The Nation 13,2011

Bayelsa 2012: Sylva dares PDP

I lost three children in three months –Fatai Rolling Dollar

Says I don’t need NWC clearance Ex-militants warn party leadership

–Page 59

–Page 4

Nigeria’s widest circulating newspaper

Vol.06, No. 1942

TRUTH IN DEFENCE OF FREEDOM

SUNDAY

N200.00

NOVEMBER 13, 2011

Jonathan tackles critics of seven-year single tenure P

RESIDENT Goodluck Jonathan yesterday revisited the controversial sevenyear single term and said his proposal was clearly misunderstood by critics who saw it as a ploy to elongate his stay in office.

The forum was the audience he granted the visiting French Foreign Minister, Mr. Alain Juppe, at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.

Said he: “My proposal for a single sevenyear tenure is anchored on the need for an incumbent President to focus maximum atten-

From Vincent Ikuomola, Abuja tion on the execution of his development programmes, instead of expending vital energy on re-election issues, though this has been misunderstood to mean I want additional seven years.”

He also spoke on the current wave of terrorism-including piracy in the country, and said government was working hard to deal with the problems.

He said democratic political stability has returned to Africa, although in some parts of the continent the major challenge remains the attempt by incumbents to stay in power beyond constitutional mandates, or to insist on anointing their successors.

Deploring such practice, President Jonathan pointed out that much progress is being made across the continent, and that Africa's success stories should be encouraged.

Continued on Page 4

Shettima, Al-Makura, Okorocha win at tribunal Akume triumphs in Benue From Kamarudeen Ogundele, Olugbenga Adanikin, Johnny Danjuma, Emma Mgbeahurike and Uja Emmanuel

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HREE Governorship Election Tribunals yesterday in different judgments confirmed the elections of three governors. The governors whose victories were affirmed are Kashim Shettima of Borno State, Rochas Okorocha (Imo) and Umaru Tanko Almakura (Nasarawa).

The Borno State election petition tribunal in Abuja yesterday upheld the victory of Shettima of the All Nigeria Peoples Party (ANPP) in the April 26 governorship election in the state.

It dismissed the petition filed by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and its candidate, Mohammed Goni.

In a unanimous judgment, the three man panel headed by Justice Sani Adamu said since the petition had been

Continued on Page 4

Italy’s Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi waves as he leaves Palazzo Grazzioli, his personal residence, to reach the presidential palace, to formally submit his resignation to Italy’s President, yesterday in Rome. The 75-year-old Berlusconi is quitting after a parliamentary revolt and a wave of market panic put an end to his 17-year domination of Italian political life, raising global fears of a political crisis in Italy. Photo: AFP

Bauchi explosion injures five – Page 5

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THE NATION ON SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 13, 2011

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IN OTHER WORDS

PRACTICAL JOKE

O one has yet cracked the riddle of the narcotics which the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) alleged its scanners found in the cavernous bowels of comedian, Babatunde Omidiran aka Baba Suwe. Discounting juju, and the fact that the overworked scanners must have been seeing double, we are left with the conclusion that this was one practical joke by the old laughter merchant that left even mechanical contraptions at the airport in a daze!

WEEK NOTES And these also happened!

BURIAL CEREMONY OF THE WEEK - A Minna Chief Magistrate’s Court during the week ordered for one Garba Mohammed to be remanded in prison custody for allegedly burying a day old baby alive sometime in October this year on the ground that the child was a bastard.

Mohammed of Lokon Batagi in Mokwa Local Government Area of Niger State was said to have buried the child that was born by his daughter, Hauwa Garba, out of wedlock with no one claiming responsibility as the

father of the child.

The 30-year-old farmer was said to be furious over what he considered a shameful matter, thereby causing the death of the day old child by burying him alive.

According to the Police report, the incident occurred on October 18, 2011. When the charges were read to the accused by the Chief Magistrate, Hassan Mohammed, the (accused) pleaded not guilty, insisting that the baby was buried after it had died.

BABY FACTORY OF THE WEEK - Arkansas,

United States mom Michelle Duggar proudly announced to the world last Tuesday she was expecting her 20th child!

Graciously, her 19 other children got to hear the news first.

Duggar, 45, and her husband Jim Bob, 46, have more experience than most in new arrivals, but say they were surprised by the latest.

“I was not thinking that God would give us another one, and we are just so grateful,” said Duggar, star of a reality show on TLC called “19 kids and counting.”

The family lives in Little Rock and also runs its own Internet site, which sells books written by the parents and DVDs, and dispenses advice to parents.

The brood currently consists of ten boys and nine girls aged between 23 months and 23 years. The latest, Josie, was born prematurely in December 2009 and Duggar suffered complications.

Duggar said that despite the risks, she was not worried for her health. “I’m really in better shape than I’ve been in 20 years,” she said.

Amid the joy, Bob had a practical view on the situation: “We didn’t want to stop on an odd number.”

WIFE OF THE WEEK - A wife who suspected her husband of having an affair sparked a bomb alert after the man found a device under his car. Businessman William Sachiti spotted the cigarette packet-sized GPS tracker and feared the worst having previously been in the security business.

The bomb squad was called and the street cordoned off and the man called his wife, Diletta Bianchini, an oncologist who works at the Royal Marsden Hospital in Sutton, Surrey, England.

The entrepreneur, who once appeared on TV’s Dragons’ Den, had recently begun working late and his wife thought he was having an affair. She hired a private investigator, who then bugged Mr Sachiti’s silver Lexus SC430.

When Mr Sachiti spotted the tracker he went to the nearest police station and the High Street in Sutton, Surrey, had to be shut down. “(It)

was the wife who hired someone to follow me as she was concerned about my new ambiguous work hours,” he explained. “She may well have thought I’m having an affair but I’m not.

“My wife has always been that sort of person who has wanted to know where I am.” As police began to cordon off the area, Mr Sachiti telephoned his wife and she confessed.

“That is why I can now appreciate people like General Buhari, who in terms of politics was my major competitor; he is the only one person who has come up clearly that the issue of subsidising petroleum products is a fraud. He is not playing politics with the development and future of Nigeria.” – President Goodluck Jonathan ventilating his disdain for politicians, and managing to misquote his rival - all in the bid to win backing for fuel subsidy removal.

“As man who has stood against corruption in both private and public spheres all his life, General Buhari cannot lend his support to a measure that aids corruption and further impoverishes the people as all the Federal Government wants to do is to jerk up the pump prices.”- Yinka Odumakin, spokesman for Congress for Progressive Change (CPC) presidential candidate, General Muhammadu Buhari, suggesting that President Goodluck Jonathan must have been hearing things.

“You must be the first mafia boss in history who didn’t think he was running a criminal enterprise.” British Labour Party MP, Tom Watson, solving James Murdoch, News Corporation CEO’s identity crisis when Murdoch appeared before a second time before parliament to answer questions over the phone hacking scandal which shut down his paper – News of the World.

NOTA BENE

New test coming for diabetics

Diabetics may soon be able to measure their blood sugar levels from tears instead of having to use a finger-prick blood test. Researchers at the University of Michigan have developed a sensor that can detect blood glucose levels in tears.

The study, which used rabbits as human substitutes, found glucose levels in tears correlated to glucose levels in the blood.

The researchers said in the journal Analytical Chemistry:

‘Thus it may be possible to measure tear glucose levels multiple times per day to monitor blood glucose changes without the potential pain from the repeated invasive blood drawing method.’

Fingers can become sensitive over time and there is always a small risk of infection.

Frequent tests are essential for people with type 1 diabetes, who can’t produce the hormone insulin, needed to control blood sugar levels.

THE NATION ON SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 13, 2011

Column

Pliny comes to Philly

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(Joe Frazier as Trope)

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ITH the death of Joe Frazier last Tuesday, the boxing world has lost one of its greatest icons ever. By the time he succumbed to the cell-splitting blows of cancer, “Smokin Joe” had already passed into boxing legend.

Frazier had taken many blows in the ring, but the sledgehammer of cancer is as mortal as it can get.

Perhaps the best and most succinct tribute to the great man came from the normally inarticulate and stuttering Mike Tyson who described him as a great gladiator.

This is as poetic as it can get. All great boxers are unacknowledged great poets. At its most rarefied heights, boxing is the personification of poetry. The combinations, the cadences, the fine calibration of blows and the rhythmic violence suggest that boxing is poetry conducted and orchestrated with fists.

For a heavyweight, Joe Frazier was a small man indeed. Physique ought to have been a problem.

Smokin Joe lacked the height, the bulk and the intimidating presence of the truly magnificent heavyweight. But what he lacked in heft he made up in sheer heart. It was the heart of an old African lion. It was the heart of a pure prizefighter.

Relentlessly advancing and with the predatory precision of the king of all animals, Frazer forced bigger men to back off and to wince and grimace in acute pains.

Built like a compact fighting machine and set for demolition exercise at short notice, Frazier was a robotised contraption primed and packaged to inflict maximum punishment. He was not averse to taking cruel punishment himself, but he gave as much as he got. He packed some dynamite in his punches and his vicious left hook could pole-axed even a five hundred pound gorilla.

It was this formidable left hook that exploded on Mohammed Ali’s jaw and sent him to a shuddering crash in the first of their epic trilogy. Ringside spectators looked on in dazed disbelief. It was only the second time in his professional career that Ali had been so spectacularly up-ended. The first time around, the great Ali rose from the ruins to give Henry Cooper, the British gentleman-boxer, the hiding of his life.

But on that lonely and memorable night at Madison Square in 1971, and before a hostile American audience braying for his blood, there was to be no come back for a ring-rusty Ali. Unwisely enough in that epic encounter, Ali had tried to psyche out Frazier by repeatedly telling him that he was God himself. Frazier had responded by informing “God” that he was in the wrong place that night and he was going to get a terrible whipping.

And oh lord, Ali got the shellacking of his life.

In a sense, then, Frazier was the Great White Hope. The American establishment had been looking for a nice, well-behaved black chap who would do the boxing and entertaining beat and leave out the ugly racial politics and the revolutionary rhetoric about the fundamental injustice that underpins and powers the American society.

In Ali and his brilliant bravura, his contrary comeliness, his telegenic tantrums and taunting, there was too much echo of John Authur Johnson, a.k.a Jack Johnson, an earlier Black boxing legend who had beaten the white boys black and blue only to take their women

3

nooping around With

Tatalo Alamu

•Joe Frazier

serially and with swashbuckling aplomb.

Once when he was pulled over for speeding, the impudent Johnson handed over a hundred dollar bill for a traffic offence of fifty dollar.

When the traffic cop complained that he did not have money for such a refund, Johnson asked him to keep the change since he was going to return at very much the same speed.

The American power mafia were not going to have another uppity nigger cock a snook at the establishment. Frazier would seal up the lousy Louisville lip with his scary and scarifying fists.

But if Frazier was the perfect foil for Ali in that regard, he was nobody’s house nigger for that matter. While he hated Ali’s guts, he had a deep respect for his preternatural pugilistic gifts. The troubled and troublesome wizard of the ring was a source of unending fascination for Frazier. He could not bring himself to genuinely hate the mad boy from Kentucky.

Sonny Liston, a former street mugger and partially rehabilitated thug, had entered the ring hatefully bent on sending Ali to his maker. But he was decisioned in two epic encounters by Ali who took his hate-filled mass to the cleaners with his scientific magic.

A quiet decent chap of muscular Christianity, Frazier was born in Beaufort in the deep south of South Carolina but was raised in Philadelphia where he ended up a butcher boy.

Surgeons and butchers have one thing in common. They both carve up bodies. But while surgeons carve up human bodies only to sew them back, butchers carve up animal carcasses with professional urgency. Detached almost to the point of stony stoicism as his fists dripped with the blood of his victims, Frazier must have picked one or two things from the butchers’ shop. He was a cool customer.

If boxing is an art or poetry in motion, it is also a precise science demanding phenomenal concentration and ferocious focus.

Both Ali and Frazier have these qualities in abundance, and it probably explains the secret of their great success in the ring, The boxing ring is like a nuclear reactor plant. A momentary lapse of focus or concentration could lead to an apocalyptic tragedy. A misdirected punch or a silly error of distance or closeness could bring the whole human edifice toppling like an Iroko tree, But because Frazier boxed

more with his lion heart rather than his head, he was very vulnerable to a more fearsome slugger or the cerebral tactician cunningly and foxily wearing him down in a colossal war of nerves and attrition. Relying on his massive left hook and relentless and remorseless crouching advance, he was like a primitive hunter who did not feel obligated to the wiles of superior strategy. Just keep smoking and going forward and somebody is going to get badly hurt in the long run.

In the event, Frazier’s reign as world heavyweight champion was very brief indeed and it was the Beaufort-born butcher who got badly hurt in the short run. In 1973, Frazier ran into the equivalent of a human hurricane in Jamaica in the guise of an even more brutal slugger named George Foreman.

Foreman literally carved Frazier up in two savage rounds and sent him serially to the canvas. A crazed sadist in his prime, Foreman was to later explain that once he entered a ring, his intention was to clear up everything in sight, including the referee if he was foolish enough to wander into the eye of the hurricane.

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Thereafter, the more wily and brainy Ali would beat Frazier in two memorable encounters. The 1975 “thrilla in Manila “ has been just celebrated for extending the frontiers of endurance and the human capacity to absorb punishing blows. It was a small step for two exceptionally gifted prize fighters but a giant leap for the human race in its confrontation with the beast within. Toe to toe, Ali and Frazier slugged it out with some of the best shots that had ever been landed in boxing. By the end of the fourteenth round, it was obvious that both boxers had arrived at the gates of heaven. Either wanted to throw in the towel but it was Frazier’s camp that moved first, and the rest is boxing history.

They just don’t make heavyweights like these anymore. In the tortured and tormented career of Mike Tyson we see the reason why.

Tyson who once boasted that he was privy to certain punches to certain parts of the body which could make even an elephant topple over in delayed reaction may yet be honoured for a signal if inadvertent contribution to the advancement of human civilisation.

And it is not because the deranged pugilist once crowed that he loved to make big men cry in the ring.

In Tyson, Androcles finally met his lion. By returning boxing to its primitive default setting of a bare knuckle contention between evolving man and savage beast, Tyson might have forced the world to face up to the unpleasant consequences of boxing as a brutal and cruel sports. If the so called civilised world takes a sadistic pleasure in watching two men boxed into a ring tear at each other unto death like savage beasts, then we had better prepare for the real thing.

Like a psychotic animal, Mike Tyson chewed off the ear of his opponent when he couldn’t contain the sledgehammer blows. It doesn’t

get more savage than that. As the Yoruba memorably put things, even biting is part of fighting. Yet as civilisation advanced, the so called primitive societies substituted animals for human sacrifice or abandoned the savage ritual altogether.

But as Walter Benjamin has put it, there is no record of civilisation which is not at the same time a record of barbarity. Western civilisation puts a humane gloss on its fundamental barbarity by casting the other as savage. But the pristine savagery and cruelties of modern boxing puts a lie to that hollow ritual of self-ablution and exposes the violent decadence for all to see.

When Pliny the second famously observed that something new always came out of Africa, he was referring to the endless array of oddities, oddballs and superhuman oafs transported to ancient Rome from Africa as galley slaves to serve at the pleasure of the Roman imperial court. Many of them ended up in the arena as gladiators in bare knuckle contention against ferocious beasts or even more ferocious humans.

Several epochs and the American empire later, it is the descendants of African slaves forcibly transplanted to work on American plantations who serve as boxing gladiators at the pleasure of the American imperial court. Joe Frazier was one of the most distinguished of this breed. But just as it fell on Spartacus, a former galley slave, to lead a revolt of slaves against the Roman Empire, it has fallen on Barack Hussein Obama, a descendant of Africans, to lead a democratic revolt against the oppressive injustice of the American empire. Spartacus failed spectacularly, but the Roman Empire did not survive for long. Something new always comes out of Africa indeed. If boxing is poetry, poetic justice is the ultimate poetry.

Women with balls

ADELEINE Albright, the former American Secretary of State, called it cojones, which is going back to its Spanish etymology. With her withering stare and caustic tongue, Albright who is now a distinguished professor at Georgetown University could freeze any man in the dark alley. So while we are still on the subject of boxing and its plentiful supply of brains and brawns, it is meet to deliberate on great women who pack the three “bs,” which is brains, brawns and balls.

The late Golda Meir, the former Israeli prime minister, was a woman of unsurpassable courage and brains to match. She had the great guts of her Ashkenazi Jewish forebears.

Thinking that they could outwit her, the Americans once came up with a delicate and dangerous proposal.

Why couldn’t America and Israel exchange two of their greatest generals?

Golda Meir promptly concurred.

The wily Americans then put forward the names of the two most outstanding Israeli war-

rior-generals.

“In that case”, Golda Meir retorted, “we shall take General Motors and General Electric”.

The American beat a hasty retreat. That was the last anybody ever heard of such a loony proposal.

In traditional societies, when men foul up, they usually abandon the mess for the women to clean up. In order to avert a violent revolution, Nigeria’s diseased and disgraced elite may have to

hand over the reins of power to women. This is not lightly mooted. Has anybody been watching Marylyn Ogar, the SSS public face, fielding questions on television of late? She appears more presidential, more assertive and more confident than the sad pedestrian rabble we have been saddled with. It may be that some supra-natural voice is speaking to us from outer. Mothers of Nigeria, are you going to watch this country disappear just like that?

Last orders in Yenagoa

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T seems like the last beach party. All the bars are closing in Yenagoa, the one-street capital of Bayelsa. It is time for the last orders but like alcoholic rodents the protagonists are too far gone in their drunken self-importance to take stock of the approaching hurricane. It will be a profound irony if the Fourth Republic were to unravel on the one state and people that have benefited most from its tumultuous disequilibrium.

In Nigeria, the great biblical in-

junction operates with reverse logic. To whom much is given, much is not expected. Watching this explosive bar beach show is like looking into a horoscope of disaster, But snooper is not completely displeased. To be trapped between two violent nomadic cultures is not the tragedy it seems.

The sea can also become a desert.

Guvnor, I will take that last one on the house, as they say in London bars. The Red Cross expects……

NEWS

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THE NATION ON SUNDAY NOVEMBER 13, 2011

Jonathan tackles critics of seven-year single tenure •Continued from Page 1 He expressed appreciation to French President Nicolas Sarkozy for his consistent support for Nigeria and Africa, adding that Sarkozy’s “robust support and friendship” had enabled Nigeria and ECOWAS to successfully restore peace in Cote d’Ivoire. “We could not have succeeded in restoring peace in Cote d’Ivoire without President Sarkozy’s support”, he stated, adding that the intervention in Cote D’Ivoire has also enabled stability and successful elections to be held in Liberia.

Earlier, Mr. Juppe, said he held “very constructive” discussions with his Nigerian counterpart, on agriculture, energy, aviation and mining.

He said France is committed to supporting and ensuring development in Africa, though there are concerns about political and economic stability as well as piracy and terrorist

activities in some parts of the continent.

The president’s comment on the seven year tenure may trigger a fresh

round of debate on the issue coming so soon after reports that the presidency is working out a new deal to woo National Assembly

members into supporting the proposal.

Top of the deal being put,according to sources,are proposals en-

shrining the rotation of the office of President among the six geo-political zones in the constitution and constitutional guarantees,

for the first time, ensuring that the office of governor rotates amomng the senatorial zones of every state.

Italian prime minister, Berlusconi, resigns

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•Mrs. Yewande Zaccheus, Chairman Board of Trustees Women in Business (WIMBIZ), left, Mrs. Adeola Azeez, Country Director Deutsche Bank, Mrs. Ibukun Awosika, CEO Chair Centre, Sokoa Chair Centre Ltd, Prof. Bolanle Awe, Conference Chairperson and former Pro-Chancellor UNN, Mrs. Folake Ani-Mumuney, Head, Marketing & Corporate Communications First Bank of Nigeria Plc and Mrs. Ayodele Jaiyesimi, Head, Human Capital Management and Development First Bank of Nigeria, at the just concluded WIMBIZ conference held in Lagos, recently.

TALIAN Premier Silvio Berlusconi resigned yesterday after parliament’s lower chamber passed European-demanded reforms, ending a 17-year political era and setting in motion a transition aimed at bringing the country back from the brink of economic crisis.

A chorus of Handel’s “Alleluia,” performed by a few dozen singers and classical musicians, rang out in front of the president’s palace as thousands of Italians poured into downtown Rome to rejoice at the end of Berlusconi’s scandalmarred reign.

Hecklers shouted “Buffoon, Buffoon!” as Berlusconi’s motorcade en-

tered and exited the presidential palace, where he tendered his resignation to President Giorgio Napolitano, the palace said in a statement.

Respected former European commissioner Mario Monti remained the top choice to try to steer the country out of its debt woes as the head of a transitional government, but Berlusconi’s allies remained split over whether to support him.

Their opposition wasn’t expected to scuttle Napolitano’s plans to ask Monti to try to form an interim government as early as Sunday, but it could make Monti’s job more difficult.

Shettima, Al-Makura, Okorocha win at tribunal •Continued from Page 1 abandoned by the petitioner the panel lacked the jurisdiction to entertain it.

The judgment which lasted about two hours was delivered under tight security.

Justice Adamu held that the petitioner came by way of motion ex-parte instead of motion on notice and that by the time he asked for an extension of time, he could not be availed owing to the provision of the 2010 Electoral Act (as amended) which stipulates time for the hearing of the petition.

The tribunal held that it had a duty to exercise discretion on matters before it and that such discretion must be founded on the relevant provisions of the statute in question.

The tribunal stated that the application for extension of time within which to apply for issuance of prehearing notice and information sheet cannot be granted when it came through a wrong method of application.

The Supreme Court had on October 31 set aside the stay of proceedings granted by the Court of Appeal against the tribunal.

The court ordered parties in the suit to return to the tribunal to resume hearing of the petition.

Justice Walter Onnonghen, who vacated the order of the Court of Appeal halting proceedings at the Tribunal, said an interlocutory appeal in a case

could not operate as a stay in an election matter which must be concluded within a period of time.

The Electoral Act 2010 stipulates that election petition must be heard and determined within 180 days.

Justice Onnonghen, who led four other justices of the court in deciding the appeal said that the Court of Appeal had no power to stay the proceedings of the tribunal.

In Imo, the tribunal sitting in Owerri, unanimously threw out the petition submitted by the PDP challenging the election of Okorocha. It stressed that the petition was lacking in merit.

Delivering the judgment which lasted for over three hours, Tribunal Chairman, Justice E.N Kpojime, stated that the petitioner failed to prove his case beyond all reasonable doubt.

Specifically, he said the petitioner could not prove that there was no violence which necessitated the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to cancel election in three local governments of the state.

The tribunal highlighted that even the petitioner’s witnesses supported the respondent’s witnesses that there was widespread violence in the affected local government areas of Oguta, Mbaitoli and Ohaji/Egbema.

The tribunal said, ‘‘The supplementary election

held on 6th of May in Imo State was a valid continuation of the first election held on 26th of April 2011 and they cannot be separated from each other, since both elections are constitutional.

“No declaration and no returns were made by the INEC on April 26, 2011 in respect of the three local government areas. As long as no winner was declared, it behoves on INEC to determine the best possible way to resolve and conclude the election hence you cannot disfranchise a whole lot of eligible electorates”, the tribunal stated.

The tribunal further held that the elections that began on April 26, 2011 were concluded on May 7, 2011 by the declaration of a winner.

“We are therefore, stating that the election of May 2011 was the continuation of April 26, 2011. The election of the May 6, 2011 was the conclusion of the election of April 26, 2011.

The tribunal, however, denied the petitioner the votes of the May 6, 2011, based on the fact that the petitioner denied participation in the May 6, 2011 exercise.

It stated that since it was not party to that election, it cannot benefit from it.

Counsel to the first and second respondents, Niyi Akintola (SAN) commended the tribunal for discharging its work creditably.

While the counsel to petitioner Chief Awa Kalu

(SAN) said that “it is not over, until it is over,” stating that he will liaise with petitioner for further instructions.

In Lafia, Nasarawa State the tribunal upheld the election of Al-Makura of the Congress for Progressive Change (CPC).

The Chairman of the Tribunal, Frederick Chukuemeka Obieze held that the election was conducted in substantial compliance with the Electoral Act 2011 and declared AlMakura validly elected governor of the state in a judgment that lasted about 4 hours.

Former Governor, Alhaji Aliyu Akwe Doma of the PDP had dragged the incumbent to the tribunal alleging that the April polls were characterized with irregularities and violence praying the tribunal to declare him the lawful winner as he got more votes than what was allocated him during the election.

Justice Obieze, however, said that counsel to the petitioner, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN) failed to prove his client’s claim that the governorship poll was marred with massive rigging and sundry election malpractices.

He further explained that only the result relied upon by INEC in the election can be said to be valid, saying that the returning officer who cancelled the nine polling units results from Laminga ward was not under obligation to enter result in form EC8 from sheet of paper, thus

there is no result from the affected units in the ward.

Overruling the cancellation of result in Oshogu polling unit in Nasarawa local government and Ana town polling unit in Doma, the Chairman explained that the addition of results from the two polling units does not alter the overall result of the election as the final result according him stood at 324,913 for the Congress for Progressive Change (CPC) and the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) polled 322,594.

It was, however, not all in favour of Al-Makura as one of the panel of Judges, Justice Akin Oladimeji declared that Fagbemi had sufficiently led compelling and persuasive evidence to prove that the conduct of the election was tainted with irregularities which marred the outcome.

He further held that the petitioner has justified why the reliefs he seeks should be granted him accordingly.

Whether or not the Petitioner will appeal the Judgment, his counsel, Fagbemi told newsmen shortly after the judgment that he will need to consult with his client first to know if they were going to appeal.

Meanwhile, the State and National Election Petition Tribunal sitting in Makurdi yesterday upheld the election of the Senate minority Leader, Chief George Akume,(ACN ) ,representing Benue -North -West.

The tribunal dismissed as lacking in merit the petition filed by the former speaker pro-tempore ,Mr.

Terngu Tsegba of the PDP. The chairman of the Tribunal, Justice M.Abimbola in the three hour judgement said the petitioner failed to prove his allegation that Senator Akume was not qualified to contest the election.

According to the tribunal the issue of non qualification based on the time and period the first defendant (Akume) joined the ACN was entirely an internal affair of the party and none of the business of the petitioner.

It said the tendering of ACN membership card,and constitution as amended and letter of waiver from ACN was enough evidence that Senator Akume was validly sponsored by his party.

It also rejected allegations that Akume was not elected by majority votes cast during the election or that the election was marred by illegalities as the petitioner did not tender evidence of massive thump printing as he alleged in his petition.

Justice Abimbola said the election could not be declared invalid after Akume had tendered before the tribunal the result sheets as declared by INEC and duly signed by PDP and ACN agents.

He berated the petitioner for relying on the internal affairs of the ACN to prosecute his case which he said lacked merit and therefore dismissed the petition without cost.

Counsel to Senator Akume, Mr. J. S. Orkuma described the judgment as sound.

THE NATION ON SUNDAY NOVEMBER 13, 2010

News

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Boko Haram:France offers to assist Nigeria F

RANCE wants to assist Nigeria in checking the menace of the Boko Haram sect, among other security challenges facing the nation.

The last bomb and gun attacks launched by the group in Maiduguri, Damaturu and Potiskum left at least 150 people dead and several public buildings in ruins.

The French Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mr. Alain Juppe, on a visit to Abuja yesterday said his country was ready to share information, coordinate intelligence with Nigeria and train security agents on checking terrorism in the country.

Juppe, spoke at a joint press conference with his Nigerian counterpart, Mr.Olugbenga Ashiru.

He condemned the Boko Haram attacks and said his visit was primarily to show solidarity with Nigeria on the issue.

This is coming as as The Nation has learnt that security agencies have directed the managements of the hotels said to be targets of attacks have been directed to refrain from commenting or discussing the alleged threats.

Juppe said: “France is directly concerned with the question of terrorism we receive often. It goes against our interest in the region and so we are in complete solidarity with the countries of the region around the sub Sahara and around the Sahel and how to cooperate with countries which are fighting against this phenomenon. We are ready to share our information. We are ready to coordinate our intelligence services. We are ready to give our help in training operation.

“I will like again to express our complete determination to fight with the countries of the region especially Nigeria and also in the ECOWAS borders to decrease these threats against the populations and the countries.

“Nigeria is France’s number

• Security agents gag Abuja hotel managers From: Augustine Ehikioya and Nduka Chiejina, Abuja

one partner in the Sub-Sahara. Nigeria is a member of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) and it is also a member of the African Union Peace and Security Council.

Our two countries have believed in responsibilities regarding peace and security in Africa and the World.”

