 1950-51. Then the Western Nigerian Development Corporation also developed a big farm there by relocating the inhabi-

even produce electricity for a city as big as Abeokuta. What is the consumption of diesel they will need? They will need a minimum of 2000 litre of diesel for 8 hours farming .

The owner of the dam is the Ministry of Water Resources. It is from there that all efforts will be going out.

Can the private sector also invest in the project?

Yes, but before the private sector comes in, the Federal Government has to do the visibility study of the place. We are glad that even the minister mentioned that private participation will be encouraged on or before the end of this year.

Foreign and local investors may be interested to come and salvage the dam. The place is very peaceful. There is a peaceful interpersonal relationship between the people in the community and other ethnic groups fishing in the area. At the dam we have the people from Benue, Taraba, Ijaw living there and fishing peacefully.

So when are you going back to do a follow-up with the minister?

We are trying to collaborate with Ogun-Osun River Basin Development Authority. That is the Federal Government parastatal in charge of this dam. There activities have brought about the Oke pivot irrigation farm in the area, our only plea is for them to expand the project. tants. I do not know whether any farmer was Many of our retired officers are trying to go back compensated with ten kobo ever since. home. We have solders among them who are The starting point was very good. During the interested in farming. We need enough land for Awolowo period, there was a big farm. That irrigation. But with just 20 hectares of land for could be compared to even in Argentina irrigation, it is just not enough for the farmers. It where meat production is their major main- is a starting point but we appeal to the governstay. Around 1966, which I know very well, ment to see to it that people in this area are gainthere were about 10,000 herds of cattle in this fully employed. area. There was also a large cashew plantaThe land is good for planting tomatoes. cucumtion. And it is a product of delight needed ber, water melon which can easily flow to Lagos.

What do you think the state government can do? everywhere in the world. The oil and every other thing that can come out of it is very The state government, through the dam, can good. provide water for the whole of Oke Ogun. The Why are you just waking up in letting the gov- dam was meant to provide pipe-borne water in ernment know your ordeal? those days to about four local governments. The We have been helpless. There have been no problem is that water is not a sort of priority to political will. The irrigation project started as the government because many people now make early as 1983. About three thousand hectare use of water from well and boreholes. I think it is has been irrigated. There must be an error in a national issue. the process, because no irrigation farm can be The water level at Ikere Gorge Dam is about 38 effectively monitored on diesel generator. metres deep. Akosombo Dam is 36 metres. If Generators were to be used to provide water there is the political will, Ikere Gorge Dam could for irrigation. be expanded at least three times.

By that time diesel was about three naira per It is a natural fortune for human beings to enjoy. litre or even less. When these caterpillar gen- It is about six miles wide and 10 miles long. It is erators were purchased. One of them can the source of Ogun River.

46 YourMoney

THE GUARDIAN, Saturday, March 23, 2013

BRANDINTELLIGENCE

With DESMOND EKEH desmondekeh@yahoo.com; 08023215535

By Abiodun Obisesan HE modern day Nigerian consumers have T had to deal with varying degrees of insensitivity and blatant disregard from the market forces within the supply chain such as producers, distributors, and even retailers over the years.

Consumers are often at the mercy of market forces and without any form of compensation for poorly delivered utility services or damaged goods; he is at the receiving end of these forces.

Sadly, the concept of consumerism is virtually non-existent or moribund in the marketing mix in the country.

Basically, consumerism is used to refer to the type of activism which seeks to educate consumers on the need to insist from producers and sellers, basic consumer rights like honest packaging and advertising, product guarantees, and improved safety standards. At various points in human history, consumerism as a socio-economic instrument for the holistic well being of a nation has been advocated by intellectuals, human activists, Non-Government Organisations, and well-meaning governments.

On March 15, 1962, United States President John F. Kennedy delivered a historic address to the U. S. Congress in which he outlined his vision of consumer rights. This was the first time any politician had formerly set out such principles.

Kennedy, in his Congressional statement revealed that consumers “are the largest economic group, affecting and affected by almost every public and private economic decision. Yet they are the only important group whose views are often not heard.” After this powerful consumer-centred presentation by Kennedy, the international community picked March 15 every year as World Consumer Day. To mark this special day, and in pursuit of an equitable consumer conscious and brand friendly Nigerian society, the Brand Journalists Association of Nigeria, (BJAN) last weekend organised a special colloquium with the theme “Is Consumer Rights the Most Violated in Nigeria—The Role of Regulators.” The epochmaking event, which also marked the formal inauguration of the new executives of the association, provided stakeholders in strategic consumer related agencies the opportunity to suggest ways to address the challenges faced by hapless Nigerian consumers.

Present at the event were the Chairman, National Institute of Marketing in Nigeria, Chief Lugard Aimuwu; Chairman, Advertising Practitioners Council of Nigeria, Lolu Akinwunmi; President of Advertiser’s Association of Nigeria, Kola Oyeyemi; DirectorGeneral (DG) of National Association for Food and Drug Administration and Control, Dr. Paul Orhii, represented by Mr. N.S. Momodu; DG, Standards Organisation of Nigeria, Dr. Joseph Odumodu, represented by Mr. Louis Njoku; President of Association of Advertising Agencies of Nigeria, Bunmi Oke; and Director-General of Consumers Protection Council, Mr. Emmanuel Amlai, represented by Legal Advisor/Board Secretary of CPC, Mr. Emmanuel Ataguba. They all took time to speak on consumer rights protection in Nigeria.

The immediate past Chairman of BJAN, Mrs. Neta Nwosu, set the tone for the discourse by asserting that basic consumer rights are virtually non-existent in the country. “Just go to the open market where almost 90 per cent of Nigerians patronise. If you are lucky to discover a defect you are in trouble. If you take it back to the seller his reply is predictable—that was how I bought it too. So, what happens is that your money is lost, except you are prepared to engage him in a fist-cuff which you will definitely lose,” she explained.

In his speech, Mr. Emmanuel Ataguba, who represented the Director-General of Consumers Protection Council, Mr. Emmanuel Amlai, acknowledged that consumer rights are indeed the most violated right in Nigeria. He revealed that the biggest factor militating against the promotion of consumer rights is the level of poverty and inadequate legislation.

“Let’s consider access to basic essential goods and services; more than 85 per cent of our popu-

Chairman, National Institute of Marketing in Nigeria, Chief Lugard Aimuwu.

President of Advertiser’s Association of Nigeria, Kola Oyeyemi.

Consumer Rights Protection: When Nigerian Stakeholders Gathered To Chart New Path lation does not have adequate food, clothing and shelter. Our health care system is deplorable.

Education, public utilities, water and sanitation are also in deplorable state. Consider the right to choice and the ability to select from a range of products and services, offered at competitive prices with an assurance of satisfactory quality.

Nigeria does not have a competition law and policy, hence, consumer’s right of choice is greatly limited,” he said He enumerated eight globally recognised rights of consumers to include the right to satisfaction of basic needs, the right to safety, the right to be informed, the right to choose, the right to be heard, the right to redress, the right to consumer education, and the right to a healthy environment.

Director, Laboratory Services of the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON), Mr. Louis Njoku, who represented the DG, while highlighting the challenges the agency faces in ensuring that Nigerian consumers are protected from unscrupulous importers and exporters, said most Nigerian consumers shy away from reporting cases of manufacturers who are producing illegal and fake products. He said: “Most Nigerian consumers don’t report to appropriate authorities.

Government agencies are not spirits. They only act on complaints. Consumers are part of the ecosystem. Consumers patronise fake products and shield producers.”

He said SON has put in place a system that addresses consumer complaints and ensures redress within one week. He added that failure of the consumers to make complaints often render the agency helpless.

Njoku cited cases of fraudulent labeling which most consumers fail to read and confirm the authenticity before buying most products especially imported electronics.

“Some generators are produced with 100KVA whereas they are labeled 240KVA. How many consumers read label of products? A lot of work has to be done by consumers. The government agencies have done a lot but consumers are not complaining,” he said.

To the President of Advertiser’s Association of Nigeria, Mr. Kola Oyeyemi, both Nigerian consumers and regulatory bodies are not helping matters. “We are all culpable. This is a case of corporate culpability. I see a lot of showmanship by government regulatory bodies designed to convince the public that they are working. What percentage of fake imported products into the country gets noticed?

Somebody stamped it at the port and gave approval before it came in, such person should be punished for it,” he noted.

Oyeyemi posited that the media has a responsibility to educate the consumers, stating that “the revolution of consumerism in Nigeria started from mobile phone and now to the social media. So, consumers can now use the digital space to embarrass insensitive manufactures. We need education. We need self-regulation.”

NAFDAC’s Director of Ports Inspection Directorate, Momodu-Serigu, who represented the DG of NAFDAC, however, disagreed with Oyeyemi on the alleged ineffectiveness of regulatory bodies.

He said: “Government cannot approve such products. As a government agency we have been using modern technology such as NAFDAC TRUCAN, to checkmate counterfeiters. We are narrowing down a situation where people can use their mobile phones to detect counterfeiting. We are coming out with some softwares to prevent going there with physical presence.

We have started with drugs. We hope to spread

it to all products.”

On his part, the chairman of APCON, Mr. Lolu Akinwunmi noted that government set up the various consumer protection agencies because consumer protection is a big issue. While highlighting the role of APCON in protecting consumer’s right, Akinwunmi said APCON has ensured that all advertising and promotion messages are vetted. He disclosed that currently, there is about 70 per cent compliance to the rule.

Akinwunmi said: “The government set up the various consumer protection agencies because consumer protection is a big issue. The role of APCON is to ensure that consumer’s right is protected. APCON is to ensure that there is faithfulness in the message. In Nigeria we have about 70 per cent compliance in advert vetting. Most of the companies even government complies in vetting their products or campaigns.”

Against the backdrop that close cooperation among relevant government agencies is needed to protect the rights of Nigerian consumers, President/Chairman of governing council, National Institute of Marketing Nigeria (NIMN), Lugard Aimiuwu, who moderated the discourse said there is need for collaboration among various consumer groups and regulators, adding that self-regulation will drive the consumer movement in Nigeria.

“Self-regulation will also drive the consumer movement. Nigerian consumers are sensitive.

They can cite a change in products. But what happens? The awareness of consumer rights triggers CSR. It is the same that led to the concept of marketing from sales orientation of producers. Collaboration among various consumer groups and regulators is very essential. The social media platform is a new movement for consumers to address.”

Ekolu Group Repositions Goya Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Highlights Nutritional Benefits LTHOUGH research has shown that Goya sumers in developed countries as it contains no A Extra Virgin Olive Oil controls over 95 per cholesterol. So, we want to educate everyone in cent of the Olive oil market for spiritual activities the Nigeria market, to make them see the health in Nigeria, Ekolu Group, handlers of product in the Nigeria Market are bent on reshaping its place in the marketplace.

According to the Marketing Manager of Ekulo International Ltd, Emeka Oramadike, the company has “decided to market Goya Extra Virgin so that Nigerians can look beyond the spiritual use”.

In Oramadike’s words, “Olive oil is one of the best cooking oils used by enlightened con-

benefits of using Olive oil to cook their meals”.

Explaining further, Oramadike said that though most Nigerian homes make do with palm oil and various types of vegetable and groundnut oils, experts have revealed that the health benefits of Olive oil surpasses all other kinds of cooking oil.

“Olive oil reduces the risk of coronary heart disease because it has a high proportion of monounsaturated fats and also contains antioxidants such as vitamin E and carrotenoids. Unlike satu-

rated fats, it lowers total cholesterol and lowdensity lipoprotein (LDL) levels in the blood. It is also known to lower blood sugar levels and blood pressure.

“Besides its nutritional value, Olive oil is equally used as a panacea for various skin problems such as dry skin, itches and burns. It is also used to treat dandruff and other dermatological issues that people all over the world contend with. All these benefits and more are inherent in every pack of Goya Extra Virgin Olive Oil”.

According to him, Goya Extra Virgin Olive Oil is available to all strata of income earners. “It

comes in 89ml, 250ml, 500ml bottles and 1 litre and 3 litres tins. The product is obtained from the olive fruit, a traditional tree crop of the Mediterranean basin. It is produced by grinding whole olives and extracting the oil by mechanical means. It is commonly used in cooking, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals and soaps. It is also used as a fuel for traditional oil lamps. Olive oil is used throughout the world. “Virgin” attached to olive oil connotes that the oil was produced by the use of physical means with no chemical additives.”

YourMoney 47

THE GUARDIAN, Saturday, March 23, 2013

BRANDNEWS

BRANDINTELLIGENCE

Nick Imudia Is Nokia’s Managing Director For West, Central Africa

CAP Plc Unveils ‘Indigo Night’ As 2013 Colour Of The Year

OKIA has announced the appointment of Nick Imudia as Managing Director for its West and Central Africa operations.

Covering a territory that includes Nigeria, Ghana, Ivory Coast, Cameroon, Liberia, Chad, Niger, Benin and Togo, Imudia will be based in the Nokia office in Lagos.

Imudia joined Nokia in 1998 and has held several senior positions within the organisation over the past 15 years, including Senior Manager for Retail IT Products and Systems, based out of Singapore; Director of Consumer and Marketing Solutions and Head of Sales and Marketing Solutions.

Prior to his move to West Africa, Imudia was based in Finland as Director for the Sales and Marketing Capability Unit, a role in which he held global responsibility for all of the processes, tools and systems for the Nokia Sales and Marketing function.

In his new role, Imudia will assume overall responsibility for driving the Nokia business in West Central Africa, managing the local team to deliver on sales, marketing, customer care, logistics, retail execution and developer engagement. In line with the global Nokia strategy, Imudia will focus on delivering great mobile products and services to its customers and consumers.

N its bid to continue to contribute to the living standard of its consumers and in line with the Dulux global tradition, Chemical and Allied Products (CAP) Plc, a subsidiary of UACN Plc and the technological licensee of AkzoNobel, world’s largest paints and coatings company and manufacturers of Dulux premium brand of paint, has unveiled the 2013 Colour of the Year tagged ‘Indigo Night’.

The 2013 colour of the year was unveiled at an elaborate ceremony, which was recently held at the Golden Tulip Hotel, Festac Town, Lagos.

The event was attended by the company’s key stakeholders including key distributors, dealers, and top echelon of the UACN group.

Speaking at the event, the Group Managing Director, UACN Plc, Mr. Larry Ettah disclosed that the celebration of the Dulux colour of the year has become a global trend, which is adding colours and

N

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values to lives. He noted that the Dulux Colour of the Year is a concept that reinforces Dulux as a global authority in colour.

Ettah stressed further that with over 12,000 colours, Dulux is established as the custodian of knowledge in the area of colours with the objective of helping customers realise their wellbeing. “Dulux has consistently and innovatively introduced different colours to its customers worldwide over the years,” he said.

Also speaking at the event, the Managing Director, Chemical and Allied Products (CAP) Plc, Mrs. Omolara Elemide revealed that ‘Indigo Night’ emerged the Dulux 2013 Colour of the Year after the annual meeting of the Aesthetic Centre of AkzoNobel with an international group of creative experts from the fields of colour, design, architecture and fashion, who deliberated and decided that the colour shade will be dominantly used globally during the year based on trends in colour.

LG Donates To Agodo Health Centre G Electronics, a global Ltronics leader in consumer electook its Corporate

Imudia

Accenture Seeks More Leadership Roles For Women HE skills and capabilities women offer various multi-nationT als and indigenous companies cannot be over emphasised and should be recognised and nurtured.

Accenture, a multinational management, consulting, technology services and outsourcing company canvassed this position.

The organisation, which ranks as one of the world’s largest consulting firm measured by revenue, said it is interested in growing the numbers of women leaders around the globe and demonstrating commitment to the potential and the possibility for advancement, particularly in market-facing leadership positions.

“The skills, capabilities and value that women bring to the table are critical to a company’s success,” the firm said in a documentary commemorating the 2013 International Women’s Day, adding that as an organisation, it is obligated to offer women leadership opportunities so it can attract, retain and ultimately, advance them.

According to the firm, a woman’s ability to define and achieve her goals and to evolve them over time creates the opportunity to pursue and integrate career, personal interests and responsibilities.

“We strive to help our women access the global network to develop their plans, evolve them appropriately during different life stages, have confidence to ask for the next role and take risks along the way,” the firm said.

NBC Restates Commitment To SOS Children’s Village

Social responsibility (CSR) drive a step further when it visited Agodo Health Centre in Egbe-Ikotun, Lagos where it donated some units of the recently introduced LG antiMosquito air conditioners as well as treated mosquito nets to the health centre.

The organisation embarked on this gesture in order to enhance health care and fight the scourge of malaria, which has been recognised as the biggest killer of pregnant women as well as children under five years.

At the event, LG Electronics representatives interacted with members of the community as well as the health centre management team. The donated items are expected to meet the needs of the centre in their quest to provide people in the area with quality health care.

Alagodo of Agodo, Oba Dr. Mudashiru Odejobi (left); Supervisor for Health, Egbe-Idimu LCDA, Mr. Jimmy Bello; Managing Director, Fouani Nigeria Limited, Mr. Mohammed Fouani; General Manager, Air Conditioning and Energy Solutions, LG Electronics West Africa Operations, Mr. Junhwa Jeong; and Marketing Director, LG Electronics West Africa Operations, Mr. Charles Asinugo during the presentation of the items to Agodo Health Centre in Egbe…recently.

Mouka Introduces Mattress Swap Initiative

IGERIAN Bottling Company Limited (NBC), bottlers of prodN line with its corporate phiN ucts of The Coca-Cola Company in Nigeria, has reaffirmed its commitment to the welfare and upbringing of children Ilosophy of adding comfort to life through good restora-

across the country with its gesture to the Children of ‘House Number Three’ at the SOS Children’s Village, Isolo, Lagos.

The company restated its commitment to the well being of the children as it presented a cheque to cover the children’s school fees and up-keep for another year.

NBC had adopted House Number Three at the SOS Village, Isolo, and has been responsible for the payment of the children’s school fees, their up-keep and other welfare issues in the last nine years.

At the formal ceremony to present the cheque and Coca-Cola products to the Village, Communications Manager, NBC, Yomi Onakoya said the company was at the Village to fulfill its promise of providing the annual fund for the children’s school fees, feeding, clothing and other welfare needs.

“As a company, we believe in youth development because it is the quality of investment you make in the children and the youth today that will determine the leadership you get tomorrow,” she explained.

Onakoya added that NBC always seeks out avenues to impact lives and contribute to the well being of the communities in which it operates.

Speaking at the occasion, General Manager, Air conditioning and Energy Solutions, LG Electronics, Mr. Junhwa Jeong said: “We have deemed it fit to donate the recently introduced LG Anti-mosquito AC and treated mosquito nets to Agodo Health Centre in order to combat the scourge of malaria. We constantly intend to carry out this sort of initiative in order to drive home the point that we are indeed a caring organisation that is dedicated to meeting the peculiar needs of our teeming consumers.”

Speaking further, he said: “I would like to reiterate that LG Electronics is committed to supporting institutions that maintain and improve society.

We are further going to expand our work in Nigeria by initiating and adopting transformational CSR activities that will add value to the lives of individuals and communities.”

tive sleep, Mouka Limited has launched a mattress Swap initiative that allows its customers to replace their old mattresses with new ones at a discounted rate.