On economy, he said: “Last night (Friday night) in the presence of many businessmen, we also discussed our economic and commercial relations. French and Nigeria economic relations are growing fast.

The volume of our trade has reached 4.5 billion Euros.”

“France is Nigeria’s fourth largest supplier and our exports are growing by 20% yearly. In addition, France invests 2 billion Euros per year in Nigeria. I am going to encourage trade, businessmen and investors to come over to Nigeria.”

His schedule include a meeting with President Goodluck Jonathan on bilateral issues between the two countries, and another round of meeting in Kano with various groups to discuss peace and security in the country.

Also speaking, Mr Ashiru said “ as in all situations of terrorism, it would require the co-operation of the international community, especially friendly countries like France, to effectively address this challenge.

This is why the Federal Government is particularly delighted with France’s expression of solidarity and condemnation of recent acts in some our cities, which resulted in the loss of innocent lives.

“With the French Minister of Foreign Affairs here in Abuja, you can see that Nigeria is safe for investors to come.”

And at a dinner in honour of

Bauchi explosion injures five

I

T was another day of explosion on Friday night after a device went off in an un-occupied building, at Wuntin-Dada, a densely populated suburb of Bauchi, injuring five people.

It came a week after coordinated bomb and gun attacks by Boko Haram sect members in Maiduguri,Damaturu and Potiskum in which about 150 people died.

Police Public Relations Officer, Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) Mohammed Bara’u confirmed on telephone that ‘’there was an explosion at Wuntin-Dada and five people were injured.’’

The Police Spokesman also said investigation into the incident had commenced, but gave no details.

However, neighbours told The Nation that Mrs.Helen Ishaku and her 18 month old son, Goodluck Ishaku who hail from Jabba, Kaduna state, and one Ali, a student of Abubakar Tatari Ali Polytechnic, Bauchi who live in a compound opposite the affected building were injured.

While Mrs.Isahaku and her son are receiving medical attention at Abubakar Tafawa Balewa Teaching Hospital Bauchi, Ali and two others were said to have been treated and discharged.

The building in which the ex-

From Austine Tsenzughul, Bauchi

plosion occurred is the same spot where Jamila Ahmed Almustapha, daughter of the former RegistrarGeneral of the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC)boss was kidnapped and kept until she was rescued by security operatives in November 2010.

Speaking to newsmen on her hospital bed,Mrs.Ishaku,whose husband is said to be in Warri on special duty said’’some youngmen came to the house and met us outside and requested me to lend them a broom so that they could keep the place clean for the owner who sent them’’.

The young men, according to her ,‘’went in, swept the house and left without returning my broom to me .So later when I needed the broom I went to look for them but they were gone’. ‘’So my little son and I went into the house in search of my broom,but just before I could get into the room I unknowingly stepped on something that exploded,throwing me up in the process.’ ‘’It was when Ali, a student who lives in the same house with us, rushed in to help us that another explosion occurred and also injured him.’’

the French Minister at the weekend which was attended by France and Nigerian top businessmen, Ashiru said while French investment in Nigeria is substantial “it does not fully reflect the depth and extensiveness of Franco-Nigeria relations. We need to bridge this gap. I expect our business communities to take advantage of this networking dinner to build friendship and business linkages for the mutual benefit of our countries”

An official of one of the hotels told The Nation that they were warned against discussing the matter with anyone for their individual safety and because of its sensitive nature.

Although the atmosphere at the three targeted hotels differed yesterday the presence of the men of the bomb disposal squad of the Nigerian police was noticeable. They routinely looked at the engine hoods of all cars entering the hotel premises.

Until now, the routine was for the security men (policemen and soldiers) to check the boot of each car coming into the hotels but when The Nation visited the three hotels yesterday the bomb disposal m not only examined the engines and boots of vehicles they also scanned the underside of the cars.

Business at the hotels appeared stable.Some foreigners were seen checking in.

At the Transcorp Hilton, there was the ever high security attention at the entrance with the police, soldiers and hotel securitymen searching all vehicles entering the hotel.

•A victim of the Bauchi explosion undergoing treatment in the hospital

Bayelsa: Sylva dares PDP

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RMED with what he called his certificate of clearance issued by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), embattled Governor Timipre Sylva of Bayelsa State yesterday flagged off his campaign for the forthcoming governorship primaries of the party in the state.

The governor, who is locked in a battle of wits with the leadership of the party which has so far refused to list his name as one of those cleared to seek the party’s ticket, said the Screening Committee had cleared him and declared that he had the support of President Goodluck Jonathan, contrary to insinuation that he has fallen out with the president.

“Let me tell you one thing : the President is supporting me, all Senators from the state are supporting me, all House of Reps members from the state, except one who is supporting himself, are supporting me, all Assembly members are supporting me, all LGA Chairmen are supporting me, all Councilors are supporting me, Elders, youths, Women non-indigenes are all supporting me.So tell me who is not supporting me” he told cheering supporters at a rally at the Yenagoa Sports Complex.

Holding up a document, he said: “this is my Certificate of clearance given me by the Screening Committee. I have the privilege to be one of the few governors to declare twice and to be cleared twice for the same election.”

He then began to reel off his achievements in office in the last three years.

• Says I don’t need NWC clearance • Ex-militants warn party leadership From Isaac Ombe-Yenagoa

“My administration has laid solid formation for the growth of Bayelsa state in the areas of Agriculture, youth empowerment , roads, power supply.

“This is why we have the courage to come to you again to seek your votes.That is why I have brought my case before you.”He promised non-stop electricity supply in the state during the coming Christmas.

In an interview shortly after the event, Mr. Nathan Egba, the Commissioner for Information, Strategy and Orientation said supporters of the Governor are mobilizing fro the Ward Congress scheduled for Monday.

“We are on ground; we don’t want to take chances. Let us have proper delegates election in the PDP this time around. We will ensure that PDP members participate in the delegates election to ensure that the Primaries are properly conducted”.

Prominent citizens of the state who spoke at the event included a one time President of the Ijaw National Congress(INC), Prof. Kimse Okoko, Ijaw Youth Council(IYC) Vice President, Preye Agama, Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, Chief Lionel Jonathan –Omo. Others were elders from the three Senatorial districts who pleaded that Sylva be given a second chance to rule the state.

“We will continue to support Sylva for second term because he has done well” said Chief Aduba from President Jonathan’s Bayelsa East Senatorial district.

“Seven out of the eight National Assembly members are behind Sylva, that is 99% of Bayelsans are in support of Sylva’s second tenure” noted Lokpobiri who said the National Working Committee lacks the power to screen governorship aspirants from the state.

“We are not going to allow the NWC Committee to taint the image of our leader, Jonathan, we the representatives of Bayelsans will back Sylva to the end”, he said.

Expressing support on behalf of ex-militants in the state, ‘Commander’ Ogumbos who described Sylva as the hero that initiated moves to bring militants out of the Creeks warned the PDP leadership to tread softly on the issue of Sylva.

“We give our total support to Sylva.He has brought peace to Bayelsa state and the Niger Delta region. Our coming out of the Creeks was initiated by Sylva the hero,” he said.

Okoko, said “I am here again to register my support for Sylva, I have always supported Sylva. I have followed his activities; he has done well in the last four years. Sylva was screened a long time ago by the PDP screening Committee; forget all that the NWC is saying about him and support his reelection”.

6

THE NATION ON SUNDAY NOVEMBER 13, 2011

News

ASUU prepares for strike From Nwanosike Onu, Awka

CADEMIC Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), Nsukka zone, has hinted of plans to down tools soonest.

This, the body said, is to compel the federal government to honour agreements signed with the union in 2009.

It described failure of government to honour the agreements as irresponsible and provocative.

The body after its executive meeting in Awka said, ‘’The Union is prepared to take all necessary steps to correct this cankerworm.’’

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Be involved in monthly road walk, Aregbesola advises Osun functionaries O

SUN State Governor, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, has advised top government functionaries to be involved in monthly road walk to encourage physical fitness and promote healthy living.

He spoke yesterday after a walk from the state Secretariat, Abere, to the state Government House, Okefia with top government officials.

He said part of the sixpoint integral plan of his administration is keeping the

From Adesoji Adeniyi, Osogbo

people fit.

Others who joined the governor in the walk were Secretary to the State Government, Alhaji Moshood Adeoti; Chief of Staff, Alhaji Adegboyega Oyetola; Head of Service, Elder Segun Akinwusi, commissioners, special advisers and permanent secretaries.

He said the walk would promote healthy living and create a stable platform for the growth of the state’s

economy.

Aregbesola said those to be part of the exercise were members of the Osun State Executive Council, legislature and the judiciary.

He spoke of his determination to jerk up the revenue base of the state, saying the usual reference to the state as a civil servant state makes him uncomfortable.

The governor said that in no time, his government would ensure that the Internally Generated

Revenue (IGR) of the state goes up to between N9bn and N10bn on a monthly basis.

He said no state can grow with the paltry sum currently generated as IGR in the state.

Encouraging the entire people of the state to engage in regular physical exercises, the governor said this is the only way to keep fit.

Aregbesola said it is a thing of joy that in less than one year of his

‘Leave subsidy on fuel’

Adekunle Fajuyi’s second son passes on

From Kolade Adeyemi, Kano

A

REA Superintendent of the Apostolic Church in Kano, Pastor Felix Olotu, has called on the federal government to shelve the planned removal of fuel subsidy.

He spoke at the 31st annual convention of the church.

Olotu said the planned removal of fuel subsidy could trigger civil unrest.

According to him, “The federal government should forget for now the plan to remove fuel subsidy as it could trigger uncontrollable instability in Nigeria.

“The removal of fuel subsidy as it stands now will not be in favour of the masses who are the majority.”

He urged President Goodluck Jonathan to address poverty and security challenges to save the nation.

‘Edo needs a General’ From Osagie Otabor, Benin

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P E O P L E S ’ Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidate in Edo State, Major General Charles Airhiavbere (rtd), has promised to implement a 6point agenda if elected.

He spoke yesterday during the formal launch of his campaign.

Airhiavbere promised to provide security, urban renewal, rural d e v e l o p m e n t , industrialisation, agriculture, education and Public Private Partnership initiatives.

He also pledged free education from Primary to Junior Secondary levels as well as maternal health care.

He said he would initiate radical changes through global best practices and grant full autonomy to state- owned tertiary institutions.

According to him, “The battle to return Edo to its glory requires a General.

Edo will turn around for good under my leadership.”

Those present include former Minister for Defence, General Godwin Abbe; former Minister for Works, Mr. Chris Ogiemwonyi and former Speaker Zakawanu Garuba, among others.

administration, the people have seen the impact of purposeful governance.

He said the performance of his administration has become a source of shame to those who spent almost eight years but brought the state under heavy debts after achieving nothing.

After the road walk tagged “Walk to Live” the governor received a physical fitness instruction with his team from an aerobic expert.

From Sulaiman Salawudeen, Ado-Ekiti

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•Aregbesola leading other government officials during the exercise yesterday

Court remands DGSA, eight others over murder

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MAKURDI Chief Magistrate Court in Benue State has remanded nine persons including the Director General Services and Administration in Gwer

From Uja Emmanuel, Makurdi

local government area, Mr. Salem Atsehe, in prison custody over the murder of a retired fire officer, Mr.

Luka Ayabam.

The police charged the accused with criminal conspiracy and culpable homicide punishable with death.

Makinde warns of revolution

By Sunday Oguntola

T

HE Prelate, Methodist Church of Nigeria (MCN), His Eminence Dr Ola Makinde, has warned the federal government not to overstretch the patience of Nigerians by removing subsidy on fuel and reintroducing payment of toll gates across the nation.

He said Nigerians need all the subsidies in the world to beat the gripping

economic challenges facing them.

Makinde spoke last week during the unveiling of the 17th anniversary of the church in Nigeria and 50th celebration of its autonomy as an indigenous body.

He said Nigerians do not need further hardships by way of removal of subsidy and payment of toll gates.

If implemented, he warned that both proposals

Oke-Ogun indigenes, lawmaker rejoice over Ajimobi’s victory

T

HOUSANDS of OkeOgun residents in Iseyin, Okaka, Okeho, Saki and Igboho took to the streets over the weekend to celebrate the victory of Oyo State Governor, Senator Abiola Ajimobi, at the Election Petition Tribunal.

The broom-waving residents described the victory as well-deserved.

House of Representatives member for Iseyin/Itesiwaju/ Kajola and Iwajowa Federal Constituency, Honourable Kola Olabiyi, described the judgment as ‘’victory over repression and reprehensible

From Bode Durojaiye, Oyo

conducts of the Peoples’ Democratic Party (PDP).

Olabiyi, in a statement, congratulated Ajimobi and urged him not to relent in his transformation agenda.

He said, ‘’The victory is a signpost to the PDP that the era of mudslinging, political brigandage and manipulations is over. ‘’It is now left for the people of the State to be fervent in prayers for the Governor and his administration towards delivering meaningful and good governance’’.

could trigger a revolution.

According to Makinde, ‘’we have to be very careful when there is poverty and unemployment in the land.

Nigerians are angry. If they push them to the wall, what is happening in the Arab countries will happen here. ‘’They should not overstretch the patience of Nigerians. It is dangerous because there is a limit to human endurance’’.

He said the government should fix refineries to meet local production instead of removing subsidies on imported fuel.

Makinde wondered why government would be thinking of re-introducing payment of toll when roads are in deplorable conditions.

On the menace of bombing by Boko Haram, the cleric called for political will to unmask sponsors of the sect. ‘’They cannot be stronger than the govern-ment. They are destabilising the nation and scaring investors away.

Their sponsors should be exposed and punished,’’ he asserted

Prosecuting police inspector, Mr. Gabriel Egbonyi, told the court that wife of the deceased, Mrs. Mary Ayabam, reported at the police B Division in Gboko that a gang of 15 persons broke into their bedroom and shot her husband to death.

He stated that the accused were arrested in connection with the murder during the course of investigation.

No plea was taken for want of jurisdiction.

The presiding magistrate, Mr. Dan Ogo, adjourned the case and ordered that the accused be remanded in the Makurdi Federal Prisons.

Counsel to the second accused, Aondoakaa Anchi, a Gboko based businessman, Mr. Benjamin Wayo, said he will apply for bail of his client while counsel for Atsehe and seven others, Mr. Kenneth Ula, said he had already filed a motion for bail.

The prosecution stated that it needed time to react to the motion.

Atsehe was arrested on the strength of a petition the deceased’s family wrote to the Benue State Commissioner of Police alleging involvement of the DGSA in the murder.

ARRISTER Dayo Fajuyi, second son of Late Colonel Adekunle Fajuyi, former military governor of the defunct Western Region has passed on.

He was aged 61.

Chief Fajuyi, who died at the University Teaching Hospital (UTH) Ado-Ekiti, was reported to have been in and out of ill health for sometime now.

He died last Wednesday around 3am.

Fajuyi, who is survived by a wife, Omotunde and three children, was a politician of no mean repute.

He was at a time Chairman of Ado-Ekiti Local Government on the platform of the Alliance for Democracy (AD) and later Chief of Staff to Governor Niyi Adebayo.

He later joined the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and became a voice to reckon with in the hierarchy.

His elder step brother, Barrister Donald Fajuyi, said the late legal practitioner would be remembered “as a very brilliant and knowledgeable lawyer who tried till the last day to be one of the best.

Perhaps I can say he tried too hard to be one of the best”.

Early callers at his residence located in Basiri area of the capital were State Chairman, Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN), High Chief Jide Awe; former Governor, Engr. Segun Oni; Former Chairman Ise Orun local government, Elder Obafemi Falayi, among others.

Funeral activities are yet to be announced by the deceased’s family.

CHANGE OF NAME ADETAYO

I formerly known and addressed as Miss Adetayo Adetutu Bolaji, now wish to be known as Mrs. Crownson Adetutu Bolaji. All former documents remain valid. The general public please take note.

ISHOLA

I formerly known and addressed as Miss Ishola Oluwabukola Tolulope, now wish to be known as Mrs. Arogundade Oluwabukola Tolulope. All former documents remain valid. NYSC, LASU and general public should take note.

News

THE NATION ON SUNDAY NOVEMBER 13, 2011

NDE trains, empowers 100 youths

By Sunday Oguntola

O

VER 100 unemployed graduates began the journey to self-reliance last week.

They got a grant of N50, 000 each after a 3-day training conference organised by the National Directorate of Employment (NDE) in conjunction with Masters Switch Limited.

The scheme tagged Eazibiz also provided them with Point of Sales Terminal (POS), solar charger, first aids kits and other equipment to function as agents in the delivering of financial services to millions of Nigerians.

Director General of the NDE, Mallam Abubakar Mohammed, said the scheme will facilitate cashless financial transactions for Nigerians.

He said, ‘’payment of various bills ranging from sales/ purchase of recharge cards, vouchers, phones e top-up, transportation tickets and several others will be done without physical transfer of funds under the scheme’’.

Abubakar urged the beneficiaries to seize the opportunity to beat the poverty lane and become employers of labour.

NDE’s Director, Small Scale Enterprises Department, Mr. Kunle Obayan, said the scheme will deliver ‘’financial services to Nigerians on a community by community, street by street basis’’.

He promised that it will set millions of youths on the road to job generation and engagement.

Prefects get leadership training

S

ECONDARY school students have been tasked to assume leadership responsibilities to excel in life.

The Programme Director of Leaders of Change in Schools, Temitope Omoniyi, gave the charge at the maiden edition of the scheme held for secondary school prefects in Ilesa, Osun State He said youths must learn to take decisions knowing that they contribute one way or the other to the society.

Omoniyi charged the participants to seize leadership opportunities at home and in the society to inspire change.

Chief Executive Officer of Fresh Motivation International, Olugbenga Asaolu, called for early discovery of purpose in life.

According to him, this is critical to getting ahead.

He said, “It is important that leaders get their bearing right from the beginning.”

Senior Prefect of Ilesa Grammar School, Olukanni Adeniran said that the seminar was very helpful.

He said, ‘’It has exposed me to things I need to do as a leader and I will go back to my school to reproduce all that I’ve learnt here today.”

Social Perfect of Obokun High School, Komolafe Jesuleke, said ‘’I’ve learnt what can make me a good leader and also be a role model”.

7

Governors’ Forum woos women, LGs in fight against polio T HE Nigeria Governors Forum (NGF) has called for the support of women groups and Local Government councils to beef up its campaign for the eradication of polio in the country.

Chairman of the NGF and governor of Rivers State, Mr. Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi, made the call, yesterday at Ubima in Ikwerre Local Government Area in Rivers State when he flagged-off the second national quarterly campaign against polio.

The campaign is an initiative of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum and the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation.

Amaechi advised the womenfolk to limit their patronage of traditional medicine practitioners as they do not have a cure for polio.

He urged them to refer all strange ailments affecting their children to qualified medical personnel.

The governor urged the people to take advantage of the

health care facilities provided by his administration for optimal results.

Earlier in a special broadcast to the people of Rivers State, Amaechi explained that the campaign tagged, “Women Against Polio”(WAP), is the second of the planned four phases aimed at creating awareness on polio among Nigerians with a view to eliminating same from the nation.” ”The first phase focused on men and was tagged MAP (Men Against Polio). Having relatively made progress in the area of men, this second phase is targeted at our women, which we aptly call Women Against Polio (WAP). ‘’This phase is very important as women and children are the most vulnerable groups. Again, women are very close to the children and are wonderful caregivers and mobilisers.”

The governor also asked on Local Government Chairmen to

join in the crusade.

“Local Government Council Chairmen are hereby directed to take charge of this campaign in their respective domain and ensure that our women and mothers are adequately mobilised to reap the gain of polio eradication and other childhood immunisation,” he said.

He assured the people of his government’s commitment to provide quality healthcare and its resolve to rid the state of the polio scourge.

“The Rivers State Government is committed to the campaign against the elimination of polio and other childhood diseases. Model primary healthcare centres have already been built and located across the state with qualified Doctors and Nursing staff to improve health care delivery services including eradication of childhood diseases.”

He however thanked the

Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, the World Health Organisation (WHO), Global Alliance on Vaccines and Immunisation (GAVI), NonGovernmental Organisations, including traditional and religious rulers, for their continued support.

Representative of the United Nations Children Education Fund (UNICEF) in the state, Dr. Richard Koko, commended the Rivers State Government and the NGF for its campaign to eradicate polio as he expressed hope that the exercise would be sustained.

Chairman of Ikwerre Local Government Council, Welendu Amadi thanked Amaechi for choosing the area to commence the second phase of the polio eradication campaign as he assured of the readiness of the people to partake in the exercise.

He also asked for supply of more vaccines to the area to prevent shortage.

Cleric accuses Jonathan of playing politics with Boko Haram From Leke Akeredolu, Akure

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RESIDENT Goodluck Jonathan has been accused of playing politics with the incessant explosions by the Boko Haram and other security challenges facing the country.Founder of Success Gate Mission International, Primate Ade Ademisokun-Turton, described the sect as a political organisation that should be tackled headlong. He spoke with reporters ahead of the church’s 27th anniversary.

Ademisokun-Turton said, “Jonathan should note that it is God privilege for someone who comes from the minority to rule this nation. ‘’Nigerians are expecting much from him but if at the end he fails in all his promises he would be preventing others from minority to rule this country again.’’

He charged the President to tackle security threats in the nation to regain the confidence of Nigerians.

‘No faction in Ogun PDP’

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HAIRMAN of the Ogun State chapter of the Peoples’ Democratic Party (PDP), Chief Dayo Soremi, has said there are no factions in the party.

He denied reports describing him as a factional chairman of the party Soremi said, “There are no factions in the Ogun State chapter of the party. ‘’What has happened is that a few disgruntled former members of the party who are hell-bent on destabilising the party are trying to cause confusion. ‘’I am the Chairman of the only recognised Exco of the party in the state. Anything to the contrary is false and will attract the full weight of the law.”

EX-Police minister loses mother Duku Joel, Damaturu

T

HE death has occurred of Hajiya Aishatu Bashar, the mother of Alhaji Adamu Maina Waziri, former Minister of Police Affairs.

Hajiya Aishatu ,82, died following a brief illness.

She is survived by two children, Adamu Maina Waziri and his elder sister, Hajiya Aaya Dole, 12 grand children and 21 great grandchildren.

She has since been buried according to Islamic rites at her Potiskum, Yobe state, residence.

•Amaechi administering vaccine to a child during the flag-off yesterday

Jonathan commends Adeboye

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RESIDENT Goodluck Jonathan yesterday praised the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Pastor Enoch Adeboye, for his exceptional impact in restoring peace to the country.

While condemning the spate of violence in the country, he said Nigeria has started experiencing a new revolution in pastoral jobs, adding that government will make use of every available resource to ensure the nation regains its that peaceful coexistence.

Jonathan spoke during the 10th edition of the Abuja Holy Ghost Service, held along Nassarawa-Keffi expressway in Nasarawa State.

His words: “We appreciate the commitment of the General Overseer for his steadfastness in prayer to restore peace into this country and also among different Christian groups. We are

From Olugbenga Adanikin, Abuja

definitely witnessing a new era in pastoral jobs” The President, who was represented by the Minister of Information and Communication, Mr. Labaran Maku, urged Christians to continue in their capacity to assist in prayers.

“Today, our nation has been crept with violence.

Everything necessary will be done to secure peace in the country. The way to conquer evil is not to return evil for evil.

We must show strength in unity no matter our differences, the nation belongs to us all.”

Speaking on Nigeria’s political status in Africa, the President restated his commitment to remain in the forefront by maintaining good leadership at all spheres.

Shortly before his sermon, Adeboye said Nigeria belongs to God, stating that peace must

reign in the nation irrespective of oddities.

He urged the congregation to remain faithful to God and commended all government officials present at the event.

Among other personalities at the venue

were Special Assistant to the President on Special Matters, Mrs. Olufunke Amos; the Permanent Secretary, Federal Capital Territory Administration, Dr. Biodun Olorunfemi and Former Minister of Aviation, Mrs. Tunde Oloruntoba.

Have Your Say What is your view on the incessant killing of innocent citizens by the Nigeria police?

— Send SMS with full name and location before Wednesday to 08074473182 Responses to previous week’s question are on pages 52

8

THE NATION ON SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 13, 2011

News

Jubilation, praises for Ajimobi as reinstated union leaders resume at Oyo College

U

NCONTROLLABLE jubilation took over the atmosphere of the Emmanuel Alayande College of Education, Oyo last week as the four leaders of the academic staff union reinstated by Governor Abiola Ajimobi, returned to their duty posts.

The lecturers, who were leaders of the institutions branch of the Colleges of Education Academic Staff Union (COEASU), were sacked by former Governor Adebayo Alao-Akala for leading a strike over remuneration issues two years ago.

Ajimobi reinstated them last month.

When the four lecturers entered the college around 10 am on Thursday, the entire campus was thrown

From Bisi Oladele, Ibadan

into jubilation.

Their colleagues and non-academic staff alike burst into singing and dancing, praising the Governor for reinstating them.

Members of the Visitation Panel, who were still working at some departments at the time of their triumphant entry, were said to be dumbfounded at the ecstasy and jubilation by the staff of the college.

They were said to have showered encomiums on Ajimobi for his respect for the rule of law as well as his commitment to the welfare of workers in the state’s employment.

A senior member of staff

in the college, who spoke in confidence, described their return as a triumph of truth over falsehood and that of good over evil.

The source explained that the labour leaders did nothing wrong by acting with the authority of their members when they declared a strike over the high tax and poor remuneration.

The school premises were said to have gone agog for about two hours with lectures and other official assignments spontaneously put on hold.

Ajimobi had earlier reinstated former Chairman of The Polytechnic, Ibadan branch of the Academic Staff Union, Mr. Babatunde Dosumu, who secured victory at the National Industrial Court, Lagos.

•President Goodluck Jonathan with visiting French Foreign Minister, Mr. Alain Juppe at the State House in Abuja yesterday. PHOTO: NAN

Rep seeks creation of more states

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MEMBER of the House of Representatives, Honourable Kehinde Odeneye, has called on the National Assembly to consider creation of Ijebu State a matter of priority.

The ACN lawmaker made the call while paying tributes to the Awujale of Ijebu land, Oba Sikiru Adetona, on this year’s occasion of the Ojude Oba festival.

He said the creation of Ijebu state is long overdue,

From Bisi Oladele, Ibadan

urging stakeholders to work hard on the project.

Urging the National Assembly to favour the creation of the state, Hon, Odeneye stated that the creation of more states in the South West, particularly Ijebu state, is critical to the survival of the region, According to him, the creation would put an end to the perceived marginalisation of the region.

The lawmaker also insisted that state creation would facilitate the desired development, adding that it would bring government closer to the people.

His words: ‘’It is very imperative for the Yoruba nation to come together as a united nation and be the index of grassroots development. ‘’If we must develop as a nation, more states need to be created in order to develop politics from the grassroots.”

•L-R: Minister of Tourism, Culture and Orientation, High Chief Edem Duke, Cross River State Governor, Senator Liyel Imoke and his wife, Obioma at the launch of “A glimpse of Cross River” in Abuja.

Presbyterian Prelate advises Jonathan on Boko Haram

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HE Prelate and Moderator of the General Assembly of The Presbyterian Church of Nigeria, The Most Rev. Prof.

Emele Mba Uka, has called on the Federal Government

to take every security alert received from any quarters seriously in the face of the spate of violent attacks by the Boko Haram.

He said it would be wrong to dismiss security

alert for any reason.

Uka said, ‘‘The Boko Haram issue is real. They are not an esoteric body.

They have given enough evidence of what they are up to and to make matters

worse, they dare the Government by claiming responsibility for their actions. ‘‘When they unleash their brand of terror which embraces bomb explosions,

•Cross section of chiefs from Anambra State at the 2011 Anambra day celebration in Abuja yesterday.

PHOTO: NAN

abductions and assassinations even of our military and police officers, all we hear from the Government are verbal condemnations and bold promises to check the hoodlums, but in the final analysis, nothing happens.’’

He lamented that brains behind the attacks have not been arrested, saying it portends grave danger for the nation.

“I am surprised that till today, no arrests of their sponsors have been made even though the Government claimed they know those who are sponsoring the Boko Haram terrorist group. ‘‘If the Government knows them, they should expose them and cause them to face the wrath of the law.’’

The Prelate however urged Jonathan not to be deterred by the atrocities of the Boko Haram sect but be proactive.

He said that the sect swore to make Nigeria ungovernable and were determined to cause political unrest and distract his administration from executing their

transformational agenda.

The Prelate therefore urged the President not to give in to such blackmail.

He advised the President to do his best to beef up security by equipping the security agents with up-todate machinery to combat the Boko Haram and other security threats plaguing the nation.