The initiative, which will last for three weeks between March 8 and 29, 2013, is part of activities to mark the World Sleep Day 2013. The scheme is open from 10 a.m. to 4pm daily from Monday to Saturday.

Explaining how the concept works, Head of Commercial, Mouka Limited, Mr. Jude Abonu said, “the swap initiative gives consumers an opportunity to experience comfort without a significant disruption to cash flow sim-

ple. Customers are expected to bring their old mattresses to our Head office at The Comfort Zone, Plot M, Awosika Avenue, Ikeja Industrial Estate, the mattress will be weighed to determine its value, and the consumer is then issued with a discount voucher which will be redeemed instantly to purchase a new mattress at a reduced cost.

According to Abonu, the opportunity is not restricted to only Mouka products. “The coupon will be of the amount that the old mattress is worth and the customer will then add the balance of the price of the particular Mouka product that he or she want, be it Royal, Regal, Legend, Flora or Regina,” Abonu said.

Panabiz, NEC Partner For Telecoms Services ANABIZ International Limited, leading provider in office P automation solutions has entered into a strategic partnership agreement with NEC Unified Solutions, a division of NEC,

the world’s leading provider of telecom, video conferencing, PABX, IP telephony, call centre & enterprise business solutions.

Together, they will deliver integrated communications solutions to medium and large organisations in Nigeria.

NEC Unified Solutions specialises in providing communications solutions to small, medium and large enterprises in both the private and public sectors. These solutions incorporate the latest voice, data and video technologies, using both desktop and mobile endpoints, and enable real-time, collaborative working, increased productivity and significantly improved customer satisfaction.

According to General Manager, Panabiz International Limited, Diwakar Yadavalli, the partnership with NEC is a logical step towards their ambitious growth strategy and would give further credence to the company’s vision of being the best Office Automation Solutions provider in Nigeria.

Yadavalli explained that the partnership affords Panabiz the opportunity to grow and expand its business in Nigeria especially in the large enterprise market segment where NEC also plays a significant role.

He stated that the telecom portfolio of NEC provides an exceptionally strong offering in the area of Unified Communications and mobility.

“This partnership is a convergence of two leaders for a strong and revolutionary business relationship. It is a strategic partnership that would provide great business opportunities for both companies as Panabiz would introduce a major global player ‘NEC’ into Nigeria and would be its sole representative in the country,” he said.

Coca-Cola, IFC To Finance Women Entrepreneurs Initiative HE Coca-Cola Company and International Finance T Corporation (IFC), a member of the World Bank Group, recently announced a $100 million, three-year joint initiative to provide access to finance for women entrepreneurs in Eurasia and Africa.

The collaboration builds on the synergies between Coca-Cola’s 5by20 women’s economic empowerment initiative and IFC’s Banking on Women programme to help address barriers women entrepreneurs commonly face in some of the world’s poorest countries.

IFC will work through its network of local and regional banking institutions to provide financing and business skills training to small and medium sized businesses that are owned or operated by women entrepreneurs across the Coca-Cola value chain.

“Women entrepreneurs make significant contributions to emerging and developing economies, yet have lower access to finance than their male counterparts. By providing greater access to capital, we are investing in our own success and the success of the communities we serve. We are excited about this opportunity to harness the collective power of our organisations to positively impact women in Eurasia and Africa,” President of Eurasia and Africa Group, The Coca-Cola Company, Nathan Kalumbu said.

Hypo Bleach Partners Lagos State On Polio Immunisation ULTIPRO Enterprises Limited, makers of Hypo Super Bleach, M has once again partnered with the Lagos State Ministry of Health in this year’s Polio Immunisation Plus Days Campaign, which was flagged off at Ipaja Mini Stadium, Ayobo-Ipaja Local Council Development Area (LCDA) recently.

The National Immunisation Plus Days (NIPDs) campaign, which has been carried out in Nigeria since 2006, serves as one of the core strategies for improving immunisation activities in Nigeria.

This would be done by combining the usage of the fixed posts, house-to-house and transit teams for the delivery of multiple antigens (e.g. BCG, OPV, Pentavalent, Measles, Yellow Fever, HBV, etc.) on the days set aside for mass campaign.

Speaking at the Flag off ceremony, Senior Sales Manager, MultiPro Enterprises Limited, Mr. Jude Nzeata, said the National Immunisation Plus Days is an opportunity for Hypo to fulfil its social responsibility to the society. He also emphasised the fact that ensuring the good health and hygiene of the people is one of the core concerns of the organisation.

“The National Immunization Plus Days provides us with the platform to reach millions of children who are in dire need of a proper health care services. In line with this, we have made millions of Hypo Bleach sachets available for distribution both here at the flag off ceremony and at every Primary Health Centre within the 20 LGAs and 37 LCDAs through the course of the program and also delivering proper counsel about the importance of immunisation and hygiene,” he added.

Governor Fashola of Lagos State (second left) with key participants at the Hypo powered vaccination programme…recently.

48 |

THE GUARDIAN, Saturday, March 23, 2013

NEWSMAKER turn them to cakes. But looking at other person’s cakes inspires your normal cake decorators. To me, it is just like repeating the same style over and over again.”

His love for fashion has faded away or better put, it is off the list for now. But he does bread, which is independent of the cake business.

“I dropped fashion long ago but I am also into bread business, Topcrust Bakery Limited.

The aim is to provide quality bread at affordable rates. The bakery currently produces about 16,000 loaves daily for consumers in Lagos State.”

Jemade has also developed “sugar free” cake for diabetic patients.

At present, Jemade is looking forward to spreading his frontiers. “We have a lot in the pipeline this year and forthcoming years,” he stresses.

Jemade is not only after business; he is also concerned about the lots of the Nigerian child.

Cakes by Tosan in partnership with LEAP Africa concluded a training session last month. The focus is secondary school students and children from non-privileged background.

“We want to identify the talented ones in cake decoration. We are going to give them room for internship, train them, and allow them to start their own businesses.

“We also partner with Lagos State Government in their skill acquisition center.

They bring in trainees from their skill acquisition center and we pass some skills to them.”

He is restless. At weekends, he works. When there is holiday, celebration often happens to be the next thing. And when they are celebrating, he says they demand for cakes, “which means that we cannot observe holidays.”

But when he squeezes out time on weekends, he likes to spend it with his four kids and wife.

He also unwinds on Mondays when everyone is at work.

He cherishes marriage though tags himself an “old school.”

He says “marriage is enjoyable but there must be a lot of sacrifices from both sides. But we can never have two captains on the ship.

There is always chaos when there is a battle for control in a marriage. You have to be dynamic in marriage and the two parties must understand the reasons they came together.”

The Delta State indigene advises younger ones to brace up because there is no easy way up. In attaining dreams, he says there are no shortcuts.

“You must be prepared to work hard. In the past I had lost a lot of sleep but now I can delegate people to pick up jobs ...”

Sometime after the death of his mother, the task of baking his elder brother’s wedding cake fell on Tosan Jemide. His late mum, Rose, was a skilled baker and the young Jemide was always around her. He did not just successfully bake his brother’s cake but he has since grown to be one of the finest bakers in Africa. In a chat with The Guardian, he shares with VICTOR OLUSOLA how it all began.

HO says handiwork cannot take you to the W zenith? Definitely, such a person needs to take a coaching class from Tosan Jemide alias “Cake Boss.” He has grown in leaps and bound, with his inventiveness in the bakery and sugar craft industry.

In March 2011, he participated at the Squires Kitchen 25th Annual Exhibition in the United Kingdom where he created a life-size African woman cake, which highlighted the African Iteskiri culture to the international audience.

Also, some weeks ago at the International cake event in Manchester, United Kingdom, Cakes

by Tosan won the Gold medal for the category it competed for and the Overall winner for the year 2012. Last year, he won the award for the best cake design at the George Kerry Life Foundation Christmas charity and cake auction for cervical cancer.

Though his passion for baking started quietly as a hobby, he says, it got more interesting along the way.

Jemide recalls: “I was always helping my mother to do stuffs while baking, but it was never something I took serious till my elder brother was getting married years back in 1986. Before my mother died, she had done so many wedding cakes and my brother insisted we were not going to pay for any wedding cake,” Immediately, all fingers were pointed at Jemide since he had always worked with their mum in her days. Though he had never baked on his own, he took up the challenge.

He says: “I got the flower, sugar and other ingredients, put them together and, to my surprise, it came out fine. That was in 1986.”

From then, Friends and family would call on him to make cakes.

Known today as the “Cake Boss,” all Tosan thinks about now is making cakes and coming out with the best.

“I am passionate about it. When I wake up every morning, one thing or the other inspires me.”

But as a kid, he was never sure of what he wanted to become. At some point, he wanted to become a pilot and at another, he sought to become a lawyer. However, Jemide’s power lies in his hands. While young, he was very creative, good with his hands and had an eye for beauty.

After graduation from university with a degree in sociology, he had taken to fashion; but almost by chance he has found himself in the cake world.

He is full of gratitude to his late mother whom he said brought up her children in such a way that they can do any domestic work.

“I have three brothers and one sister. We had to learn to cook, wash dishes and clean the house. So, it was not new to me. If my mother was not around, it was easy for anybody to cook.”

His dad, Isaac Jemide, on his part, was strict making sure that everybody at home abided by the rules. But when Jemide looks back he thanks God for having such a father. Though wealthy, his father did not believe in pampering his children. As a father, he provided the basic things and left all the nurturing to their mother.

“We tagged him a wicked man ... But he taught us how to be contented, how to adapt to different situations and values. The luxury most rich parents gave their children we did not get,” Jemide explains.

Jemide was born and raised in Warri, Delta State, but moved to Lagos during and after his National Youth Service Corps (NYSC). He attended Federal Government College Warri before proceeding to University of Ibadan where he studied Sociology and graduated in 1990.

According to him, he left Nigeria for the United Kingdom in 1996. At the UK, he trained at Squires Kitchen Farnham and worked with different bakeries. The last place he worked was Gloriette of Knightsbridge where he was part of a team that made cakes for high street stores in the UK such as Harrods, Selfridges, Harvey

Jemide...

The ‘Cake Boss’ Nichols and Waitrose.

Cakes by Tosan stormed Nigeria in 2000 but it started roughly. When Jemide returned to Nigeria, he had less than $200,000 with him and he had no place of his own. He stayed with his sister at Ikeja in Lagos and started his bakery in one of her small rooms. Jemide recalls how hard it was then to deliver so many cakes within a short time with little or no hands.

However, Jemade laments that Nigerians does not appreciate handiworks: “Though I do have a lot of high network clients, many people will still say ‘Is it not cake? Why are you charging so much?’ But someone abroad would see it from different perspective because a lot of manpower and hour goes into it.

He urged bakers to be more professional in their delivery. “We have a thousand of people doing cakes but when you look closely at their works, they do not reflect professionalism.”

Despite his experience and technical knowhow, he still faces difficulty. He finds it hard to get materials to work with.

“When I have a cake order, I have to plan ahead to ease my delivery. If I am working abroad, I do not need to go through all that hustle.”

Similarly, he says getting skilled manpower is a major challenge.

“If I was abroad and I wanted a skilled decorator with experience, I would get it easily. But here, the person might be running his or her own business. And if you are lucky to get someone, they will leave after learning the skills from you,” he bemoans Last year at the Civic Center, Lagos, Cakes by Tosan was rebranded. He says there is need to reinvent since the market is always moving.

“We have a lot of new entrants into the industry and we are still in the industry too. But we want to essentially find a different way to say we are still here and we are different.

“My selling point is my creativity. A lot of people aspire or tend to copy my work but it is difficult for me to copy others’ works. I look at things different from cakes and see how I can

Jemide

TheGuardian

49 March 23, 2013 49Saturday, Saturday, January 5, 2013

Conscience, Nurtured by Truth

Cover

By Samson Ezea O say that Kano, one of Nigeria’s largest cities T and the commercial nerve centre of the North has been in the spotlight for massive killings in

recent times, is stating the obvious.

Before the Monday horrendous bombing at the Sabon Gari area of the city which killed more than 60 people and left several others seriously injured, there had been several other incidents of killings and bombings.

The Monday incident was the second to occur in the park in two years. Early January last year, there was a bomb blast near the Sabon Gari area of the city, although the casualties were minimal compared to the Monday attack.

Again on January 20, 2012 the city was shaken when multiple and coordinated bomb attacks swept through parts of it simultaneously. In the end, more than 170 people, some of them women and children including 31 year-old Channel TV reporter, Eneche Akogwu who was on official duty, were killed.

Eneche had arrived at the Farm Centre Police Station shortly after the first bomb exploded there and approached by-standers thinking they would tell him what they had seen. Before he could realize that they were Islamic militants, the men pulled out a gun and killed him on the spot Not quite long, nine health workers who were in the city to administer polio vaccines were killed by unknown gunmen in two separate but clearly coordinated attacks. The health workers were shot by their assailants, who operated on motorcycles, as they were preparing to set out for their rounds of polio immunization in different parts of the city.

The attacks occurred in two locations within the metropolis – the Hotoro and Unguwa Uku areas.

Although no armed group claimed responsibility for the shootings, the attacks, especially on harmless health workers carrying out an assignment that was obviously in the best interest of the ordinary people, were viewed as very disturbing and a sign of more terrible things ahead.

Before the killing of the nine polio workers, about six people lost their lives when gunmen attacked the convoy of the Emir of Kano, Alhaji Ado Bayero.

The traditional ruler was returning from a Koranic graduation ceremony when the gunmen opened fire on the convoy at about noon, killing his driver, orderly and a traditional guard who tried to protect him. Three others, including a top official of the Kumbotso Local Government Council, lost their lives in the incident.

Two of the Emir’s sons who were part of the convoy, and two traditional chiefs, the Turakin Kano and the Ciroman Kano, were also wounded in the attack.

Although the Emir escaped unhurt, the event signified that no one is safe in the city including the Emir, a man many see as the Islamic leader of the state.

So, the Monday attacks at the Sabon Gari park is seen by many as one attack too many considering the importance and location of the area and what it stands for.

The attacks, believed to be masterminded by members of the violent Islamic sect known as the Boko Haram, occurred in a busy inter-state luxury bus park located in the area said to be mostly inhabited by non-indigenes.

While some eyewitnesses said that the bombing was carried out by three suicide bombers, others said the deadly explosions were caused by unknown terrorists who had hurled some improvised explosive devices into a moving luxury bus.

Another account said two suicide bombers had rammed their Volkswagen Golf car, which was laden with explosives, into a bus filled with passengers. The resulting explosion engulfed other buses in the park.

As survivors of the incident continue to relieve their gory experiences, the death toll has continued to be on the increase.

With the increasing violent attacks and killings in Kano, it is feared that the city may well be on the verge of replacing Maiduguri, capital of Borno State, as the new hotbed of insurgency in the country, a situation which

has renewed the general feeling of fear among residents of the city that their lives are at stake.

The inability of the security agents to curb the insurgency which has claimed the lives of many people since 2012, has not helped matters.

So worrisome and disturbing is that the attacks occurred at a time Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammed Sa’ad Abubakar led other prominent Nigerians, including the Catholic Bishop of Sokoto Diocese, Reverend Matthew Hassan Kukah, former governor of Lagos State, Senator Bola Tinubu and others in appealing for the granting of amnesty to all the armed groups operating in the region.

The Sultan, who is also the President of the Jama’atul Nasril Islam, the umbrella body of all Muslims in Nigeria, was deeply worried by the turn of events in the region in the past two or three years.

Abubakar had expressed the belief that the sect would respond positively to the gesture and trudge the path of peace. He argued that any terrorist who failed to grab the opportunity implied in the declaration of amnesty and lay down his arms, would be labelled a criminal.

When President Goodluck Jonathan visited Yobe and Borno States recently, he made it clear that his government would not grant amnesty to faceless people. His position elicited commendations and condemnations.

Kano: A City Turned Into A Killing Field

Before then, the Christian Association Of Nigeria (CAN) through a statement signed in Abuja by its General Secretary, Musa Asake swiftly opposed Abubakar’s request.

Apparently confused and vexed by the Sultan’s views, the association wondered the kind of amnesty he was proposing and advised the Federal Government to reject his suggestion.

The greatest dilemma facing the country, especially the residents of the crisis-prone Northern states, is how to resolve the massive and incessant killings of innocent people by the Boko Haram sect.

Many believe that it is high time government and its agencies wake up to their responsibilities and curtail the orgy of violence pervading the country and threatening its corporate existence.

Sabon Gari: A Major Settlement Of Non-Indigenes SABON Gari (strangers’ quarters or literally, A new town in the Huasa Language, plural Sabon Garuruwa) is a section of cities and towns in Northern Nigeria and South of the Niger whose residents are not indigenous to Hausa lands.

Permanent communities of strangers segregated from the indigenous population had existed in Northern Nigeria and other parts of West Africa long before the arrival of the British at around 1900. Although living segregated from the Hausa population, residents of these communities were ultimately subject to the authority of the local emir.

So, in most states of the North, there is Sabon gari area which is mostly inhabited by nonnatives residing in the city. Thus Sabon gari in Kano State is mostly inhabited by non-natives, especially the Igbos who are mostly traders.

They normally buy their goods from the Southeast areas and transport them to the city in luxury buses.

The Sabon gari park where the Monday blast occurred in Kano serves several purposes for people using it, especially conductors, drivers and commuters. The park is mostly used by drivers and conductors of the several luxury buses that ply from the Southeast to the ancient city of Kano.

The luxury buses normally take off from different parts of the Southeast states, especially the commercial city of Onitsha around 5.pm to arrive Kano around 5.am the next day barring any hitches on the road.

On arrival at the park, the luxury buses wait for their turns to load back to the East. While waiting, the buses provide accommodation for the conductors and drivers who have no home in the city.

Sometimes when the buses arrive the city too early in the day or late in the night, commuters stay back in the buses until day breaks before they move to their various destinations.

Majority of the luxury buses are owned by Igbo transport magnates based in the East.

THE GUARDIAN, Saturday, March 23, 2013

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COVER

Victim of the blast on a hospital bed

Some of the Kano State government officials during visit to the victims in the hospital

Kano Park Blasts: Mass Murder Of A New Dimension From Abba Anwar, Kano ANO State and Kano, the state capital, have K been under terrorist attacks in the past, but that of Monday, March 18 has opened the deepest scar in the soul of the country.

It is also the first time terrorists struck at a busy motor park and inflicted horror on people. It is a trauma the wounded and the bereaved would have to live with for some time to come.

A day after the incidence, the lifeless body of 15year-old Mohammed Sani was found at the motor park. He was believed to be one of those hawking pure water at the park.

Oluchi, sister of Ikechukwu Anosike of 78, Sanya Olu Street, Sabon Gari, said she never expected her brother to die so suddenly.

“He left us in the family, joking with all of us.

He was even telling one of his children that when he returns from the trip, he would go with him during their next holiday. As God ordained, we would not see him again,” she said as she sobbed.

Sani, son of Mallam Balarabe Uba who lost his life in blast, said when their father about to leave home, he and some of his brothers were arguing whether he was going by flight, only for them to be called by the person who escorted their father to the park to inform them that their father had died in the blast.