On the issue of dialogue as proposed by the Sheikh Ahmed Lemu Committee on Violence, the Prelate said this could be dangerous as it could be interpreted to mean a sign of weakness on the part of government.

He however, said that if dialogue could be considered at all, it should be done in camera, by private stakeholders without any public display.

CHANGE OF NAME YEWANDE I formerly known and addressed as Miss Yewande Temitope George now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs Yewande Temitope Akomolede.

Former documents remain valid.

Intercontinental Bank and the general public, take note.

ORIMOLOYE I formerly known and addressed as Ms Orimoloye Olabimpe Bosede now wish to be known and addressed as Ms Olaiya Olabimpe Bosede. All former documents remain valid.

General public and British High Commission please take note.

THE NATION ON SUNDAY NOVEMBER 13, 2011

Fashola calls for education reforms ...Laments migration of students

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AGOS State Governor, Mr. Babatunde Fashola, has called for urgent reforms in the nation’s educational sector.

He lamented the huge tuitions paid by Nigerians for education overseas.

Fashola, who spoke at a Youth Stakeholders forum organised by Afterschool Graduate Development Centre (AGDC) in Lagos, said the entrenched practice of embracing overseas education hampers economic development.

The governor s stressed the need for urgent reform in the educational sector adding that the lapses were responsible for capital flight from the country According to Fashola, each time a Nigerian student travels outside the country he is most likely to use the British Airways. ‘’You have people who work there and the money goes to them.

When he arrives , he boards a London taxi . So the London taxi man takes the money. You live in a hostel. So the European landlord makes his money from the money paid for accommodation.

“He is going to pay school fees; the European teacher earns his money from the income. There is no way we will continue to do this and expect an economic balance or favorable balance of trade.’’

He said his administration is determined to give priority to educational development.

He added that the state government will implement recommendations of the visitation panel to the Lagos state University (LASU).

When the institution is finally repositioned, the governor said, it will compete as one of the best in the world.

Fashola charged teeming youths who turned up for the programme to embrace vocational and technical training to be self reliant.

He said this was wise rather than waiting for white collar jobs that are not forthcoming.

News

Strike grounds hospitals in Benue A

N 11-month-old industrial action has paralysed activities at General Hospitals in the 23 local government areas of Benue State.

The action was embraced by all segments of health workers to press for the implementation of the

From Uja Emmanuel, Makurdi

Consolidated Health Salary Structure (CONHESS) and the Consolidated Medical Salary Structure (CO MESS).

The striking unions include the Nigerian National Association of

Nurses and Midwives (NNANM), Medical and Health Workers Union (MHWU), Association of Resident Doctors (ARD),National Association of Hospital and Administrative Pharmacists(NAHAP) and Association of Laboratory Scientists of Nigeria(ALSN).

Suntai seeks support

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From Fanen Ihyongo, Jalingo

ARABA State Governor, Danbaba Suntai, has called on all and sundry to support efforts to move the state forward.

He spoke with newsmen at the weekend after the Election Petition Tribunal upheld his victory.

Suntai said, “Let join hands and develop Taraba and justify the confidence reposed in us by the masses”.

On the judgment, he stated, “For me, if the verdict was for me to leave office and every Taraban wanted it so, I would have left. But as God wants me to continue, I call on all and sundry to join me so that we’ll continue the good work we are doing.

“It’s obvious that in any society there must be deviants from the general opinion. But those prepared to follow the path of truth, justice and fairness would be my partners”.

Correction The headline of one of our cover stories yesterday should have read: “Buhari replies Jonathan: I’m not for subsidy removal” and not “Buhari replies Jonathan: I’m not for fuel subsidy”. The error is regretted -- Editor

9

•Fashola speaking at the forum yesterday.

Photo: OMOSEHIN MOSES

The State government has failed to meet the demands.

Investigations revealed that all General Hospitals have deserted with drugs on revolving funds expiring without utilisation and equipment wasting away.

Pleas by the Commissioner for Health, Dr Orduen Abunku, led to suspension of the action in November 2010 to give room for negotiations, which lasted for two months.

The health workers resumed the action early this year after negotiations broke down.

President, Association of Resident Doctors (ARD), Dr Terfa Yuham, said only HIV/ AIDS clinics in the hospitals offer skeletal services to patients on strictly compassionate grounds.

He said many deaths would have been recorded had doctors failed to treat HIV/AIDS patients.

Yuham pleaded with government to resolve the trade dispute because most people cannot access public health care.

He pointed out that many drugs stocked in hospitals have expired, stating that government will need to restock whenever the strike is called off.

The Commissioner for Health Abunku declined comments when contacted.

Why Nigerian leaders fail, by Adeyemi

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ENIOR Pastor of Daystar Christian Centre Oregun Lagos, Sam Adeyemi, has attributed the numerous leadership failures in the country to lack of training.

Many corporate and governmental leaders, Adeyemi said, were never

prepared or trained for the positions they occupy.

He spoke with reporters last Thursday during the Excellence in Leadership conference, which ended at the weekend.

According to him, ‘’the crisis, the backward-

ness we see in this country are because most of our leaders are not trained in the art of leadership. ‘’They just woke up and found themselves in positions of authority without knowing. That is why they are clueless as to how to fix the nation and

solve our challenges.’’

He however said leaders can still succeed if they mean well enough for the country.

The conference, he assured, will raise a new breed of leaders who will take the nation by storm in the next few years.

NEWS REVIEW

Damaturu: The story of a town on its knees

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VEN by Nigerian standard Damaturu is a sleepy town, a description not helped by penultimate Friday’s bomb and gun attacks by members of the Boko Haram sect.

Although it is over one week now since the sect struck, residents are yet to come to terms why they deserved that kind of deadly assault just 48 hours to the biggest festival in the Islamic calendarEid-El-Kabir.

By the time the dust of the attack settled the headquarters of the Police AntiTerrorism Squard at the 300 Housing estate on Maiduguri road, that of the State police Command on Gujba road, the Police new office complex on Gashua road, the Federal Government secretariat, and about ten churches in Jerusalem ward of Damaturu had been reduced to rubbles.

A resident who gave his name simply as Yakubu, had gone to buy Sallah

From Duku Joel, Damaturu

ram at the Potiskum road market when pandemonium broke out as news of the attack filtered in.

“I was at the market to buy my ram, in preparation for the Sallah when I heard that Boko Haram had invaded the town. My wife called ,asking me to remain wherever I was .As people took to their heels I ran into the bush crawling like a wild animal.My heart almost burst at the sound of each bomb.It was terrible.”

Commercial activities in Damaturu and Potiskum remain paralysed and residents have not stopped fleeing.

Commercial banks were closed for business on Friday as they have been since the attack although there are reports that they may reopen on Monday.The saving grace for depositors is the ATMs. Only a few people now venture out of their

residence and those who do simply go for shopping and return home as early as possible.

“What I know is that Boko Haram are not after innocent people on the streets but the authorities. I heard that a lot of people who ran into them during the attack were asked to go back to their houses and they were not killed. I am a poor man but I have to be careful to avoid being caught in any crossfire. So I try to avoid non essential movement”, a civil servant who prefers anonymity said.

Motorists and commuters are now forced to spend substantial time in traffic logjams around the popular round-about in the centre of the town reputed for its beehive of commercial activities.This is on account of security checks by policemen.

Some residents are accusing the policemen of unduly subjecting them to punishment at the check

points.

Adamu ,a commercial motorcycle operator alleged that he was whipped by policemen at a check point and made to frog jump “ simply because I sat on my motorcycle close to the check point.

“One MOPOL (anti-riot policeman) whipped me with koboko because I was sitting on my motorcycle.

He asked me to do 20 frogjumps before I was released. I ask:Is this the solution to the problem?”

The state police commissioner. Suleimon Lawal pleaded with the public to be patient and cooperate with the police in the Pin-down Operation which,according to him “is yielding fruitful results”.

A lot of shops in the town have remained under lock after their owners have fled Many of the workers at the the federal government secretariat which was burnt in the attack have relocated to offices that

were not affected.

The state Director of the National Orientation Agency, Wakil Kaku and some of his staff were sighted operating from the office of the Public Complaints Commission.

Kaku regretted the destruction, saying: “most of the things we lost here can hardly be retrieved. My greatest pain is those rich workshop materials that we have gathered over the years”.

Some civil servants now operate from the official quarters of their bosses.

The Police Commissioner, Suleimon Lawal whose office was razed is now operating from the Area Command Office of the force in Damaturu.

Motor parks, especially those for inter-state transport, continue to record large crowds of those fleeing the town, forcing a hike in fares.

One of the fleeing residents who gave his name as Chinedu, denounced the increase in fares as bad and

ungodly.

“What they (transport operators) are doing is very bad and ungodly. How can you use this kind of situation to make more money? It is very inhuman”, he said.

But a tout approached by this reporter for his response snapped ,saying:”You better go and do your work and allow me to do my own. This is where I get my daily bread ; go and find your own food and leave me alone.”

Yobe state government has said that it would investigate and come with modalities how best to compensate victims of the attack.

Alhaji Goni Fika, the Commissioner for Home Affairs Information and Culture who spoke on phone said:”Government is still studying the situation to see how best the victims can be compensated. I cannot say any other thing because all the other measures are being handled by security operatives”.

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THE NATION ON SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 13, 2011

COMMENT and ANALYSIS

11

THE NATION ON SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 13, 2011

Europe: The quickening procession to breakage The prudent avoid the company of those who dine on the gravestones of others

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AST week, the financial hatchet felled Greece and its temporizing Prime Minister. The drama encircling that peninsular nation was but a minor prelude to a more consequential turn of events. The Greek economy is small; its fragmentation has little strategic bearing on anything but the lives of its forlorn citizens. The large foreign banks that lent heavily to Greece will be made whole. Total Greek public debt is roughly 300 billion euro. This relatively small amount can and will be covered. By itself, the Greek debt crisis is little more than a nuisance. The true import of the Greek crisis is to be found in what it is. It is to be found in what it foretold.

This week, the sharp axe was raised against the Italian poplar. While impoverishing the Greek public with an unviable ten year austerity plan is but perverse recreation for the Northern Europe duo Germany and France, desiccating the Italian economy by forcing it to implement budget cuts to pay this debt puts into motion a heavier, almost gruesome dynamic. Italy is the world’s eighth largest economy. Its aggregate debt is roughly 2 trillion euro.

Italy’s debt service for next year alone equals Greece’s total indebtedness; but government revenues are estimated to be less than 600 billion euro. To compel Italy to pay such amount from its revenues is to force the nation into bankruptcy itself and to gut social service. Such steep depravation is unheard except in times of war and by the losing side.

It has been said that “war is hell.”

Apparently, sovereign (national) debt crisis in the eurozone has become war. I leave it to you the reader to discern whether Italy thus knocks at the gates of Heaven or of Hades.

To push Italy into the sink in this manner is to court disaster. Europe is bound to Greece by a scant thread. If Greece sinks, it does so alone. Europe is bound to Italy by a chain.

Tossing Italy into the deep as done to Greece will not just result in paroxysm of Schadenfreude in Berlin and Paris. It will immerse the greater chunk of the eurozone in steep recession if not a depression. Paris and Berlin will not be immune to the harm they exported to others.

Should the eurozone economy go paralytic, the UK will lose it bearings. Turmoil will radiate in all directions. The possibility of an American recession will increase considerably. Global demand will plummet.

Africa’s growth will be reduced due to slack global demand for raw materials and commodities. The present fate of the world economy lies at grave risk because of European leaders’ blind adherence to fiscal austerity as the sole means to resolving sovereign debt crises.

These sovereign debt crises presented eurozone leaders, particularly the French and German heads, with stark alternatives. Either stand with the debtor nations by bolstering their economies and their balance sheets with financial subvention that will enable them to pay their debts without resort to lifechoking fiscal austerity or ally with private sector creditors to exhaust the coffers of the debtor nations by enforcing full payment of debts regardless of the suffering visited on the people of these lands. In an unmitigated victory for financialism, eurozone political leaders and the entire institutional apparatus at their disposal have backed the private creditors notwithstanding that the eurozone is itself a public structure formed by in part by the nations it has now set itself against.

Lekan Otufodunrin lotufodunrin@yahoo.com 08050498530 (SMS only)

Criminals all over

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•Nicolas Sarkozy

Conservative leaders and their theorists assert fiscal austerity is the only escape from the talons of debt. Progressive economists retort that historical evidence indicates another thing entirely. The collective move toward austerity will preclude growth and accelerate the slump toward deflation/ recession while doing nothing to curb menacing debt. The eurozone has become the great battlefield of competing economic ideas.

Since most political leaders are conservative, they have won the battle regarding the policies implemented. However, the majority of the people are estranged from their political leaders and do not believe in the harsh medicine applied. European leaders are so out of synch with their populations that few of them would be in office if elections were held today.

Moreover, the facts are beginning to side with the perspective of the people. Where austerity has been implemented, it has disemboweled already sick economies. The pro-austerity troika of the IMF, EU and the European Central Bank (ECB) admitted this fact last month in a confidential document assessing the austerity plan imposed on Greece. The orthodox doctrine of “expansionary fiscal consolidation” says that cutting the government budget will spur the private sector to growth far exceeding the amount of the budget reduction. In the magical world of mainstream economics, less government produces greater wealth. Too bad most of us live in the real world. The troika’s report reveals their beloved theory is only hopeful fantasy. According to the report, the Greek economy will contract by over 5 percent and will suffer even greater budget deficits due to the austere imposition. In other words, fiscal consolidation/austerity produces a result opposite to what the economic mainstream forecasts. The reason for this is elegantly simple.

Government expenditure is not as wastrel as the market fundamentalists claim. In actuality, government spends money that

enters and expands the private sector. When government reduces spending, the private sector does not fill the vacuum as textbook economics would tell you. The opposite happens. Retraction of government expenditure is compounded by the constriction of private sector activity. The concomitant reduction of private sector activity means government tax revenues shrink further; their shrinkage achieves a magnitude exceeding the amount of the budget cut. Thus, while the budget is reduced, the overall economy deflates, lessening future government revenues. In turn, the budget deficit worsens.

Yet, key eurozone leaders march debtor member economies toward certain disaster because these leaders are servile to international finance and cannot bear the thought that their precious doctrines are like arsenic. The stakes are too high to admit failure that would result in sweeping reform of the global financial system and of national fiscal policies. Instead, these leaders continue the procession into the murky depths while quickly censoring any dissent or questioning within the ruling elite.

Eurozone leaders, particularly Merkel and Sarkozy dare not blaspheme their utmost deity. In ancient times, it was known as Mammon. Today, its name is the Free Market.

Immeasurable greed remains its ethos. They serve this esurient monstrosity for it put them in high office so they might serve it when the need arose. The need has arisen and they serve their master with irrepressible zeal. Thus, they have served up Italy and even one of their own, Prime Minister Berlusconi, as the newest sacrifices. However, they know not what they do. They are among the most hapless of people because they work for an insatiable master. The more they sacrifice the more sacrifices it demands of them. While hoping they are sating their idol and resolving the debt crises, the two leaders only move closer to infamy.

Continued on page 70

“Should the eurozone economy go paralytic, the UK will lose it bearings. Turmoil will radiate in all directions. The possibility of an American recession will increase considerably.

Global demand will plummet. Africa’s growth will be reduced due to slack global demand for raw materials and commodities”

•FESTUS ERIYE’S COLUMN RETURNS NEXT SUNDAY

RADUALLY our dear country is dangerously drifting into a state of lawlessness. Armed robbers, kidnappers, bombers and all manner of criminals now have a free reign with Nigerians at their mercy.

Last Thursday was another show of might by armed robbers who stormed the Olabisi Onabanjo University, Ago Iwoye and raided five commercial banks on the campus.

For more than an hour, the more than 20 robbers held students, lecturers and other workers hostage using sophisticated arms. Three students eventually died due to injuries sustained from gunshots and shock.

While the robbery was going on, the Ogun State Radio repeatedly called on security agents to head for the institution to foil the attack but there was no rescue from anywhere.

Considering the ease with which the robbers operated at the University and similar incidents across the country, robbers seem to have perfected the art of bank robbery, especially in outskirts of cities despite the presence of security agents.

I still recall the pathetic picture of a policeman and driver of a bullion van shot recently at a bank premises in Port Harcourt and wonder how long we can continue to be at the mercy of robbers.

Going to banks these days is a big risk as one is not sure when next the robbers will strike.

Kidnapping used to be a major story for the media but not any more despite the fact that the cruel act has continued unabated in some parts of the country with families paying huge amounts of money to rescue their loved ones.

Last Friday evening, yet another explosion was recorded at WuntinDada, a densely populated suburb of Bauchi, leaving five people seriously injured while security men are on alert in Jos and Kaduna to avert fresh killings by unknown gunmen.

Of course only God knows where and when the Boko Haram militants will strike next. We can only hope that the alert by the United States that some major hotels in Abuja are targets will not come true.

After every attack, we keep getting assurance from the police that they are in control of the situation. There is no proof that they are, as the situation keeps degenerating by the day. The federal and state governments have to act fast before we all become hostage to the criminals who are gradually taking over. It is the duty of the government to provide adequate security for the citizens and this must be done at all cost to save innocent lives and property being lost across the country.

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Ogochukwu Ikeje ohgeeoh@gmail.com 08084235961 (SMS only)

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THE NATION ON SUNDAY NOVEMBER 13, 2011

Comment & Analysis

HIPLOAD of insult has arrived on the African coast, courtesy of the young British Prime Minister David Cameron. And with the stinking consignment came what I am constrained to call the Cameron Law: no gays, no aids.

I will explain.

Meeting with Heads of Commonwealth nations (that is, former colonies of imperial Great Britain) in Australia last month, Cameron promptly told the world that African nations not gayfriendly will not get any aids from his country. In other words, if your country’s laws are not favourable to people in same sex relationships, then you get nothing from Britain. If your country does not allow homosexuals to marry one another, British aid is not for you.

No gays, no aids. That, in a nutshell, is Cameron’s law.

You probably sensed the Prime Minister’s imperial confidence. But can you blame him? At 35, he is the youngest PM Britain would have in two years short of two centuries. He is good-looking.

He is well educated, coming away with a first class from Oxford. The fact that he presides over the affairs of a country which once reigned imperially over a good portion of the world looks like something to crow about. Even now that political colonialism is no longer fashionable, and every nation is relishing their independence and saying they also amount to something, good old Britain

Don’t blame Cameron Beggarly people beget donor insult still glances across once conquered territories. With a bit of luck they might get a penny or two by way of charity.

So why shouldn’t Cameron be cocky? Why shouldn’t he strut aroundwith a swagger?

But, really, was that why he demanded that African countries must embrace gays and same sex union in order to get any assistance? No! Was that why he practically insisted that we must swallow what we spat out?

Was that why the British PM wanted ageold taboos and abominations to become present-day delicacies? No! He certainly did not dish out his gay advocacy insult simply because of his good looks. Here in Nigeria, there are many more handsome. Also his education in philosophy, politics and economics could not have inspired that affront because Africa boasts legions of more accomplished scholars, some of who are making waves not just on the continent but also in Cameron’s

own part of the world and beyond. Nor could he have slighted Africans because he heads the great Great Britain of colonial fame. No. Britain’s imperial profile is not necessarily a bullying tool. The United States and Canada, for instance, were once British colonies but I cannot imagine Britain slighting them over aids the way Cameron did Africa. I cannot imagine him or anyone else asking Americans or Canadians to embrace the very things they abhor as a people or change the things that sum them up as a distinct nations simply because they need help.

God detests sodomy, and wiped out the biblical city that gave the word to the world because of that satanic indulgence.

African communities also detest it, and do not approve of gay marriage of any gender.

Should we now embrace sodomy and allow men to marry their kind, and women to tie the nuptial knots with women just because we want British aid?

The reason Cameron is harassing us with his curious gay advocacy is because we are a very poor, borrower continent. It is because we have failed to grow up and fend for ourselves. Africa is a notorious receptacle of other people’s products of all types. We are a deficit continent, importing almost everything under the sun. The British PM knows this.

By what strand of logic should that be allowed to stand? Even in Britain an antigay pastor of Nigerian parentage has just been voted the most inspirational African, beating Obama and Mandela. The reason Cameron is harassing us with his curious advocacy is because we are a very poor, borrower continent. It is because we have failed to grow up and fend for ourselves. Africa is a notorious receptacle of other people’s products of all types.

We are a deficit continent, importing almost everything under the sun. What we manage to export is in crude form, and is often shipped back to us at prohibitive costs. It robs us of economic power. Take Nigeria’s crude oil as an example. Then take Ivory Coast’s cocoa, too. The world’s biggest supply of cocoa comes from that West African country where it is produced so crudely and so cheaply, sometimes by child labour. But cocoa feeds the chocolate factories of Europe and boosts their economies. Even in colonial times, our raw products were shipped overseas to grow their economies while we remained impoverished.

Nothing has changed. We are still impoverished. We beg and borrow, beg and borrow again. Our creditors know this. Cameron knows this, too. My folks in Delta State say your barber reserves the right to twist your neck. So when we want to look good, we turn to our barbers in the West and, trust them, they sure know how to twist our necks. Beggarly people beget donor insult. That is what Cameron has done with the gay insult. We should not blame him.

THE NATION ON SUNDAY NOVEMBER 13, 2011

Comment & Analysis

13

U.S. warning FG’s response was callow, defensive and not in the interest of the nation’s security

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HY should an innocuous alert on imminent danger be a subject of diplomatic brickbats?

This question becomes pertinent in view of the fierce reaction that greeted the United States’ Embassy’s admonition that some hotels in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, might be bombed by the incendiary Islamic sect group known as Boko Haram.

Specifically, the U.S. Embassy mentioned Abuja Transcorp Hilton, Nicon Luxury and Sheraton hotels as probable targets. These hotels with popular restaurants and bars draw diplomats, politicians, businessmen and the noveaux riches in the society.

The embassy, in its statement, called on its diplomats and staff to avoid these places during the last sallah holidays.

As an embassy with a mission, the warning shows how serious the US takes the threat posed by the Boko Haram sect and, more importantly, the security and welfare of Americans in the country. The warning cannot be described as a hoax because, in the past, Boko Haram had demonstrated its ability to hatch evil through bombings of certain public buildings, including the Nigeria Police Headquarters, Abuja, in June and the United Nations headquarters in August, killing and wounding several people in the process.

We still cannot fathom why the Nigerian government did not take kindly to the US warning.

Rather than take such intelligence admonition in its stride, it stoutly said that such a thing did not exist.

General Andrew Azazi, National Security Adviser, downplayed the significance of the warning through his cocky response to wit: “The U.S. (statement) is eliciting unhealthy public anxiety and generating avoidable tension” Furthermore, he reportedly said: “The ... government wants to advise members of the public that it (will) continue to ensure security of lives and property under its jurisdiction.’’

The US statement could not have been self-serving because gripping insecurity is apparent, especially in parts of the northern region. We know that before the warning was announced, there were series of Boko

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ONSIDERING the open plundering of m o n t h l y allocations from the Federation Account by some states and embezzlement of public funds as exposed by the ongoing court trials of some former governors, there is no doubt that the cry of the Senate over the possibility of some states going bankrupt will be taken by the discerning public with a pinch of salt and seen as crying wolves where none ever existed.

The fact still remains that corruption has eaten deep into the fabric of our society and our present crop of senators cannot claim ignorance of this.

Apart from the Senate, it is also expected that the House of Representatives should jointly find out why some states may go bankrupt. Until this is done, Nigerians, both at home and abroad, may refuse to be carried along on the call for merger of states as the way out of the impending bankruptcy. Some of the states that are categorized as being on the verge of collapse include Ekiti,

Haram bombings in the days preceding the sallah in the north-eastern part of the country, especially in Yobe State. If the government is capable of protecting lives and property, why did it allow the avoidable slaughter of about 65 persons by members of the Boko Haram sect in coordinated attacks in Damaturu, Yobe State, during the holy weekend? The Nigerian Red Cross reportedly put the death figures in Yobe at more than 100.

Some argued that the US should have passed the information to the government without making it a public issue. This position is defective because it is possible that the government might attempt to suppress the information from the citizenry for obvious reasons.

Also, contrary to official stance, such public disclosure would help the citizens and others living in or visiting the country to keep a distance from flashpoint zones or vulnerable areas to Boko Haram evil plots.

The reality is that the government and security agencies have failed so far in fortifying the country’s intelligence networks and they are both embarrassed that an external organ is calling their attention to this.

No wonder the presidency believes erroneously that the US warning will create panic among Nigerians.

President Goodluck Jonathan has consistently restated that the plague of terrorism is a global one.

While this is incontrovertible, we seize this avenue to remind the president that while other serious-minded countries are doing something to curb terrorism in

TRUTH IN DEFENCE OF FREEDOM

•Editor Festus Eriye •Deputy Editor Olayinka Oyegbile •Associate Editors Taiwo Ogundipe Sam Egburonu

•Managing Director/ Editor-in-Chief Victor Ifijeh •Chairman, Editorial Board Sam Omatseye •General Editor Kunle Fagbemi

their enclaves, the nation appears clueless in the fight against its own that has increasingly become malignant. It is sad that simply because the US Embassy has just reminded it of this reality, the government unnecessarily became nervous in its reaction.

In what is an act of putting the tail between its legs, the Federal Government has apparently beefed up security in the designated hotels and other buildings. This was a response to an intelligence effort the same government rejected and scoffed as “nothing new.” Why did they not respond before the US alert?

It is an open shame that in spite of the money and resources purportedly dispensed on security, it is a case of failure following failure in the country. A news report said the Federal Government wants to roll out N10 billion to buy gadgets to monitor and checkmate the sect’s activities.

We wonder if Boko Haram has not turned into another racket by the government to waste public funds. It may turn into the all-familiar narrative of a few Nigerians fattening on the collective tragedy of the nation.

We call on the government to act more than talking in its combat policy against terrorism. And the best way to underscore this will be to quickly work out means of nipping the ugly menace called Boko Haram in the bud. The heads of its Police, State Security Services and the National Security Adviser are at loss to confront the challenge. President Jonathan also seems clueless.

Dwelling on excuses of comparable violence elsewhere or pettifogging arguments about the veracity of foreign intelligence does not keep the average Nigerian safe on the streets of Borno or Yobe or Abuja or anywhere else in the country.

If the president is serious, he must begin by firing these men and setting in motion a process of defining our security challenges and priorities and how to tackle them. There have been tons of informed standpoints on this. The government only needs to pay attention.

LETTERS

Bankrupt states and corrupt governors Ogun, Kogi, Ondo, Plateau, Borno, Edo, Adamawa, Cross River, Enugu, Taraba, Yobe, Ebonyi and Kaduna.

Merger or no merger, so long as corruption continues to be treated with unhidden levity by governments at all levels of governance in our country, nothing will change as the fear of the merged states going

bankrupt will still continue to live with us as a nation.

Ironically, some of the states that are categorized as prone to bankruptcy are blessed with intellectuals in the real sense of the word.

However, it is rather unfortunate that there is nothing to write home about on the standard of living of the people in those states.

State governance is seen as a birthright of a particular ethnic group in some of the states and one would wonder how the best hands could be deployed for real development in all ramifications under such unfortunate situation and a r r a n g e m e n t .

Distribution of appointments in some states is done in such a

way that falls short of creating sense of belonging for some of the indigenes. How on earth can a state be expected to move up on the ladder of development when continuous and open marginalization of other ethnic groups at the expense of only one ethnic group in a state has become the foundation upon which governance is

Prostitution: Causes and effects on society

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ROSTITUTION has become rampant in our country today among growing teens and youths. These young people see selling of their bodies as the fastest way of getting income for their keeps.

In the past those engaged in prostitution used to be women selling their bodies. However, today men have joined the trade of selling their bodies for different rea-

sons including drugs, jobs or contracts and also good grades in exams.

This is because sex consumers include politicians, bosses in offices, lecturers who find pleasure in exploiting the lower class by offering mouth watering opportunities in exchange for sex.

Some of the causes of this are high level of poverty due to unemployment rate in the society,

bribery and corruption.

Family expectations and other problems are other factors why men and women get involved in prostitution. Women most especially are pressured into the business to be able to cater for family and siblings, education.

Prostitution leads to the spread of STDs (sexually transmitted diseases), AIDS (acquired immune deficiency syndrome), HPV (human

papiloma virus), herpes amongst others. Some women suffer trauma and pelvic pains, in most cases these women are subjected to drinking and smoking to ease off the pain and this habit could cause cancer which puts their lives in more jeopardy and increases mortality rate of the country.

By Jennifer Mordi Delta State Polytechnic Ogwashi-Uku.

built in such a state?

There is no doubt that despite the pervasive corruption in the country, there are still some state governors whose achievement in terms of infrastructural development and improvement of the standard of living of the people in their states are quite visible. However, when it comes to assessing all the local governments, there is really nothing to write home about and this is why voters’ apathy will continue to be the hallmark of local council polls in Nigeria.

There is need for searching of conscience by all the present and past governors. They should stop stealing their states’ resources.

Odunayo Joseph Publicity Secretary Lagos/Ogun States Chapter of Okun Dev. Association.

SEND TYPEWRITTEN, DOUBLE SPACED AND SIGNED CONTRIBUTIONS, LETTERS AND REJOINDERS OF NOT MORE THAN 500 WORDS TO THE EDITOR, THE NATION, 27B, FATAI ATERE ROAD, MATORI, LAGOS: sundaynation@yahoo.com

14

THE NATION ON SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 13, 2011

Comment & Analysis

Mini-states in mangled federation (2) Ropo Sekoni ropo.sekoni @thenationonlineng.net

L

AST week’s piece concluded with a call on governors of the country’s mini-states to find out where the rain of financially anemic states started to drench them so that they can have a longterm view of the problem of economically weak states that cannot carry out proper functions of modern states. Our governors in the six geopolitical regions will gain the respect of their citizens if they stop pretending that there is nothing wrong with the present structure of the country’s federal system.

They need to now re-familiarise themselves with the history of creation of states that are not economically capable of responding to the concerns of citizens.

It has been argued that military heads of state broke the four regions inherited in 1966 into 36 states to ensure the unity of the country. Others have said that military rulers fragmented the regions in order to subordinate state governors to military heads of state and further stimulate the culture of pecking order in the governance of the country. Some have also argued that the creation of states was to find

Femi Orebe femi.orebe @thenationonlineng.net 08056504626 (sms only)

I

WAS, ordinarily, not going to run readers’ reactions to ‘THE PITIABLE TRIBUNE’ article of Sunday, 6 November, 2011 lest I be accused of overkill until a younger co-forum -ite made it inescapable. No matter what, however, I was going to publish one of two messages I received from a highly perceptive young friend of mine, a doctorate degree holder in Law, who has become like a uterine brother to me.

He was visiting Ghana with his family. First, the message from Ghana.

‘Ordinary Ghana has stable electricity, read newspapers yesterday – Guide and Graphic, and people get punished for traffic infractions as it should be in civilized places.

I also heard how social security officials will be prosecuted for nonremittance of some pension. Saw some schools as they should be within their limited resources. They are lazy and generally laid back and I am proud to be Nigerian but the system here works. There is no overt resort to matters of faith in that maddening sense Fela so aptly describes. There is corruption but at least it is fought.

What is the matter with us?’

I think our rulers have a lesson or two to learn here, including, those who blew billions on electricity but still carry on like they own us all.

For decency sake, I am deliberately leaving out the out-rightly lewd comments on the Tribune article.

080 33197864 – Thank you sir for your write-up this morning ‘The Pitiable Tribune’.

You are the first person to call a spade a spade about the excesses of the Trib-

Even state governors leave their states to go to Lagos to raise funds from indigenes of their states ways to spend the piling oil money on even development across the geopolitical zones.

It may not be easy to know which motive was the strongest.

But it later became clear to citizens in most of the states that the claim that creation of more states would bring the government closer to the people and make governors more responsive to the needs of the communities has turned out to be false.

Most Nigerians still run away from their state capitals to eke out a living in Lagos. Even state governors leave their states to go to Lagos to raise funds from indigenes of their states that find such states unviable for business.

The Governors’ Forum has started well by sponsoring a study of state financial strengths. They now know, as much as their citizens, that most of the states are not capable of doing what they are expected to do. They know that being able to only pay salaries and benefits of state bureaucrats makes them look like failures and make their states look like failed states.

Citizens themselves have been exposed to the hidden dimension of states that are underfunded by an overbearing federal government.

As understandable as the request for more funds from the federation account is, the long-term approach is for governors to join the call for re-structuring. They need to realize that the federation account is not likely to have enough funds to

sustain 37 states that may also be increased by senators that have promised to elevate their local governments to states.

This is the time for governors to look more critically at the source of the funds dispensed from the federation account: petroleum. This is the time to take a deep breath about the system that created 36 states that are isolated from each other and that are almost solely dependent on the federal government for their breath or existence. There is a need to revisit the philosophy of even development for all states or local governments from revenue from the country’s main export, petroleum. We need to look at the possibility of having clusters of states that can collaborate to engender growth and development from the labour of their citizens and the exploitation of non-oil natural resources within such state clusters or regions.

It is necessary to return to some of the principles of future studies.

We have to prepare for a time when most of the things that we have now may not be there in the future or when some things that we do not have now may become abundant in the life of our communities. Our governors need to start thinking, in the fashion of leapfrogging, about the economic system of the 21st century. A political system that created a strong federal government and weak states, all of which depend on exportation of petro-

leum may be too obsolete for solving problems of the states in the 21st century.

It is possible for state governors to have more money to implement some of their pet projects if the revenue allocation formula is changed in favour of the states. But this will be a temporary solution to a problem that is deeper than allocation of revenue. There is a need to look at Nigeria beyond petroleum. Petrodollar made it possible to create states without considering their economic potentials. It is also petrodollar that makes it attractive for state governors to ask federal government to push more funds in the direction of states, to enable them do better than they are doing at present. It is the same easy money from petroleum that makes it rational to separate local governments from the states that house them and give local governments separate allocations from the federation account in order to make local governments independent of the states of which they are a part and enhance the pecking order that makes local governments look to the central government.

The two signals about the future of non-renewable fossil energy should be of interest to our governors, even if the trustees of the federal government appear impervious to dynamics of petroleum-dependent economies. What if the current noise in developed economies that consume most of the

Reactions to the pitiable Tribune When will the management of the Tribune wake up from slumber and bring back the dying glory? une. All along they have been hiding under Baba’s name to publish falsehood and nobody is ready to challenge them. I am proud of you Sir because you have spoken my mind. –Sina.

08056165957 Campaigns of calumny against Rauf Aregbesola and Bola Tinubu being championed by the Tribune titles will fail. All editors and hack columnists at the Tribune are shameless. Why baying for Tinubu’s blood? I guess it is the massive loss of adverts at the Tribune that is at the root of the matter. Tinubu is the proverbial stump and those who shake the stump shake themselves!

Tunde Adeniji, Old Ife. 08050882305 Why the Tribune? Let’s pray they retrace their steps. You ve spoken the truth. As for COMPASS don’t give them unnecessary publicity. What Tribune needs is change of leadership – MD, Editors. May you live longer than your forebears. Amen.

Sikiru Akinola 080 74804137 I missed my last Sunday Nation.

Today, I bought a copy for five thousand and two hundred naira; the five thousand to settle okada that bumped into my car, still am happy. For free today, I‘ll not read the Tribune. Compass is as leprous. God keep you sir.

081 28990686 You are absolutely right just as the two governors confirmed. When will the management of the Tribune wake up from slumber and bring back the dying glory?

Ajibade Adewale Akeem.

‘The Pitiable Tribune’- Yours of the above title today refers. I 2 Samuel 9: David asked the question: ‘Is there anyone left of Saul’s famly’?

Will anyone be surprised why it has

been impossible for Nigerians to leave any legacy? Or why has there been no wealth transfer by any generation to another by a Nigerian? We hear of the Kennedys in politics, the Rockefeller Foundation, Ford Foundation etc. Now, there is Melinda & Bill Gates Foundation which is already living ahead of the promoters. Be sure the current billionaires will leave nothing when they too are gone.

Owen-Browne 080 58556548 In fact I am weeping for the Tribune newspaper. It is now a shadow of its old self.

Pastor Esan 080 28840952 So what were you doing with the governors? I guess they are your paymasters as well. You are just an hypocrite. Hungry and pitiable journalist you are.

080 33017100 Sir, Your column in The Nation on Sundays is always a must read for me.

I am happy I did not miss today’s topic. I have read about changes and transformation. The extent to which the tribune had degenerated is alarming and beyond comprehension. Just as our governors in Osun and Ekiti remarked, I also buy Tribune to know how truth is being twisted to massage the ego of a fast disappearing band 0f Yoruba renegades who parade themselves as our leaders through stolen mandates which have now been retrieved.

Segun Faleye.

13.07055251528 I read the Tribune newspapers with conspicuous similar effigy I often had, when I read fictive anecdotes of V.S.Naipaul’s Miguel Streets.

These are the genres of fictions that disrespect verisimilitude and painstakingly abhor Truth as, constant.

Tribune and Compass are not just

about the latest lies in town’ as succinctly averred by the two governors, but a craft to mislead.

An overhaul is possible, If only, Papa resurrects.

Dolamu Adeniyi 14. 080 20645743 The tribune derailment is beyond imagination.

Olu, PH. 080 670841 Honesty if you ask me, I don’t see much difference between the Nation and the Tribune. Anything A C N is angelic and the ground norm while anything negative about Tinubu is celebrated by the Tribune.

Too bad.

Tribune has become a bug that drains blood from truth in order to make what every right thinking Nigerian knows to be true lean and dead. It has derailed from the progressive vision of old.

080 33227983 I always weep reading the tribune. Tribune has sold its conscience for a pot of porridge.

Ayodeji Felix 080 76407572 I have just read ‘The Pitiable Tribune’. I feel relieved that great minds like you are expressing my mind on what the tribune has become – a propaganda mouth-piece of the conservatives. The NATION has emerged as fortitude to comfort us over the loss of our once cherished Tribune. Pity.

080 98117971 Thank you for the incisive write up on the tribune. They need it so that they don’t perish on their perilous journey. It is a pity that the tribune can go to this sorry state. How the darling of Yoruba land and people of conscience got to this sorry road is what is not known to us. From my young mind’s perspective I think it is the Yoruba adage that says

world’s fossil energy leads to creation of substitutes for petroleum?

Carbon emission is now accepted as a major factor in the threat to the environment. Creating better replacements for petroleum may take another century of research. What if it takes just a few decades? Should this happen, there will be no revenue to fund the country’s philosophy of even development across 37 states and 774 local governments.

It is the duty of our governors to think ahead of their citizens about positive and negative scenarios regarding sustaining the federal and state governments from revenue from petroleum.

More optimistically, it is possible that the experiment by Klaus Lackner and Allen Wright at Columbia University to manufacture scrubbers that will absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere to materialize and thus put an end to the speculation that carbon emitted from airplanes and cars that use fossil energy may destroy the environment. Should this happen, consumption of petroleum will increase and our country’s reserve may be depleted sooner than we can imagine.

Governors that want to depend on allocations from the federation account should know that the game may be over sooner than anticipated and there may be no federal funds to sustain 37 states and 774 local governments. This is the right time to add their voice to calls for restructuring of the federation, rather than panel beating of the constitution. agutan to b aba aja rin –a sheep that befriends a dog – will surely end up eating faeces. There is no way Tribune will make friends with these questionable characters and will not lose its way at the cross road. We can only pray for them.

080 64508611 The Pitiable Tribune is better tagged ‘Once upon a Tribune’. Was it greed or dearth of ideas and ideals that turned the once famous Tribune into oblivion? Once a regular on every Yoruba man’s table, it hangs rudderlessly with vendors. Guess Papa took the magic of the paper to the great beyond.

081 88885519 Your column was subtle but pungently analytical on the Tribune crowd. I think that is the way to give them the kick once in a while before they finally self-destruct.

24. 080 94545807 You are wonderful. Your’ Pitiable Tribune’ is a master-piece. You said it all. You spoke the minds of the silent public. You exposed the buffoonery and sycophancy of both the Tribune & Compass. No one who knew Tribune would believe it could descend to its present sorry pass. The Tribune of the Chief Awolowo days, of peter Apesin, Ayo Ojewumi & Adenaike is distinctly different from Tribune of today. It’s Tribune of anything goes. …Tribune Is fast becoming a comic paper. Compass will die a natural death. Let’s wait and see.

Soji Adebusuyi 080 51928165 Tribune is gone to the dogs. Shed no tears for them.

Chief Idera 26. 080 36304123 The Pitiable Tribune has made my day. Some of us the admirers of Awo’s politics and philosophy here away in Benue from the West and wanting to feel the pulse of the progressive West through the window of the Tribune have been feeling disappointed. Thanks for airing our mind.

Engr Femi Ade.

THE NATION ON SUNDAY NOVEMBER 13, 2011

Tunji

Adegboyega

Comment & Analysis

Gays go to the Senate!

tunjade@yahoo.co.uk 08054503906 (sms only)

W

HAT the group which calls itself the Lesbians, Gays, Bisexuals, Transsexuals and Intersex in Diaspora (LGBTID) wants the Senate to legalise is completely alien to the generality of Nigerians, irrespective of tribe or religion. That we should legalise man mating with man, and woman doing same with fellow woman? Ka ma ri!

(Abomination!) As a matter of fact, the closest I found to that was the demand by some Bangladeshi students some years back for what they termed ‘the right to copy’. The students protested that examination malpractices (cheating) be legalised.

If you thought this was absurd, the students didn’t. They saw their demand as just and proper. “Let friends help friends’, they said during the protest; the same way the LGBTID sees its protest as genuine and demanding of sympathetic consideration.

The LGBTID members were in the Senate on October 31 to express their displeasure with the chamber’s criminalisation of same sex marriage.

Unfortunately, their chairperson was conspicuously absent. Rather, the spokesperson tabled their grievance on their behalf, thus denying us the opportunity of knowing who their chairperson is. And, as you know, one reason we never know the chairman of the poor is that they hardy hold meetings. (Ai se’pade mekunnu, koje k’a mo alaga won). If the poor do hold meetings, we would at least see who is presiding at the meetings and as

Postscript, Unlimited!

By

Oyinkan Medubi 08187172799 (SMS only) puchuckles7@gmail.com

I

DO not know much about my country’s economy beyond what my government tells me and what it tells me that it is doing.

Sometimes, I can see the government puffing and wheezing as it makes every attempt to haul in economists of every hue – black, black, well, black mainly. I can also see the government mopping its brow to ensure it brings in educated economists, I mean really educated ones, university trained and all that. Sometimes, I can even see it straining its (clearly financial) muscles to bring in world class economists who can pitch the Nigerian economy in the larger perspective of world performance.

I say I see all these, and I still don’t know what the Nigerian economy is doing or saying, but I know what it is doing to me.

I know for certain that when I receive my salary, I can almost count it on my fingers and still have some to spare, fingers I mean, not salary. For many of us, our knowledge of the economy is no more than one notebook full: collect your salary (if you’re lucky to have one) and spend it in the market. End of discussion. What you come back home with may or may not justify your going but that

But without their ‘big people’, which made them lose the battle well know who the other executive members are. But that is for the poor, the leaders of this group in the country are not by any means poor as you would find out later in this piece.

For now however, let’s make do with the spokesperson that we already know. And that is in person of Dr Otibho Obiowu, who delivered their speech at the meeting with the senators. Maybe the group is just beginning to bring out the bird from the bag, and some of us are so impatient that we are asking what the colour of the bird is; whether it is black or red. Maybe with time, we will know the chairman and other executive members of the group. But the way Dr Obiowu made the case for her group; the matter appears a serious one, as serious as to draw tears from her eyes while she was addressing the lawmakers. It is the rest of us who do not understand the issues that are treating the matter with levity.

As far as the gays and lesbians are concerned, they see their demand as

part of human rights. “ The lawmakers on their part reasoned that if members of the same sex want to take themselves to ‘Cloud 7’ in Nigeria, they are free but it should not be in public. Imagine if the thing had been legalised, then the rest of us who think the gays and lesbians are mad would now be green with envy when we see men cling to men and women cling to women in public, without anyone being able to do more than hissing and murmuring, ‘abomination’! The fact that the lawmakers’ body language could tell they were not on the same page with Dr. Obiowu and so were not ready to reverse their earlier decision banning same sex marriage made no impressions on her as she simply continued with her presentation with uncommon passion.

This way, one gets the impression of a woman who had tasted two husbands and therefore knows which is better. Chief Moshood Kashimawo Abiola agreed with this saying when he said in one of his usual funny

“How on earth can anyone contemplate doing it with a member of the same sex? This sure reminds of Adam and Eve seeing themselves naked after eating the forbidden fruit. So, could the advocates of same sex marriage have taken another kind of forbidden fruit which now makes them to bask in the illusion that it is sweeter and better with members of the same sex?”

moments that ‘publishing is sweet, but oil is sweeter’. He was referring to his experience after he was allocated an oil block. Before then, his Concord titles were thought to be the heaven and earth due to the fame the titles added to his growing influence.

Indeed, the way the LGBTID takes this matter, it is like those of us who are doing it the way God ordained do not know what we are missing. I want to believe that members of the group had done it this God-ordained way before and have also done it this other way before coming to the conclusion that they have a good case and their position should be legalised.

The question now is who is right and who is wrong? This is a question no one can convincingly answer.

While those who believe in the natural way of doing it believe there is something insane in the LGBTID way, the latter too sees its position as unassailable. Same sex marriage?

Sounds so absurd! How on earth can anyone contemplate doing it with a member of the same sex? This sure reminds of Adam and Eve seeing themselves naked after eating the forbidden fruit. So, could the advocates of same sex marriage have taken another kind of forbidden fruit which now makes them to bask in the illusion that it is sweeter and better with members of the same sex?

I can imagine your conclusion: our society may have been getting increasingly permissive, but not to the extent that the LGBTID imagined. That was why Dr Obiowu’s speech brought about mocking laughter from members of the Upper Legislative

15

House while others chose to remain silent. The lawmakers could not have seen at any point that the LGBTID was making sense. But, has it ever occurred to you that things might have been different if some of our big men who were speculated to also love having it with members of their sex (mostly generals, now retired) had identified with the LGBTID members during the protest? A matter as serious as the one under discussion could only have been dead on arrival when left in the hands of a relatively unknown Dr Obiowu.

Where would the Upper Legislative House have got the courage to turn down the protesters if some of those big names that I do not have to mention (because you know them, I know them; we all know them), had accompanied the protesters to the National Assembly, with their civilian bedmates and all? Their sheer presence at the rally could have turned the table and made the Senate to see the matter differently and probably apologise to the protesters for the embarrassment their legislation against same sex marriage would have caused them.

The loss of that cause in the National Assembly is a price to pay for disunity or lack of cooperation, or even hypocrisy or all by lovers of same sex marriage, especially their big people. It is snakes that are perhaps guiltiest of this kind disunity. Who will wait when the python leads, followed by the Black Mamba, then the Gaboon Viper, with the Copperheads in tow and then the king Cobra? If the protest for the legalisation of same sex marriage failed, it was probably because these big people did not show up to be counted. That was why they lost the opportunity of enjoying in public what speculations say they enjoy privately and even pay fortunes for.

Not only that, they also robbed the rest of us an opportunity of wandering into their weird world.

Taking my economy to the laundry is beside the point, isn’t it? I mean, what else can you say when you go out with a basket full of cash and come back home with a fistful of something that you cannot even put a name to. You did not know you needed it, you did not even know it existed until you saw the advert which convinced you that you really needed it and so you bought it just to be sure it would come in handy on the day you would need it. Now, that is real economic activity, or what do you think?

Unfortunately, that’s about all the economic activity you’ll see on this side of the terrestrial plane.

Ours is to buy, and not ask the reason why. Truth is, this salt and pepper economy that we are running leaves little else for us to do. Once, a little boy got into an argument with his father. The father claimed that a particular product was made in the good ol’ US of A. The young man disagreed.

‘Everything’, he corrected his father, ‘is made in China’. All other countries just fold their arms.

Some days, I dream of becoming a millionaire. For this to happen, I know it’ll take more than folding the arms. Besides, when the arms are folded for too long, they tend to remain fixed in that crooked position. Imagine trying to eat with a spoon like that. Your rice would not only be spilled all over your dress, even the spoon could take off in protest for parts unknown such as your nose and cause you not to know the way to your mouth. So, whenever the dream seizes me, I sit down and calculate my chances.

A father once advised his daughter. ‘If you can’t make your own million, at least marry it.’

Some girls find it difficult to do either, but luckily, there is still a way for us. We could go on the show ‘Who wants to be a millionaire?’ Whenever I have watched that show, I have felt a series of emotions ranging from the surrealist – Answer a few questions and become rich? Are you serious? – to the pitiful – no amount of millions is worth the sweat, anxiety and palpitations of one hour; no thanks, I am not that desperate. After watching a few episodes, I am forced to conclude that my millions will probably not come through the air, just like that, especially when you put in the amount of dialing they have to do to even be recognized to take part.

Most times, I don’t even know where my phone is.

I definitely don’t even want to think about marketing or transporting hard substances just to raise a few miserable millions. I mean, just look at what Mr. ‘Baba Suwe’ is going through for merely being under ‘suspicion’ of transporting the stuff. I shudder to think of what they would do to him were they to become sure of the fact.

Oh yeah, I am aware that many of those hailed as today’s ‘entrepreneurs’ in states or in the country at one time or the other kick-started or honed their entrepreneurship skills on this dangerous trade. I just think they must have stomachs as tough as hide to be able to do that. Mine is not; indeed, it is so choosy it’s all I can do to persuade it to accept a

drink now and then, let alone something wrapped in cellophane, then leather, then more cellophane, then leather again, then more something I have no idea of. No thanks, I do not have the guts.

Now, I am told the stock exchange market is one sure place to become a millionaire, particularly while you watch others do the work. I nod, that sounds very much like what I am looking for. So, armed with a few fingers-load of currency (my base metal), I make for the stock market (the Alchemist) in the hope it would be transmuted into something real (like gold, if it’s not too much to ask, thank you). There, I learn a few lessons. One, I learn that if Nigeria’s economy is not plummeting, then it is overspeeding. And I thought it was only commercial bus drivers who could do that. I also learn that the corporate industry is not governed by fiduciary rules, discipline and obedience. Naughty, naughty boys, I shake my head. There is only one remedy for naughtiness: spanking. I also learn that there is such a thing as toxic debt. Oh my God, this means that some debts stink so badly no one wants to buy them. Again, only one remedy: they must be taken to the laundry. And, that’s no job for houseboys or girls.

You need real economists to do that.

Anyhow, no sooner do I step into the foray of the market than a young man yanks my base metal off my unsure fingers and snarls, ‘Oh, so you think those people doing the work in the factories are fools, eh? This should go a long

way into making a few directors and chairmen fatter.’ Since then I have neither the gold nor my filthy lucre seen. I think it is the same story for many people. One of these days, I will publish the young man’s name on these pages.

You know, when one wants to set out in some business, it often helps to pick out a mentor whose successes and challengeovercoming ways can stimulate one to overcome his or her own.

While I can say I know many businessmen, I have yet, however, to find one who would spell out in clear letters every method he or she has used. For instance, none has yet claimed, ‘Well, you see, I actually set out as an armed robber or kidnapper to raise some capital and when I had all I wanted, I diversified;’ or ‘Actually, I had to embezzle a few millions from where I worked to raise my initial capital …’ or ‘Well, I started out with a partner, but when the profits started to come in, I had to kill him so that I would not have to share’ ... Not only are these not popular claims, they cannot be written when filling out forms. Occupation: Kidnapper is not the thing to write.

So, you see my dilemma?

Something else I learnt in the stock exchange market is that the Nigerian economy is sick (I think we all know that). What I did not know was that ‘nurses’ had been appointed to ‘launder’ it back to ‘health’. Interesting terminologies.

I think the toxic level of the Nigerian economy is way beyond the power of the nurse. What it needs is a world class surgeon.

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THE NATION ON SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 13, 2011

POLITICS

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THE NATION ON SUNDAY NOVEMBER 13, 2011

Legal battle for soul of Borno Following Thursday’s, dissolution of Borno State Election Petition Tribunal, and the drama that follows, experts and political stakeholders are expressing fears over the likely effects of the development on the polity and the judiciary, Sam Egburonu reports

•Jonathan

•Justice Adamu

T

HE sudden disbandment of Borno State Election Petition Tribunal by the Acting President of the Court of Appeal, Justice Dalhatu Adamu, on Thursday, November 10, 2011, and the subsequent events that followed, have stimulated fresh controversy in the country’s judicial and political circles.

The action, which caught both stakeholders and observers unawares, could be described as a thrilling apogee of a unique political struggle that has been spiced with drama and suspense since the announcement of the April 6, governorship election.

The current legal battle for the soul of Borno State has been particularly intriguing, especially after Mr. Goni and the PDP, the petitioners, got the Court of Appeal sitting in Jos to grant an interim injunction restraining the tribunal from delivering judgment on the Borno governorship election petition.

It was therefore understandable that when Governor Shettima subsequently approached the Supreme Court, praying that the Court of Appeal’s injunction be set aside and the tribunal be left to deliver its judgment, stakeholders held their breath in delicate expectation.

So, when the Supreme Court, last Mon-

day, answered his prayers and vacated the interim order made by the Court of Appeal, many observers thought the matter had finally been settled.

The apex court had ruled that no lower or higher court had power to interrupt the proceedings of an election petition tribunal in the face of the 180 days specified by the Electoral Act for the conclusion of any election petition.

The drama however peaked on Thursday, November 10, when, instead of delivering the much awaited judgment, the panel, which had named that date as the D-day, was suddenly dissolved.

Interested party stalwarts, lawyers and other stakeholders had already gathered at the Abuja Chief Magistrate Court, Wuse, venue of the tribunal sittings, awaiting the arrival of the panel members.

Then, the secretary of the panel … came with the news that the judgment could no longer be delivered because the panel has been disbanded. Although he did not disclose any clear reason for the action, he explained that the PCA ordered the panel members to await further instructions.

“I have been directed by the registrar of the Court of Appeal to inform you that this tribunal has been dissolved and so will not be sitting today. We shall all wait for further directives,” he said.

Coming just few minutes before the set time for the panel to deliver its judgment on the petition filed by Peoples Democratic Party and its governorship candidate, Mr. Ibrahim Goni, in the April 26 governorship election and less than three days before the statutory 120 days of hearing of election petitions, the action has raised deep questions on the seeming thin line between law

“The legal battle for the soul of Borno State has been particularly intriguing, especially after Mr. Goni and the PDP, the petitioners, got the Court of Appeal sitting in Jos to grant an interim injunction restraining the tribunal from delivering judgment on the Borno governorship election petition.”

and politics.

While aggrieved politicians are alleging grand plot to use the judiciary to manipulate political leadership in Borno State, legal practitioners have expressed concern that the judiciary may have dabbled into another controversy that may rub off on it negatively.

First to officially criticise the decision was Borno State Governor, Shettima, who said the action was in bad faith. He faulted the PCA’s directive arguing that it was a flagrant breach of the order of the Supreme Court.

His counsel, Dr. Alex Aigbe Izinyon (SAN), has also written to Justice Adamu, faulting the decision to grant administratively the request of Goni to disband the panel, which was rejected by the Supreme Court on October 31, 2011.

Part of the written protest read: “What is more? Appeal No. SC / 352/ 2011 by the petitioners at the Supreme Court was dismissed. In the said appeal, they had invited the Supreme Court to invoke all its powers under Section 22 of the Supreme Court Act to hear the appeal as that of the Court of Appeal, Jos Division. One of the reliefs before the Court of Appeal is the disband•Continued on Page 18

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THE NATION ON SUNDAY NOVEMBER 13, 2011

Politics

Towards peace, good governance in Nigeria N

O fewer than 120 participants drawn from youth associations, religious institutions and government agencies penultimate week gathered in Jos, the capital of Plateau, to brainstorm on enduring peace process in the country.

It was at the 3rd annual international conference on interfaith dialogue and non violence communication organised

by New Era Educational and Charitable Support Foundation (NEECSF) in partnership with the Voice of Angels Foundation (VAF), United Religions Initiative (URI) and Interfaith Peace building Initiative (IPI).

Tagged ‘’Building common future through Interfaith dialogue, mutual understanding and the golden rule’’, the conference also attracted participants from Ethipia, Zimbabwe and the United States of America (USA).

The Regional Director for Africa and the Representative at the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa, Ambassador Mussie Hailu said that interreligious dialogue and intercultural understanding are an integral part of the effort to translate shared values into actions and constitute important dimensions of the dialogue among civilizations and of the

By Adeola Ogunlade

culture of peace.

He said “Religions play an important role in society in facilitating peace, ethics, moral values, co-existence and environmental protection and in promoting reconciliation where the painful experiences of the past have brought divisiveness and hatred”.

Hailu went further to called on religious leaders in northern Nigeria to actively engage their followers in the peace and reconciliation process.

He charged them to work together to heal the wound and stops the cycle of violence.

According to him, the incessant unrest in most part of the northern Nigeria is worrisome.

He said that peace and stability will prevail in northern Nigeria if religious leaders provide example of common rejection of any form of violence and stand for the defence of values of respect and dignity of human lives.