Shell-shocked, they simply prayed that Allah should avenge the criminal attack on their father and other innocent Nigerians. “We are pretty sure that Allah will soon deal with the culprits and their accomplices,” Sani said.

One of the touts who was lucky to be out of the park before the incident occurred, averred that no one can say categorically who the perpetrators targeted. “Whoever tells you that the target of the blast was a particular ethnic group or adherents of a particular religion, is a liar.

“You see, most of those going to Lagos were Hausas, and you also had some people in one of the buses going to Port Harcourt. There were Igbos, as well as Yorubas and Hausas. So, no one can tell you that the target was specifically one ethnic group,” he emphasized.

Lucky Saminu Mohammed who spoke from his hospital bed, said he was on his way to Port Harcourt when the bombs exploded. “I was at the motor park waiting for a friend who went outside to buy something for me. I was lucky that I wasn’t inside the bus when I heard a very loud sound. Before I knew it, I saw myself lying down in the pool of my blood,” he recounted.

Emmanuel Bassey, also lying critically on a hospital bed, said he was the first tout to go to the suicide bombers, asking them where they were

going, to which they replied that they wanted to get into the park first before deciding their destination.

“Me and four others were just following the car inside. The remaining four touts were closer to the car than me. In the twinkling of an eye, the car headed straight to the fully loaded bus and hit it from the rear. I don’t know how it happened, but I saw myself lying down in a pool of blood. The four other touts had already died,” Bassey reminisced in pains.

AbdulAzeez Baban Lamma who was to travel to Lagos in one of the luxury buses around on that day, said he didn’t know how it started and ended. All he could recollect was that he heard a very loud bang and only regained consciousness on the hospital bed hours later, in pains.

He prayed: “Allah, if it is true that you don’t accept injustice, please punish whoever has a hand in this dastardly act.”

Ugochukwu Ome, who was at the park running his business as usual on that day, said he could not believe what he saw and how it happened.

He spoke from his bed at the Murtala Mohammed Specialist Hospital where he has been receiving treatment for burns.

The Kano Emirate Council, led by the District Head of Fagge, Alhaji Mahmoud Ado Bayero, who represented his father, the Emir of Kano, Alhaji Ado Bayero, was one of the first callers at the scene of the blasts a day after.

After meeting with Igbo community leaders and the leadership of the motor park, Bayero expressed anger over what happened and

Me and four others were just following the (suicide bombers’) car inside. The remaining four touts were closer to the car than me. In the twinkling of an eye, the car headed straight to the fully loaded bus and hit it from the rear. I don’t know how it happened, but I saw myself lying down in a pool of blood. The four other touts had already died.

wondered: “Why are such things happening in Kano? What Kano has done to such people?

“My father was recently attacked, and look at what these people have done here. Why Kano only? Government must do something about it.”

He conveyed the dissatisfaction and anger of the Emir over the ugly incident and urged users of the park, the wounded and the bereaved to remain calm and prayerful.

In an angry tone and expression of dissatisfaction, President of the Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Kano State branch, Chief Tobias Idiaka, insisted on Wednesday that over 60 passengers lost their lives.

“In the first bus that was full to capacity were 62 passengers, with the attachment of 15 people, going to Lagos which went into ashes,” he lamented. He said the second bus slated for Port Harcourt had 62 passengers and was hit in the second blast, adding that apart from the second bus, there were two buses belonging to Ezenwata Motors and another belonging to Chimezie that were all burnt to ashes.

“So, whoever said less than 60 people died is wrong. I think it is just an attempt to cover up,” Idiaka stressed.

Asked the fate of the Igbo in the state in the face of the alleged targeted killings, he urged government to, as a matter of urgency, tighten security around motor parks, markets, churches and mosques.

“Stringent steps should be taken to forestall the reoccurrence of this ugly incidence. We will continue to be in the state, provided government does everything possible to protect our lives and properties,” he added.

Another issue raising dust between the Igbo community and the state government is the burial of those killed in the blast who were mainly Igbos. Ohanaeze is opposed to plans by the state government and police to give the remains of the dead a mass burial.

Idiaka said: “We don’t want mass burial for our people. Among them there are big Igbo people and in our culture, it is a taboo to bury such people the way the state government is planning to do. We are calling on the state government and p olice to re-consider their stand.”

The actual number of people killed in the blasts keeps rising and remains controversial, with the leadership of the Ohanaeze insisting that over 60 perished and the police authorities putting the figure at 22.

The state Commissioner of Police, Alhaji Musa A. Daura, at a press briefing on Wednesday, said: “So far, a total number of 22 people were confirmed dead and 65 people sustained various degrees of injuries and five buses were

burnt. I was personally there at the scene and instructed the DPO of the area to go and count the number of the casualties.”

He further disclosed that all the injured persons were taken to various hospitals in the metropolis for treatment, while the corpses of the dead were deposited in morgues in different hospitals, including the Murtala Muhammad Specialist Hospital, Armed Forces Hospital, Infectious Diseases Hospital and Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital.

Daura told journalists that two suicide bombers drove into the motor park in a blue Volkswagen Golf car, which they rammed into a luxury bus belonging to Gobison Motors which was about to take off to Lagos, resulting in serious explosions.

“Fire fighters were immediately called to the scene and the flames were put under control and the whole area was cordoned of. Investigation is in top gear to unearth the people behind this dastardly act and bring them to book,” he added.

Daura confirmed that hawkers, touts and other people operating businesses in the park were also affected by the blast.

On lax security around the park, he disclosed that some months ago, the command had a meeting with motor parks operators in the state with a view to having joint patrols in and around the parks, which he said they rejected.

Meanwhile, the state Deputy Governor, Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, visited the scene a day after the incident, as well as the hospitals where the wounded were being treated. While condemning the blasts, he said they were perpetrated by people hell bent on causing all kinds of confusion among the adherents of different religions in the country.

“Those that perpetrated this ugly incident are criminals; they are not representing any religion.

Islam does not preach violence, neither does Christianity. We are urging our people to always pray for the peaceful coexistence in the state and the country in general,” he said and assured that the state government would pay all the hospital bills of those injured.

The Chairman of Ethnic Nationalities Forum in Kano State, Prince Ajayi Maimeytan, disclosed that they had ordered people living in Sabon Gari area to stay at home on Wednesday and pray for the repose of the souls of those who lost their lives in the incident.

“We should fast to also seek for God’s intervention in such and similar things happening here in particular, and the country in general,” he said.

“We hope similar things will not occur again.

This is a very serious and painful event that need some sober reflections,” he said.

THE GUARDIAN, Saturday, March 23, 2013

51

COVER

‘Perpetrators Of Kano Killings Want To Bring Down The Government’ Chief Mike Okoye, a human rights lawyer in this interview with LEO SOBECHI, shares his feelings and insight into the Monday bomb blasts which killed many people at a park in Sabon Gari, Kano.

How did you receive news of the bomb blasts at Sabon Gari, Kano on Monday?

AM still shocked at the massacre that took place; it was horrific. Surely, we the Igbos have every right to retaliate for such ghastly murder of over 60 innocent victims. Nigeria has reason to worry; anger, bitterness, sorrow and shock are everywhere. We have cause to be bitter and our young people are yearning for vengeance.

I believe, to avert this looming disaster, the federal government ought to rally round to cool the temper of the people by making sure that the perpetrators are brought to justice. And Northern leaders must give irrevocable undertaking that this sort of barbaric act would not occur again. Let me say that I see this whole event as politically motivated by some few disgruntled Northern elements that want power at all costs. I say it is political, because it came at a time when PDP People’s Democratic Party (PDP) was having its reconciliation and had actually concluded its reconciliation in the South and is now in the Northern part of the country.

I believe that whosoever is behind it is geared towards bringing down the federal government as presently constituted; in other words, bringing down the government either legitimately or through illegitimate means.

To my mind, the crop of people that are behind this intend that tempers would be provoked so that we, the Igbos and southerners, will retaliate.

And once we retaliate, there would be a situation of anarchy in Nigeria so that they would call on the people from the barracks or some other people, to take over or in other words, to make sure that the political will of the people for the SouthSouth having two terms of government would not happen. Whoever is behind this is hungry for power.

I

They can no longer wait for the South-South to enjoy their two terms, but by the grace of God, they would fail. How many more people would they have to kill just for power or lust for power? Bitterness based on political differences will carry Nigeria nowhere. And I wish to appeal to the political leaders in the North to try and control their people’s feelings. No responsible government would allow this situation to continue. It cannot continue; something must have to be done and at the same time, I will call for caution knowing full well, the motives behind these killings. This killings are purely political. They have used all kinds of measures to make the whole situation ungovernable for President Goodluck Jonathan because he is a Southerner and because they are eager to take over power.

I wish to assure them that by the grace of God, they would fail. The South-South will have their two terms, then after that, the Southeast would have its two terms and subsequently power reverts to the North. They should read it loud and clear that Nigeria belongs to all of us. Nobody has the right to opt out.

The North has no right to a separate country; they would be here with us. We will live together as brothers and sisters, whether they like it not. The oneness of Nigeria is unquestionable; it is sacrosanct. This is actually what lead to the Biafra war. The Igbos were massacred in a seeming genocide and Colonel Odumegwu Ojukwu felt that he could find a place for them, a habitation free from such a jungle and that was the origin of the civil war.

But today, we will find that habitation within Nigeria, not outside Nigeria.

Therefore, these disgruntled elements ought to be fished out by the government and dealt with decisively. If it requires a state of emergency, then the federal government should declare a state of emergency. I should deign to ask, what is our National Assembly doing in this regard? Is the issue of corruption more important than lives of Nigerians at this point in time? Is the issue of oil subsidy more important than securing lives and property?

What have our Northern brothers in the

Okoye

National Assembly done to set the agenda?

Have they called for referendum or for the setting up of a panel of inquiry to let the Northern people say why these things are happening in the North? What solution has the National Assembly, especially our people at the National Assembly, proffered as suggestions that could resolve this issue once and for all? Nothing. They are quiet; they are silent, because they know what is happening.

Would you in the light of this development deem it appropriate to call for all Igbo to return home from the North?

I think that is what the perpetrators and sponsors of these crimes want to achieve. You see, the people that would want to destroy the present federal government want a situation whereby we would be moved to call our relations back home. In other words, they want to give the impression that Nigeria is no longer stable as a sovereign nation thereby calling for a new government. That is the whole idea, that is what they intend to achieve.

So I think our kith and kin that have legitimate businesses or reasons to be in the North should be there. But the warning should be sounded that nobody has the monopoly of violence. If you push any man to the wall, there gets to a point that the man can retaliate beyond measure.

Let these bands of killers know that Igbos are not afraid and can retaliate. And you know when the Igbos start, the whole North would be the ones to call for cessation of violence. The North, with all the rubbish they are doing, should remember that we had ‘Ogbunigwe’, but we are not interested in killing. We are not people that derive pleasure from taking life.

We believe as Christians, that life is sacrosanct and we believe in the sanctity of human lives.

That is why we should not go that way, but they should be made to know that if not for Christian beliefs, we can match them.

But the question in the minds of virtually every Nigerian is why is it so hard for government agencies to isolate and apprehend the criminals perpetrating these killings.

It is hard to fish out the perpetrators simply because it is political. The leaders know who they are; after all they are their children. They know their motives and their motive is to dismantle the current government, they want a government with a Northern leader, simple. All what they want to achieve through these crises, is that they don’t want in 2015 for the SouthSouth to have their two terms the same way the South West had its two terms. They don’t want power to be shared accordingly.

If a country like the United States offers to bring in technology like drones to combat this menace, do you think Northern legislators in the National Assembly would consent?

I believe that not only the National Assembly would do that. Any right thinking member that has care for right to life. The people being killed are innocent citizens and not politicians who want to live and they are just killed like that. I believe that every rightful thinking citizen of Nigeria would know that government exists to protect lives and property of the people.

Therefore, when you can no longer guarantee the lives and property of the citizens, you cease to be a National Assembly and a government.

So, anything that would assist to protect lives and property, I believe that being a responsible body made up of distinguished men, they would definitely consent to it.

Kano Killings: Igbos Urged To Defend Themselves On whether Ndigbo should return home, he said, “I am afraid that asking Ndigbo to return home will not address the issues and if they return, what will happen to their property? The answer is for government to do what it ought to do to curb the EACTING to the bomb blast at Sabon Gari park in Kano State incessant attacks and protect Igbos wherever they may be. I that claimed the lives of more than 60 people, Secretary believe it will be in the interest of the government and the General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Dr. Joe Nworgu described the latcountry should there be any action in this regard.” est orgy of bloodletting in Kano as “outrageous”, stressing that While the Concerned Pressure Groups in Nigeria called on Ndigbo would no longer take pogrom on her people.

He called on Igbo people to appropriately and effectively organ- Nigerians living in the North to be “security-conscious” and devise a means of protecting themselves as security agents of ize themselves to collectively defend their lives and property, the country has failed,” the World Ndigbo Youths Council stressing that this has become necessary because they are now International (WNYCI) had threatened to drag the federal and being killed to settle any form of disagreement in Nigeria. He said the masterminds of the blast should be brought to book to northern governments to the World Court over incessant killings in the country. assure Ndigbo that government was working for them.

Its president, Ndubuisi Igwekana, while condemning the He said Ndigbo would not continue to bear the unprovoked killing of Igbo sons and daughters in Kano, said that Ndigbo are slaughter of their people.

Former National Chairman of Justice Party, Chief Ralph Obioha, being used to settle political scores in the country.

He also wondered why Ndigbo would continue paying the on his part, said the spate of killings has become so common supreme price for the unity of the country, pointing out that that the Federal Government should now set up a taskforce to the people of the Southeast geo-political zone are gradually curtail it and ensure the security of lives and property.

He noted that it was worrisome that the entire thing was being being eliminated in the country.

In his own response, a human rights activist, Chief Lambert targeted at Ndigbo, insisting that it should not be allowed to get to a level where an average Igbo person would see a northerner Adibe, insisted that the bombing was barbaric and likened it to as an enemy.

From Lawrence Njoku (Enugu), Charles Ogugbuaja, (Owerri) and Chuks Collins (Awka)

R

a to pogrom. He accused the Boko Haram sect of trying to make the country ungovernable for President Goodluck Jonathan Similarly, Nze Ebubeagu Ekenulo condemns the killing of Igbo traders in Kano, stressing that reprisal attack may be necessary to send a clear message that Igbo cannot be killed like cows.

Also former President General, Ohanaeze, Dr. Dozie Ikedife, described the blast as callous. He said: “No matter how anyone looks at it, the greatest victims in all the spate of bombings all over the place, especially in the North, are Christians and Southerners.

“There are so many ways to look at it. There is a saying that ‘onye nna ya ziri ohi n’eji ukwu agbawa uzor’ (anyone sent on an assault mission does so with every boldness and bravado) The carnage has gone beyond what can be accommodated.

Enough is enough.

“Unfortunately, the Federal Government seems unable to control the negative acts of Boko Haram, either because of lack of political will or for some other reasons. It is clear that the perpetrators are just vehicles, agents who are carrying out the biddings of some other powerful group. And we would want to understand what they really want.”

He suggested that governors from the Southern part of Nigeria should have a serious dialogue with their counterparts in the North to find a lasting solution to the problems.

TheGuardian

52 | THE GUARDIAN, Saturday, March 23, 2013

Conscience, Nurtured by Truth

Politics Prof Patrick Utomi, presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in the 2007 election, told JOE ADIORHO that the Nigerian Governors’ Forum (NGF) has become a threat to democracy in Nigeria, as well as what must be done before the 2015 general elections.

‘I Don’t Think Jonathan Has The Capacity To Move Nigeria Forward’

I don’t know. I am not the one registering or deregistering.

Why wasn’t your voice heard when the Independent national Electoral Commission (INEC) deregistered some political parties?

T the end of the 2011 election, you gradually I said they were doing the right thing. withdrew from the political scene. Are you If SDP was deregistered you won’t have conquitting active politics? test it?

I don’t know how that perception came, but it I was not a member of SDP anyway at that is not correct. I gave so much in 2007, trying to create an agenda for political life in Nigeria and time, because I said so immediately after the 2011 elections, that since that process did not in 2011, my effort was a simple objective- bringwork, people should all go back to their base, ing together the opposition. I was very disapand since my own base was ACN, I went pointed that it didn’t work out, because I think straight back to ACN. the egos of individuals got in the way.

I am not a party chieftain; I deal at the grassI did not give up on political life; I simply roots level. thought I should focus more on grassroots Are you the brain behind the APC? What is activities. I mean my whole essence has always your role in formation of APC? been the small guys- the weak, the poor. Why I am not the brain behind it; I am just an am I spending so much time with these big ordinary member of the ACN, who is supportmen trying to pursue something that was not ive of what my party is doing. I have no specifworking? ic role.

I thought other people could sort out the big question of merger. I never withdrew from pub- Don’t you think that the initial problems that affected the 2011 merger are still there, regardlic life. ing conflicting personal interests?

You were very active in 2011, but people conWe can only work and pray and hope for the strued that you were just executing the Southbest. We cannot say because people die in South agenda and fronting for President war, we cannot go to war if it is necessary to Goodluck Jonathan? save ourselves.

Is not that a bit of a joke? Anyway, people can run to any conclusion that they want about any- What is your honest assessment of progress in the country at the moment? thing. If my whole action was to ensure that I think pretending that Nigeria is not makJonathan had an easy way, have you ever seen ing progress in any direction is a flawed arguJonathan and I together since he became President? If I was a decoy for him, the least that ment, because that is not true. But the question is whether it is the result of governmenwill happen is that he will be seeing me up, if tal action or something happening in spite of nothing else. us?

My goal was to help bring together a merger, I do think there are a number of things that and I slaved for it. Part of my anger, if you will are happening in spite of us that assure us allow me, is what I sacrificed to make that hapthat we are making progress, but because of pen. I don’t know how that is a South-South failure of government, we are in grave danger agenda. of snatching defeat from the jaws of victory.

You were a proponent of merger and alliance, Nigeria is in the position right now to what is the difference between what you were become one of the greatest economies in the proposing and the ongoing merger of some world, because of a number of natural developposition parties to form the All Progressives opments, including the youth bulge and Congress (APC)? what is now described as the demographic I always wanted ultimately for the parties to dividends. But in two critical interventionsfuse into one. I have always expressed my view that we should have two major political parties, education and health care- the federal govbut that you can’t say there will be no other par- ernment has been a total and complete disaster. ty, because parties are ways for people to However, there is progress taking place, in express their feelings about some particular spite of this. passion. Some group of people, who are just interested in the environment, can create a par- What is your take on the recent court ruling that Jonathan could run for second term? ty that anybody knows will help raise our It is of no consequence to me. It is not a matunderstanding of that issue.

However, two major political parties should be ter of court or no court. I do not see why you should go to court. contesting. That is always been my view.

In any case, it is democracy and people Is APC the kind of merger or alliance that you should do whatever they want to do, but not anticipated or expected from day one?

Circumstances will always bring people togeth- against the law.

Based on his performance, would you vote for er. The important thing is that political parties him for second term? get together and create a platform that can As a citizen, I will not vote for him. I did not make a difference in the lives of the citizens of a vote for him the last time; I will not vote for country.