Executive Director of Voice of Angel, United State of America Shannor Frediani, stressed the need for religious institutions to join the struggle to end racism and social injustice across the world.

Although Martin Luther

•Ringim King (Jnr.) fought for the eradication of racism and all forms of social injustice in the United State of America, Shannor said, “America still has the highest cases of domestic violence and discrimination against the black race”.

She maintained that the virtues of forgiveness and reconciliation without bias are very imperative in bridging the age long gap of mistrust and hatred among all religions for peace and stability in the world. Executive Director, New Era Edu-

cational and Charitable Support Foundation, Emmanuel Ivoragba, said “our world today more than ever before is faced with the challenge of overcoming the “faith divide” and the global citizenship divide to build the bridge of all bridges’’.

Battle for soul of Borno •Continued from Page 17

ment of the panel and a new panel being set up. Now that the appeal No. SC/452/2011 was dismissed, that relief goes with it. How can it now be granted administratively?” Izinyon wondered.

Dr. Sonny Ajala, a legal practitioner in Abuja told The Nation that “the dissolution of the panel by the President of Court of Appeal, few hours to the expiration of the number of days permissible by the law for all post election petitions to be conclusively dealt with, raises a conundrum of political, judicial and security dimensions.”

Pointing out that the implication of the development is “indeed complex and far reaching,” he however said “until the Honourable President of the Court of Appeal, who knows all the background that informed the decision,

issues further directive on the matter, it may be hasty to take an enlightened stand on the matter.”

Another lawyer, who also argued on condition of anonymity, that it would be better to study the situation before taking a stand; however wondered why the PCA would choose to dissolve a panel by just an oral communication through an officer of the court?

“This style, for whatever reason, will only ridicule the judiciary and the nation at large,” he said.

He also maintained that the decision of PCA will not only worsen the already political tension in Borno State but is certainly not in the interest of justice.

He explained that it was a similar development that resulted in the face-off between the then Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Aloysius Iyorgher Katsina-Alu and the suspended President of the Court of Appeal, Ayo Isa Salami.

It would be recalled that the

“Given the sensitive security situation in Borno State, observers expressed concern over the hard-line attitude of both the petitioners challenging the election of Governor Kashim Shettima of All Nigeria Peoples Party, ANPP and the desperate attitude of the sitting government to remain in power.”

Katsina-Alu, Salami face off peaked when the then CJN barred the then Sokoto State Election Petition Tribunal from delivering its verdict on the governorship election petition. That action, according to reports, was at the heart of the ugly face-off between the two principal officers in the judiciary.

The legal practitioner, who is also a top politician therefore insisted that the decision was illadvised, demanding that a cogent reason ought to be given for that action.

Some government officials, who refused to be named, are alleging possible security reasons for the action of the PCA. A source claimed that there were security reports, arising from fresh petitions.

Given the sensitive security situation in Borno State, observers expressed concern over the hard-line attitude of both the petitioners challenging the election of Governor Kashim Shettima of All Nigeria Peoples Party, ANPP and the desperate attitude of the sitting government to remain in power.

This concern peaked when the tribunal, which began its sittings in Borno State, had to relocate to Abuja because of alleged security challenges.

With the recent development, all eyes are on the judiciary to act fast and save the situation.

THE NATION ON SUNDAY NOVEMBER 13, 2011

Politics

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With few months left for the expiration of her first term, Chairman of Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Mrs. Farida Waziri, is fighting the battle of her life. The House of Representatives is proposing massive reforms in the leadership and operations of the agency. Sunday Oguntola considers the political motives behind the exercise

T

HE fireworks only started few weeks ago. The battle lines were drawn long before. When the House of Representatives passed an amendment bill to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) Act 2004 for second reading with surprising speed, it became obvious the exercise has a predetermined end. Entitled “An Act to Amend the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission Act,” the amendment seeks to make it mandatory for EFCC’s chairman to be a serving or retired Justice of the Supreme Court or the Court of Appeal. Also, all petitioners to the commission will henceforth swear on oath, foreclosing anonymous petitions. The bill also seeks creation of a special investigative unit within the antigraft agency to be headed by a retired Assistant Inspector-General (AIG) of Police.

Sponsor of the bill, Hon. Bassey Ewa(PDP, Cross River) lamented that section two of the EFCC Act does not specify the qualifications for the chairmanship of the commission. Ewa, who is also Gas Resources Committee Chairman, said this lacuna has exposed the anti-graft agency to political interference and manipulation. He said the only way to save the EFCC is to ensure its chairmanship has no political colouration.

According to him, ‘’Let’s face it, the EFCC now has become a tool used for witch-hunting, and its mode of operation has been outside the law. That is because, they have allowed themselves to be used and the laws are not followed. A person that has worked so hard and earned a name in the highest courts will not allow him or herself to be used by anybody after retirement.”

Hon. Uzor Azubuike (Abia) shares the same view. He said the EFCC has been operating with impunity because of leadership issues. Azubuike said, “Ordinarily, the law says a suspect is to be treated as innocent until proven guilty; but at the EFCC, it is otherwise. They are treated as guilty until proven innocent.”

The consensus among most who spoke was that the bill was necessary to save the EFCC from self-destruct. The commission, members of the Lower Chamber, agreed should be reformed and repositioned to give the fight against corruption a bite and unbiased outlook. The argu-

• Tambuwal

• Waziri

Inside story of House moves to reform EFCC ments sound convincing and patriotic for the uninitiated. The commission has been accused of selective prosecutions. Opposition parties have also expressed serious worries over the anti-graft body’s ability to dispense with corruption cases. The trials of many former governors and political office holders have either stalled or discontinued without definitive convictions. The body has been heavily criticised for plea bargaining, which allows accused corrupt government officials to get away with substantial loots. So, the Reps’ moves strike a chord among many antiEFCC elements.

But behind these justifiable arguments are surreptitious political moves to clip the wings of the anti-graft commission. Investigations revealed that the National Assembly, especially the House of Representatives, has an axe to grind with the EFCC. The body, it was gathered, stepped on the lower chamber’s toes when its operatives arrested former Speaker Dimeji Bankole. Bankole was arrested in connection with the N10billion scam last July. It was the dramatic, humiliating manner Bankole was arrested that irked many lawmakers.

The former speaker who shunned invitations by the EFCC was arrested after a 4-hour commando-like operation that rattled many government functionaries.

A lawmaker, who spoke last week, said ‘’that Bankole was arrested was not the issue but the way they disgraced and humili-

ated him. For God’s sake, he was the former number four man in the nation. In the eyes of the law, he was innocent until proven otherwise but the EFCC arrested him like a common criminal. That was a barbaric operation that shocked many of us’’.

Many lawmakers believe Bankole’s arrest was facilitated by the Presidency because of his aversion to the emergence of President Goodluck Jonathan during the Peoples’ Democratic Party’s (PDP) primaries. Bankole, it was gathered, pitched his tent with former Vice President Abubakar Atiku under the guise of supporting the party’s zoning policy. Sources close to Bankole said he supported Atiku because the former VP was a Northern candidate. Being a beneficiary of the Northern political establishment, Bankole reasoned it was time for him to reciprocate the support he enjoyed from the North to become speaker.

This stance, competent sources said, pitched him against the Presidency. A source said, ‘’one it was found Bankole was not with the President, he became marked. But they only bid for

time to really deal with him. They did that effectively with his arrest. Even when he called the powers-that-be, he was left alone to fight the battle of his life.’’ This Presidential conspiracy is well known to many lawmakers, which is why they keep accusing the EFCC of becoming a political tool to fight perceived and real enemies.

The game plan is to stop EFCC’s chair, Farida Waziri, from getting a second term in office.

Waziri was nominated in 2007 by the late President Umaru Yar’Adua and confirmed by the Senate. Her first tenure expires later this year. Since lawmakers discovered this, they have intensified efforts to stop her at all costs.

Waziri, they believe, has become a puppet in the hands of the Presidency. With her in the saddle, many of them believe the Presidency can embarrass the leadership of the National Assembly without much prodding.

A representative in the thick of the fight to reform EFCC said, ‘’there is no going back now. It is either now or never. If we don’t get this done now, then we are not safe. Waziri has to go because she

“Her camp, it emerged last week, has stepped up efforts to foil the moves against her. A party privy to the damage control moves said the EFCC boss has been lobbying the leadership of the National Assembly. “

is a partisan party. With her, the EFCC cannot be fair’’. The bill, members who spoke with our correspondent said, will certainly be passed into law by the House. It was referred to the joint House Committees on Drugs, Narcotics and Financial Crimes and Justice for further legislative action. If ratified by the Senate, then Waziri’s fate is sealed. Waziri is a retired AIG of Police. The bill, if passed, will effectively prevent her from returning to a job that means so much to her.

Her camp, it emerged last week, has stepped up efforts to foil the moves against her. A party privy to the damage control moves said the EFCC boss has been lobbying the leadership of the National Assembly. The Presidency has also been reportedly approached to talk the lawmakers into not rocking the boat.

Alex Oketa, lawyer and human rights activist, said appointing a retired or Supreme Court or Court of Appeal Justice as EFCC chairman will not solve the problem. According to him, ‘’Our problem has never been the law or an act perse, our problem as a nation is the will power to do the right thing at the right time. In all sectors of society, we have corrupt people even among those retired justices. Have they not seen or heard that some justices were dismissed from service for graft and abuse of office?’’

This is a titanic battle that will test the political clout of both parties. Who wins remains a dicey call to make.

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THE NATION ON SUNDAY NOVEMBER 13 , 2011

Politics

B

EFORE now, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) used to be the rock of Gibraltar among the political parties in Anambra State.

The party dominated the Senate, House of Representatives and state house of assembly elections without any other party coming close to it, including the All Nigerian Peoples Party (ANPP), which was considered the leading opposition political party then.

Today, the story has changed with the party being the third or fourth in ranking, while the likes of All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) and Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) have become the dominating forces.

Allegations and counter allegations, blackmail, mudslinging and total confusion have taken over the once formidable party.

Despite the crises tearing the party apart in Anambra, some prominent politicians have refused to defect to any other party in the state, even at the height of provocations and frustration.

It would be recalled that the PDP lost control of the state when the Appeal Court sitting in Enugu on 16th of March, 2006, nullified the election of then Governor Chris Ngige of PDP and declared Mr. Peter Obi of APGA as the winner of the 2003 governorship election in the state.

That singular act, with the unending crisis that rocked the state during that administration, which was allegedly engineered by some acclaimed political godfathers in the state, turned out to be the albatross of PDP. Notwithstanding, the party still parades an array of notable politicians, like former Vice President of the country, Dr Alex Ekwueme, Sir Emeka Offor, former Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, Senator Andy Uba, Prince Nicholas Ukachukwu and the enfant terrible of the state politics, Chris Uba. Yet, with such heavy weights, the party has found it difficult to match APGA and ACN parties that some describe as “freshers” in the state.

Currently, the state is governed by APGA government led by Governor Peter Obi. Instructively, the ruling party, like PDP also, has its own problems. ACN is currently led by Senator Chris Ngige.

In a bid to resolve PDP’s problems, the National Working Committee (NWC) of the party has set up different committees, all to no avail.

Former governor of old Anambra State, Chief Jim Nwobodo, Wakilin Adamawa , Hassan Adamu, former Speaker of the House of Representatives, Dimeji Bankole, Governor Gabriel Suswam, among others, had headed reconciliation panels, yet the problems persisted.Recently, the National Executive Council of the party (NEC) said it had sacked the interim state chairman of the party, Prince Kenneth Emeakayi, for “flouting the party’s constitution and trying to ridicule the party.”

Emeakayi’s sin, The Nation gathered, was not unconnected with embezzlement allegations against the party’s Vice chairman, South-East, Chief Olisa Metuh.

Anambra PDP: Bogged down by unending crisis

•Soludo

•Ekwueme

•Metuh

•Uba From Nwanosike Onu, Awka

But the former state secretary of the party is unperturbed as he told The Nation he was ready to defend himself anywhere with majority of the PDP faithful in the state, queuing up behind him.

The said crisis equally forced the former caretaker chairman of the party, appointed in October, 2010, Chief Emma Nweze, to throw in the towel.

Before he took this action, the party had inaugurated a probe committee into the PDP accounts, which was headed by Amechi Onowu.

“ Given the current scenario and the crisis in the party, it is feared that if the situation continues unresolved before the next elections, PDP may finally close shop in Anambra State. “

The committee, according to Emeakayi, after its investigation, submitted its report to Nweze-led executive in a meeting of the Anambra State executive committee, which was equally presided over by Nweze on the 15th day of July, 2011 at the party’s secretariat in Awka.

Emeakayi said that it was from the committee’s report that members of the state EXCO came to know how money paid into the PDP Anambra State account in one of the old generation banks was allegedly fraudulently withdrawn, diverted and embezzled by some persons.

Also, he said that Amechi Onowu’s investigation committee report revealed how several millions of naira belonging to the party was transferred without any authorization from the state PDP account.

Tension was created according to Emeakayi; when the then chairman presented a statement of account of the party from the bank to members of the executive, where it was discovered that only the sum of one hundred and fifty five thousand

naira (155, 000) was left in the coffers of PDP. The figure was in contrast to the amount generated, totaling well over 150 million naira, Emeakayi said.

The allegation of embezzlement of the party’s resources led to the invitation of some members of the party to the State Police Command for investigation by the Criminal Investigation Department (CID); some persons were equally detained.

However, the former chairman of the party, who was copiously mentioned in the entire saga, Emma Nweze, told The Nation that the money was used in running the affairs of the party.

He said he was not going to respond or do anything that will tarnish the image of the party, adding that he did his best by representing the party that had almost crumbled in the state during his short stay in office.

Vice Chairman of the party in the South-East, Metuh, said “ordinarily, I will not respond to any comment or allegation by any busy body on the affairs of the party, especially as the NWC is aware of the workings of the zonal working committee on Anambra matter.

“Because of the imputation of fraud and the interest of the well meaning members of the party in the state, I want to state that the nine million naira (N9million) paid back to Pattergon Nigeria Limited was a refund of the money spent by the Zonal Working Committee and the National Vice Chairman, when the bank refused to release money from Anambra PDP’s account due to a court order.

“We did not sell any form; neither did we get any grant from the national to conduct primaries in Anambra. I am not expected to run the activities of Anambra PDP with my personal money.”

A source, however, said they were in the process of rebuilding PDP in Anambra State and according to him, “this time, we will get it right.”

He also said that NWC has restated its stand that for now, PDP has no executive in Anambra State.

The party directed further that the state will be taken care of by the zonal office, while relevant security agencies, had been notified.

From what is playing out in the party, it seems there is no end to the crisis and people have started asking the question, who will rescue PDP in Anambra State from total collapse?

During the last state and national assembly elections in the state, PDP managed to secure the Anambra South Senatorial seat being occupied today by Sen. Andy Uba, while the NorthSenatorial seat is still shrouded in controversy without any representative till date at the senate.

Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) grabbed the Central, occupied by Dr. Chris Ngige, and at the House of Representatives, APGA scooped majority of the seats with some going to ACN and PDP while majority of the seats at the state house of assembly are controlled by APGA also.

Given the current scenario and the crisis in the party, it is feared that if the situation continues unresolved before the next elections, PDP may finally close shop in Anambra State.

THE NATION ON SUNDAY NOVEMBER 13, 2011

Politics

‘Boko Haram has distracted Jonathan’ Benson Enikuomehin, a lawyer, was the immediate Ondo State Resident Commissioner in the Board of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC). He spoke with Sunday Oguntola on Ondo PDP, the coming national convention, PDP- led federal government, Boko Haram and other sundry issues. Excerpts:

W

HAT is your reaction to the reconstitution of the NDDC board?

My take is that the new board must have a fresh beginning. It shouldn’t be a continuation of the former board. The live-wire of the 3rd board of the NDDC came to an end on September 13 as soon as Mr. President dissolved it. If one or two members had been removed or even one was left, it is understandable that the former board was continuing. I think that we should get this straight. While the President may have acted in the interest of the country, the National Assembly should set the record straight so that we won’t be having problems with court cases in the future on tenure of the new board.

The members should serve out their four years and that is my major concern. I am not in-

terested in going back to the commission. I had told everybody that I only want to serve out my term and return to private law practice. I served for one year and eight months and I am fulfilled. I have done my best and I leave posterity to judge my membership of the board.

Now that you are out of the NDDC, are you considering taking a shot at the governorship race of Ondo State like some youth groups have been clamouring?

There is nothing bad in trying but I believe you must strike when an iron is hot. Striking a cold iron will mean you will extract more energies and efforts.

My take is that while one is eminently qualified, one must not also be seen to be swimming against the tide. My party is still in a state of comatose and different factions are fighting for

the soul of PDP. The party in Ondo is like a doll with different parts in different hands. So, if I want to contest, who will I work with? Is the structure strong enough? I don’t just want to contest for the sake of contesting. To be a councillor is better than to be a presidential aspirant. I don’t want to be a governorship aspirant for the fun of it. And in any case, Governor Olusegun Mimiko is doing some good works though he is not a member of my party. It is the same with Governor Babatunde Fashola in Lagos. So, since I believe Mimiko is doing some good works, I may not be opposing him to get second term.

This is why some PDP members are alleging you actually belong to Labour Party (LP).

They are making that allegation because I said the governor is doing some good works? Am

I also of the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) because I acknowledge Fashola is working?

Because I acknowledge Amaechi is working, then I am also of the PDP in Rivers? When we see good governance, we should own up even when the performers are not of the same party. Let’s face the fact. I am not of the LP but of the PDP. You contested to be PDP National Legal Adviser in 2008, are you contesting at next year’s national convention?

For now, the coast is not too clear. I am aware that the National Secretary of PDP has been zoned to the South West and many gladiators are coming out.

Between now and next March is long. Only God can determine who will be alive then. If I am offered the post after due consultation, I will take it. But before then, the head of the fish de-

21

termines how good the fish will be. The head of the party will determine how the party will perform. Of all the gladiators coming out, I find out that Dr Bamanga Tukur stands out. He was Governor of Old Gongola State, Chairman of NEPAD and Africa Business Roundtable. He had made his name and money.

If he comes to the party, he is making a sacrifice. He has character and will not be begging governors for contracts as party national chairman. He has connections and pedigree. His name opens doors any where in the world. I think PDP needs a man like him now.

Does the PDP need a recycled politician like Tukur again?

One of the arguments against former Eagles coach, Samson Siasia, was that he did not recycle some of the players and we lost the Nations cup ticket. You don’t change a winning team.

You only remove a dead wood.

When a wood is still working, you make use of it. Awolowo was 78 and actively involved. If something can be recycled and it works, then go on. Is he a dead wood? Did he not do well in NEPAD or Roundtable? If he is not a dead wood then let’s recycle him.

Shouldn’t the PDP be looking for fresh blood?

Yes, we need new breeds but we cannot dispense with experience. The young ones must continue to learn until it is their turn. We need the wisdom of elders. As long as someone is useful, you keep using him.

Will you be interested in becoming PDP National Secretary?

The consultation is still on and like I said, I will strike when the iron is hot. If I study the terrain well, I will jump in. It is an idea you must work out well.

Those who have declared can move on. If you are going to Maiduguri and someone else took off earlier with a bicycle, you just watch until midnight.

Then, you can take a flight and get there much faster. It is not when you declare but the network involved. I will be prepared for anybody when I am fully convinced of contesting. And that is why we must have a good convention where there is level-playing ground. We should have election and not selection because these days even kingmakers vote. Whoever will lead should be determined by the party members. We should vote only those with proven tracks of performance.

Is the PDP-led federal government working?

Our party is not clueless as many have been saying but I admit there are challenges. The President has been distracted by security challenges that I believe are because a Northerner is not in power. Boko Haram, let’s face it, is there because Jonathan is in power. If he leaves tomorrow, Boko Haram will become history. That is the bitter truth. Boko Haram has moles in the security forces, giving them government information. There is nothing like Boko Haram, there is only People-Haram. He is distracted and I hope he gets his bearing before the term runs out.

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I

THE NATION ON SUNDAY NOVEMBER 13, 2011

Politics

N the past couple of weeks, Bayelsans and Nigerians in general have been watching with keen interest the politics of the re-election of the governor of Bayelsa state, Chief Timipre Sylva.

The political drama became more interesting shortly after the successful election of President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan.

It became more interesting since the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) blew the whistle to conduct a fresh election for five states whose tenures where extended following the High Court and Court of Appeal Judgments, and the plot to oust Governor Timipre Sylva has thickened.

As a matter of fact, the media reports have insinuated that Mr. President is at the centre of the whole political drama.

According to the reports, associates of Mr. President who are from Bayelsa, the home state of the President, have devised different means to persuade him not to support the bid of Governor Sylva to get the ticket of the ruling People’s Democratic Party in the forth coming primary.

Apart from impressing on Mr. President, the same groups of associates have been trying to mislead PDP leadership, the general public and the media in particular, by impeaching the performance index of Chief Timipre Sylva’s tenure as governor of Bayelsa state, and above all have flooded the party with petitions bothering on national security.

Curiously, the bulk of criticism on the governor is coming mainly from a handful of people within the PDP. Many independent analysts hold the view that those who are fighting Sylva are only doing so for their selfish interests, with an eye on who should control the treasury of the state, believing that it is either them or nobody else.

Even the opposition political parties under the CNPP platform who, naturally should be in a position to take on the PDP government in Bayelsa state, have not done what PDP is doing to discredit its own achievements in the state.

To compound matters, some of the associates of Mr. President have been doing everything possible to put a wedge between Mr. President and the governor, by erecting imaginary Chinese wall around them.

Sylva has yet remained unperturbed and has spoken in several fora, describing Jonathan as “an elder brother,” that he has no problem with him.

The question is, is President Goodluck Jonathan really beating the drum for his friends to do what they are doing or will he allow himself to be rendered vulnerable to the antics of those who want PDP to fail in Bayelsa state?.

About a year ago, in the midst of the perceived problem between Jonathan and Sylva, a well informed analyst confided that when the

Bayelsa guber race: PDP missing the point

• Sylva

PERSPECTIVE

By Jonah Okah

time comes, either Mr. President will betray Mr. Governor or Mr. Governor will betray Mr. President.

Against this background, when the opportunity came for Mr. President and the governor to speak during the presidential campaign and the aborted governorship campaign in Bayelsa state in April, Jonathan spoke profusely and passionately that he will not betray nor cause any acrimony in a party that brought him to limelight and the apex of political office in the country.

Mr. President went further to pour encomiums on the achievements of the ruling party in Bayelsa state under the young and dynamic leadership of Chief Timipre Sylva. The wife of the president, Dame Patience Jonathan spoke in the same vein and she described Sylva as her son.

Those statements coming from Mr. President and his wife did not only invalidate all the rumours of friction between the two illustrious sons of the state, but also rekindled the article of faith between the people and the two leaders.

So, the question of betrayal is inconceivable. This is however where every political pundit is wearing a military binocular to watch out with keen interest.

It would be recalled that during the impeachment of the former governor of Bayelsa state, Chief Diepreye Alamieyeseigha, many people alleged that President Jonathan, who was then the Deputy Governor, betrayed his boss, contrary to the fact that he was loyal. General Ibrahim Babangida also, reportedly questioned Jonathan’s loyalty to late President Yar’Adua during the PDP primary. But many Nigerians and Bayelsans in particular do not agree with such theories concerning Mr.

President. They know him as a dependable person.

No doubt, by virtue of the constitution of the ruling Peoples Democratic Party, Mr. President is the indisputable leader of the party. Many party faithful are therefore looking forward to him to settle the Bayelsa political challenges.

In fact, in advanced democracies, where party discipline is the hallmark of party politics, some of the statements credited to some aspirants writing-off the achievements of PDP in Bayelsa state are enough reason to disqualify them and even make them to face disciplinary measures.

If PDP wants to win, the national leadership of the party must guard against statements pulling down the party’s records of achievements. It will create an opportunity for opposition political parties to take advantage of it at their campaigns, leading to the failure of the party.

It was this kind of acrimony among party members that robbed the party of victory in several states.

Bayelsa state is very strategic to the development of Nigeria. So, PDP cannot afford to loose Bayelsa in the next election, and it is imperative that this is the time for Mr. President and party leaders to rally round the governor, and collectively tell the world the achievements of PDP in Bayelsa state, and why the people should vote for the party in the state.

One need not remind the leadership of the party that the PDP government under Chief Timipre Sylva has recorded landmark achievements in the area of peace and security; human capacity development and empowerment; fiscal discipline; educational advancement; health and road construction.

It is a common knowledge that militancy and general insecurity was at it

peak when the governor came on board, which drastically reduced the revenue profile of the federal government. In collaboration with other governors of the Niger Delta, the state of insecurity was brought under absolute control to the admiration of even the opposition, ardent critics and the international community.

In the area of road construction, the PDP government under Sylva has an unprecedented record in the history of the state for constructing fifty internal roads, and several walkways across the riverine communities of the state.

This is just to mention but a few.

Interestingly, the Acting National Chairman of PDP, Alhaji Abubarkar Kawu Baraje, last week dismissed reports of plans to disqualify Sylva. In fact, the Acting National Chairman of the PDP said, “we want to avoid a situation where our opponents go to court to get our candidates disqualified. In fact, Governor Sylva has won election before, and we believe that he can still win elections”. Of course the PDP Chairman is right.

Sylva has what it takes to win election in Bayelsa state.

He is a founding member of the party, unlike some of the governorship aspirants who joined the party later from ANPP and other parties, or abandoned the party at one point in time or the other. Governor Sylva has remained a disciplined and loyal party member.

He has political experience spanning over two decades. He was elected as the youngest legislator in the old Rivers State House of Assembly at the age of 26 under the platform of the defunct NRC in 1991/1992.

In 1999 he contested for the Bayelsa East Senatorial District against the legendary Chief Melford Okilo and lost with a margin of only three votes. Sylva was the Special Adviser on Political Matters to the former Governor of Bayelsa State, Chief Diepreye Alamieyeseigha.

Moreover, Sylva has appreciable political structure to win election at any time in Bayelsa State. Vast majority of Bayelsans describe him as a “Home Boy”, and one of their own. Therefore, he is a huge asset that has the pedigree to win the state for the party.

Besides, qualifications to contest for elective positions are clear in the constitution. Hinging clearance of a candidate by a political party on security reasons is not only old fashioned, barbaric and uncivilised but reminds one of the dark days of military politics, when candidates seeking elective positions were disqualified by the instrument of mere security report. *Jonah Okah is a Lawyer and Journalist, based in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State

Politics Political

turf with Bolade Omonijo boladeomonijo@yahoo.com

Sylva: Let the people speak

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WAS in Form Three in secondary school when I first came across the common definition of democracy as “government of the people, by the people and for the people.” The man who introduced me to Government as a discipline, Mr. Isaiah Owopetu, took time to explain the philosophy and origin of the concept. In simple terms, democracy, he said, means that the people should decide those to govern the society and the main issues that should form the plank of governance.

This is what is missing from governance in Nigeria. The people do not count. Yet, we give the impression that we run a democracy, not autocracy or plutocracy. Pray, what is the difference between the system of government in Nigeria and a monarchical arrangement? Why should anyone, be he a President or Prime Minister, Governor or Minister choose leaders for the people? I am sure that, if I were to return to my teacher today, I am sure he would describe Nigeria’s current brand of “democracy” as a plutocracy or “elitocracy”.

This is the crux of the matter. It is the bane of our society.

Democracy is beautiful because it locates the people at the heart of governance. The voters decide who should wear the crown for a specified period, and where the “king” fails to live up to expectation, he is replaced at the end of the period.

Leadership is thus collective.

In our system, the democratic order is expected to start in the political party. For every election, party members, acting directly or indirectly, are expected to hand the ticket to a particular person. While adopting the indirect primary approach, delegates are elected at the ward level to act on behalf of the general assembly of members. While the 2011 general elections largely succeeded at the poll, the story at the party level was a failure. Total failure.

The delegates had no voice. Party leaders or godfathers decided to whom they handed the flags and they could not be questioned. In most cases, those imposed are enemies of the people. They are dealers to whom good governance is an anathema. With them in power and state machinery in their firm grip, there can be no progress in the society.

In no state has this been as demonstrated as the ongoing drama in Bayelsa. Timipre Sylva was elected to succeed Dr. Goodluck Jonathan as governor of Bayelsa State in 2007 despite reservations of the former. The choice of Jonathan was Peremobowei Ebebi who had served as deputy to Jonathan. At the time, Jonathan lacked the clout to install his ward. It was the beginning of a face-off. Dr. Jonathan went on to become Vice President but did not, the report goes, enjoy the respect and support of the governor of his home state.

But, God paved the way for him and he became the President of Nigeria. Then, he remembered that he had an axe to grind with Sylva. He chose to wield the sword. The result is what we have now.

The Presidency and PDP leadership have tried, to no end, to distance the President from the travails of the governor.

But, even a fool knows that they are telling cheap lies. The hurdles they erected on Sylva’s path, the obstacle that they planted are all too obvious to even the blind. Here is a man who passed the test in 2007. What new constitutional provisions are there to disqualify him now? Twice, names of those who passed the screening test have been released, conspicuously absent is the name of the incumbent. Leaders are fathers; they cannot afford to be petty and vengeful.

President Goodluck Jonathan is one man. He is from Bayelsa State and a delegate. But, as a delegate, he has only one vote. While acknowledging that he has the right to be involved in the politics of his state and canvass support for whoever he wants, he has no right to subject the collective will of the people to his whims and caprices. He is not the people. He is not an emperor. Even if we were to expand the bracket, the National Working Committee has no say in deciding who should rule Bayelsa or any other state for that matter. It is the exclusive preserve of the people of the state.

In this case, in deciding the flag bearer of the PDP, the party’s State Working Committee and State Executive Committee are the organs to oversee the election.

Sylva should be allowed to contest. Alaibe has a natural hurdle because he is just returning to the party. At the moment, he is not qualified to contest for any position in the party. It is the exclusive preserve of the party to decide whether or not to grant him a waiver of the mandatory provision that forbids anyone who is a new member from contesting any leadership position. But, barring any other clearly defined disqualifier, Ben Murray Bruce should not be precluded from political participation.

Bayelsa is an oil-rich state. It is a small state. Like most others, it has great potentials. Has the governor performed well? Does he deserve a second term? I do not know. The people should know. The taste of the pudding is in the eating.

He has enumerated his achievements. His opponents have also contended that, given the amount available to him, he ought to have done much more. They have argued that many of the projects he embarked upon remain uncompleted. These are issues that should be placed before the people. Let the people decide.

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COVER THE NATION ON SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 13, 2011

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Conspiracy against Lagos Tenancy Law I

T was his best news of the year. Kareem Bello, a father of two, shed tears as he went through the front pages of most national dallies. He held one of the newspapers high and shouted ‘’this is it’’.

Those surrounding him at the newsstand in Fagba, a suburb of Lagos, mostly unemployed young and middle-aged men, were equally excited. Date was August 25, barely 24 hours after Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babatunde Fashola (SAN), signed the much-awaited Tenancy Bill into a law.

Bello, a graduate of Mechanical Engineering from The Polytechnic, Ibadan, had been having a running battle with his landlord on renewal of his rent. He pays N70, 000 per annum on his self-contained apartment. The landlord had requested for another one year renewal, which Bello has been battling to raise. He had only managed to save N45, 000 which his landlord rejected as incomplete. With the law now in place, the reinvigorated tenant approached his 62-year-old landlord.

The law, he explained to his landlord, a retired civil servant, says he cannot collect more than six-months rent from a sitting tenant. But he got more than he bargained for. The landlord damned the

Conceived to eliminate unfair hike in rents and harassment of tenants by landlords, the Lagos tenancy law is swimming in troubled waters, reports Sunday Oguntola consequences and forcefully evicted Bello with the assistance of hoodlums from the street. ‘’He said I should ask Fashola to provide me with accommodation,’’ a distraught Bello recalls. He takes shelter in a local church with his young family, completely humbled. ‘’If I knew,’’ he began, reflecting on his eviction, ‘’I would have begged the man. I thought I could challenge him with the law but the law cannot defend me. I cannot take him to court because I have no money in the first place for litigation.’’

Kate Akpan, who recently hired a twobedroom flat in Egbeda, said she paid for over a year because she was desperate. She started out determined to pay for just a year in line with the law. ‘’But agents told me that I was living in a fool’s paradise by insisting on following the law. I was adamant until I had no choice but to pay for a year-and-half rent since I needed the

accommodation badly,’’ the newlyemployed graduate said. According to her, the law won’t work as long as demands outweigh supplies.

The experience of Timi Oluwole, a tenant in Agege, was however different.

His landlord, a public servant, summoned a meeting days after the law took effect. ‘’He told us to pay only 6 month’s rent henceforth because he does not want to be lawless,’’ Oluwole shares. Most of the tenants, he revealed, even kicked against the landlord’s instructions. He explained, “For most of us, we were more used to the payment of rents yearly. If you pay for just six months before you know it, you are already due for another payment. So, why not pay for one year and have a deserved rest?’’ The landlord, he said, had the day because ‘’he said we must all learn to obey the law whether we support it or not’’.

Such selective applications have trailed the law since it took effect about three months ago.

Some tenants who heaved a sigh of relief have become disillusioned while others who never expected it to work have since been forced to operate under it.

Section 4 of the law states titled advance rent states: ‘’(1) It shall be unlawful for a landlord or his agent to demand or receive from a sitting tenant rent in excess of three (3) months in respect of any premises.

(2) It shall be unlawful for a sitting tenant to offer or pay rent in excess of three (3) months in respect of any premises.

(3) Any person who receives or pay rent in excess of what is prescribed in this section shall be guilty of an offence and shall be liable to a fine of one hundred thousand naira (N100,000.00) or to three (3) months imprisonment or any other noncustodial disposition.’’

TRICKY INVENTIONS Investigations revealed that while some landlords have complied, many more are devising means of outsmarting the law.

The latter are mainly landlords who use •Continued on Page 24

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THE NATION ON SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 13, 2011

Cover

Working against Lagos Tenancy Law

•Continued from Page 23

‘’To think that the law will work on its own is irrational.

Laws do not work until people make them work.

Tenants should start testing the law. They should make reports then we can see if government will prosecute or not,’’’

middle-men, popularly known as agents. These are unlicensed operators who have come to create a nuisance for registered real estate agents. These unregistered agents, it was discovered, connive with landlords to maintain the status quo, thereby flouting the law.

They magnify the demand ratio for accommodation to would-be tenants to leave them with no choice than to pay for 2-year rent. ‘’Where are the houses in Lagos these days? You have to offer more to get one,’’ an agent in Abule Egba told our correspondent.

In desperation, many tenants fall for this line of argument. ‘’If they bombard you with how many people have been to them seeking for accommodation, you will be so scared that you will quickly pay,’’ Lanre Oso, who has just secured an accommodation, stated. This mind-set helps them to perpetuate the illegality. Once a would-be tenant believes the demand-ismore-than-supply argument, the next move is to issue a receipt showing payment for one year for new tenants and six-month for sitting tenants. A middle-aged man who simply identified himself as Biodun explained how this operates. ‘’The agent told me he will issue a receipt that reads only payment for six months.

Then, he brought out another book of agreement where we both signed I paid for one year. I have no troubles with this arrangement as long she does not turn around to deny it.’’

For those who may be too wary of such an arrangement, the preferable trick of agents is to demand for the same amount that will cover for two years in a year.

Ike, an agent in Dopemu, said, ‘’If an apartment should go for N100, 000 per annum, you ask for N150, 000. The tenant would have paid N300, 000 in two years instead of N200, 000. You do this for the stubborn ones that come.’’ For sitting tenants, most agents now

•Fashola

• Mohammed Marwa: He also tried to regulate rents

issue the mandatory six-month notice of eviction beginning from the point of renewal. Many tenants, as a result, are forced to pay for unjustifiable increment without enjoying the six-month notice period to avoid eviction.

Blessing, a tenant, is due to renew her rent next February. ‘’Our agent,’’ she revealed, ‘’simply notified me of eviction from the day I paid. He said I should pay N30, 000 increment or leave in February. I will rather pay the increment than look for another accommodation that will cost me over N300, 000 as a new tenant,’’ she informed. A landlord in Ogba area of Lagos who simply gave his name as Mr. Saka, said evicting a tenant is not as difficult as the law makes it look. ‘’I bought this house with my sweat. Where was government when I was toiling to build it? If I want to evict a tenant and he is quoting the law, I will resort to African method. I can send you packing spiritually without causing much physical confrontations,’’ he explained.

Agency fees, popularly known as agreement and commission, have also become another smart invention to beat the law. If an apartment should go for N200, 000 per annum, an agent will accept N150,000 and get N50,000 for commission and another N50,000 for agreement.

The additional N100, 000 will more than compensate for the initial shortfall of N50, 000. And most certainly, these fees are collected without receipts or any evidence of payment. After expiration of the one-year rent, the tenants can be summarily evicted for other occupants who will be more than willing to pay improved rents. This according to Emmanuel, another agent, creates a win-win situation for landlords and agents. ‘’What we get in two years, we can now get in one year with more money,’’ he sardonically smiled.

feel the government is trying to cage them from making more money. Since these are their private properties, they are working against the law because they do not realise it will serve them better.’’

Government, Oyewole posited, should comprehensively enlighten both parties on the mutual gains from the law. ‘’The tenant should have been told they can demand for fairness while the landlords should have been made to see how receiving yearly rents can serve them better.

Instead of waiting for two years, they can get yearly increment on rents. If they see it from this point, they will enforce the law willingly,’’ he argued.

Checks revealed that registered surveyors and estate agents have already complied with the law. A manager with Biodun Fatayi and Sons said compliance is not negotiable. ‘’For us, we cannot do otherwise. Many registered firms like us were collecting yearly rent from new tenants before anyway.

It is in our interest to obey the law because we cannot afford a brush with law enforcement agencies.’’

Many of them, however, partially make use of unregistered agents. These unregistered agents have more properties in lowincome neighbourhoods, making it impossible for established ones to operate without recourse to them.

Such marriage of convenience forces registered estate firms to look away when the ‘quacks’ perpetuate their illegalities.

MAKING IT WORK An official of the Lagos State Ministry of Justice, who does not want his name in print, said the law can only work when tenants institute complaints. ‘’We cannot prosecute without reports from affected tenants. The onus is on them to bring cases of noncompliance to us. When they do this, we can then do our part. We

MORE TROUBLES AHEAD? Most landlords who spoke with our correspondents said the law will rather aggravate than reduce the housing challenges of tenants. Balogun Ige, a landlord in Ikorodu, said: ‘’If you think you are helping them with this law then you are mistaken. The government will not be there to live with us. We can victimise them without much noise. Any tenant that refers me to any law will be in trouble. Is it that easy to build a house in Lagos?”

Ojo, another landlord, said, ‘’you can report me to government but can they save you? After we return from court, we shall live together again. Let’s see if you will enjoy yourself again.’’ He admitted that it is wrong to frustrate tenants with unreasonable increments but said the economic situations do not leave them with much of a choice. ‘’Tenants will come and go but the landlord will remain.

He owns the house and has the rights to get whatever he demands,’’ he further explained.

An agent, Lukmon Ola, said the law might further strain relations among tenants and landlords the more rather than reconciling both parties. ‘’When you make tenants feel superior to their landlords, then there will be consequences. The landlord can deal with them in many ways that you will not know. We are Africans and they can become spiritual. Two, they can create unnecessary fights that governments will not see. So, for me, tenants are the worst for this law.’’

A property lawyer, Sikiru Oyewole, said the law is commendable. ‘’For the first time, the tenant can feel like a human being. This move is good for them,’’ he said. He, however, pointed out that landlords and agents will naturally feel threatened with the law. ‘’They

cannot go around asking for offenders when people do not report,’’ she said.

As of date, no landlord had been reported to have flouted the law. This is despite daily cases of evictions and unjustifiable increments.

Abiodun Owoyemi, a registered estate surveyor, said only Lagosians can make the law work. ‘’To think that the law will work on its own is irrational.

Laws do not work until people make them work. Tenants should start testing the law. They should make reports then we can see if government will prosecute or not,’’ he said. He advised tenants to get over the fear of eviction and homelessness. ‘’If we do not fight these Shylocks, they will keep us in servitude. Let’s suffer some consequences in the short term for a long-time enjoyment of fairness,’’ he pleaded.

Oyewole appealed to Lagos State government to show more commitment to making the law work. ‘’Some tenants are afraid of landlords so we should have a task force for enforcement. We should have call centres where people can make complaints and send SMS. Then government officials can follow up to confirm veracity or otherwise. Once we get the first scapegoat, people will sit up. Until then, the law will appear to be dead on arrival,’’ he argued.

While signing the bill into law, Fashola stated that there would be no coercive enforcement. Owoyemi and Oyewole said this is a step in the right direction. According to them, what coercion cannot achieve, persuasion, enlightenment and advocacy will do.

Additional reports by Ayodehinde Ola and Dorcas Adewolu

THE ARTS

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THE NATION ON SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 13, 2011

KAREN KING-ARIBISALA

‘I’ve always been an outsider’ Professor of English at University of Lagos, Karen King-Aribisala, is a Guyanese writer married to a Nigerian. Two of her published works - Our Wife and Other Stories, and The Hangman's Game - won the Commonwealth Writer's Prize, Best First Book for African Region in 1991, and the Best Book Africa in 2008 respectively. At a recent reading hosted by the Department of English Studies, Obafemi Awolowo University, OAU, Ile-Ife, she spoke with ADEMOLA ADESOLA on various issues of interest

I

NFLUENCES on your writing career?

My father was very influential in determining the course that my life has taken in the sense that ever since I was about eight, when I first began writing creatively, I would read the stories that I had written to him and he would comment on them and encourage me. As I grew up, we came to live in Nigeria. That was about the time of the Nigerian Civil War. We lived in Ibadan and I attended the International School , Ibadan.

During the holidays my father would call me to learn particular parts of the Bible, particular books of poems by heart. We discussed poems.

And all of these helped to encourage me to write. But I think I would have written anyway.

What would you attribute your passion for writing to?

I think largely it was because I grew up as an outsider in many of the places I have lived in. Whether it is in Nigeria, the West Indies, Italy where I met my husband as a teenager, I have always been an outsider, somebody who was not born in that particular place.

For that reason, I think, that has led to my trying to understand the position of the outsider, whether it’s in terms of gender, religion, race, culture.

“I wonder if you are conducting an interview with a man whether you would ask him if he was masculinist. I think that your question presupposes that a particular kind of stance simply because I am a woman … I am for the oppressed; I am for those who injustices have been meted out to. This could be a man or a woman”

What messages are you trying to disseminate through these novels, poems and short stories?

Of the three published works that I’ve written, two of them have b e e n awarded the Commonwealth Prize for Literature. The first one is Our Wife and Other Stories”, which won the Best First Book Prize for the African Region in the Commonwealth Literature Prize, 1990/ 1991. My second novel is Kicking Tongues.

That was published by the-now-defunct that should be our ultimate goal – to inhabit Heinemann Educational Books, In 1998/ that in a good, righteous and truthful way.

1999. And my most recent publication is How do we realise this? As I said before, we called The Hangman’s Game. And that also have to consciously divest ourselves of these won the Best Book for African Region in the trappings of race, of colour, of ethnic group, of Commonwealth Prize in 2008. To your this and of that because we use them to shield question, what is the main thrust of my the naked truth of ourselves. And having writing, what is the message? Well, I don’t done that, then we can move on to another want to be pinned down; there are several stage and try to accommodate each other. It is messages, if you want to use that terminology. not an easy task, but I believe that with the In Our Wives, the title story deals with this help of God it can be done.

African concept that when you are married I want to engage you on this idea of into a family you become the wife of the family. believing in God to solve these man-made Meeting somebody like me who has been problems the country is enmeshed in. trained in Western institutions, this is an How do you think that the problems can appalling idea because it means that you lose be solved? Let me throw that back to you. I your identity and you become swallowed up think one of the tenets of the Christian faith is by a larger family. So, I tried to explore that in not waiting for Godot. It’s not simply putting that story, and to show what I’ve said in other our trust in God; that trust has to be an active interviews, which is that, to me, nation, race, trust. The faith has to work. You don’t just culture, class are all dresses which we put write an exam and say “God please help me” on , in fact, out of pride. These dresses disguise while you sit back and do nothing. You have the bare, core truth of humanity – things like pride, things like selfishness which prevent to work at that exam. You have to study, us from occupying the extended family, if physically work at it and allow God to do the you like, to which we all belong. It’s okay to rest.

Marriage is one of the subjects of your be individual, to say that you are a Nigerian, West Indian, or whatever. But often these are creative works. It is very possible that as a barriers which we use to fight against each female writer engaging this subject some other. And so, my position is that all of these people would just assume that you are a barriers should be broken down. And that is feminist. Are you one?

I wonder if you are conducting an actually one of the thrusts of Kicking Tongues. interview with a man whether you would ask It appears to me that the solution you are him if he was masculinist. I think that your suggesting in Kicking Tongues is spiritual. Is that the case, or do you think there are others? question presupposes that a particular kind There are several solutions. The first thing of stance simply because I am a woman … I is to recognise that we as individuals are am for the oppressed; I am for those who linked together on a journey of life; we are injustices have been meted out to. This could going through life from one destination to be a man or a woman. It so happens that in the other. The first destination that we embark the patriarchal societies which we have the upon is the physical destination, and when world over that women are usually treated in we die we go to a spiritual destination. And a prejudicial version by the society and by

KA

those who lead the society. So, in those times, yes, I am a feminist because more often than not females are the subjected, are the oppressed.

The setting of The Hangman’s Game begs the question on the proper way to classify you; is it as a Nigerian writer or as a Guyanese writer?

I think when you do well, people will claim you. That’s all I have to say about that.

If you do well and win prizes, then you are a Nigerian or you are a Guyanese, or both. But if you don’t, then okay.

How do you still find the time to do your creative writings amidst other academic activities?

It’s not the question of finding the time. I think if you want to do something, you will do it regardless of the problems. You have to find the time if you want to write. You will certainly find the time. It’s not easy.

Early in the year, President Goodluck Jonathan launched his “Bring Back the Book” campaign in an attempt to halt the continuous slide in the reading culture. I would like to know what you think about this.

I am engaged with the British Council on something called “The World Wide Project” which is to encourage the reading culture in various countries in Africa. There are different phases to this. One of them starts at the university level. I see that OAU is already making strides in that direction. We at the University of Lagos are doing the same thing, that is to invite writers to give their readings, to have discussion on the books. And also, which is very important, when you are teaching these books to have them in different media. If it’s possible get film, radio, or recording, etc, because that’s the way the world is going. This will enable people to see the different books being discussed in different mediums, and they come alive in that way.

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Arts

First Chapter B

EFORE the Chinese burned Jyeko village, a tax-official from Lhasa stayed there. For years no revenue had reached the capital from that remote corner of Tibet's eastern province of Kham.

So, in 1948, Lhasa sent its own collector. It was a fourmonth journey into evermore resentful districts. But the zealous young man brought his wife and baby daughter, declared his intention to stay for as many years as it took - and was generally hated.

The Lhasan family rented a large but gloomy house in an alley off the marketplace. They had no true friends: the family was not welcome in the better houses, and the husband was too proud to consort with anyone else. So they lived in isolation. The tax official rode about on business with his nose in the air, intruding and questioning, making demands and enemies of the Khampa people. His young wife cared for her baby, the only living thing that returned her natural warmth.

She did her best to spin out barely civil conversations with the market traders,

THE NATION ON SUNDAY NOVEMBER 13, 2011

An eastern love affair Jonathan Falla in his epic, Blue Poppies brings alive to the pages the tale of love in post-world war China and grew sad and quiet at home.

In their second autumn, they heard from Lhasa that her parents had died. Her husband announced that they should make a pilgrimage to a lamasery several days' travel to the northwest, near Chamdo. They took two yaks to carry the baggage, while husband and wife travelled on smartly tacked ponies.

Their daughter, now a timorous toddler, rode in front of her mother.

Their departure from Jyeko was observed by a number of people who bore the tax-official no love. The little caravan left the village on the Lhasa trail, out past three votive shrines and then through a scattering of small vegetable gardens.

Beyond these were stone animal pens. Here stood clumps of squat windtwisted firs and larches, picketed in sparse pockets of soil and thrusting their roots under boulders for purchase against the gales.

Beyond this point, no trees grew, only sorry little barley fields on terraces from which tons of rock had been lifted over centuries.

They moved steadily upstream towards the stark snowfields, travelling alone. Turning north-west, they passed through the shadow of the Grey Ghost, the peak that reared like an enormous hook above

ENCOUNTER

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ARBED in the Niger-Delta fashion style which has gained prominence among politicians, he strolled into the lobby for the interview. Of course, he hails from Nangi-Ama in Southern Ijaw Local Government Area in Bayelsa State where such fashion is the norm. But, Seleprei Tonbie is not into the serious affairs of politics. Rather, the dark young man is ingrained in another serious profession – entertainment.

Though his easy ways might fool one, Tonbie’s passion for the stage is strong. “It is so sad that the theatre industry has been neglected by the government and even the organized private sector. There are few functional theatre companies and State Arts Councils that are not productive. Even the halls available for production of play are rather too expensive. This should change,” he said.

Trained as a theater practitioner at the University of Port-Harcourt, Tonbie first cut his teeth in the entertainment sector when he established Providence Global Resources (PGR) in 1996. According to him, the company was founded to ‘act as catalyst to societal development on the Niger Delta.’

That period were the early days of militancy which made the region not only to unsafe but also crippled social and economic life. It would take more than a decade before peace was restored in the region.

A firm believer in non-violence, Tonbie believes that just as Mariam Makeba employed music to fight against the repressive years of colonial rule in South Africa, so drama could be used to address the restiveness of the Niger Delta.

Hence, his recent play, Offsprings of the creeks captures leadership struggles and the frustrations of young Niger Delta graduates which results into restiveness in the region.

Jyeko. On they went, following the steadily narrowing valley floored with smudges of dark green moss among the rounded pebbles.

On the second day, they came to a gorge in which the trail flirted with a precipice above a river. Where the dirt track reached the entrance to the gorge, baulks of timber had been laid in rudimentary steps to a narrow rock shelf. This ledge, halfway up the perpendicular cliff, was the only possible means of passing onward above the seething river. It had been used for generations, and the rock face was scratched with imploring prayers. The greygreen surface was damp, greasy with perpetual spray and centuries-old lichens.

The ledge was so narrow that the ponies and yaks had barely sufficient room to place their hoofs, and the loads snagged on the wet stone.

The woman had no liking of heights. When she saw where she was expected to ride, her nerve failed and she began to get down from the saddle, the child inside her coat. Her husband turned to see what she was doing, and shouted a curt order to remount immediately, to keep her eyes out of the depths and to follow him. He called that the ponies were used to it; they were more surefooted than she, and should be allowed to find their own way. So she climbed back up,

her strength diminishing as rapidly as her nerve.

The pony moved ahead, and she managed to raise her eyes and fix them on her husband's back as he rode proud and silent before her. But she could not help seeing ahead of him, to where the ledge gave out. There, for twenty yards, the way consisted of nothing more than slippery tree trunks laid on stakes driven into the rock. She felt sick with fear, a clammy sweat adding to the cold river spray as she fought to keep her eyes up and her hand tight on the rein.

They passed beyond the timbers, back onto the rock ledge, and her heart began to steady.

Then she heard, over the boom and hiss of the gorge, a deep scraping sound among the rocks overhead. Before she could comprehend it, her husband and his pony were smashed off the ledge by a clattering swarm of black boulders.

He disappeared instantly into the cold billows to their right. A second later, she was struck on the head and the leg, and thought that she, too, was dead, but the blow knocked her in against the rock wall. Her pony, in a spasm of terror, launched itself backwards and vanished,

legs flailing, over the edge after her husband.

When her wits returned, she heard her little girl screaming. She tried to stand upright on the slippery ledge to find her child but collapsed.

Her leg was broken in two places, crushed by boulders.

She reached Jyeko two days later, draped over one of her yaks. She had some-

how contrived to tie her daughter on with ropes so tight that they cut her flesh.

The little girl was mute with shock, the woman barely conscious. For once, the villagers were merciful and brought her to the monks. Many weeks later, as the first winter storms were gathering, she and her daughter were back in their house, alone with each other.

Taking amnesty to stage Theatre addresses life issues and one person using it to confront societal mores is Seleipre Tonbie, a Port-Harcourt based theatre practitioner and entertainment consultant who has used his plays to tackle restiveness in the Niger Delta. He talks to Joe Agbro Jr. about his new play entitled Offsprings of the creeks and other issues.

Nimi (Wisdom) is the typical militant but when the option of amnesty comes his way, he embraces it to pave way for peace. Seleprei says the play highlights why the Niger Deltans whould ‘embrace the benefits of non-violence and the respect for the human life and the need for unity and collectiveness to foster national growth and development.’

Despite condemnation about the militants by a varied populace, the playwright however differs. To him, the militants are simply freedom fighters. “The aim is stop marginalization and exploitation of the people of the Niger Delta.

Today, that struggle has yielded some positive results,” Tonbie says. “We now occupy the highest position of the land. And it was as a result of the armed agitations of the youths of the region in the bid to assuage the feelings of the people and restore its crippling economy.”

Offsprings of the creeks re-enacts the sordid story of kidnapping, bombings, and killings.

And within some circles, fear is rife that it is just a matter of time before militancy rears its head again. Tonbie thinks it is unlikely.

“The amnesty programme,” he says, “is a success story.” And he even envisages that warring countries such as Sri Lanka, Nepal, Bangladesh, Sudan, and Somalia are likely to emulate it.

Other plays written by Tonbie include Too young for love, Give them a chance, Illusion, The scourge, A day in the dark, The black gold, and A new dawn in the Delta. In A

•Tonbie

new dawn in the Delta, Tonbie captured the benefits of drawing and implementing the proposed federal government master plan for the Niger Delta. Following the warm reception accorded the play, it was toured

in Niger Delta cities. And it was not surprising when the likes of Francis Duru, Timaya, and Njamah were scripted to act in the play because Tonbie also manages musical artistes.

Tonbie in 1996 pioneered the Commissioners’ Cup which is a drama and cultural completion among post-primary schools in Rivers State between 1996 and 2002. He also initiated Radio Rivers Youth View, a health and drama series targeted at youths.

Currently, he is also Special Adviser to Southern Ijaw on Millennium Development Goals.

Despite these achievements, Tonbie is distraught with the dire state of theatre in the region.

He advocates that the theatre industry be revived.

And with Offsprings of the creeks, he intends to give a command performance in Abuja while it tours Lagos and Rivers. A special presentation of the play will also be staged at the Federal Government Rehabilitation Camp, Obubra, Cross River State.

Tribute to sir Alex Feguson Pg. 46

Please help our Pg. 28 father — Olusola Pg. 28,45

Nation PAGE 27

Sunday, November 13, 2011

• Sunshine’s coach Gbenga Ogunbote

•Yobo

• Dolphin’s coach Stanley Eguma

T

HE title race for the Nigerian Premier League goes to the wire today as leaders, Sunshine Stars of Akure and second place Dolphins of Port Harcourt have brought their pursuit of the league topmost prize to the last day of championship.

Sunshine Stars are on 71 points, one ahead of the Port Harcourt lads but the odds seem to favour the Niger Delta outfit in terms of the oppositions' morale ahead of today's clashes.

Both sides will be on the road for this final charge for the league diadem but with Pillars who play host to the league leaders also in

By Olusoji Olukayode search of a continental ticket the trip up north to Kano is expected to be a tough one for the travelers. Dolphins' foes and hosts, Bukola Babes are neither fighting against relegation nor gunning for any continental berth and as such will be expected to provide less headache than Pillars would for Sunshine.

A win in Kano is all Sunshine need to put paid to Dolphins hopes of notching the title this term. With a win up north Sunshine will still smile home winners even if Dolphins were to

win by the widest of margin in Ilorin.

However, it is that possibility of not winning at Pillars that makes the two centers places to keep tap on this evening.

Should Sunshine lose at Pillars and Dolphins go ahead to win in Ilorin then the title goes to Port Harcourt and Sunshine would have missed out on the opportunity of clinching their first league crown ever.

But while the present quest of their respective opponents may be key to the type of opposition both clubs may face in their respective encounters it is worth noting that Sunshine have not lost a game in their last two trips but Dolphins have lost four in as many away games and that form may well prove vital today.

The Ondo state representatives drew their last two away fixtures and should they go ahead to repeat same feat and Dolphins continue with their bad travelling record then the sun will surely shine on Mike Idoko's Sunshine Stars and the capital city of Akure by the time hostilities end in Kano and Ilorin this evening.

28

45

NATIONSPORT SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 13, 2011

NATION SPORT

NATION SPORT

W

hat do you do?

I work in the Oyo State Water Corporation Do you stay with daddy (Ojebode) at the moment?

Olusola: No because I'm a married man When did this issue start and when did you get to know about it?

Since, February and we went to various hospitals before we came to UCH here.

Where was he working as at February?

He was doing nothing. It (the sickness) started with a mere fever. At times we force him to eat then we treated (loss of) appetite. It was probably in June that he started coughing. I personally took him to Jericho Chest Clinic then later they referred us to Jericho Specialist clinic.