People thought it was impossible in Zimbabwe him tomorrow.

I don’t think he has the capacity to move until Morgan Tsvangirai and others got together. Even though they were still sabotaged in the Nigeria to where it should be going. With end, but at least it led to some movement in the complete respect for him, as a person, he doesn’t have the capacity.

Zimbabwean politics.

What you need is competence, character and We should all do everything to support it. We want to save this country and see power change commitment. I doubt his competence, I am not sure about the character and I worry from one group to another. about commitment.

Is Social Democratic Mega Party (SDP) you help There is a feeling that the Nigerian Governors’ form dead?

Forum (NGF) is becoming overbearing.

I don’t know; it is not my place to pronounce The NGF has become a treat to democracy in life and death. What I did know was that after Nigeria and I think it needs to be disbanded.

2011, I said very clearly to all my partners that It has become a lobby group that has become since people were not willing to come under a a bully, because of the structure of the PDP. new umbrella, I think all of us should go back It has not been used for what it should be and join maybe the biggest one around us.

I tried to set the example by saying very clearly used, which is to find ways of sharing information on how to make governance better. It that I belong to the Action Congress of Nigeria has been used as a powerful block in the fight (ACN). between the centre and it. Such forum has You belong to the ACN? been destructive of governance.

Yes! I have been since June. At the end of the Where does a President operate in the world last election, I said that everybody should go into wherever the big umbrella is in the opposi- by asking governors to nominate his cabinet?

The President picks his own best men, looks tion.

As at my last checking, SDP was not in the list of everywhere for the best people that can help him achieve his agenda. But here are goverparties that were deregistered? nors pretending that they know all of these No, it is not deregistered. things, because they can rig elections.

Why?

A

Utomi

As a citizen, I will not vote for him (Jonathan). I did not vote for him the last time; I will not vote for him tomorrow... With complete respect for him, as a person, he doesn’t have the capacity. What you need is competence, character and commitment. I doubt his competence; I am not sure about the character and I worry about commitment.

The Forum is negative for Nigeria’s democracy.

The civil society should find a way of forcing its dissolution, because it has prevented the constitution from serving the Nigerian people well.

Considering the prevailing situation in the North, would you advise that election be conducted there in 2015?

I hope there will be, but I should hope that we would have a sitting down before that. We should have a national conference, whether you choose to call it sovereign or non-sovereign.

Nigerians should sit down and determine how we want to associate with ourselves, and our modus Vivendi. It is only then that elections will

make sense.

Do you think Nigeria is winning the war against Boko Haram and other criminal elements?

I think the nature of how we organise ourselves has created significant alienation in the society.

We have moved into a state of anomy and because politicians depend on criminal elements to stay in power, it is harder to contain criminality. That is one of the points about leadership that we keep missing; hence we just keep struggling.

Leadership is about the moral compass of a society, which when set, allows the other things to happen. Our political plans have failed and that is why we have these violent responses.

People are revolting against the state.

What is your own assessment of the state of Nigeria politically, economically and socially?

Nigeria is a country with tremendous potential. Like a lecturer of Imperial College said in October last year, Nigeria’s future is so bright we have to wear sunglasses or we may go blind.

Nigeria has so much potential, talented and gifted young people, who have not been given the chance that they desire and deserve, because we have a generation that has consumed its own, that has consumed its children’s future and is determined to consume the future of its grandchildren.

That generation, I am convinced, will be judged by history and judged with viciousness.

53

THE GUARDIAN, Saturday, March 23, 2013

POLITICS Vincent Ezenwajiaku, Anambra State Commissioner for Special Duties in the Obi led administration and a foundation member of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) fielded questions from UZOMA NZEAGWU in Awka.

What is your reaction to the insistence of the sacked National Chairman of your party, the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), Chief Victor Umeh, that he fell out with Governor Peter Obi due to Obi’s failure to conduct council polls?

HOUGH I have stopped reading his falsehoods, but I can tell you that 99 per cent of what that man says is falsehood.

Until he started fighting the governor, he single handedly brought the names of those who were appointed into transition committees. What then is the logic of saying that he opposed it?

I have noticed that in Nigeria, what professional politicians do is to employ the instrument of blackmail against the person they are not supporting and Umeh has it in abundance.

He was the one who, who through his one-man show business in the form of chairmanship of APGA, prevented the party from growing. If not because of this crisis, would you have imagined that APGA was receiving N20 million every month and one man was pocketing it?

I think the judgment of the Enugu High Court was providential; it will now give opportunity to those who have the interest of the party at heart to restructure it.

Are you saying that Umeh had not contributed towards the building of APGA? If you are in a partnership business with somebody, how do you measure your gains, if not by balancing gains vis-à-vis efforts?

In the case of Umeh, the ratio of efforts to gains is five to 90 per cent. He put in 5 per cent efforts and has reaped 90 per cent gains. Would you say that such a person has suffered for the party?

APGA was largely financed by Obi. It was even his house at Abuja that initially served as APGA office. Umeh is always for what will be of personal gain to him.

Even when the President Goodluck Jonathan asked APGA to get some names for appointment, in the spirit of building a national government, Umeh brought names of those he would control. Of course, the names were not considered for lack of qualification.

I am a foundation member of APGA. In the beginning, Umeh, who now brags about what he is not, was the Personal Assistant to one Anambra politician, who is still in active politics.

Somehow, he became the treasurer of APGA. When APGA removed Chief Chekwas Okorie as its national chairman, we were having the meeting of Anambra party members, and Obi said that from the experience of betrayals he has had, he would prefer Umeh to be appointed the acting national chairman. Apparently, Umeh had gone to beg him, and that was how he became the acting national chairman.

But today, surprisingly and incredibly, I hear him say that he made Obi governor. The man is an interesting study in human nature.

He may think he is a smooth talker who can confuse and confound, but by the time he will realise the harm he is doing to himself, it will have been too late.

Today, he is regarded as a risk factor. I am sure nobody will like to deal with him in Nigeria.

But he claimed to have contributed N4 million to Obi’s tribunal case?

This is why I told you that I do not read what he says any longer. How can anybody believe this? We know where we are coming from.

Before Obi became governor, he was on the Board of about seven quoted companies, including about four financial institutions by the virtue of his investments.

Umeh at that time was living in a two-room apartment at Anam Street in Enugu. At that time, Obi was the one who procured an international passport for him, alongside some other party members, as well as sponsored his first trip overseas.

It was also Obi who bought Umeh his first Vboot Mercedes car, as he did not have even a bicycle, and yet he has the boldness to say he contributed N4 million to tribunal efforts.

Today, from a two-room apartment, he is now living at a palatial home, one of the best in Enugu, one of many.

The one in his hometown is under construction, with almost 90 air conditioners, amidst other facilities, to meet his Epicurean taste, but the speed has reduced now that he is having problems in APGA. He now has fleet of vehicles.

When such a man tells you that he suffered for APGA, such statement among those who knew what he used to be and what he has amassed elicits laughter.

I recall that before Obi became governor, the first real money Umeh made was from buying a house for a Lagos businessman Obi introduced

T

Ezenwajiaku

Umeh Prevented APGA From Growing, Says Ezenwajiaku him to. After the sale, he made over N50 million and even asked Obi to keep 70 per cent of the proceeds, but the governor refused, insisting that he was not in the business of estate management.

If he really donated money to Obi’s campaign, it must be from the proceeds.

Don’t you think it is ripe for Obi to speak and set the records straight?

It will be unwise for the governor to start bandying words with Umeh. Is it because he claims to be the national chairman of APGA? You would have noticed that Obi is the busiest governor, belongs to over 10 federal committees.

Besides being the Financial Adviser to the President, he is also the Chairman of Southeast Governors Forum, as well as Vice Chairman of Nigerian Governors’ Forum (NGF).

At the end of his tenure, he will not be judged by exchanges with Umeh, but by what he achieved in Anambra State.

So, we thank him for not responding to Umeh’s allegations and hope he will not, because it will diminish him. It is even with difficulty that I am commenting on him, because he does not worth my time.

Umeh alleged that other parties that adopted Jonathan as their candidate in the 2011 presidential election were given money, except APGA. How true is that?

How was the monthly money given to APGA and the millions realised from the sale of forms spent for him to refer us to money given to other parties for endorsement?

This shows that as far as he was concerned, everything is about money. When the Southeast governors decided to support Jonathan, they made it clear it was not for individual benefits, but based on his commitment to do projects in the zone.

If he gave money to other political parties, it means he owes no obligation to them, but if APGA did not collect money, he owes obligation to Igbo people.

This may explain why he is working on erosion, has made Enugu Airport an international airport, and is set to start work on a second Niger Bridge, among others.

Politics, as played by people like Umeh, is injurious to the Igbo; it is dangerous to reduce everything to cash value.

I am aware that when Jonathan was discussing with APGA, Obi raised the appropriateness of his meeting APGA leadership and asked Umeh to come with principal officers of the party, but he came alone and rather than discuss what support of APGA for Jonathan would fetch the Southeast, he started discussing his personal interest. Of course, that was the first time he met with the President.

He would always tell you that the governor did not support other APGA candidates, which is not true, because when Obi was campaigning for his second tenure, no Southeast governor campaigned against him.

When it was time for their re-election, Umeh wanted Obi to go to their states, but he did not go, although he gave them financial support.

Because the money he gave in the past through third parties did not get to them, he did it directly.

Some people complaining had actually planned how to appropriate the money if channeled through them. They have every right to complain; it is human, it is normal.

The love of money, the saying goes, is the root of all evils. I can assure you that part of what Umeh is doing today stem from his relationship with a moneybag, who he was irrevocably committed to giving APGA governorship ticket in the state.

Who could that be?

You will at the appropriate time.

With Umeh against APGA merger with other parties, like your own faction, don’t you think there is the possibility of reconciling with him?

He is no longer the national chairman of APGA, but he is not expelled from the party. If he wants to join us in the restructuring of the party, he is

free.

But let me tell you one thing. The moment the merger was announced, all genuine APGA members condemned it. How come it took the usual Umeh weeks to come up with denial?

The original plan was that he would be made the chairman of the new party or he would become its senatorial candidate, but when the interim chairmanship was discussed without mention of his name and he realised that he may be fooled in the end, he backed out.

How would you compare the Interim Chairman of APGA, Chief Maxi Okwu, and Umeh?

It is like asking me to compare light and darkness. There is no basis for comparison.

Maxi Okwu is a through-bred party man, who believes in consensus. Just few days as the interim chairman, the fortunes of the party have started to change.

He calls meetings and allows everybody to contribute, unlike Umeh, who saw the party as a personal property.

Today, I always read releases from our Publicity Secretary, Bernard Akomas, but under Umeh, he was in charge of everything and you would not know APGA had a publicity secretary.

Under Umeh, Obi was never invited to a meeting because he would find out that the money for the party did not get to them. Now, things are different.

From what Okwu has done so far, we all in APGA have confidence that it has entered its glorious moment.

Away from politics, what is government’s position on the dumping of bodies in Ezu River?

We are satisfied with what the governor has done. Remember that he cut short his trip and returned to the state the moment the sad incident was discovered.

Since then, he has visited the place four times and personally supervised the removal of the bodies from the river and commissioned an autopsy on the bodies.

He also got the entire town fumigated, sent supplies to them and provided the only borehole that is working.

I say this because some people pretended that they were digging boreholes there, but nothing has happened. If you go there today, the only boreholes working in the town are the two provided by the governor.

How would you rate his performance?

I am part of that government and it would hurt objectivity if I try to judge it. I think the judgment is better left for outsiders to do.

But one thing we cannot take away from the governor is abundance of energy that I do not know how many people can meet up with his pace.

Some people who do not have character may want to prevaricate for one reason or the other.

Some politicians can see A and call it B, because they have not been given money.

Whatever way we look at it, Obi remains the best governor Anambra has had. We are in the state and will be glad to see somebody break his records.

He has tarred over 700 kilometers of roads and we are still counting. Almost everyday, he flags-off road projects and work is going on all of them.

He constructed roads in the most difficult parts of the state where nobody thought about until he came on board.

In health, he has built a teaching hospital from the scratch, rehabilitated general hospitals, built new hospitals and health centres, bought hospital equipment and got accreditation for the health institutions.

As we speak, he is building, in partnership with the MDG, about 25 structures in missionary hospitals.

It was Obi who built the first secretariat in the state, the first and second massive business park and bought vehicles for ranking government officials in the executive, judiciary and legislature.

He is equally superlative in the intangible part of governance. He cleared the arrears of salaries and pension of close to N10 billion.

He has attracted multi-national companies to Anambra State. At the last count, we had about four of them; some have built facilities, while others are coming on board.

Under him, Anambra became an oil-producing state after he invested billions of naira in Orient Petroleum.

In the area of education still, even after the return of primary schools to the church, he has given them support to the tune of about N6 billion in cash to rehabilitate the schools.

The most amazing part of it is that he has not borrowed money from any financial institution nor raised bond, as many states are doing in Nigeria.

Obi has equally attracted the attention of the World Bank, which has sent people to Anambra to study his revolution in education with the aim of using it as a model for other African

THE GUARDIAN, Saturday, March 23, 2013

54 |

PoLITICS

Mali: African Power Is Failing The Continent, Says Saleh

Dauda

Radical university lecturer, Saleh Dauda, of the Department of Political Science and International Relations, University of Abuja and a conflict resolution expert, told OGHOGHO OBAYUWANA that though on the surface, the recent insurgency took place in Mali, it is not purely an African problem.

HE current situation in beleaguered Mali is T currently giving diplomatic pundits a big headache as to the next line of action of the fundamentalists in the Sahel region.

Prof Saleh Dauda stated: “Today, there is a link between sustained insurgency and poverty. It is From Saxone Akhaine, Kaduna oRMER Secretary of the National FHakeem Electoral Commission (INEC) Dr Baba-Ahmed has asked the Federal Government to immediately consider adopting the electronic voting system as a major reform that would promote a free and fair election during the 2015 general elections in the country.

Speaking on the Dwindling Education Sector in the North at the occasion to mark the 103 years of Ahuddahuda College, Zaria, BabaAhmed faulted the trend whereby top public servants and other prominent Nigerians send their children to private colleges and other institutions as part of the stumbling blocks against the growth and development of public schools in Nigeria.

The former INEC Scribe explained that unless President Jonathan adopts the use of the electronic system of voting by 2015, the problem of rigging and other electoral malpractices would persist, stressing that it would further make the recent merger by opposition parties meaningless.

He said: “ Merger or no merger, it is better to face the electoral process first. If the electoral is working, essentially the issue of merger will not be as critical as it is. Even if you merge, unless you radically improve the quality of the electoral process, any of the parties can still steal the mandates. I think the PDP will certainly be better challenged; and you can address some of the weaknesses in the merger party, people will dilute perception from many parts, CPC, ACN and so on.” “ I think they will also address the issue of limitations in the interest of the smaller parties. The merger will substantially improve the position of the opposition and it would provide for a credible alternative. But, it must avoid creating the impression that it is all about the egos of the leaders. So, it should be the merger of people who believe that Nigerians needs an alternative platform in 2015”.

“It also needs to come out with statements, manifestos and programmes that are radically different from what the PDP is offering to the people. I am not sure if PDP has any programme of appeal. President

very correct to say there is a linkage between poverty and rising rate of violence in West Africa.

“When you discover that many people are generally poor, without a steady source of livelihood, they are easily manipulated by political leaders to perpetuate violence religious extremism.

“As people take solace in religious extremism, there is also this teaching or wrong theology that if you die fighting a particular cause, you are directly going to heaven and people are easily recruited to these religious bodies.

“Whether it is in Nigeria, Egypt, Mali or any other African country, it is a clear testimony that people are taking to religious extremism because of the high rate of poverty.” on Nigeria’s participation in the Mali mission at the expense of domestic priorities, he stressed: “Nigeria’s participation is a welcome development. It was timely and quite desirable, given that terrorism today is vastly interconnected.

“Mali has been the breeding ground for terrorists, even though most of their targets were heading for Nigeria. Allowing them to get arms and training means the stability of the region is at risk.

“It was a strategic national interest to participate in it. once you are able to dislodge them from their training bases, then you would be securing Nigeria.

“So, Nigeria’s participation is in line with the national interest and simply to nip it in the bud and stave off futuristic damages.

“There is no country in the world that has finished solving all its domestic problems before getting involved in international peace and security.

“Government is not wasting its resources primarily to secure the lives of Nigerians that are

Africa.”

Dauda also agreed that from the conflagration in Mali, a dangerous contagion is in the offing, what with other countries, like Niger (Nigeria’s northern neighbour with people of the same cultural affinity) already harbouring a good number of militants.

But he was also concerned about what can be done to avoid a recurrence of an Islamic brand of terrorism in Mali.

For him: “There are so many things. one, to prevent the resurgence of the militancy, create the kind of enabling environment and economic development of the West African region, where the private sector can operate and thereby contribute to the full restoration of Mali.

“Appeal to the religious leaders to teach the correct doctrines about their religion. People should not think that by the time they take somebody’s life, they would go to heaven when they die. This is a misconception from the religious extremism.

“People must now start to ask questions, such as: The person asking you to commit suicide, to go to heaven, does he not want to go to heaven? He too should allow his children to commit suicide and go to heaven.

“Education comes in, so that people can analyse their general belief critically. once people remain ignorant, the problem is compounded.

“So, religious leaders, scholars and groups should teach the right tenets and push back the religious indoctrination.”

As for what Economic Community of West African States (ECoWAS) leaders should do regarding getting the political and economic mix correctly, the university don said: “There is this peer review mechanism, where governments are accessed on the basis of their performance.

“There should now be collaboration and cooperation between states and the leaders. Good governance can arrest a lot of these problems that have to do with restiveness and hopelessness.

“Anywhere these militants are, they should be dislodged. People must come together to fight criminality. A joint and sustainable joint effort is what must now be instituted, rather than leaving it to individual countries to take care of.

“There should be immediately established, a peace building mechanism. This would help to create the needed stability, just as all hands must be on deck for people to come together to fight extremism and pseudo criminality and create a situation where the region can have sustainable development and the current integration efforts can advance to the next stage.”

Taken back to the question of French participation in the mission in Mali and the issue of sovereignty, his response was stunning. “Frankly, the issue of sovereignty does not arise here; the issue of globalisation is what scholars can argue and argue about. Dividing blocks are collapsing and people cannot hide under that (sovereignty) while injustice is being perpetuated.

“France came in to fill a vacuum when the West African or African Union force could not take the initiative.

“We are just sovereign in name, as we depend on foreign powers for sustenance and our economies are all still dependent. You cannot say you are sovereign and yet cannot defend yourselves.

“This is the reason why even in Nigeria today, calls are rife for the government to seek help from countries, like the United States (US), to fight the Boko Haram insurgency and other terrorist threats.

“If we want to wait for the sovereign states to stand up, I am afraid, a lot of ground would have been lost.”