We spent some weeks there and now we came to UCH. We've been here since last week Monday I guess.

The question I asked was if he was working with maybe 3SC or the Oyo State Sports Council?

No, no Have you heard anything from 3SC yet?

No Did you contact them?

They are aware Okay did you contact them?

Verbally Who were the people you spoke with?

We spoke with the former Chairman of 3SC, Jossy Lad and the ex-players. From Sports Council some people came individually, most of the ex-players know and we were told that they've informed them.

Nobody from NFF, nobody from 3SC, we are just alone. Nobody from Oyo State government Were there notable ex-players that you saw personally?

Yes, I saw Jossy Lad, Rafiu Salami, Chief Onigbinde was there too. Kola Taiwo, Niyi Akande, Slow Poison, Felix Owolabi, Joe Appiah then Segun Odegbami called all the way from Abuja. Those were people we saw When did you make all these contacts?

They were here last week, and this week; Jossy Lad was here yesterday that's all Apart from the visits, have there been anything, maybe not official, any help?

No Any promises No So from here what are you expecting? Where are your hopes?

We put all our hopes on God. But for a man that served his country diligently and he's an ex-player, excoach, ex-chairman of 3SC I think government shouldn't abandon him like this. They just left him alone like that. It's not encouraging at all. If the young players now see this, how would they expect them to serve their country? When they know that if they serve they will use them and dump them, so I don't blame young players playing (well abroad) and they come back to Nigeria and play somehow, somehow because this is how Nigeria will do. So it's very sad, it's very sad, I must say it's very sad.

As an individual did you play ball?

I was once a player but I left because of an injury so I went for engineering so I'm an engineer.

Like we said, help comes from God but do you have certain people in mind that you would have loved to get in touch with but perhaps you don't have access to them that you feel if they were to know they would have helped?

First and foremost the NFF and let me say my loving governor of Lagos State, Fashola, I know he loves sports.

If Fashola should know about it I know he will do something good about it. And I want Oyo State government to do as well too and various individuals, I want them to come and help financially because that's what we need for now.

What has the doctor told you that you need to do to get him back on his foot as quickly as possible?

We've been doing series of tests. He did one today, he did yesterday in fact we do everyday.

So up till today you are still doing tests?

We are still doing tests Finally anything you want to let out to Nigerians on this issue?

I want Nigerians to come out and help Baba; Baba is too young to die now. He served this country, served the state, the nation generally so someone like him should not be left alone like that. They should come and help, individually, state, federal government, they should come and help.

•L-R: Oluyemi and Olusola Ojebode, children of Ojebode

Please help our father — son

•Mrs. Morenike Ojebode, wife of Ojebode.

Former Green Eagles’ star, Samuel Ojebode lies ill at the University College Hospital (UCH) in Ibadan. The former Shooting Stars Sports Club of Ibadan coach's figure on one of the beds at the South West ward 3 of the teaching hospital is a shadow of the once agile personality he had been in years past. With his wife, Morenike beside his bed and some of his sons lending their support, pale and fragile looking Ojebode has very little strength to talk and one cannot but wonder at the extent of damage the sickness had done to him. However in this interview with OLUSOJI OLUKAYODE at the University College Hospital (UCH) in Ibadan last Thursday, his wife and two of his sons, Oluyemi and his younger brother, Olusola bore their mind his state and seeming neglect by the nation he served in his prime. Also, the Oyo State Commissioner for Sports, Honourable Dapo Lam-Adeshina who met Nationsport at the hospital on Thursday spoke on the man and the state governme nt's resolve to get him back to sound health.

M Y F A T H E R EMBITTERED BY NEGLECT — OLDERSON How do you feel about what is on ground?

Hmm, concerning my dad? I feel really, really bad, we feel really, really bad, we feel neglected. This was a man that served this country and this state with all his might. While he was young he served this country, he served this state and when he needed them most they abandoned him. He has been sick for the past 11 months.

We've been taking care of him ourselves and when it got out of hands we had to call for help. So it's very, very bad. You can see players and sportsmen nowadays, they say that they don't serve the country with patriotism, with zeal, how would they? If they see people like this who had served and have been abandoned what do you expect from them, I feel very bad, I feel very bad. We've been here since 31st of October, Shooting Stars are in Ibadan here (but) we've never seen anyone from there. Mutiu Adepoju happened to be a boy of my father. He trained him, he got him from Femo Scorpion to Shooting Stars (3SC), and he did not even make a phone call (let alone) come around.

The State government sent Commissioner for Sports, Honourable Dapo Lam, he came, that was on Thursday last week and ever since we've not seen him (for the records, the Sports Commissioner met Nationsport at the hospital the same day this interview was conducted) they were just futile promises but we give God the glory foe taking control and some well meaning Nigerians like, Chief Adegboye Onigbinde, Coach Jossy Lad, Coach Kola Taiwo, they've been here. They've been rallying around him it might not be financially but at least they know the right people and the right places to go to and Segun Odegbami, we love him, we

• Former Green Eagles player Samuel Ojebode on sick bed at UCH. hospital Ibadan.

• Oyo state commissioner for Youth and Sport Mr. Dapo Lam-Adesina

appreciate him, he has done a lot.

Is there any specific message from the doctor as to what you need to do urgently?

His case is not terminal but he is seriously sick. We've spent a lot of money; we cannot even account all the money we've spent. Before we came here it was almost NIm, like 900 and something plus. When we got here since last week Monday to this present moment at least we could account for like 270 thousand (naira) and we are still spending. We did two tests today, we did one yesterday. The minimum amount we spent on test in this hospital is let's say 15,000 naira, the one we did yesterday was for like 32,000

naira. We've done series of tests so it's continuous and It's not only one doctor they are a group, one will come, do this test, the other will come, do another one. So it has been like that. I cannot really say specifically that this is what it's going to cost us. We are spending and we are still counting.

You've had the opportunity to speak with him during this period, what has been his reaction to this lack of attention?

He's a bitter man, he's a bitter man.

It's not encouraging to youths (and) to us as a family that what's the purpose of serving this country?

When they need you you'll serve them but when it's time for them to be of help they abandon you. His

PHOTOS: Femi Ilesanmi, Ibadan

case is not the first. There are lots of ex-internationals languishing in poverty, lots of them. And you see people that don't even know anything are stealing billions of naira. The man is sad. We thank God for the mum we have because she has been very supportive. She collected a car loan (and) spent it on his ailment. Her salary has been spent on his ailment. The immediate family have been taking care of him so there is nobody that has come to our aid so it's very sad, the man is really, really sad. He's even sick at heart because of the neglect from people (he) served his whole life.

He's 67 now, what do you expect him to do? It's sad. It's sad.

With this kind of situation if your

child were to opt to serve Nigeria do you think you will be encouraged to (let him or her)?

I will never encourage him. I will prefer that he naturalizes somewhere else, like go to England, go to Ghana, yes because look at what is happening, he's not the only one like I mentioned. Ogedegbe died as well, it was when he died that they round him. Why must it be when people die that you do something for them? Recognize them when they are alive, let them enjoy the fruit of their labour. It's very, very sad this is Nigeria for you. But we are just appealing to well meaning Nigerians to come to our aid. He's the only father we have, we don't want him to die, no,

we don't want him to suffer, he's suffering, and he's in pains.

Does it matter if you get help from outside the state?

One person I'm really looking forward to helping us is His Excellency, Babatunde Raji Fashola of Lagos State because he's a sports loving governor and we've seen what he has done for a lot of exinternationals like Sunday Eboigbe.

He went to Benin, took him, carried him to Lagos, and took care of him, a lot of ex-internationals like that. If we should have like 20 governors like that man Nigeria will be a better place. We also want His Excellency, Ajimobi to come and assist us. We know he's a loving governor, maybe due to certain things, maybe

protocol, well I don't understand but we need him to come around.

We need him to at least identify with us in this hour of our need. He has identified through his Commissioner for Sports but he has not really identified as a person.

This is his state, this is the secretariat (pointing), this is UCH it will not take him more than two minutes to get him inside here. He has not shown up. We need them to come around. What goes around comes around; you cannot say this is where you'll end so that is all I can say.

I WON’T PERMIT MY CHILDREN TO SERVE NIGERIA — WIFE Where do you work?

I am a teacher here in Ibadan.

Your husband is on the bed now and comparing him with the man you married who was strong, agile, how do you feel?

I am feeling very, very sad because since we got married he has never been sick. He had never been sick.

But come this time around, the sickness started around February so we have to take him to Catholic Hospital here in Ibadan. After some treatment we came back home but when it was July, exactly July 14 his birthday he was admitted at that Catholic Hospital, spending about one and half weeks there. We came back home, he was feeling better.

Towards early October this year he started coughing. I thought it was normal cough and I treated (it). But when I realized it was more than what I can handle I took him to the Jericho Chest Clinic where he was transferred to the Specialist Hospital for treatment. It was from there that I picked him here when I learnt that what I thought was mere coughing is more than mere coughing, it was congested cardiac failure. So we came here last Monday which was on the 30th of October. And I had to call the attention of Jossy Lad that it seems I cannot handle it again because I spent a fortune on him. So Jossy Lad now came, really he wept when he saw him. He now called Odegbami, people at NFA then Shooting Stars.

But to my surprise, though Segun was phoning us, monitoring the issue, phoning the Oyo State governor about it, we couldn't hear from the NFA (NFF). It was on Tuesday that two men came from Shooting Stars. I was so bitter. I had to ask them, why are you coming now? They said they have been travelling, that no one was around so the GM said they should come and see us. They came with nothing and up till now nobody responded.

We need financial help because I have spent fortune on him. You know he's a retiree and he doesn't earn anything from anywhere again besides that of the government.

Emm, to round it off, I for one, I will never encourage any of my children to serve the government as their father did because with all his effort there was nothing to show for it.

They used him and dumped him.

He was not the only one. Now we are calling them to come and help, if they come we will appreciate but if they don't come when they expect that maybe after his death they will now want to appreciate him, we will not appreciate them that's what I will say.

What has been his reaction to you especially with this situation now?

He's still so loving. I use to pet him because I don't want him to feel bad because at times he will just look at himself and say 'this is me?' I'll say yes it's you, you will bounce back. So I'll start saying beautiful things to his hearing and I know God will really work. I trust God, Sam Ojebode is not going to die, he's coming back, I know that but I will really appreciate if the government will come and appreciate him now.

Where are you hoping help comes from now?

Hmm, I am expecting people, patriotic Nigerians all over the world they should come to his aid

now. He still has that brain, if he cannot play he still has the brain to give out seminars, symposiums, he has stuffs so we should not let that (talent) waste like that. All Nigerians I'm calling not just Oyo State governor or any other governor of the states in Nigeria, anybody, I don't mind anybody coming, they are all welcome.

I heard that you spent you car loan on this, is that true?

All I had I have spent on him even beside car loan, all I had. My car loan, yes I obtain a car loan, it was during his illness so I spent it on him so I don't regret doing that.

You have said that if he dies, God forbid, and anyone comes to appreciate him then that you will not appreciate them. What will that (his death) do to your heart?

He will not die I'm just saying that because I can remember that of Best, the ex-Shooting Stars, they cried as they are crying now when best was ill nobody came to his aid, it was towards the end of his life they were about to take a step then he died. But for this man he's not going to die, so the best thing to do is to appreciate him when he's alive

GOV. AJIMOBI WILL TAKE CARE OF OJEBODE - LAM How do you feel looking at the man Ojebode's present condition comparing him with the man you've known?

Well thank you very much. This is not the first time I have come here; this is about my second time coming here. Nobody is happy with the way Baba is but we hope that by the grace of God he'll get better. I'm going to report back to His Excellency now on his situation.

What exactly would you say are the thought plans concerning him now?

Well so far we have made certain steps and I've been informed because I was in Jos couple of days ago that His Excellency has sent a delegation to meet with the Chief Medical Director of UCH to make sure that they take care of the bills.

Where will he be moved to or will he remain here?

I can't decide that now but we all know that the governor is humane and he loves everybody so I can assure you that something will be done about Baba's health immediately because we have a governor that loves the people.

Is there any plan to help the family pay back some of the money they have spent. They said they have spent about a million naira?

Well, I might not be able to say anything on that but like I said the governor is humane and he's going to take charge A final question, what will it mean to this government if governor Fashola as he has always done picks up this man and takes him to Lagos?

Well as a matter of fact I don't believe it is wrong for anybody, the most important thing is to save the life of this our father but I can assure you that the governor of Oyo State is humane like I said and I repeat humane. He has always been there for the people so I know he will be there for this man who has served this country.

THE NATION ON SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 13, 2011

I have found love again –Ayo Adesanya

Pages 36-37

Kehinde Falode Tel: 08023689894 (sms)

E-mail: kehinde.falode@thenationonlineng.net

THE NATION ON SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 13, 2011

Glamour Kiki Kama looks good in this long silk gown. The embroidery makes it look different from the normal dinner gown, great work, Kudos!

The Lagos Fashion week recently took place at the new convention Centre, Eko Hotel & Suites, Lagos. What was on parade by young celebrities at the event was the best and the worst of outfits reports Blessing Joseph

This well tailored white up and down with a touch of orange and black adire looks good on Ladi Balogun, Kudos!

Sorry. Too much on display here.

Oops!

Dora Ejikeme looks chic in this mono strap gown and the leggings, Kudos!

Tara Durotoye looks simple and sweet in this knee-length ankara gown, Kudos!

33

THEATRE

t

BIGSCREEN

SOUND TRACK

Tel: 08077408676

With VICTOR AKANDE

plus

If I was dating Banky W, I wouldn't break up with him —Tiwa Savage Singer/songwriter Tiwa Savage first serenaded the music scene with the song Kele Kele Love which became an instant hit. The stunning songstress made her first break as a background singer for George Michael, where she lent her voice to the world renowned musician. From there, she has gone on to work with a host of international artistes including Mary J. Blige, Chaka Khan, Blu Cantrell, Emma Bunton (Spice Girls), Baby Face and a host of others.

She recounts the journey so far with OVWE MEDEME while talking about her upcoming album and sundry issues.

W

HEN you released Kele Kele Love, did you expect it to be this big?

I wasn't even intending to release it. I did it because I wanted to test the waters. I am from a jazz background. I wanted to see how I could blend the whole pidgin and Yoruba thing together to produce an afro hip hop flavour. It was just something I experimented with and somehow, it just grew. People loved it. I didn't expect it to be as big as it was.

It was a very pleasant surprise to me.

How did you end up with a jazz background?

I studied jazz at Berkeley College of Music in America. It was just an interesting thing. Jazz is a beautiful language; a beautiful music, so learning it has been able to make me to do other types of music.

Do you play any instrument?

I used to play the trombone. I started learning the base guitar but I don't play anymore. I played the trombone when I was in high school. The base guitar takes a lot of discipline and I wanted to focus on my vocals and song-writing first but it is something I want to go back to.

Of all the big names you have worked with, who do you consider most influential to building your career?

They have all been highly influential to my career but if I am to pick, I would say that Mary J Blige influenced me a lot.

Her schedule was really hectic so I learnt a lot from her. Baby Face also taught me

GISTS

PAGE

35

e-mail: victor_akande@yahoo.com

I’m a witch — Tonto Dikeh

E

VER controversial or is it being mischievous this time round? Sex symbol actress, Tonto Dikeh's twit page conversation Thursday evening further attested to the actress's free will and unpretentious disposition. Funny as this may sound, Dikeh had pre-empted the imagination of foes who may see her USD2, 000 tattoo as devilish when she Said to an enquirer; “I am a witch”.

The guy had asked on her twitter if the tattoo which occupies a large portion of her back close to the neck region has a hidden meaning. And promptly Dikeh replied; “yes, and it is very deep. I am a witch”. Then again, her enemies had lied when they said the tattoo took her 14hours. She debunked this when she said “the tattoo took me 10 hours while I had a 2-hour break inbetween.”

The tattoo has two hands clutching a heart and squeezing blood out of it.

•Tiwa

a lot. But also some Nigerian artistes have been very influential when it comes to my career. A person like Don Jazzy has given me so much advice and he has helped me out a lot. People like Tuface and Banky W have also helped me in no small measure. Even though they came before me; they have always been helpful a lot.

What are you working on at the moment?

I just released the video for the track Love me Love Me. It is my second video. It is getting a lot of air play and I am really excited about it. I will be releasing my third single anytime now.

When are you planning to release your album?

The album will be out sometime in April next year.

Why is it taking this long to release the album?

I wouldn't agree with you that it is taking long. I have done most of it but I don't want to release it because I still believe a lot of people are yet to know who Tiwa savage is. They know the song Kele Kele Love but they don't know much about the artiste. That is why myself and my team are working hard so that people will get to know the artiste. I want to put all of that in place before I release the album.

What is the content of the album like?

I don't have a title for it yet but it will be a fusion of mainly afro pop music but I will also have a lot of R n B. It will have

Jazz. I have a song that is actually like a country song. There are a few surprises in the album. Me, I have put my heart into it and I think it's been a really exciting journey.

Do you have any apprehension about the album?

I do not really have any because I truly believe that I was myself in it. I put my heart into it and when I do something like that, I am always at peace with myself. I am more excited because I know that people are really going to see different sides of me and people who are music lovers would really appreciate the album.

What influences the kind of songs you sing?

I have a lot of influences. I don't think I am a particular person. I think I am more of a world music person because I incorporate afro music into my music. I also blend R n B, pop and the likes.

Having a stint in the States, do you see yourself at par with the emerging Nigerian hip hop trend?

That is what I am trying to do. I am trying to incorporate what I have learnt with my culture. I think an amazing trend is building and that is why I moved back because I want to be a part of that revolution.

What influenced your decision to move back to Nigeria?

I want to incorporate my culture into my music and I found that singing in --Continued on page 38

Clarion Chukwura becomes Deaconess

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OLLYWOOD actress Clarion Chukwura, who recently veered into fashion following the launch of her cloth line known as Clarion Chukwura Clothing (C3), was recently ordained a Deaconess.

The movie producer was so ordained on the 6th of November 2011 at the Jesus Dominion Assembly located at No 5 Norus Close off Babatunde Ladega Street, Omole Phase 1, Ikeja at about 10am.

Clarion who has not been active on the movie scene due to recent venture into fashion is really happy about her recent status and says she is a spiritual person which is contrary to what people think.

“I am very excited about my ordination.

Contrary to what people think, I am a very spiritual person. I don't joke with my spirituality,” She said.

•Clarion

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Entertainment

Nollywood actress now turned producer Ayo Adesanya has moved on with her life after her divorce from her exhusband, Goriola Hassan. The hazel-eyed actress and mother who stands tall among her contemporaries in the industry is breaking new grounds as she hopes to constantly remain relevant on the scene.

In this interview with AHMED BOULOR, the thespian with over a decade of experience in Nollywood talks about her experience as a movie producer, her plans for the future and the fact that she has now found love…Excerpts:

I have found love again —Ayo Adesanya

T

HERE are rumours making the rounds that you recently secured a deal to be the face of a food product. How true is that?

It's not true and there's no deal to that effect…

What's your take on actors becoming producers?

My take on actors becoming producers is that I really don't see anything bad in that as long as they are sure of what they are doing. I was also first an actor before taking that bold step of becoming a producer too.

There are a whole lot of thespians who have embraced movie productions and the industry is benefiting from it.

Do you not think they need training before becoming producers?

It's not a very easy task for an actor to become a producer, and I believe they should go through some form of training before becoming movie producers. There are some basic steps that need to be taken for a successful production to take place.

Has your foray into movie productions helped in anyway to shape you positively as an actress?

Yes in a very big way it has really broadened my knowledge, because when you are producing you are involved in all the aspects of production; be it financial, directing and artiste welfare in general rather than just being in front of the camera. You are actually more in a business world.

Is there any experience you have gone through in life that you wish to re-write?

Everything I have been through I believe has made my life unique, whatever experience I have gathered in my journey of life so far has turned out to be a blessing

because I am stronger and more matured for it.

How have you been able to stay relevant in the industry with the emergence of fresh faces and young talents?

I believe that for one to be relevant in the entertainment industry one has to be flexible and he or she should be able to change with time. Being flexible has been a plus for me because viewers usually get tired of seeing the same thing over and over again. Being able to do different things at different times has really given me an edge.

In your own view, what do you see as the biggest threat confronting Nollywood?

The biggest threat is this piracy of a thing; it is killing our industry, as a producer I know how sad it is releasing a movie today and seeing a pirated copy the next day. Tell

Entertainment

THE NATION ON SUNDAY NOVEMBER 13, 2011

me how do you expect to make your money back from your investment?

Government should do everything within the law to ensure the protection of intellectual property. If piracy is effectively tackled then the movie industry will be better for it.

Why have you not been able to hold your own as a cross-over actress?

Well I am still a part of the English section of Nollywood, although I do most of my productions in the Yoruba section.

When eventually you retire as an actress, what will you like to be remembered for?

I am putting some things in place, there's a project am about to embark on, I have been nurturing it for some time and I am at the stage of implementation.

By the time it begins I know the world will remember me by that.

Asides that, I want to be remembered as a woman that brought smiles to people's faces.

Do you have any new project in the pipeline?

I just completed a movie entitled Amope Alasela; it is a movie after my heart, I have had the

Everything I have been through I believe has made my life unique, whatever experience I have gathered in my journey of life so far has turned out to be a blessing because I am stronger and more matured for it

script for sometime but to God be the glory it was completed about a week ago. It's a movie after my heart because it was not an easy project, I can't start talking about all the challenges I went through but thank God we had capable hands on deck.

Muyideen Ayinde directed the movie while Abdullahi Yusuf was the director of photography. The movie features some of Nollwood's best such as Shola Fosudo, Ronke Ojo, Razak Olayiwola, Bayo Bankole, (Boy Alinco) Sunkanmi Omobolanle, Damola Olatunji, Jide Awobona, Bisi Komolafe, I played a dual role and it's a movie to look out for.

In your own view, are you happy with the state of affairs in Nollywood, especially with the sectionalism between the English

and Yoruba genres?

I believe Nollywood having the Yoruba and English section gives room for depth. It allows viewers to choose what they prefer to watch and not force things down their throats.

Have you ever had a terrible encounter with your colleagues, especially producers in Nollywood?

I have never had a terrible encounter with anyone in my industry, I see everyone as my family.

Have you found love again?

Yes, I have found love.

Who is the lucky guy?

I wouldn't like to talk about that now…

Are you still on talking terms with your ex-husband?

We have both moved on…

If you had your way, would you have wished that your marriage never broke up?

Well now that the marriage is over there is not much to say about that. Life goes on…

What would make you reject a movie script?

There are two basic things that would make me reject a movie script: a bad story and a badly written script. I hate to be a part of such projects.

How close are you to most of your female colleagues?

We are close as close can be, we do get along well.

Have you taken off your 'No Fear' tattoo because it was rumoured that you wanted to alter it?

I wonder where that originated from; well concerning the tattoo, am actually tired of it and don't be surprised because anything can happen to it.

With over a decade of experience in movies, what do you think we are still not doing right in Nollywood?

We need government and corporate bodies to assist us financially in making good movies because we have always used our hard earned money to fund our movies. If we have the assistance of corporate bodies, things will be a lot easier.

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GUS 8: Contestants denied food as Theodora returns

I

N a show of strength and test of will, the third and final batch of Gulder Ultimate Search contestants were denied food for what was tagged as poor performance in their first task,. The only contestant who was allowed to eat was Sunday Gyang, after he emerged winner in the task.

For the first task, the contestants were required to balance two bamboo poles on their hands against a wooden beam for as long as possible. Should the bamboo drop, then the contender is automatically disqualified. It was a game that tested the upper body strength of the contenders, especially their arms. The Council of Elders, through Darey 'Art' Alade, the show's co-anchor, came to the decision, after Batch C's first task was rounded up in minutes.

Chimaobi Ebobi emerged as the first loser in the task while the remaining contestants, Lilian Ebhonhon, Egone Kesiena, Efe Oniovosa, Fejiro Ejogbamu, Patience Ihongbe, Ezeoba Okoroafor, Olarewaju Alawoki and Ulunma Ekwuru, quickly followed suit, as they saw no need in holding on, after the game's loser emerged.

The show's host reprimanded the contestants for choosing to save their

energy, instead of putting in more effort in the day's task. He notified them that the first tasks for Batches A and B's contestants lasted for several hours because of the contestants' resilience.

Even though Gyang was rewarded with food, he was warned not to share with others or risk eviction. For her failure in the day's task, Chimaobi Ebobi was evicted. She has to depend on viewer's votes for a second shot at the Gulder Ultimate Search grand prize.

Meanwhile, Theodora Egbu, emerged as the contestant voted back in by viewers from Batch B. Thirty per cent of the audience cast votes in her favour. She was followed by Ibitoye Kikelomo Adewunmi and Amamgbo Chigozie who each amassed 16 per cent of audience votes. Fourteen per cent of the viewers voted for Ohio Goodluck Sunday while Ohwonda Mary Wealth and Iheme Kenneth Kelechi got four per cent and three per cent of the votes respectively.

Theodora still has to compete against Geraldine Obi, voted back in from Batch A, and the contestant who will be voted in, after completion of Batch C tasks, for the single slot in the Contest of Champions.

In Short wraps up with major improvement in short film genres

A

S the activities for the In Short Film Festival came to a halt, the 3-man jury made up of Shaibu Husseini, Artiste, Journalist, Film Curator/Critic, Kemi Adesoye, Scriptwriter Yemi Oladeinde, Journalist, Film Critic, Media Consultant expressed delight at the quality of films they had the opportunity to screen.

In coming up with the winning movies, Chairman of the Jury panel, Husseini, said that they looked through 34 films that were entered for competition comprising 21 short filmsmajorly entries from Nigeria with 5 considered out of the many entries submitted by filmmakers outside the shores of Nigeria like Kenya, India and Argentina. It also considered 10 short subject documentaries, and 3 infomercials.

“We were told that the festival secretariat received quite a number of entries, but the entries were scaled down to the number we were given to consider by a pre-selection panel. We were also told that for this edition, the entries categorized as 'international' should not be made to compete in other categories,” he said.

According to him, the jury has been able to identify the most outstanding films, actors and technicians nominated in the 10 categories of this

edition of the festival. “In arriving at the decisions that will shortly be announced, we were guided by the need to reward and encourage professionalism and to seek out and bring to wider attention some unique and distinctive filmmaking talents,” Husseini added.

The lineup of films that contended for the various categories of the awards, Husseini said, constitutes films made with ambitious budgets, films made at the guerilla end of our industry and films that attest to the stunning range and diversity of our cinema.

•Shaibu Hussein

Entertainment

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THE NATION ON SUNDAY NOVEMBER 13, 2011

‘If I was dating Banky W, I wouldn't break up with him’

HO LLYWOOD

Shakira named Latin Grammy Person of the Year

I

NTERNATIONAL pop star Shakira was honoured as the 2011 Latin Recording Academy Person of the Year in Las Vegas during a star-studded tribute dinner that saw the Colombian singer share an intimate moment with her father.

Closing the night with a burst of songs dedicated to her hom eto

wn of Barranquilla, it was a parade of Latin music's biggest stars as they paid homage to the 34-year-old "Hips Don't Lie" singer during the concert at the Mandalay Bay hotel-casino on the Las Vegas Strip. They performed hits such as "La Tortura" and "Estoy Aqui" in a two-hour salute to a career that has spanned decades and continents.

Shakira gleefully took in the performances, occasionally bouncing in her chair to show her appreciation, or standing up to dance amid a maze of banquet tables. After each song, Shakira climbed on stage and embraced the performers that

•Shakira

included Venezuelan singer Franco De Vita, Mexican rocker Alejandra Guzmán and salsa legend Gilberto Santa Rosa.

But it was a performance from her father, William Mebarak, that marked the emotional crescendo of the night. Mebarak, who sat next to Shakira for most of the show, took to the stage mid-way through the celebration and sang "Mi Nina Bonita" to his daughter.

The song, which translates to "My Pretty Girl," is a staple fatherdaughter tribute often heard at Hispanic weddings and birthday parties.

As Mebarak sang, pictures of the father and daughter flooded a screen hanging along the back of the stage. Shakira, visibly moved, buried her face in a tissue. "Thank you, daddy, for that song," she told him later in Spanish.

Puerto Rican crooner Marc Anthony presented Shakira with a crystal plaque to mark the honour. He called her a close friend and a humanitarian. Shakira's Pies Descalzos Foundation has raised millions of dollars to fight poverty and educate the

Morgan Freeman earns DeMille Award

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CADEMY Award winner Morgan Freeman is taking home a new prize, a lifetime-achievement honour at the Golden Globes. It was announced that Freeman will receive the group's Cecil B. DeMille Award at the 69th annual Globes ceremony on January 15, 2012.