He dismissed the craving for an African solution to an African problem, saying: “The realism on the ground is that there are no resources to prosecute the African solution option. You have to He also lamented the present also look at military capability. trend whereby the land belong“We live in a global world where anything haping to public schools are being encroached into by private devel- pening to one state affects another. From what opers in Kaduna State, saying that the French faced, it would have taken a longer unless the Government immedi- AFISMA (African-led International Support Mission in Mali) a longer time. ately wades into the ugly situa“African power is failing the continent. There is tion the problem will persist”. a lot of catching up to be done... But from what is He said: “More than 80 percent playing out in Mali, we are advocating that the of the land belonging to international community must join hands in Ahuddahuda College has been taken over by private developers. the fight against terrorism and instability. The You take a walk into the premises issues can no longer be localised.

“There is already an inter-agency collaboration of the school now, you will find in this regard. The battle has to be fought until it out that even our students that is won. are in boarding house are now “on a general note, we should appreciate the living with other house owners who took over the land and built international community for the sacrifices it is making in Africa, instead of trying to castigate. private houses within the same “Currently, Africa is bogged down by a lack of premises. This is a matter the capacity in certain regards whereas, the external state government should look helpers have the technology to ensure law and into before it degenerates.’ order where they are helping to intervene.”

daily threatened. Terrorism is here now. For example, in rural Bauchi, urban Maiduguri, Yobe, Adamawa, etc people are being murdered. once you fail to act, then you have to live with the consequences.”

Asked whether the mission is a direct result of the French withdrawal, Dauda noted: “The French have finally left, yes, and now it is African leaders, particularly West African leaders, who are to answer emerging pertinent questions.

“We are told that the French forces drove away the militants. There is a lull now, apart from some guerrilla attacks and isolated cases of reprisals.

“From historical antecedents, what should happen when there in a situation like this is for the Malian authorities, in collaboration with international interveners, to establish law and order there.

“The militants have not given up just yet; they have been organising counter attacks, the guerrilla methods we are witnessing.

“What is needed now is to establish a machinery of governance to maintain law and order, so that people can carry out their legitimate businesses.” on the danger of external linkage, he was quick to say: “That is obvious. What is worrisome is that the situation was allowed to get worse after the fall of the late Libyan leader, Muammar Ghaddafi until it is almost now out of control.

“What happened to the early warning systems?

Even locally, everyone can see that there is a linkage between terrorism in Nigeria and the AlQaeda bases in Mali. But AQIM (Al Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb and al-Qaeda) must be curtailed. They have vowed in Bauchi that as long as Europeans are killing their kith and kin in Mali, they would continue to kidnap.

“This shows the linkage between terrorist bases in the Sahel and their politics in the states of

Former INEC Scribe Advocates Electoral Reforms Ahead 2015 Election Yar’adua came in with a different programme from what we are seeing today.”

“The merger is important, it is important for the health of the democratic process, but in order for it to be useful; we need to make sure that it is a genuine merger, and not just a merger of a leader but that of party people.

Above all we need to pay attention to the electoral system.’

“What would happen in 2015 if we have a widely disputed electoral result? It will not just engulf us all here in the north, it would engulf all over the country. The only way to avoid that is to make sure that there are reforms and changes that need to be made”.

Besides, Baba-Ahmed criticised President Jonathan’s performance score sheet”, saying that it “is really strange to think of Jonathan trying to think of coming back to contest the 2015presidential election with his poor performance level.

“It is fatal to the administration of Jonathan if the government cannot be criticized. Not just because he is from the South-south, but because he is the president of Nigeria. See, 8 or 9 governors stormed the streets of Borno state recently. They have out staged the President. This is a president who had sent into Borno thousands of soldiers and police to halt the insecurity in that troubled area, but he hadn’t been there. And 8 or 9 opposition governors decided to go there. They went into the market; they walked on the streets and drove around Maiduguri.’ “ For goodness sake somebody somewhere is misleading President Jonathan. He is the President of Nigeria; he cannot sit in Abuja and solve the problems of the country. I think he has severely under-performed and this is a result of lot of people around him holding down his administration”.

Baba-Ahmed further argued: “the best thing for him is to

Baba-Ahmed renounce any ambition to run in 2015, let him concentrate on improving the electoral process and unveil a lot of scam that Nigerians are complaining of. If he can do this, he would be regarded as one of the greatest President this country has produced”.

Meanwhile, Baba-Ahmed who is also the President of the old boys of Ahuddahuda College, urged the Federal Government to set in motion a radical policy that would return back the past glory of public schools in Nigeria, adding that “not until the government ban all top public office holders, civil servants and other prominent Nigerians from sending their children to private schools, all efforts to improve quality of education in public schools may not be realized”.

THE GUARDIAN, Saturday, March 23, 2013

55

TRANSITION

Tribute To My Father, E. T. Ndoma-Egba

By Victor Ndoma-Egba ALKING about my father, E.T—Melord, the T bones shall rise again)—in the past is surreal, almost unbelievable. Not that his mortality was in doubt; he was as mortal and vulnerable as the next human, complete with his frailties and failings. We had, maybe, in an overdose of optimism come to see him as a permanent fixture in our lives. Even when the ever busy lawyer and Judge went into formal retirement from the Court of Appeal bench in 1993, even when his hands became unsteady and forced him into retirement from his other passion— hunting, even when church attendance became occasional, we, his children, persisted in our optimism that he was always going to be around. Not even our own transformation from children to parents and grandparents alerted us to the reality of that day that must come as it eventually did in the evening of October 6, 2012.

For a long time, I misunderstood my father, as he did not indulge me at all. I got to understand him when I became a parent myself. I then knew that he wanted me to be tough, independent, and determined. He wanted me to hunger for success and exert myself in every situation to the very limits of my endowments; to take responsibility for myself and satisfy myself that I did my very best in every situation.

I idolised my father though I did not admit it to him. Because I took after him in many ways, the ‘fights’ were inevitable. God blessed him with many gifts. He was a polyglot. Languages came to him naturally and he spoke many. He was a hard worker and recognised his opportunities. He had an abundant gift of diligence. In these parts, he was a pioneer whether in teaching, the Civil Service or the legal profession, which made him a legend.

He had an incredible capacity for lifelong friendships that cut across age religion, tribe or race. He was focused and gave his all to whatever he set out to do and did not do

Ndoma-Egba many things at the same time. As a lawyer, he practiced only law and to the highest professional standards. As a Judge, he was incorruptible, courageous, just, and learned. With firearms, he was dexterous, the greatest marksman I ever beheld. As a father, he set us on the path of truth, honesty, dignity, integrity, and hard work. We were allowed to make our choices but within strict moral

bounds. Life to him did not admit of shortcuts. He was a father and a friend with whom you could discuss anything under the sun and crack any joke. He loved jokes and a hearty laugh and forever told stories.

Even when we called him Wayo, his answer was that Wayo could only beget Wayo.

He gave me everything a father could give, the values that guaranteed a clear con-

science always; the moral compass to navigate a morally ambivalent world; and a recognisable and respected name that gave me a head start in life. My friends became his friends and he was at ease with them as he was with his friends. Rectitude was his creed and public acclaim or acceptance was of no importance to him. Being at peace with ones conscience was all that mattered.

He lived life to the fullest and on his terms.

He was at once western and traditional as he easily fit into the sedateness of presidential palaces as he did the irreverent village settings where he found his element. He never left his roots and his roots never left him.

Giving and sharing were religion to him. His time, his knowledge and his all especially the game from his huntings, which were trophies to which all were entitled. Every meal was to be shared so it was a rarity seeing him eat alone. Life to him was about sharing and he indeed shared.

His presence, large heart, energy, and legendary status belied his lithe frame. He used his enormous endowments to reconcile many communities and persons who remember him fondly till date. He firmly believed everyone should live in peace with his or her neighbour.

As perhaps the greatest beneficiary of his legacy and goodwill, I testify to his true greatness for only the truly great remain truly humble. Father, friend, E.T, Melord, the Bones, yours was indeed a life. You were a legend beyond your times. Many wonder why you did not make it to the Supreme Court. You could, but you were not prepared to lobby.

As you take your place in the bosom of the Almighty whom you faithfully served in truth, in words and in deed, while on this mortal plane, continually plead for us; intercede for us with the Almighty and reconcile us to Him. Rest in Peace in Paradise for you have earned it. As you rest in Heaven, you live forever in our hearts and history that validates and vindicates your life.

Ndoma-Egba is the Senate Leader, Federal Republic of Nigeria.

Zaccheaus Agbabor Ajibode (1878-2013) For UAC, A Good Man Goes....

ERHAPS, living and dying P in old age is everybody’s wish. But sometimes the vicissitudes of life does not allow this. As a result of natural and man-made consequences, many have died even from avoidable causes.

One person who lived life to its fullest was Pa Zaccheaus Agbabor Ajibode.

During his lifetime he was a social bug. He was a pioneer member of St. John’s Anglican Church, Ugbosi-Afe in Akoko Edo Local Government Area of Edo State and perhaps, the biggest, largest local government in Nigeria. After his baptism in the Anglican Church, Pa Ajibode also learnt to read and write in Yoruba language in the church. He later learnt to write and sign his name and speak Pidgin English proficiently from his social interactions and travels.

The man Agbabor was also a great wrestler and an acrobat.

This was in the 50s. He often spoke nostalgically about his wrestling prowess and expeditions from place to place.

Agbabor embraced selfless services to his community Ugboshi-Afe in 1914 and 1940 respectively during the First and Second World Wars. In the 50s, he became a member of the dreaded Tax Collection and Assessment Committee in the community. As a member, he ensured fairness and abhorred the oppression of the weak and the aged, which was the bane and practice of the time.

Then came the legal battles between Ugboshi-Afe and Ibillo over Ubiaho farmland.

He represented Ugboshi-Afe creditably as a facilitator in various courts at Auchi, Ubiaja, Sapele, Warri and so on. As long as the cases lasted, his farms and family were sacrificed for the love of his village. This marked him out as a great leader and organiser.

By Larry E. Ettah HEN some people pass on, like Bassey Udo Ndiokho did on Thursday, February 21, 2013, it is worth our tears. But in mourning the dead, it is also a time to think of their life. For as we are often reminded, “Not the reach of a man’s fame nor the depth of his fortune but his ability to make a difference to humanity is what matters”.

Bassey Udo Ndiokho (19392013) worked for UAC of Nigeria Plc. for close to three decades and retired as its Chairman/Managing Director (1993-1999).

He became a CEO at a very difficult time of our corporate history, with Unilever divesting and taking with them the “Crown Jewels” of the Group.

We were, indeed, handed a bad hand, a losing hand, a lemon, motley of businesses, and a rump of disparate units with poor prospect for growth given their industries. Sometimes, you are not lucky to inherit a legacy portfolio aligned to favourable trends; his was worse. In any case, that was why Unilever was divesting from them, to focus on more profitable core operations, in their view. Mr Ndiokho didn’t seek the job, but clearly he wasn’t frightened by the prospects and the challenges.

We, the hapless employees, were somewhat anxious, our confidence wavering, having lost an anchor investor, a corporate parent in Unilever.

The prospects of being a fully “Nigerian” business with all that it portends were frightening and nervy. Some who had the opportunity jumped ship to Unilever, or elsewhere, for clearly you had to either be bold or foolish to remain - given half the chance.

Those of us who had no such chance, however, had a

W

Ajibode He led in numerous community projects such as road constructions and repairs, building of markets and formation of cooperative bodies.

He is reputed to be fearless, honest, upright and a man of peace, traits he bequeathed to his children. At a time, he became an unsworn judge, who was always invited to adjudicate on household, inter and intra family squabbles and in various village disputes. His sincerity and ability to dispense justice without fear or favor earned him the nickname FORMULAR. Pa Ajibode loved education with a passion. His experiences from the numerous travels, his social life and perhaps his interactions with educated and enlightened people possibly made him to love education. He therefore ensured that all his children were properly educated. He believed that education is king. Zaccheaus loved fashion. He was always welldressed, smart, active, strong, neat and well kept.

Pa Ajibode was a committed Christian to the end. He abhorred divination. In his last days, he would always pray in the mornings and evenings for all, especially for his children. He would always exclaim, “MODUPE”-I give thanks (to the Almighty). God blessed him with a long and fulfilled life to live to become the oldest person in Ugboshi kingdom and perhaps in Akoko-Edo L.G.A. Perhaps, he could have made the Guinness Book of Records had he lived in a more decent society where honour is given to who deserves it. It is probably in lieu of this that the whole of Akoko Edo and people from all walks of life gave Pa Ajibode, father of Barrister Bernard Ajibode, teacher, lawyer, and consummate politician, who died at the very ripe age of 135 years, a befitting burial on Saturday, February 23, 2013 at Akoko Edo. It was a celebration of a worldly life full of sweet memories! May his soul continue to Rest in Peace. Amen.

leader - Bassey Udo Ndiokho.

Desperate times can shrink a man or embolden him. He urged us to reject the lazy narrative that a Nigerian business could not do well, made us believe we are stewards of a great inheritance called UACN. With the lemon we were handed, we worked to make lemonade. We refused to be victims of destiny but masters of our own.

There were doubters - people who wondered whether he had the flair, authority and, perhaps, the gumption to carry forward the company built in the image of his predecessor.

A gentle, simple, Spartan, courtly and considerate man, who cherished the virtues of duty quietly exercised. Never one to indulge in self-promotion or media hugging, and without undue fanfare, went about trying to “unscramble the scrambled egg” that UACN was then. He stated his convictions politely but argued them firmly. Optimistic in temperament, he was bold and persistent in action.

Ndiokho was a CEO who worked for the organisation, not one where the organisation worked for him (as we sometimes see). A man of great humility, humour, a sense of humanity, radiating to us all, hope. It came easily to him as son of a village Pastor, his upbringing reflected in his character. He saw power not for its sake but for the purpose, to ensure we brave out the odds, burnish our reputation through service and make UAC survive. It is a testimony to his courage, conviction and vision that UAC, once a flourishing panAfrican enterprise under Unilever, survived only in Nigeria (Ghana and other countries liquidated post-

Ndiokho Unilever divestment).

Our local contemporaries then were CFAO, UTC, SCOA, John Holt, AG Leventis etc. It is to his credit – and memory – that he laid the foundation that today these enterprises are not our peers.

In hindsight, it is easier to understand the challenges we faced and the adequacy of his leadership response. He initiated the evolution of UACN Property Development Company Plc. (UPDC), acquired CAP Plc., Grand Cereals Limited, and Spring Waters Nigeria Limited (SWAN) into the group. These were inspired judgement calls and transformative purchases that underpin UACN growth today.

He was not perfect, well, who amongst us is? He was clearly under-estimated! Bassey will have an honoured place in the memory and history of UACN. To his family, I offer condolence but also the respect and gratitude of UACN. To my colleagues, I say, we owe him a duty to succeed.

On behalf of a grateful Company, we bid you farewell Sir!!

Mr Ettah is the Group Managing Director/CEO, UAC of Nigeria PLC.

THE GUARDIAN, Saturday, March, 23, 2013

56

Change of Name ADEBIAYE: Formerly Miss Adebiaye Ayisat Yetunde now Mrs. Olawuyi Yetunde Ayisat. Former documents remain valid. Forward Bureau De Change Limited, US Embassy, public note.

ADEDEJI: Formerly Adedeji Adepeju Olawale now wish to be known as Ejueyitchie Adepeju Olawale.

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ADEGBULU: Formerly Miss Atinuke Adebimpe Henrietta Adegbulu now Mrs. Atinuke Henrietta Uchidiuno. Former documents remain valid. Public note.

ADEGBUYI: Formerly Miss Oluwakemi Phebian Adegbuyi now Mrs. Oluwakemi P h e b i a n Oyewunmi. Former documents remain valid. Public note.

ADEKOYA: Formerly Miss Ajoke Temitope Adekoya now Mrs. Ajoke Temitope Awonbiogbon.

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ADENIYI: Formerly Miss Odunayo Oluwatoyin Adeniyi, now Mrs Odunayo Oluwatoyin Abodunrin.

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ADEPOJU: Formerly Miss Adepoju Adenike Abosede now Mrs. Ajekigbe Adenike Abosede.

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ADEWOLE: Formerly Miss Yetunde Aderayo Adewole now Mrs. Yetunde Aderayo Farinade. Former documents valid. Public note.

ADEWOYE: Former Miss Abiola Adedoyin Adewoye now

Mrs. Abiola Adedoyin Ilupeju. Former documents remain valid. General public note.

AGBO: Agbo Decland Chinonso and Attamah Decland Chinonso are one and the same person. All documents remain valid. Public note.

AGBO: Agbo Hope Ozioma and Attamah Hope Ozioma are one and the same person.

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AGU: Formerly Miss Agu Chizoba now Mrs Felix Chizoba.

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AGHAUCHE: Formerly Miss Aghauche Uchenna Njideka now Mrs. Eneh Uchenna Njideka.

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AJAGBE: Formerly Ajagbe Adenike Odunola now Mrs. Durodola Adenike Odunola. Former documents remain valid. Public note.

AJE: Formerly Miss Aje Esther Funmilayo now Mrs. Alabi Esther Funmilayo.

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AKINYELURE: Formerly Miss Oluwakemi Modupe Akinyelure, now Mrs Oluwakemi Modupe Daniel. Former documents remains valid. Public note.

ALAO: I, formerly

Miss Anwulika Modunkwu now wish to be called Mrs. Anwulika Alao. All former documents remain valid. Public note.

ALUKO: Formerly Miss Temidayo Morenikeji Aloku now Mrs. Temidayo Morenikeji Fadeyi.

Former documents remain valid. Public note.

AMADA: Former Miss Amada Besther Onoriode now Mrs. Blackman Besther Onoriode. All former documents remain valid. Public note.

AMADI: I, formerly Miss Marybride Chikaodinaka Amadi now Mrs. Marybride Chikaodinaka Oparaku. Former documents remain valid. Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria, Eko Hospital, general public take note.

AMADI: Formerly Miss Amadi Perpetua Ogochukwu now Mrs. Onyeji P e r p e t u a Ogochukwu. Former documents remain valid. Public note.

AMADI: Formerly Miss Piriye Nancy Amadi now Mrs. Piriye Nancy Olaiya.

Former documents valid. Public note.

ANIKULAPO: Formerly Miss Anikulapo Olabisi Tope now Mrs. Ogbeide Olabisi Tope. Former documents valid. Public note.

ATUMONYE: Formerly Miss Atumonye Chinasa Gloria now Mrs. Nwanjo Chinasa Gloria. Former documents remain valid. Public note.

ATUNDE: Former Miss Atunde Oluwatoyin Olabisi Faith now Mrs. Abiodun – Ezemide Oluwa-

Chielozonam now Mrs. Ezeh Lilian Chielozonam. Former documents remain valid. Public AWHAISOBA: For- note. merly Miss Awhaisoba Abigiail CHUKWU: Formerly Chukwu Utomi now Mrs. Er- Miss imieleagbon Abi- O n y i n y e c h i now giail Utomi. Former Clementina Mrs. Huanyanwu documents remain O n y i n y e c h i valid. Public note.

Clementina. Former AYINDE: Formerly documents remain Miss Ayinde Ola- valid. Public note. jumoke Fatimah DADA: Formerly now Mrs. Ajayi Ola- Miss Temitope jumoke Fatimah. Catherine Dada Former documents now Mrs Temitope valid. Public note.

Catherine Ojobo. All former documents AZUAMAH: For- remain valid. Public merly Chidinma note.

P e t r o m i n a Azuamah now Mrs. DEEBARI: This is to Chidinma Petro- confirm that Kanymina Stevens. For- one Nua Deebari is mer documents the same person as remain valid. Gen- Nua Kanyone. All eral public note. former documents BAKARE: I, formerly remain valid. Public note. known as Bakare Iyabo Safurat or DIMKPA: Formerly Bakare Iyabo Asabi Miss Dimkpa Mgnow wish to be ad- bechi Uzochi dressed as Payne Favour now Mrs. Iyabo Sandra. For- Emeka Favour mer documents re- Uzochi Mgbechi. main valid. Public Former documents take note. remain valid. Public BAKARE: Formerly note.

Miss Bakare Folake DHLAKAMA: ForIyabo Taofikat now merl Miss Salima Mrs. Bakare – Bello Maunja Dhlakama Folake Taofikat. For- now to be admer documents dressed as Mrs. Salvalid. Public note. ima Maunja Dhlakama-Ajayi.

BANKOLE: Formerly Former documents Miss Bankole remain valid. GenAbisola Mariam eral public please now Mrs. Aresokan note.

Abisola Mariam.

Former documents EGONU: Formerly remain valid. Public Miss Egonu Stella note.

Onyinyechi now Mrs Stella BISIRIYU: Formerly Onyinyechi Oko. Miss Balquees former documents Yetunde Bisiriyu remain valid. Public now Mrs. Balquees note.

Yetunde Okunade.

Former documents EGWUI: Formerly remain valid. Public Miss Egwui Benita note.

Ifeoma now Mrs. Abuo Benita Ifeoma.

BOYO: Formerly Former documents known as Miss Mary remain valid. Public Adeyinka Boyo now note. addressed as Mrs Mary Adeyinka EHIEM: Formerly Omoefe.

Former Miss Ehiem Stella documents remain Kelechi now Mrs valid. Public note.

Ejereonye Stella Kelechi.

Former CHIME: Formerly documents remain Miss Chime Lilian toyin Olabisi. Faith.

Former documents remain valid. General public note.

THE GUARDIAN, Saturday, March, 23, 2013

57

Change of Name valid. Public note.

valid. Public note.

EJIKE: Formerly Miss Ejike Claire Njideka now Mrs. Ibe Claire Njideka.

Former documents remain valid. Public note.

EZEKWE: Formerly Miss Precious Ifeoma Ezekwe now Mrs. Precious Ifeoma Ufomba.

Former documents remain valid. Public note.

EKPEN: Formerly Ekpen Blessed Prince now addressed as Ekpen Ehis Blessed. Former documents remain valid. Public note.

ELEOJO: Former Miss Rebecca Eleojo Ojile now Mrs. Rebecca Ojile Oketade. All former documents remain valid. Public note.

ENUMA: I, formerly Miss Amaka Lisa Enuma now known as Mrs. Amaka Lisa Omelihu. Former documents remain valid. General public take note.

ENYINDA: Formerly Miss Beatrice Chinenye Paul Enyinda now Mrs. Beatrice Chinenye Smiles Azunda.

Former documents remain valid. Public take note.

ERUEDOJA: Formerly Miss Atarhe Evelyn Eruedoja now Atarhe Evelyn Olafeso.

Former documents remain valid. Public note.

ETUKUSANG: Formerly Miss Rose Monday Etukusang now Mrs. Amos Rose Ekarika. Former documents valid. State Secondary Education Board, AKS and public note.

EWEJOBI: I, formerly Miss Itunuoluwa Marian Ewejobi now Mrs. Itunuoluwa Marian Isewon.

Former documents remain valid. Public note.

EZE: Formerly Miss Eze Kaosisochukwu Maureen now Mrs. Edozie Kaosisochukwu Maureen.

Former documents remain

FAGBEMI: Formerly Fagbemi Folasayo Aboladun now Mrs. Adams Enyinnaya Folasayo Aboladun.

Former documents remain valid. Public note.

FOLI: Formerly Miss Y e t u n d e Oluwaseun Foli now Mrs. Yetunde Oluwaseun Adegoke. Former documents remain valid. Public note.

GBADAMOSI: Formerly Miss Oluwatobi Azeezat Gbadamosi, now Mrs Oluwatobi Azeezat Obitayo.

Former documents remains valid. Public note.

GEORGE-HART: Formerly Miss Delight N. George-Hart now Mrs. Delight Ngowari NoelElenwo.

Former documents remain valid. Nigeria LNG Limited and public note.

HUSSAINI: Formerly Miss Maryam Hussaini Shettima now Mrs. Maryam Shettima Bakari. Former documents remain valid. Public note.

IBITOLA: Formerly Miss Ibitola Adetomilola Grace now Mrs. Olaniran Adetomilola Grace.

All former documents remain valid. Public note.

IGBO: Formerly Miss Igbo Sylvia Chinwendu now Mrs Onyeka Sylvia Chinwendu. Former documents remain valid. Public note.

IHEMADU: I, formerly known as Karachi Ihuoma Ihemadu now wish

Oluwagbemisola Anu now Mrs. Odukoya Oluwagbemisola Anu. All former documents remain valid. Public IKUESAN: Formerly note.

Ikuesan Ayorinde Michael now Asog- KOLWOLE: Formerly bon-Ikuesan Ay- Miss Kolawole Modorinde Michael. upe Patience now Former documents Mrs. Oladele Modremain valid. Gen- upe Patience. Former documents eral public note. remain valid.

ISHOLA: I, former Miss Ishola Mujidat KAZEEM: Formerly Aderayo now wish Jimoh OluwagbemiBamidele to be known as Mrs. niyi Kazeem now Jimoh Ogungbensan Mujidat Aderayo. All for- Ishola Oluwagbemimer documents niyi Bamidele. Fordocuments remain valid. NYSC mer and general public valid. Public note. take note.

LAWAL: Formerly Ramota JAMES: Former Miss Miss James Sandra Adenike Lawal now Ramota Ifeoma now ad- Mrs. dressed as Mrs. Eg- Adenike Abdullahi. bujie Sandra Former documents Ifeoma.

Former remain valid. Public documents remain note. valid. Public note.

LOTSI: Formerly JIDEOFOR: For- Miss Lotsi Funmi Joy Mrs. Olumerly Miss Jideofor now fowokan Funmi Joy. Ujunwa Mary now Former documents Mrs. Oforka Ujunwa Mary. Former docu- remain valid. Public ments remain note. valid. Public note.

MADUIKE: I, forJOHN: Formerly merly Miss Maduike Ifeoma Miss John Omoh Winifred Justina now wish to now Mrs. Okoye be addressed as Winifred Ifeoma.

Mrs. Iviero Omoh Former documents Justine.

Former remain valid. Unidocuments remain lag, Jopan Pharma valid. General pub- Ltd, general public take note. lic note. to be known and called Karachi Dimbo Atiya. Saint Saviours Collage, public note.

JOHNSON: Formerly Miss Tonia Charity Johnson now Mrs. Tonia Charity Hangberg.

Former documents remain valid. Public note.

MEROYI: I formerly Miss Adeyinka Adetu Meroyi now Mrs. Adeyinka Jesuloba Oresanya. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

JOLAIYA: Formerly Miss Jolaiya Olanike Abosede now wish to be known as Mrs Adeleke Olanike Abosede. Former documents remain valid. Public note

MICHAEL: I, formerly Miss Michael Jane Chizobam now Mrs. Arigu Jane Chizobam. Former documents remain valid. Public note.

KAREEM: I, formerly Miss Kareem Yemisi Grace now Mrs. Ajayi Yemisi Grace.

Former documents remain valid. Public note.

MOSES: Formerly Miss Cecilia Esther Moses now Mrs. Cecilia Esther Odushola. Former documents remain valid. Public note

KAZEEM: Formerly MPAMA: Formerly Miss Kazeem Miss Mpama Glory

Ezinwa now Mrs. I b e a b u c h i Glory Ezinwa. Former documents valid. NYSC, public note.

NJOKU: Former Miss Charity Nkechi Njoku now Mrs. Charity Nkechi Ofurum. Former documents remain valid.

Public note.

NKEMDIRIM: I, formerly Mr. Chikwendu Lotanna Kenneth now known as Mr. Chikwendu Lotanna Kenneth Nkemdirim.

Former documents remain valid. Embassies, general public take note.

NMADU: Formerly Miss Nmadu Amara Ruth now Mrs Amara Ruth Alino. Former documents valid. FEDERAL-POLY, Nekede, public note.

NWABIA: Formerly Miss Nwabia Onyinye Ifeoma now Mrs. Kalunta Onyinye Ifeoma. Former documents remain valid. Public note.

NWOKEDI: Formerly Miss Nwokedi Ijeoma Peace now Mrs. Ojukwalu Ijeoma Mary Peace.

Former documents remain valid. Public note.

NWOSU: I, formerly known as Nwosu Chiamaka Assumpta now wish to be called Onyebuchi Chiamaka Assumpta. All documents remain valid.

Public note.

OBIEFUNA: Formerly Mr. Nduka Amobi Udeobi Udegbu Ignatius Obi Udegbunam Obiefuna is the same as Nduka Amobi Nduka. Former documents remain valid. Public note.

OBIOHA: I, formerly Cynthia Nnenna Obioha now Mrs. Cynthia Nnenna Ejiogu. Former documents remain

valid. Public note.

ODEBUNMI: Formerly Miss Oluwagbemisola Olatoyosi Odebunmi now Mrs. Oluwagbemisola Olatoyosi Areo. Former documents remain valid. Public note.

ODEYEMI: Former Miss Odeyemi Oluronke Margaret now wish to be addressed as Mrs. O l u w a d i y a Oluronke Margaret. Former documents remain valid. General public note.

OFFIONG: I Former Miss Victoria Edet Offiong now wish to be known As Mrs. Victoria Ernest Ufot. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

OFORJI: Formerly Oforji Theresa Uchechi now to be known as Theresa U c h e c h i O d o e m e n e Uchenwa. All former documents remain valid. Public note.

OGAR: Formerly Miss Blessing Amba Ogar now wish to be addressed as Mrs. Blessing Adeola Popoola Timothy. All former documents remain valid. Public take note.

OGBEBOR: Formerly Miss Ogbebor Akhere Mercy now Mrs. Akinseye Mercy Akhere. Former documents remain valid. Public note.

OGHENE: I, formerly David Erhi Oghene now wish to be known and addressed as Omare Ovietobore David. All former documents remain valid. Public note.

OGUNGBENRO: Formerly Miss Ogungbenro Mary Odunola now Mrs. Adeduntan Mary Odunola. Former

THE GUARDIAN, Saturday, March, 23, 2013

58

Change of Name OGUNGBESAN: Formerly Miss Ogungbesan Omolola Oladunni now Mrs. Faleye Omolola Oladunni.

Former documents valid. Public note.

OKUNLOLA: Formerly Miss Okunlola Adeola Kemi now Mrs. Ajibola Adeola Kemi. Former documents remain valid.

Adventist Comprehensive High School, Otun-Ekiti and public note.

OGUNLEYE: Formerly Miss Adekelu Deborah Ogunleye now known as Mrs. Adekelu Deborah Ajadi. Former documents valid. General Public note.

OKUNTADE: Formerly Okuntade Rose Ajike now Mrs Eminowon Rose Ajike. Former documents remain valid. General public take note.

OGUNOLA: Formerly Miss Ogunola Beatrice Monisola now Mrs. Owoeye Beatrice Monisola.

Former documents remain valid. Public note.

OLETUBO: Formerly Miss Oletubo Oluwakemi Ajoke now Mrs. Ogundare Oluwakemi Ajoke. Former documents valid. Omolaja-Sodipo Memorial Anglican School, Abk, public note.

documents remain valid. Public note.

OHAEKWE: Former Miss Juliet Obiageli Ohaekwe now Mrs. Juliet Obiageli Ikejiaku. All former document remain valid. Public note.

OJIOCHIE: Formerly Miss Ojiochie Christiana Nwanneka now Mrs. Udeneani Christiana Nwanneka. Former documents remain valid. Public note.

OKALA: I, formerly Miss Okala Obiozo Bridget now known as Mrs. Agbogu Obiozo Bridget. Former documents remain valid. General public take note.

OKIKIOLU: Formerly Miss Mercy Yewande Oluseye Okikiolu now Mrs. Mercy Oluseye Oyedemi. Former documents valid.

Public note.

OKORO: Formerly Miss Ifeoma Sarah Okoro now Mrs. Ifeoma Sarah Okoye. Former documents remain valid. Public note.

OKOYE: Formerly Miss Agatha Chinwendu Okoye now Mrs. Agatha Chinwendu Ajah. Former documents remain valid. Public note.

OLOSUNDE: Formerly known as Miss Oluwatoyin Seun Olosunde now addressed as Mrs Oluwatoyin Seun Olatoye. Former documents remain valid. Public note.

OLUSANYA: Formerly Miss Toyin Imole Olusanya, now Mrs Toyin Imole Ojo. Former documents remains valid. Public note.

OLUWEMIMO: I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Mojisola Bola Oluwemimo now wish to be known and addressed as as Mrs. Mojisola Bola Ajayi. Former documents remain valid. General public take note.

OMONIJO: I, formerly known as Miss Opeyemi Esther Omonijo now to be called and addressed as Mrs. Opeyemi Esther Tokosi. All former documents remain valid. The general public take note.

OMONKHOGBE: Former Miss Obehi

Ruth Omonkhogbe now Mrs. Obehi Ruth Odjegba. All documents remain valid. Public note.

remain valid. KINGSFIELD College, public note.

ONYIA: Formerly Miss Onyia Chika Viola now Mrs. Macfarlane Chika Viola.

Former documents remain valid. Public note.

OMOREGBEE: Former Miss Omoregbee Osaseri now addressed as Mrs. Ogberaha Osaeri.

Former documents remain valid. Pub- ONYEKA: Formerly Miss Onyeka lic note.

Odunwa Ivory now Nwabueze ONI: Formerly Miss Mrs. Oni Dupe now Mrs. Odunwa Ivory. ForMisipode Dupe. mer documents reFormer documents main valid. School of Nursing and the valid. Public note. general public take ONOVO: Formerly note.

Miss Onovo Sophie Onyeka now Mrs. ONYEMA: Former Nwaeme – Onovo Mr. Onyema GeofSophie Onyeka. All frey Muoh now Mr. documents valid. Onyeme Geoffrey Ikejiaku. All former Public note. document remain ONUABUEKE: For- valid. Public note. merly Miss Onuabueke Annastasia OPARAUGO: I, forChinasaokwu now merly Miss OpaMrs. Odinaka An- raugo Adaugo Sylvia nastasia Chi- now Mrs. Adaugo nasaokwu. Former Dominic Nwichi. documents remain Former documents valid. ESUTTH/MOH remain valid. FiE n u g u , delity Bank and pubNursing/Midwifery lic note.

Council of Nigeria, OSHOKOYA: ForUBA, public note. merly Oshokoya Esnow Mrs. ONWUEKWEIKPE: ther Afolorunsho Marie Formerly Miss OnFormer wuekweikpe Linda Solange. documents remain Ifeoma now Mrs valid.

Public note.

Ogazie Linda Ifeoma.

Former OSONDU: I, formerly documents valid.

Miss Anulika Elsie NYSC, public note.

Osondu now known OPARAOCHA: I, for- as Mrs. Anulika Elsie merly Miss Doris Ndubuisi. Former Anayo Oparaocha is documents remain now known and ad- valid. General pubdressed as Mrs. lic take note.

Doris Anayo Or- OYELEKE: Formerly agwa. Former docuMiss Oyeleke Oyements remain fikayo Olanike now valid. NYSC, general wish to be adpublic take note. dressed as Mrs. Adesina Oyefikayo OWOEYE: Formerly Former Miss Owoeye Olanike. documents remain Oluwatosin Abimvalid.

General pubbola now Mrs. lic note.

Enifeni Oluwatosin Abimbola. Former ROTIMI: Formerly documents valid. known as Ogunbiyi Public note.

Ibrahim Rotimi now addressed as O l u w a b i y i OYEGUNSEN: ForO l u w a d u r o t i m i merly Mr. Oyegunsen Emmanuel Olamilekan. Former Rapheal Ellie now documents remain Mr. Oyetola Em- valid. Public note. manuel Ellie. For- SALAWU: Formerly mer documents Salawu Jennifer Rafa

now wish to be known and addressed as Ibitoye Jennifer Rafa. All former documents remain valid. General public take note

Ugah now Mrs. Mercy Lebechi Onyia. Former documents remain valid. Ebonyi State Government, public note.

SANUSI: Formerly Sanusi Adelaja Oluwaseyi now Afolabi Victor Oluwaseyifunmi.

Former documents remain valid. Public note.

UGORJI: Formerly Miss Chinwe Judy Ugorji now Mrs. Chinwe Agwu. Former documents remain valid. Public note.

UMUNNAKWE: Formerly Mrs. Umunnakwe Mercy Ifeyinwa now Miss Mercy Uwadinachi.

All former documents remain valid. Abia State Sports Council and SHABA: I, formerly public take note.

Miss Adesola Sharon Shaba now Mrs. URAMA: I, formerly Adesola Sharon known and adBamgboye, Former dressed as Ifeanyi documents remain Uramah now to be valid. Kenya Air- known as Ifeanyi ways, Embassies, Urama. Former docLagos – State Univer- uments remain sity, general public valid. General pubtake note. lic take note.

SARUMI: Formerly Sarumi Habibat Abosede now Mrs. Durodola Habibat Abosede.

Former documents remain valid. Public note.

SHITTU: I, formerly Miss Shittu Shakirat Bukky now known as Mrs. Adebayo Shakirat Bukky. Former documents remain valid. General public take note.

UWANDU: Formerly Miss Uwandu Geraldine Obiageri now Mrs Mensah Geraldine Obiageri. Former documents remain valid. Public note.

SOKEMI: Formerly Miss Sokemi Bukola Elizabeth now Mrs. Ojoye Bukola Elizabeth. Former documents valid. DV Fashion Ltd, public note.

UWEZUOKE: Formerly Miss Chinenye Amarachi Uwezuoke now Mrs Chinenye Amarachi Anya. Former documents valid. Public note.

SOLIHU: Formerly Solihu Hajaratu Abimbola now Bakare Ajarat Abimbola. Previous documents valid. Public note.

IF

SOWUNMI: Formerly Mrs. Adeola Mercy Sowunmi now Ms Adeola Mercy Ogunfuwa.

Former ldocuments valid. Public note.

TASIE: Formerly Miss Tasie Maureen Anurika now Miss Uzoaku Maureen Anurika.

Former documents remain valid. Public note.

UGAH: Formerly Miss Mercy Lebechi

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

THE GUARDIAN, Saturday, March 23, 2013

59

Tribute To Chioma Faith Enuma Uzoho

By Levi Anyikwa

A

T about 9:02pm on Monday January 28, 2013, I got a pulsating and breath-taking text message on my phone from my brother-inlaw, Mr. Ali Uzoho who lives in Onitsha, saying: “VERY URGENT PRAYER ALERT!!! Dr. Mrs Chioma Uzoho is involved in a serious motor accident.

Please pray 4 God’s deliverance. Ali”.

My heartbeat skipped. I called the attention of my wife and showed her the text message. Immediately, we went down on our knees. My wife burst out praying in tongues. But there on my knees I didn’t know how to start. However, I managed to say a few words but I discovered that my prayer was incoherent. Later, I started saying what may pass for meaningful prayer. I needed to assure myself that Chioma was still alive. I got up and started to call my cousins – Ifeanyi and Maduabuchi – who also live in Onitsha. I was told that she was in coma as a result of the accident.

At exactly 9:26pm that Monday night, I got another text message from News Agency of Nigeria’s news-alert platform, NANmobile, saying: “18 persons feared dead as articulated vehicle loses control, tears through other vehicles at Nkpor, near Onitsha in Anambra State, FRSC says”.

While I was praying that Chioma just shouldn’t be part of that statistics, another text message came from NANmobile this time with a note of statistical authority saying: “FRSC says 18 persons were killed on Monday when truck coming down newly constructed bridge at Nkpor, Anambra State, rammed into eight other vehicles”.

In spite of this latest report, I still believed that Chioma was in coma. We continued to pray and believe that by morning we shall receive an answer of peace. When morning came, nobody called me. I picked my phone and called Ifeanyi; I could only hear him sobbing at the other end.

What kind of answer was that? I wanted to ask him whether that was how they taught him to answer a telephone call. Every other person I called was sobbing on telephone right into my very ear! It dawned on me that ‘Sister Chioms’ as she was fondly called by family and friends, had gone to be with the Lord. Then my elder brother, Frank, who also prayed all through the night called to say that “Chioma did not make it”. I knew he meant that Chioma had been confirmed dead, that she did not come out of the coma. But I later gathered that she really came out of the coma, spoke in tongues briefly, and joined the Heavenly train.

Until that ghastly motor accident on January 28,

Uzoho 2013, Dr. Chioma Faith Enuma Uzoho (nee Anyikwa) was a lecturer at the Department of Modern European Languages, Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK), Awka. She was best Lecturer, Modern European Languages 2004/2005, an award given to her by National Association of French Language Students (NAFLANS), UNIZIK. Born in Jos, now Capital of Plateau State, on July 6, 1961, she was the first child of the late Pa Benjamin Ogbonnia Anyikwa and Mrs. Comfort Chinyere Anyikwa of Umuchu, Aguata Local Government Area of Anambra State.

She had her primary education at Niger City Primary School, Fegge - Onitsha, and then attended the famous Anglican Girls’ Secondary School, Onitsha, from where she graduated with Grade 1 (Excellent) result in the West African School Certificate Examination in 1979.

She gained admission into the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) to study Languages (French Major) in 1980. In 1983 she travelled to

France where she obtained a Diploma in French Language, Literature and Civilisation at the Universite de Grenoble 111. Upon her return to the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, she graduated with a Bachelor of Arts Degree in 1984 and was, of course, the first university graduate from a large extended family predominantly made up of traders.

She obtained her Masters Degree in 2002 and PhD in 2011 in French Literature at the Nnamdi Azikiwe University. She was appointed lecturer at the University in 2005, after two years of service as part-time Lecturer. She was resident in Onitsha with her husband, Mr. Ali Uzoho and shuttled from there to Awka and back almost every day. She lived most of her life in and around Onitsha.

When she completed her Bachelors Degree programme in 1984, she proceeded to PortHarcourt, the Capital of Rivers State, to do her one-year mandatory national youth service.

Upon completion of her NYSC, she started her

TRANSITION teaching career at Holy Innocent’s Juniorate Nkpor. She later taught at Urban Girls Secondary School, Fegge - Onitsha and Prince Memorial High School Onitsha before raising the bar of her teaching career to the university.

A seasoned teacher and polyglot, Sister Chioma was cut down in her prime. She took after her late father, my uncle, who was a peacemaker, pathfinder and torchbearer. Sister Chioms was the spiritual arrowhead of the entire Anyikwa family and beyond.

It was during her NYSC year that she gave her life to Christ. Upon her return home, she gently engaged everybody one-on-one with the Gospel of Salvation. It was not long before we started surrendering our lives to Christ, one after the other. One of her greatest legacies was the establishment of December 31 Cross-Over Altar in the Family compound. Since 1985, every December 31, members of Umuikeluka kindred gather at Obi-Anyikwa to worship God, giving thanks for His mercies in the out-going year and presenting ourselves to God for the New Year.

One of the high-points of the Cross-Over Night is eating and drinking. Women cook and bring their food while men bring drinks. It is always an opportunity to eat native food and local delicacies that are hardly found in the urban centres.

Alcoholic drinks are not permitted. It has become a veritable platform for soul winning.

Long after she got married, this tradition has remained and will continue. We used the last edition to try to recapture our lost family values.

After I gave my life to Christ in 1995, I travelled to Nsugbe, near Onitsha, where she was living with her husband to break the news to her. Her joy knew no bounds.

One thing I strongly believe is that Sister Chioms lived well. She was focused and strongwilled about her Christian faith. She was a woman of faith. In the early years of her Christian life, we were not comfortable with this idea of “carrying Bible”. But when we saw that she was very, very serious and consistent, we joined her. “If you cannot beat them”, they say, “You join them”. We couldn’t beat her, therefore, we joined her.

Since I gave my life to Christ, she developed greater interest in me. She counselled me and backed me up with prayers. To sum it up, she touched my life in a special way. Sister Chioms’ early departure quite hurts but we are assured that the Lord was not taken by surprise and He is sovereign. She will be buried on April 19, 2013, at Ogwa, near Owerri, Imo State. Till we meet to part no more, I say “Au Revoir, Sister Chioms”.

Mr. Anyikwa is the Assistant Director (Corporate Affairs), Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN), Abuja.

Jones Uwadilachi Onuiri: Resting Where No Shadows Fall

By Nnamdi Nwokocha-Ahaaiwe

A

S I sit in front of my computer to type this tribute, many conflicting emotions criss-cross my mind; many images of a man who was truly amazing and larger than life chase themselves through my mind’s eye. I am close to tears as it hits me and I suddenly realise that I am truly writing these words for “Uncle”. I am very sure I will never get used to referring to my Uncle in the past tense; for, to me and my siblings, Uncle will never die. It is very rare these days to encounter real human beings, and Uncle was one of them: he was a pure soul.

I still remember very vividly, as if it was only yesterday, my very first childhood sight of Uncle.

Before that sight of my Uncle, I could recall very many instances of my late mother talking very fondly of her “Uwadilachi”, who was at the time I was born already in Europe pursuing the proverbial Golden Fleece, which eventually culminated in a Ph.D in Economics.

To understand the deep loving

bond between my mother and her younger brother, it is necessary to remind that my late grandmother, Nnete OnuiriEhiria and her husband, my maternal grandfather, Onuiri Ehiria, together had over eight children who all died in infancy.

My mother, Amuchieonu was the first to survive followed shortly afterwards by her brother, Uwadilachi. Their given Igbo names speak volumes to the story. The agony my grandmother went through before my mother and her brother chose to stay meant that the love and bond between mother and children and equally between the two siblings is better imagined than described.

And so, on that fateful afternoon in Ihie, after the civil war (I cannot now remember the year, month or date as I was a very little boy then), the entire community and environs had gathered to receive their Golden boy as he returned triumphantly from Europe. I barely got a glimpse of him as he rode by in a chauffeured skyblue Peugeot 404 car: I was more concerned to avoid being trampled by the rushing and

excited crowd as my older Onuiri cousins to whom I was entrusted had lost me in the maddening euphoria of the moment. As the car conveying my uncle slowly drove by with a thousand pounding feet in pursuit, and clouds of dust rose from the ground to the high heavens, my little heart puffed and almost busted with pride as it dawned on me that this “hero” was in fact my uncle; the very same Uwadilachi my mother had always cooed into my ears. Even when he eventually arrived my maternal compound and was received by my late senior uncle, Chief (Sir) Sunday Onuiri, another great man who my siblings and I called “Grand Pa”, I could hardly get a glimpse of the man. But not to worry, I was to have countless opportunities to share treasured moments with my uncle for many years after.

My uncle after arriving in Nigeria from his studies in Europe joined the Federal Civil Service and settled in Lagos.

Shortly after, my father also joined the Federal Civil Service and we relocated from Lafia in present Nassarawa State to

Lagos. At first, we all lived in Surulere; my uncle at Lawanson while my family lived at Salawu Street near Ojuelegba. This meant that the two families were always closely in touch.

Even when my family moved to Festac Town and my Uncle to Victoria Island, we were always in close contact. It was during this period in particular that, though still a child, I really got to know and admire my uncle.

It was then I got to realise why other uncles were uncle ABC or uncle XYZ, but he was not “Uncle Uwadilachi” or “Uncle Jones”, but simply Uncle: the real deal.

It is difficult to start to talk about my uncle. Where do you

John Bamidele Odegbami For Burial HE death has occurred of Mr. John Bamidele T Odegbami. He died in Lagos on Monday, March 4, this year.

at Fountain of Life Church, Gardens, Ilupeju from 5pm to 7pm.

He will be interred on Friday, April 12 after a According to the burial arrangement released 10am interment service at Wasimi Orile. by the family, there will be a service of songs Guests will be entertained immediately after and wake keep his honour on Thursday April 11 internment.

Onuiri

begin? Where do you stop? He was so many different things to many different people. The one thing on which I am very sure everyone who really knew him agrees on is that he was exceptionally honest. He was so content with himself and never respected wealth. That meant that perhaps, in today’s distorted world, he was slightly diminished in the eyes of many as he refused to appropriate the numerous opportunities that came his way to acquire stupendous wealth while he was in service and held very many sensitive and strategic positions in the nation’s Civil Service. But to us, he was a Knight in shining ar-

mour: an upright uncle one could be immensely proud of.

We always boasted of him to anyone who cared to listen. We shared many fond and memorable moments with him and he impacted in our lives in various ways too numerous to mention.

I remember Uncle’s first visit to see my mother after she suffered a stroke. The look of sheer anguish on his face broke my heart; I forgot my sorrows and felt so sorry for him for I was reminded in that one moment just how much he loved my mother. And when he himself later suffered a partial stroke, we never told my mother. When he came visiting my mother again after his stroke from which he was almost fully recovered, she knew something was wrong but we all pretended nothing was amiss. After that, my mother whose speech was slightly impaired by her stroke kept calling me “Uwadilachi” when she meant “Ugochukwu” and until her death, I am sure she always suspected that something had happened to her “little” brother; but we never told her. Well, at least now we pray they are both together in heaven with their dear mother, Nnete.

Truly, I lack the words to express how I feel. What I have said so far is so inadequate to represent what I could say about my uncle, but we are consoled that death is a necessary end. Yes, though words are few, thoughts are deep, memories of you we will always keep.

Conscience, Nurtured by Truth

TheGuardian

60 Saturday, March 23, 2013

Sports SoutAh

Ahead Brazil 2014 World Cup

Come Celebrate With Us, Eagles Tell Fans

By Christian Okpara ODAyis a special day in the relationship between T the Super Eagles and their numerous supporters, who were not in South Africa to cheer the team to the

African Nations Cup title last month.

To show Nigerians “how we did it and also thank the fans for their prayers and support right from the preparatory stage to the final game against Burkina Faso,” the Super Eagles have promised to reward the fans with goals against Kenya when they confront the Harambee Stars at the U.J Esuene Stadium today.

No member of Africa’s current best football team is hesitant in saying that Nigeria would deal with Kenya ruthlessly when they file out for the Brazil 2014 World Cup qualifier. Where the players differ is the number of goals they will pump into the Harambee Stars’ net in pursuit of the World Cup ticket.

“This game will show the whole world that we are not African champions by chance. We trained, fought and endured so many things to get where we are now, and Kenya cannot just come to soil our image,” Super Eagles’ new talisman, Sunday Mba, said after Thursday evening’s training session.

Mba, who is expected to join a European club at the end of the current season, believes he is also speaking for his mates when he says the Eagles will use today’s game to honour their fans for their unflinching support.

“We have been received very well by Nigerians since we returned from South Africa, and it is only good that we repay them with a good outing in this game.

It is our first match since the Nations Cup, and I can assure Nigerians that we will make them happy.

“If I am picked to play, I will try to re-enact all the things I did in South Africa in Calabar. But we need everybody’s support to succeed,” he said.

Also looking forward to a good show today, Chelsea

midfielder, John Mikel Obi, says he is aware that Kenya could wreck Nigeria’s campaign in the qualifiers if care was not taken, as there are no more minnows in football. But like Mba, he is sure of a successful outing today.

“We have decided not to do too much talking but we have the capacity to beat any team in the world and we heard what our opponents have been saying,

by Saturday we shall know which is the better side,” Mikel declared.

Mikel is expected to control the Eagles’ midfield, which could also feature Mba, Ogenyi Onazi or/and Fegor Ogude.

Obafemi Martins, who just joined Saunders FC in America’s Major League Soccer (MLS), is rejoining the team after being left out of the Super Eagles’ squad for the Nations Cup. Martins is one of the possibles in the game against Harambee Stars, and going by his quickness on the ball and general concentration in training, the famed ‘weapon of mass destruction’ is ready to unleash his venom on Kenya.

He says: “There is no small team anywhere in the world, but we will give our best against Kenya and hopefully we can win.”

Aware of what complacency can cause even the strongest of teams, Coach Stephen Keshi has urged his players to forget the Nations Cup success and concentrate on a new target.

“South Africa is history now and Nigeria must qualify for Brazil next year. We need the support of everyone to ensure that happens and I know my boys will not let the nation down,” he said.

Keshi has called up two new midfielders - Ukrainebased Michael Babatunde and John Ogu of Portuguese club Academica Coimbra - who did not make the 23-man Nations Cup-winning squad.

On the new players in his team, Keshi said the techni-

Mba

cal crew would continuously invite new boys to strengthen the team as qualification for the Brazil 2014 World Cup progresses.

“We are not taking chances because the World Cup is a different ball game, as compared to the Africa Cup of Nations.

“After the Nation’s Cup, we have discovered a lot of very good players who needed to be injected into the team, in view of the big task in the World Cup qualifying series.

“Out of the 23-man squad we featured at the last AFCON, some of the players are injured and a few are not in good shape, hence the need to introduce good and capable hands to join the team. “ We will continue to inject new players into the

team and we are happy to be back in Calabar for the 2014 qualifier against Kenya.

“It is always nice to be here in the city that played a good and valuable role in our qualification for and victory at the last Cup of Nations in South Africa,’’ Keshi said.

He noted that the U.J. Esuene Stadium, “is the best playing turf in Obi Nigeria for now,’’ and commended the stadium management for keeping the pitch lush green.

Kenya will rely heavily on Francebased striker, Dennis Oliech, for goals and Algeriaborn Adel Amrouche makes his debut as coach after succeeding veteran Frenchman Henri Michel.

Nigeria will take complete command of Group F if it beats Kenya Wanyama today. The Super Eagles lead the way in their group on four points from two games and are 33 places above Kenya in the Confederation of African football rankings.

Nigeria also has home advantage and there is a three-point gap between the teams.

The Super Eagles beat Namibia at home and held Malawi away last June, while the Harambee Stars secured only one after a home draw against Malawi and a loss in Namibia.

But Kenya and Celtic midfielder, Victor Wanyama, believes his country can spring a surprise.

“The players are ready, there is a lot of mental strength among them and we are hopeful of a favourable result against Nigeria,” said the 21-yearold midfielder.

“Everything is possible in football and Kenya can win in Nigeria - it is time the Harambee Stars moved forward in international football.”

Wanyama, reportedly noticed by several leading English Premier League clubs after scoring against Barcelona to help Celtic reach the last-16 of the UEFA Champions League this season, is upbeat.

“The players are ready, there is a lot of mental strength among them and we are hopeful of a favourable result against Nigeria,” Wanyama told Kenyan reporters.

“Everything is possible in football and Kenya can win in Nigeria — it is time the Harambee Stars moved forward in international football,” added the national captain, who made his international debut at 17 against Nigeria.

Nigeria ended a 19-year trophy drought when it won the Nations Cup a third time last February with a Sunday Mba half-volley just before half-time settling the final against surprise package, Burkina Faso.

Few beyond Nigeria gave the Eagles a chance of going all the way, but a mix of young local and foreign-based stars soared after a slow start and excelled when beating title favourites Cote d’Ivoire

THE GUARDIAN Saturday, March 23, 2013

61

SPORTS

Before We All Die! in mourning even as I write this with an utmost sense of IIAM responsibility. represent a neglected sector of our beloved country that continues to bring honour and glory to our country but is dying silently, one by one, conveniently forgotten, neglected or ignored.

In the past one year, we have all painfully witnessed the steady death of several great Nigerian football heroes at relatively young ages. It is now being revealed that several of these deaths are the long-term consequences of intensive sports and excessive physical use of their bodies for competition in their youth.

I am making football players only an example of what I believe affects several other sports within our country’s very active socio-economic landscape.

The Super Eagles recently became African champions of football through their success at the Afcon 2013. They were declared national heroes and well rewarded just as was done to the heroes of the 1994 and the 1980 Afcon campaigns. The encomiums and gifts are continuing in a flood. But very soon, as is wont in the normal cycle of things, the flow will cease and a deeper reality will dawn.

As a member of the 1980 team, let me draw some attention to what has happened and is still happening in the lives of those heroes.

Two weeks ago or so, a member of our 22-man team, Okey Isima, passed away at the age of 58. His death would be the sixth since after the championship. That means that more than a quarter of the team has died!

Let’s go back a few more years before 1980 to teams I was also involved in. In 1976, I was a member of the Shooting Stars International Football Club of Ibadan that became the first Nigerian club side to win a continental trophy that year with the Africa Cup-Winners Cup. Of the 16 players that made up the core of that team eight have died.

Lets go back a little bit further. Of the members of the national team that won the 2nd All-Africa Games Gold in Lagos in 1973,

eight have passed on.

Lets go even even further back in time to the country’s first visit to the Olympics football event in 1968, a historic Green Eagles team that held their own and played a 2-2 draw against the dreaded Brazil. Of the 22 heroes of campaign only 10, or so, are still alive to recount the experience.

All these various deaths have been from illnesses and health conditions directly or indirectly related to the aftermath of their intense sports activities when they were younger.

Involuntarily, providence has placed me in the centre of exfootballers activities to such an extent that I keep in touch with a lot of them, or they keep in touch with me.

I can, therefore, tell and testify that of the surviving members of the different generations of footballers from 1968 up till the Keshi-era most are suffering from health conditions that are the direct consequences of their intensive football activities, the daily grind of intensive physical and psychological training and competition, injuries, drugs and substance usage to accelerate and enhance performance and so on, all in the course of seeking laurels and glory for country and club.

Sports people are willing and ready to do anything, make any sacrifice to win for self and for their country. It is a ‘sacrifice’ that turns to foolishness (as most sportspersons find out later in life) when their careers are over, old age starts to set in with their devastating consequences.

I have some really sad news for all.

Although, it is not the rule, African footballers die young! That is the damning verdict of Anthonio Pristar, a professor of Physical and Health education in one of the top universities in Mozambique. I met him last year in Kenya. We were in the same group at the Jomo Kenyatta University, Nairobi, researching into the effect of Active Transport and Physical Sports Activity on young persons in schools in some African countries.

At our first meeting, Antonio told us in conversation that muted recent research findings show that high performance athletes suffer debilitating long-term health illnesses and often die from complications arising from them at relatively young

Segun Odegbami ages.

He cited the cases of retired cyclists that research findings reveal often suffered from physical illnesses and heart-related problems, and that most died whilst in their 40s and 50s.

I asked him if football would qualify as an intensive sport. His answer left me bewildered. He would not discourage any young person from taking to sport, particularly football, because it is very beneficial to good health and wellbeing if done in moderation.

But he also knows that sport is often ‘abused’ through excessive use and damage to body tissues, joints and muscles through use of performance enhancing and body-building substances and drugs, and extensive intensive training.

All of these would lead to a life of pain in old age or early death. Of course, such an assertion demands closer scientific scrutiny, but even a cursory look around me provides frightening evidence that cannot and must not be discountenanced.

Next time you see any of the following retired players observe how they walk: Peter Fregene, George Omokaro (these 2 can’t even walk any more), Niyi Omowon, Joseph Erico, Demola Adesina, Moses Otolorin, Emmanuel Okala, Adokie Amiesimaka, Idowu Otubusin, and even my humble self. We are all presently suffering debilitating effects of arthritis and other ailments that set in as a result of old injuries to our joints sustained during our careers.

Joseph Ladipo (Jossy Lad), as I write this, is critically ill in hospital suffering from the same heart-related disease that killed Samuel Ojebode, Joe Appiah, Okey Isima, Layiwola Olagbemiro, and Victor Oduah in the past one year, and many more in years past.

This is therefore a clarion call to government to provide the platform for proper research into the lives of sportsmen, better appreciation of their sacrifices, and better welfare and medical packages for those that retire from high level sport.

This can happen when governments (state and federal) finally realise that qualified retired sportsmen with the qualifications, knowledge and vision should be given the opportunity to steer the ship of sports in Nigeria.

Government should please do something now before we all die in pain, silence and ignorance.

Governor Imoke Leads Night Of Stars’ Cast ROSS River State for his immense support to C Governor, Senator Liyel the Super Eagles and Golden Imoke, will lead other digniEaglets in their qualifying The 1994 Super Eagles AFCON winning team

Ghana Hungry For Success, Says Muntari HANA midfielder Sulley G Muntari has revealed his side are “desperate” to put their Africa Cup of Nations disappointment behind them and beat Sudan in tomorrow’s World Cup qualifier.

The Black Stars lost to Burkina Faso in the semifinals in South Africa and Muntari, who missed the tournament, wants to focus on reaching Brazil.

“We’re desperate to get to the World Cup,” Muntari, 28, told BBC Sport. “The match against Sudan will not be easy. But we want to win at all costs.”

Ghana is one of the pre-tournament favourites for the Nations Cup but suffered heartbreak when they were beaten on penalties by Burkina Faso.

Coach Kwesi Appiah came in for criticism from some quar-

ters for placing his faith in youth and overlooking established players such as former captain, John Mensah and Marseille striker Jordan Ayew, while Andre Ayew was dropped from the initial squad.

But Appiah has stuck with his policy and brought in four new faces, including Arsenal’s on-loan Fulham midfielder Emmanuel Frimpong, to face Sudan.

Muntari, however, believes the players coming through the ranks for Ghana are good enough to help the team get the results they need aim to close the three-point gap on Group D leaders Zambia starting with a win against third-placed Sudan.

“What happened in South Africa is just part of football and that has been put to one side now,” Muntari said.

“If we think about making a

statement to our fans, we won’t be able to do well. But we will do our best on Sunday (tomorrow) and try to make the fans happy.

“Our young players are playing in good leagues in Europe and I don’t think they will feel pressure. We just need to

train well to be fit and focused the game on Sunday.

“The team is young but it is still experienced. Age doesn’t make much difference. The most important thing is that we respect each other, on and off the field - and act as a team.

That will make us go far.”

Golden Bunch Marks Maiden Inter-House Sports Tourney HE maiden inter-house Technical Director, Lagos T sports competition of State Sports Council, Mr. Akin Golden Bunch School holds Ladigbolu, while the School’s on Monday March 25, at the University of Lagos Sports Centre.

The one-day sports fiesta starts at 10am with students competing in events like 100, 200, 400, relay and invitational relays for invited schools.

The special guest is the

Chairman - Mr. Dele Ogundimu, will be joined by dignitaries at the event.

According to the school director, Mrs. Modupe Ogundimu, the event would afford the athletes the opportunity to showcase their sporting prowess.

taries at this evening’s Night of Stars ceremony slated for the Transcorp Hotels, Calabar.

Imoke, who has been a big source of inspiration to the Super Eagles, who recently won the 2013 African Nations Cup in South Africa, will be honoured with the Pitch Star Award at the showpiece Night of Stars ceremony.

Today’s event, the forerunner of the inaugural edition of the Nigeria Pitch Awards, will come up at the Transcorp Hotels (formerly Metropolitan Hotel), Calabar, will start at 9pm. Red carpet starts at 8pm.

Chief Executive of Matchmakers Consult International, Shina Philips said on Thursday that Governor Imoke deserved the award for his immense contributions to the qualification of the Super Eagles for the 29th Africa Cup of Nations, which they won in South Africa.

“Indeed, Governor Imoke’s contributions to the growth of Nigeria football have endeared him to the good people of Cross River State and Nigerians in general.

“The 2012 Pitch Star Award is

games in 2012.

“Governor Imoke is a real star whose support for Nigeria football should be emulated by other states’ chief executives and all other persons in positions of authority who have the capacity to make an impact in the life of the Nigeria youth by supporting and promoting sports.”

On Wednesday, Governor Imoke received the Cup of Nations trophy at the Executive Chambers of the Cross River State Government House, and rewarded the team with the sum of N25 million and a plot of land each, with another N5 million for the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF).

The guest list for this night’s event, where Super Eagles’ players and coaches will be special guests, has been boosted with Minister/Chairman, NSC, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, Culture Minister, Edem Duke, Inspector General of Police, Mohammed Abubakar, Chairman of Senate Sports Committee, Adamu Gumba, and Chairman of House of Reps’ Committee, Godfrey Gaiya all invited.

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62

SPoRTS European Round-Up

De Gea Pledges Loyalty To United AVID de Gea has reiteratD ed he wants to stay at Manchester United for a ‘long time’ after brushing off talk he could join Barcelona in the summer.

The 22-year-old is enjoying his second season at United following a 2011 move from Atletico Madrid and has played a key role in the club’s relentless pursuit of the title in recent weeks.

He has been mooted as a potential summer replacement for Barcelona keeper Victor Valdes, but De Gea says he is in no rush to leave old Trafford.

“I know things have been said and written but I have a contract,” De Gea is quoted in The Sun. “I’m very well in Manchester.

“It is not just my name that appears. At Barca, Valdes is still the keeper and Madrid is my city, one day I’d like to return.

“But now I hope to stay in Manchester for a long time and win a lot of titles.”

De Gea also praised the man-management skills of Sir Alex Ferguson after the United boss helped him to deal with the criticism which has come his way.

He added: “Sir Alex is more than a manager. He controls everything in the team. He’s a father for all those who come to the club. For that he is the best.

“A footballer has to get used to good and bad words.

“At times things are said that don’t make a lot of sense and it is part of the job to know how to live with that. The best thing is to know who you are always.”

Meanwhile, De Gea believes that United would have reached the quarter-finals of the UEFA Champions League if Nani had not been contro-

versially sent off in the second leg against Real Madrid.

He continued: “Sir Alex has a lot of character and on that day he was very angry, although deep down what he felt more was pride for his team.

“We were superior to Madrid and deserved more but there were situations - unfair decisions - and we were knocked out.

Gotze Eyes Move To Top Club oRUSSIA Dortmund ace Dortmund’s youth academy, Mario Gotze has admitted claims he is pleased with his B an interest in Manchester side’s performance this season United and Real Madrid amidst buy-out talks.

The 20 year-old playmaker has become a target for clubs across Europe in recent years, despite remaining under contract with Dortmund for the next three seasons.

Gotze, a product of

but refuses to rule out a move in the future.

“I am not going to rule it out, I am keeping my options open,” Gotze told Sport1 media.

“I am enjoying being a Borussia Dortmund player and I am happy with how things are right now.

Dortmund Interested In Dzeko, Zorc Admits oRUSSIA Dortmund sporting director, Michael Zorc B has admitted that Manchester City striker Edin Dzeko is a target for his club, but says that there is an “economic aspect” to navigate.

The Bosnian has been mooted as a potential replacement for Robert Lewandowski, who is likely to leave the German champions in the summer.

But the Schwarzgelben are insistent that they cannot do a deal for Dzeko if the Premier League champions are unwilling to set a realistic transfer fee.

“There should be little doubt about Dzeko being a top-class striker,” Zorc told Bild. “He is a great forward and a player one should be keen on. However, there is also still somewhat of an economic aspect.”

De Gea

Fringer Hails Loew For Revolutionising German Football, oRMER Stuttgart boss, Fadmiration Rolf Fringer has voiced his for Germany coach Joachim Loew and feels the 53-year-old has revolutionized the side since taking charge.

The Austrian has believes that the Nationalelf are no longer mainly known for their impressive work-rate like before, but have become a team that’s all about attractive football.

“The national team were always known for the typical German virtues. Loew has revolutionized German football, though, and has given the team an entirely new identity and football culture than it had before,” he told Goal.com.

He added, “Ever since Jogi

has taken charge of the team, German football has been valued much higher abroad. Simply because the team plays better football under him. Germany had good players before as well, but it was all about physicality and duels. German football has another look now and it’s a rather pleasant one.”

Loew took over as Germany boss after the 2006 World Cup, and guided the nation to the final at Euro 2008, while the Nationalelf made it to the semifinals at both the 2010 World Cup and Euro 2012.

He succeeded Fringer at the Mercedes Benz Arena, leading Stuttgart to the DFBPokal in 1997.

Gotze

FIFA Must Act In Mourinho Row, Valdano Insists oRMER Real Madrid direc- have gone to the Portuguese Furged tor Jorge Valdano has were wrongly attributed to FIFA to prove that the eventual winner Vicente del voting for the Coach of the Year award was not rigged after Jose Mourinho’s claims earlier this week.

The Blancos coach suggested that the election was fixed as a number of votes that should

Man City Need Long-Term Plan, Soriano Tells Mancini ANCHESTER City chief M executive, Ferran Soriano appears to have offered some support to manager Roberto Mancini by suggesting the club need a long-term plan to sustain success.

The Barclays Premier League champions currently trail neighbours Manchester United by 15 points and retaining their title looks a distant hope.

That appeared to put pressure on Mancini’s future but Soriano, who moved to the Etihad Stadium from Barcelona in the summer, has a greater understanding of the situation.

“It is not easy to win back any

league, especially the Premier League,” he told a press conference in Italy where he was picking up an award for his book, Goal: The Ball Doesn’t Go in By Chance. “one year you can win with luck but in the long term you need planning and investments to reach the final of the Champions League.

“In 2003 we did a study at Barcelona and for every player who ended up in the first team from the academy there was an average cost of £2million, which is nothing if you think of the current cost of players.

“The principle of bringing players through is fundamental to give a technical identity

to a club, because that leads to a style of play.

“They have to learn from five years old the style of the team, and then you get the benefits.”

City’s rise to Premier League champions was built on a massive spending spree but Soriano insists that will not be the case moving forward. “our squad is still competitive. our problem is finding players stronger than those we already have and that’s not easy,” he added.

Hodgson Denies Feud With Wenger NGLAND manager Roy E Hodgson has insisted that there is no feud

Loew

between himself and Arsenal boss, Arsene Wenger over the fitness of Jack Wilshere.

The 21-year-old midfielder is unable to represent the Three Lions for the upcoming World Cup qualifying double-header against San Marino and Montenegro due to a recent ankle injury, and is currently undergoing rehabilitation in Dubai.

Wenger was reportedly frustrated at Hodgson’s decision to play Wilshere for 90 minutes of the February friendly with Brazil, but the England boss was quick to

deny any conflict with the Gunners manager.

“The thing about club managers is they’ve got another job to do,” Hodgson told reporters. “That conflict is always going to be there, between club and national team, because people will want them to be there playing for them. But I don’t have any criticisms of them.”

He added, “Wilshere is injured and that is unfortunate. We are disappointed he isn’t with us because, on merit, he’d be picked and would play.

But injuries occur. It occurred to Michael Dawson and Gary Cahill.”

Mourinho

Bosque.

FIFA was quick to deny any wrongdoing shortly the allegations, but this has not ended speculation that the voting was indeed rigged, and Valdano feels the body must act to make it clear for once and for all that there was no foul play.

“Mourinho’s declarations mean that FIFA has to do something. They should prove that the voting process was clean,” Valdano told El Larguero.

“Del Bosque won the election with a big margin. I do not believe that there were over 200 fraudulent votes.”

The Spain coach branded Mourinho’s claims “childish” on Thursday, and refused to further discuss the subject.

Meanwhile, FIFA has released a statement denying that Goran Pandev, captain of the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, voted for Mourinho, not Del Bosque, despite the player’s claims.

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TheGuardian

Saturday, March 23, 2013

Conscience, Nurtured by Truth

FCT Angels, Sunshine In Zenith Bank Basketball League Opener Adamawa Pulls Out

By Adeyinka Adedipe CT Angels of Abuja will take on Sunshine Angels of Akure in Fwhich the opening game of the Zenith Bank Basketball League, begins today at the sports halls of the Abuja Stadium.

The Group A game will see both teams jostling for the maximum points at stake with Sunshine favoured to win the game.

However, the Abuja team will hope for an upset as they eye the final eight play offs in Lagos.

Group B rivals, Delta and Dolphins of Lagos will take to the court in the other game in what promises to be a closelyfought encounter.

Meanwhile, the Adamawa State team has pulled out of the league, as it could not get the financial backing of the state government. The Nigeria Police team has, however, taken up the slot but the fixtures were not ready as at press time.

By the new format, the 16 teams were divided into two groups with the defending champions and runners up seeded. The third and fourth teams from the previous season will take up the second spots while the other teams went through a draw process to determine their group.

The league would move to Asaba where the best four teams from each group converge in Lagos to determine the winner.

Last year’s MVP Nkechi Akashile said her team, First Deepwater have been training hard and looking forward to retaining their title at the end of the season.

She said: “Training has been going on well since January and we can only hope that we would put most of what we have learnt into practice when we start our game tomorrow. Our parent company, First Deepwater Oil and Gas takes our welfare seriously and this would definitely spur us to victory.

“We also won a tournament in Cotonou as part of our build up to the new season and we can only hope for the best. I have not set any personal target for myself but my wish is to see my team retain its title at the end of the season,” she added.

Football Should Accept Gay Players, Others, Says UN Commissioner HE United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights T believes football is behind the times and must “catch up” with modern society on social issues.

Navi Pillay, who grew up and worked as a lawyer in Apartheid South Africa, is also concerned women remain severely underrepresented within the game.

She said: “It is time for football to catch up with 21st century values of respecting diversity.”

Speaking to BBC Sport at her office in Geneva, the former international criminal court judge, who hosted a panel discussion on racism and sport with AC Milan’s Kevin-Prince Boateng on Thursday, believes football must move with the times on issues such as accepting gay players, combating racism and promoting the role of women.

Egypt, Zambia, Others Storm Warri For Africa Youth Athletics Championship AFN Holds Relay Events Today

By Gowon Akpodonor LARGE delegation from Egypt and 14 other African counties A are expected to torch down in Warri, Delta State tomorrow ahead the maiden African Youth Athletics championship tagged Warri 2013 AYAC. The competition, which is being hosted by Delta State on behalf of Nigeria, is the first to be organized by the Confederation of Africa Athletics (CAA). Over 34 countries are taking part in the championship holding from March 27-31.

A list of countries made available to The Guardian yesterday showed that Egypt, Zambia, Burkina Faso, Guinea, Uganda, Benin Republic, Central African Republic and Liberia will storm the oil-rich city of Warri tomorrow.

Other countries expected in the country tomorrow are Botswana, Gabon, Namibia, Mali and Djibouti. According the Secretary General of the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN), Maria Worphil, athletes and officials of the visiting countries would be accredited at Excel hotel in Warri, just as officials of the Confederation of Africa Athletics will be accredited at Protea hotel also in the city.

Speaking further, Worphip, who doubles as scribe of the Local Organising Committee for the Championships said: “We are already on ground in Warri waiting for the visiting countries.

We are ready for the event. We moved our office to Warri about three days ago so as to make sure everything is in put in place.”

The Chairman of the LOC, Amaju Pinnick said yesterday that the Warri Township Stadium has been reconfigured to give the Warri 2013 Athletics championship an excellent hosting it deserves.

Pinnick, who is the chairman of Delta Sports Commission said that to assess the reconfiguration of the Warri Stadium, the second leg of the 2013 AFN Relays will hold at the complex this afternoon to serve as a preparatory exercise for the African Youth Athletics Championship.

Today’s relay events will include 4x100m, 4x200m, 4x400m and the 4x800m relays. The relay event if part of AFN build up for the World Championships in Russia. The likes of OghoOghene Egwero, Obinna Metu, Peter Emelieze and Benjamin Adukwu are all expected to enliven the Warri Stadium today.

Godfrey Oboabona (left) vies with Mali’s Seydou Keita at the African Cup of Nations in South Africa. PHOTO: AFP

Eagles Rally For Victory HE Super Eagles are unaniT mous they will again put Kenya to the sword in today’s World Cup qualifier in Calabar.

The Harambee Stars are yet to win in 13 meetings against Nigeria since 1968 and Eagles stars Vincent Enyeama, Victor Moses, Brown Ideye and Godfrey Oboabona have told MTNFootball.com that the record will continue tomorrow.

“We are not under pressure whatsoever and we are not

going into this game as African champions. This is a different game in a different competition,” said Maccabi Tel Aviv goalkeeper Enyeama, who will lead the team in the absence of skipper Joseph Yobo.

Victor Moses again restated his eagerness for this game.

“Good training session today (Thursday) the boys are looking sharp. I can’t wait for the game this weekend,” Moses tweeted.

He also said the team was

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aware of what Nigerians want from them and they will deliver. “We know what is expected of us in the game, and we are ready. If we play like we did in South Africa, we will have no problems,” Moses said.

Ukraine-based striker, Brown Ideye said: “I came prepared for this game. The spirit in camp is very high and the players are ready to go.

“We would be going all out for victory, that is not to say that the Kenyans are pushovers. We have respect for them” “As it is now, we don’t know their plans so also they do not know our plans. I know they would be afraid of us as African champions but we will also panic a little because we

don’t know what they are planning. But I am confident we will get victory on Saturday.”

Defender Godfrey Oboabona said that he would stop Kenya attack led by top stars, Victor Wanyama and Dennis Oliech.

The Sunshine Stars captain said, “Marking Wanyama and co on Satuday will be a big task to me as I see the job of marking every player as a big one, but I am ready to do it well to the best of my ability.

“I am sure God will take control as he did for me against the likes of Didier Drogba and Seydou Keita at the Nations Cup. With God on our side, we are going to triumph.”