The 74-year-old Freeman is a five-time Oscar nominee who

won the supporting-actor prize for 2004's "Million Dollar Baby."

Freeman's Oscar nominations include best actor for 1989's "Driving Miss Daisy," for which he won a Golden Globe.

The actor made his big-screen debut as an extra in 1965's "The Pawnbroker," and his film work has remained modest over the next two decades.

•Morgan

--Continued from page 35

Taylor Swift wins at CMA awards

T

AYLOR Swift took the most-coveted entertainer of the year award for the second time and newcomers The Band Perry reaped a hat trick of honors at the 45th Country Music Awards.

"I'm so happy right now...

You've made my year. Thank you so much," said the 21-year-old singer-songwriter with the supermodel looks at the climax of a three-hour gala in country music's capital city of Nashville, Tennessee.

Just minutes earlier, Swift whose "Speak Now" has been one of the year's top country albums looked bewildered when she was passed up for female singer of the year and three other categories for which she had been nominated.

Swift last won entertainer of the year, the top honour at the most prestigious of country music's many award evenings, in 2009, emerging the youngest artist ever to do so.

Crane over Ghollywood

Ghanaian musicians walk for tolerance

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HE Musicians Union of Ghana, MUSIGA, is set to embark on a symbolic walk dubbed 'Tolerance Walk' on November 16th, 2011.

The walk which is supposed to attract many stakeholders from the music industry as well as

social, religion, politics, sports and the arts and the walk will involve high-profile figures from the religious sector, civil service, political parties as well as members of the public.

The symbolic 'MUSIGA Tolerance Walk' will see patrons walk from the Independence Square to the House of Parliament where a petition will be presented to the Speaker or her Garner, producer of the movie, representative.

David Owusu, and others when Coincidentally, Parliament will the incident took place. convene to hear the 2012 National A huge crowd awaited the Budget read by the Finance actress and upon seeing her, Minister, Hon. Kwabena Duffour, surged forward, wanting to touch on the same day and as already her and shake hands with her. known, no budget has ever been And before one could spell jack, allocated to the creative arts the actress was said to be industry in Ghana. It is therefore mobbed by the excited students. expected that in the petition will It took the intervention of one be a justification on why a of Ghana's entertainment writers, percentage of the budget should who was part of the entourage, to be apportioned to the arts in the save her from the crowd. coming years.

others from the creative arts in Ghana is being done in connection with the UN World Tolerance Day. The significance of the walk is to preach the message of tolerance, which is a recipe for peace in all aspects of our lives including

America wouldn't really do justice to it. I had to move back, I had to be around my people so I can get lyrics like Kele Kele, jonzing and those kinds of slangs into my song and people will get a feel of it.

Because I am home, I know what to put in my music and the people would understand me.

When you eventually moved back, did you have issues adjusting to the Nigerian settings?

When I first moved back, it wasn't really a shock because this is home and no matter how long I stay in the UK or in the States, my coming back to Nigeria always felt like I was home. Instantly I felt like I was back at home because the reception was great. I had released the song before I moved back so when I came back, people embraced me because they loved the song. Moving back wasn't that hard, the adjustment wasn't that hard. It was just about me getting used to being in the public eye.

Is Tiwa Savage in a relationship?

For the moment, that is an area I really don't want to talk about.

What about the rumour making the rounds that you are involved with Banky W? I am really surprised with the situation with me and Banky.

Honestly I knew Banky before we moved back. I knew him even while he was doing his thing in New York. He is like a mentor to me if anything. Anytime I need advice, I just beep him and he replies. We are definitely just friends. He is somebody I admire and I respect a whole lot.

Are you saying that the rumours making the rounds about you breaking up with Banky are false?

If I was dating Banky, I probably wouldn't break up with him. He would probably be the one to break up with me. I would always be following him around.

What was growing up like for you?

Growing up was fun. I was a bit of a tomboy while I was growing up. I am the last child and the only girl, so I grew up around boys so I always got into trouble in school a lot. When I moved to London, that was when I really discovered my gift. Growing up was fun. My parents are still together. They loved us and they supported my career.

Jackie Appiah mobbed

R

•Jackie

EPORTS from Cape Coast, the Central Regional capital, say that celebrated Ghanaian actress Jackie Appiah was ambushed by a huge crowd at the Cape Coast University on Monday.

It was revealed that the actress was at the university campus as part of the premiere of her new movie, Night With Her, featuring James Gardner and John Dumelo.

She was there with James

•Tiwa

Entertainment

THE NATION ON SUNDAY NOVEMBER 13, 2011

I

T was a wave of disappointment for the students of the University of Port Harcourt when rave of the moment, Wizkid, failed to turn up for a programme he had been scheduled to perform. A report

by Chris Okafor, a 400-level Microbiology student of University of Port-Harcourt, stated that the Nigerian hip hop artiste was supposed to thrill the th students on the 29 of October, 2011 for the Mr. and Miss UNIPORT Beauty Pageant but he disappointed them, after being paid the sum of 1.5 Million, claiming that he was not feeling fine on that day via twitter and that he had no business in UNIPORT. A call was reportedly put through by the organizers to the artiste's management team at about 10:20 am prior to the event, and they got a reply that they were about to board a flight. At about 10:50, another call was made, but the phone was switched off, which made the organisers of the show assumed that they were already on board.

Then another call came in at about 1:02pm to inform them,

that Wizkid was sick and would not be able to make it to the event. Which got the students angry, thinking the SUG Government had deceived them.

A call was put through to Wizkid's Manager to verify if the story making the rounds were real. Confirming the incident, the Manager said that “the story is true, but it was not

like Wizkid did not want to show up at the event. He was not feeling fine on that day and we called them to inform them of the new development, but they kept insisting that he had to come for the show.

“But we are trying to sort out the whole issue and come to an agreement. Our CEO has sent a message to them to send an account number, which we are yet to get. I put a call to their

P Square, Ice Prince, others for Amstel Malta Showtime finale

W

ITH November 18 as the planned date, top rated artistes are set to light up the grand finale of the Amstel Malta Showtime holding at the Harbour Points Event Centre, Victoria Island, Lagos.

Featuring top artistes such as P Square, Wiz kid and Ice Prince as well as comedian I Go Dye, the show will be anchored by Darey 'Art' Alade.

Organizers say that undergraduates will also be given the opportunity to showcase their talents in singing, dancing and comedy competitions, as the best act in each category will get the opportunity to perform on stage, with the superstar acts headlining the event.

Speaking on the upcoming event, Brand Manager of Amstel Malta, Adedoyin Owotomo, said that it has been a wonderful debut year for Amstel Malta Showtime.

Ovation as Tee Songs exits Naija Sings

Reason Wizkid disappointed UNIPORT students Dupe AYINLA

39

I

SUG president last week and he gave me two days, that they were going to get back to me on their decision. But as at now, they are yet to let me know if we will be making a refund or making arrangement for another show next year for a new semester,” she added The SMS sent to the SUG is from the Ceo Of Empire Mate$ Entertainment, the record label managing Wizkid.

•P Square

“We have witnessed a harvest of talents in singing, dancing and comedy competitions. What we are trying to do is to give the youths a chance to be the best that they can be. We are not going to rest on our oars. Next year we are planning a bigger and better Amstel Malta Showtime and we expect more talents to be unveiled,” she said.

Amstel Malta Showtime in Abuja featured M.I, Wiz Kid and Banky W, while Buchi was the night's comic act. The talent hunt also featured singing, dancing and comedy competitions which produced winners in all the categories. Winners went home with brand new lap tops, a shopping voucher worth N100,000 and an all expense paid trip to Lagos. First runners up got shopping vouchers worth N50,000. Second runners up also went away with shopping vouchers worth N25,000.

T was a mix of emotions at the Glo Naija Sings as darling of followers of the talent hunt show, Tee Songs got booted out of the competition. In a tense atmosphere, host of the show, Darey Art Alade delivered the verdict of the voting public when he announced that the youngster who, during his stint in the competition, added verve has been voted out. “Stepping out of the competition is not the end of my pursuit. I will make it in the industry,” the young artiste said of his eviction.

With Tee Songs out of the way, all way set for the final three contestants Opening performance

by Matade. This was followed by last woman standing, Vicky.

Confident comedian cum business man, Christian came up next with a rendition of his own version of Bob Marley's Turn Your Lights down Low, a performance with which he stole the hearts of the crowd, audience and judges alike.

For the second round of the day's competition, coming up strong with a spirited performance was Matade with the song Fly without Wings.

Coming close behind was Vicky who rendered Diana Ross' He Lives In Me. As usual, Vicky who since entering the house has always made highlight lived up to the reputation she has come to create for herself.

The last performance for the night was from Christian, performing the song Hero.

Christian also thrilled the audience like he has never done since entering the competition.

•Tee Songs

Charly Boy hunts for talents on Streets of Lagos

O

NLY last week, he was in the news for creating a snake scare at the Enugu auditions of Nigerian Idol. But the judge in the competition, Charly Boy is bent on showing one of his manifold sides. In Lagos as one of the judges on Season II of Nigerian Idol alongside Yinka Davies and international choreographer and artiste Jeffrey Daniels, the Area Fada had the chance to screen thousands of young eager talents in an incredibly long line at the Dream Studios in Lagos.

But the star perhaps did not get the desired satisfaction so he set out on his own personal

hunt, creating a spectacle like has never been seen before under the bridge at Ikeja on Monday, October 7th before onlookers - mainly commercial motorcycle (okada) operatorsgathered to participate in what appeared to be a street talent show. Creating a judges' desk at a corner of the road and shouting orders was none other than the 'Area Fada' himself, Charles “Charly Boy” Oputa.

Clearly in his comfort zone, he went in search of what he called the first ever Street Idol in honour of “his people”. He was not disappointed as there was no shortage of talent on the streets.

From a dancing LAWMA

official, to random singers and rappers and even a stripper Okada rider, people took shots at trying to win the admiration of the eccentric star. In that atmosphere of non-stop entertainment for a large crowd of onlookers, the down-toearth star ensured that the crowd hailed every single person that performed and then joined a few of the performances.

The three favourites in each of these categories received $100 (per category) from him as cheers went up among the crowd. True to form, after the unusual show, Mr. Oputa blazed off in dusty glory to cheers of 'Area Fada'.

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Entertainment

THE NATION ON SUNDAY NOVEMBER 13, 2011

BIG

CINEMA GUIDE

PICTURE Supported by: SILVERBIRD CINEMAS

Suing the Devil: Taking the spiritual battle to the courtroom Nse Etim-Ikpe and scrabble

N

OLLYWOOD sweetheart Nse-Etim Ikpe has continued to rise in fame in recent times.

Named best actress at this year's edition of Nigerian Entertainment Award, the actress fame has soared so high, thereby increasing demand of her for high profile movie roles.

Known for her impeccable command of the English language on and off the screen, this distinct trait has endeared the University of Calabar graduate to movie buffs. One of Nse's secret on grammar was revealed recently when she said in an interview about what keeps her awake at night.

Interestingly, the actress said; “Scrabble keeps me awake at night”. Wouldn't it be nice, if her fans who have ever admired the way she speaks, could try out playing some scrabble at night?

From medieval times to modern day, the reality or not of the existence of the devil has always been in contention. Religious dissentions have led to nations going to war with each other but with the flick, Suing the Devil, a new approach is presented.

In the movie, “Luke O'Brien (Bart Bronson), a salesman turned night law student, decides to sue Satan for $8 trillion dollars. On the last day before Luke files a default judgment, Satan appears to defend himself. On Satan's legal team are 10 of the country's best trial lawyers. The entire world watches on Legal TV to see who will win the Trial of the Century. Probably, O'Brien's plan to expose Satan is in keeping with the Bible which urges believers to be aware of the subtle deceptions of the enemy.

That sets the chain of proceedings which culminates in an eerietensed movie that begins from the first scene and crescendos to the final confrontation between Luke and the devil. As portrayed in the flick, Satan still can't stand to have scripture quoted at him.

He states in the movie that the Bible is fiction but he sure squirms when it is used against him. He makes comments like "Evil is good' but O'Brien, despite Satan's accusations, holds his own against him when he relies on scripture, a lesson to all

believers.

With Tim Chey as Director of the flick, Suing the Devil does not appear to portray the devil as a horrible being, but rather takes the approach that the devil is the same being that tricked Eve thousands of years earlier. The film is based in scripture and many verses are quoted and the special effects are nicely handled as they reveal that Satan is a being from below.

Malcolm McDowell, as the devil, packs a powerful, mesmerizing, punching performance to the very end.

Bart Bronson also does a commendable job as Luke O'Brien, the salesman who is a lawyer by night and who files a default judgment against Satan as he is tired of his scheming ways and the pain he has inflicted on people over the centuries. The ending brings a new, unpredictable and great twist to the story.

The supporting cast is pretty strong, especially Corbin Bernsen (“L.A. Law” TV series), who plays a wickedly funny legal commentator, along with Tom Sizemore (“Saving Private Ryan” “The Genius Club”) and Rebecca St. James. Suing the Devil, is a highconcept, faith-based legal thriller that whips up the imaginative abilities of its viewers.

Friends of Benefits packs an erotic punch

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Oby Edozien acquires wonderon-wheels

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OLLYWOOD actress Oby Edozien has just acquired a Honda Cayenne Jeep. The automobile which is said to be worth N20million and is in addition to her earlier acquired Morano Jeep.

Although the diva would not comment on the new acquisition, sources reveal that the actress' multi- million- naira mansion is also near completion.

The same source claims that the actress' recent acquisitions may not be unconnected with the premier of her latest flick entitled Save Our Soul which drew the attention of government officials, media moguls, actors and actresses alike.

N the age of social networking, issues like romance have taken a new dimension. Seen from that light, Friend's with Benefits portrays a different notion of one of the most engaging social issues of all times. With a adequately matched Justin Timberlake and Mila Kunis comes a comedy flick that is about love and sex, gets some of its juice and tang partly by trash-talking its own genre.

Jamie (Mila Kunis) meets Dylan (Justin Timberlake), a Web site art director when she lures him to New York to interview for a spot at a men's magazine. They meet when she's scrambling atop an airport baggage carousel and they soon get talking. She needs him to take the job to earn her bonus and so sweetens the deal by showing him around what she calls the real New York.

Despite an attraction to each other, both realize they are everything they have both been running from in a relationship and decide to become friends...with benefits. It is the perfect arrangement until both parties realize there is no such thing as 'no strings attached'.

Having both been dumped in their past relationships, they decide that an occasional quickie with a friend is a perfect postromance deal. Friends with Benefits uses sex

and bared skin to get at questions about the possibility of romantic love between true male and female equals.

Directed by Will Gluck, the flick highlights an obvious chemistry, both emotional and sexual, between Kunis and Timberlake. The film gets away from the maddening plot of the background and focuses exclusively on both acts.

Their clumsy first encounter is the perfect blend of playful and awkward, and when the bedroom romps of the early part of the film later evolve into more complicated emotions, Kunis and Timberlake handle the transition with a real tenderness rarely seen in romantic comedies.

At a point, the movie's largely structural conflicts fade away in favor of the more interesting character clashes that finally arise between Jamie and Dylan.

Watching these two actors move from being sweetly flirtatious to doing real emotional battle may not entirely compensate for the movie's other failings, but it goes a long way toward making amends.

The movie Friends with Benefit is built on the premise that its characters, and probably the viewers, are sick of the romantic comedy clichés that they may secretly adore.

PORT HARCOURT Mausam Genre: Drama Gossip Nation Genre: Drama In-time Genre: Science Fiction Johnny English Reborn Genre: Action/Adventure What's Your Number Genre: Action/Adventure The Change Up Genre: Comedy Dolphin Tale Genre: Drama Suing The Devil Genre: Comedy ABUJA Gossip Nation Genre Drama Sinking Sand Genre Drama What's Your Number Genre Action/Adventure Contagion Genre Action/Adventure Unwanted Guest (Nollywood) Genre Drama Friends with Benefits Genre Comedy Conan the Barbarian Genre Action/Adventure The Smurfs Genre Science Fiction

THE NATION ON SUNDAY NOVEMBER 13, 2011

‘Passion, discipline, key to my success’ The name Mudiaga Enajemo may not ring too much of a bell, but the brand Mudi is a household name particularly in fashion circles. In his 40's, Mudi's seventeen years in the fashion business have made him an institution of sorts. In the last few years, the brand has spread its tentacles to some African countries, a daring move that has left his competitors gasping for breath. But Mudi is not done yet. He told Remi Adelowo and Kayode Alfred why he can't afford to let his guards down yet

I

N the last two years, you have opened new outlets of Mudi in Ghana, South Africa, Kenya, Senegal. What is the motive behind these moves?

Fashion is universal and when something is good, people go for it. Giorgio Armani has shops all over the world, so I see no reason why an African designer can't have shops all over Africa. To me, it's not a big deal; I see it as a way of expanding the business and doing it well.

Can you reveal the secrets behind the success of the Mudi brand?

First, it's the talent. Second, discipline and a passion for what I do. I have the drive, and above all, I believe in myself.

There are people who have the talent, but lack belief.

You have notable celebrities as clients. What is the magic behind winning their confidence?

I think it's from word of mouth. If you come here now, and you buy an outfit that is nice, and you wear it and it looks nice on you, and maybe you have a friend that is a governor, he will stop you to ask you where you got it. Before you know it, he wants access to your designer. It's like a forest fire, it spreads a lot.

In terms of acceptance, do you believe that Mudi has come to stay?

I believe so! But I won't say because I have got to this stage, I'll relax. I have to keep pushing on and keep coming up with new ideas. It's important that I keep spreading.

You started out in 1993, what is your assessment of the industry?

I think we've come a long way. Though we still have a long way to go, we must thank God for where we are. It takes a lot of personal and individual work, in spite of the policies of government. It's challenging to source for everything oneself, from light, water, everything. Once we believe we can do it, and remain focused, we'll get there. But to be honest, there are so many distractions.

Is that the reason why you opened new outlets in other countries?

It's good to keep spreading the brand. I won't say because Mudi is doing well in Nigeria, I stop expanding.

Glamour

41

Which of the awards you've won do you cherish the most?

All the awards are very important to me, because awards show you how much people appreciate what you are doing. So, I won't say any particular award is the most cherished because they are all very important.

A lot of people see the Mudi brand as something for the rich and mighty. Can an average Nigerian afford a Mudi outfit?

Yes, they can! I don't segment; I don't see my product as meant for only the rich. Fine, good things don't come easy, but if you see my clothes as expensive, try another place. I create outfits with passion and concept, and I do it well. So, if you are a politician, a diplomat, a teacher, a vulcanizer, a plumber and you want something unique, then… I won't say my clothes are meant for the rich; the people who say my clothes are expensive, I usually tell them that good things don't come easy.

How do you juggle your time between family and work?

For the outlets I have outside of Nigeria, I make sure I visit at least once every month. So if I go to Ghana this month, I'll go to Kenya next month and so on, to see how they are operating.

Can you say your other outlets outside Nigeria get as much appreciation as the one back home?

Like I said before, fashion is universal. If Giorgio Armani can sell in Kenya, then who says I can't? Once a product is good, it's good!

Fashion doesn't speak language. My first outlet outside Nigeria was in Ghana and it took one year to stabilize, because my concept was strange to them, so it took a while for them to start patronizing. Kenya the same; South Africa the same, Senegal...

The joy is that the shops sustain themselves; they pay bills, rents and so on, so I don't send money across.

A lot of designers in Nigeria have floated fashion schools. When are we expecting something from you?

By the grace of God, I must have a structure for giving back to society. I want to train people and already, people come here, and I give them advice, and I don't charge. When the time comes, I'll do that.

A lot of people know Mudi, but don't know the woman behind the successful man. Who is the lucky woman?

I have a wife who is half Nigerian, half Ghanaian.

Her Nigerian part is Yoruba, from Ijebu specifically, while her other part is Kumasi in Ghana.

What are the ingredients for setting up a good fashion label?

Creativity is the important thing. Also, you must have passion for the job, and then discipline.

What are the things you don't like about being a celebrity?

Most times, you are not left alone to live your own life. I won't say it's a minus, it's a plus, but at times, it can be overwhelming.

Is owning a fashion label your childhood dream?

Not at all, but I had that upbringing of knowing how to dress and combine attires. My mum used to take us to the best designers and boutiques. We were always among the best dressed in our community then. In school also, I was one of the best art students, and overtime it became a part of me. Those two things contributed to my becoming a designer.

How do you cultivate your relationship with the rich and mighty?

I'll say it's my job. But the truth is, I can't relax because of what I've achieved. I still get to my place of work 7:30 a.m. Discipline is important. Other designers might delegate from home, but I don't.

A lot of people see you in different lights, but how would you describe yourself?

Mudi is a very simple person. I don't do protocol; if you want to see me, you can see me straightaway.

Who is your Nigerian man of style?

Stan Mukoro; he's a columnist. There's a difference between someone who likes clothes and someone who dresses well. Others are RMD, Tony Elumelu, amongst others. A man who wears expensive clothes might not be stylish.

What is a must-have for a stylish man?

Pocket handkerchiefs, black shoes, brown shoes, brown trousers… these are the basics of a stylish man's wardrobe.

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THE NATION ON SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 13, 2011

Glamour

BEAUTY NEWS

Finalists from the Port-Harcourt Zone

Miss Nigeria 2011: Finalists slug it out in reality TV show T

HIS year's finale of the Miss Nigeria contest promises to be a keenly contested one going by the caliber of girls who scaled the selection process. The 'wannabe queens' numbering over 30 are currently on location shooting a reality TV show that begins airing this week. “The reality show will be on for about two weeks,” Didi Ocheja, Director of Operations, the Miss Nigeria Organisation told The Nation, recently. The eventual winner of the crown, she added will be by viewers' choice (through voting), and a panel of judges.

To Ocheja, the caliber of girls this year for the contest has been, “amazing , has been good. There has been more interest and the contestants are better educated.

Many are currently students of higher institutions,” she noted. She added that Miss Nigeria had contestants from different cultures and religion, stating that, “the most important thing is that they have the quality of a good ambassador.”

Road to the finals The selection process took the organizers to different cities in the country and abroad. Castings were done in Abuja, Port-Harcourt, Lagos, Benin-City, London and New York. Two contestants were selected from the New York casting which was held at the Nigeria House in the city according to Wunikan Mukan, Project Manager, Miss Nigeria Organisation.

“We did casting in New York and London to take care of Nigerians in the diaspora who wish to be part of the pageant. The reception was amazing. Our people at the embassy were eager to promote Nigeria culture and they really promoted us, ” she enthused.

On the qualities the organizers were looking for in

By Patience Saduwa the queen, she said, “We are not looking at beauty alone.

We are keen on their brains as well. You have to know what's going on. It's not just being pretty alone.” Some of the girls who came for the selection didn't seem to be aware of this criteria.

Though quite pretty, there was much to be desired in the area of brainwork. At the Benin casting session, for instance, simple general knowledge questions that some brilliant primary school pupils could answer with ease, left some contestants confused.

A contestant, a university student was asked in which town Rivers Niger and Benue meet and she promptly replied, 'Mississippi!' It took a while for the judges to recover from the shock of such answer. An Accountancy student could not say who the Central Bank governor was while a student of International Studies and Diplomacy, asked which countries border Nigeria and she said: “Ghana, Senegal and Togo!” And there were so many others like that.

It exposed the lack of awareness among many young people about topical issues, their country, its leaders, culture, tribes and other issues. Perhaps, it's time for the re-introduction of Civics and current affairs in secondary schools so young people can be more up-to-date about what's happening in their environment and not just in the virtual, unreal world of Facebook, Twitter and other social networking sites that are so popular among them now.

In the meantime, preparations for the finals scheduled to hold in Lagos later this month are in top gear according to the organisers.

The two finalists from the New York screening

THE NATION ON SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 13, 2011

Glamour

43

Social KAYODE ALFRED

(E-mail: kayflex2@yahoo.com, Tel: 08035733605, 08099400057)

Alfred Solomon's marriage break-up latest

T

HE collapse of the marriage between Abuja big boy, Alfred Solomon and popular designer, Tola, is still causing ripples, SC can reveal. The break up after 25 years of marriage came as a shock to all, as the couple used to be business partners. While Alfred accused his wife of alleged unfaithfulness, friends of Tola have vehemently denied it.

Though the marriage has crashed like a pack of badly arranged cards, nothing seems to be definite, as the news about town is that the police is presently hunting Alfred for God-knows what. While the charming dude had reportedly told close pals that he has kept Erelu Tola's alleged infidelity a secret for five years, others claim he is being economical with the truth, as no man would take his wife's infidelity lying low for so long. Whatever the case may be, Alfred is a very unhappy man at the moment.

Tola

Gbenga Daniel completes new Abuja mansion

T

HAT the former Governor of Ogun State, Otunba Gbenga Daniel, is presently facing prosecution on corruption charges is no longer news. What is news is that the ever-smiling politician is not allowing his travails in the court to slow him down. The latest news in town is that Daniel recently completed a new mansion located in the highbrow Maitama district in Abuja. Construction of the edifice, described as an architectural masterpiece, commenced two years ago, with its initial completion date fixed for sometime last June-in readiness for the former governor's aborted relocation to the Federal Capital Territory as a senator. The house, a shouting distance to Globacom boss Dr. Mike Adenuga's mansion still under construction, sources disclosed, is more grandiose than the ex-governor's country home in Sagamu, Ogun State.

Who is after Abisola Ajimobi?

I

T is no longer news that Oyo State Governor, Abiola Ajimobi has a beautiful daughter, Abisola, who shares her father's good looks. Schooled in prestigious institutions overseas, Abisola is married to Kolapo, the youngest son of wealthy businessman, Chief Kola Daisi. Their wedding has remained the talk of town since it was hosted late last year. Abisola, who now resides in Lagos, is currently in the news. First, was the speculation that she had been appointed as her father's Personal Assistant, and that the fear of her was the beginning of wisdom in government circles. However, the Special Adviser on Media to Governor Ajimobi, Mr. Festus Adedayo, has denied the story, stating thus: “Our attention has been drawn to a posting on some internet websites alleging that a daughter of Governor Abiola Ajimobi, Bisola, has been appointed a personal assistant to the governor of Oyo State. We state with all emphasis at our disposal that this is an extremely fertile imagination at work‌â€? SC findings also revealed that the young woman is completely jolted by reports that she, it was, who dictates to her father on certain policies of government, and on who gets what in the state. Sources, say that the speculation is wide off the mark and the handiwork of her father's political foes.

Frank Edoho dazzles new lover with car gift, moves to VGC

F

RANK Edoho is definitely in love again. Months after he ditched his wife, Katherine, the suave television star is now headover-heels in love with a faircomplexioned lady named Sandra. The very handsome dude, whose charm, grace, and sense of style always send ladies swooning, is presently proving to all that his new relationship is for real. Those in the know have revealed that Frank is setting the stage for the beginning of a new life totally devoid of the baggage of his past marriage. Though unconfirmed, the news around town is that he has moved into a VGC apartment with his new flame. What has convinced all of Frank's seriousness is the alleged purchase of a new Kia Rio for the new love of his life, Sandra. The automobile is identified 'the latest edition', and is said to be a hatch-back.

Chima Anyaso honoured in London

T

HE young Chief Executive Officer of Ceecon Oil & Gas, Chima Anyaso, is a happy man right now. The organisers of the renowned WIN Summit and Entrepreneurship Awards have chosen the businessman as recipient of its Most Outstanding Entrepreneurship Award for 2011, with the event billed to take place in London. The brains behind the summit have confirmed the participation of the immediate past Nigeria's Minister of Foreign Affairs, Odein Ajumogobia, and Nigerian High Commissioner to the UK, Dr. Dalhatu Tafida, amongst other notable personalities that will grace the event.

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THE NATION ON SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 13, 2011

Glamour

Ekiti celebrities honoured at Top Elegance Awards night The Oranmiyan Hall inside the Lagos Airport Hotel was agog last weekend at an event organized by Top Elegance Magazine to honour notable celebrities within and beyond Ekiti State in commemoration of its 4th anniversary. Personalities at the event included prominent businessman, Chief Alex Duduyemi; Deputy Speaker of the Ekiti State House of Assembly, Hon. Adetunji Orisalade, Lagos celebrity woman, Mrs Joke Shogunro-Umah and Pastor (Mrs) Busola Gegede, who represented Erelu Bisi Fayemi, Ekiti State first Lady. Olusegun Rapheal was there

&

OLUSEGUN RAPHEAL (08033572821) raphseg2003@yahoo.com

BT Africa summit holds in Lagos Young businessmen and female entrepreneurs from across some African countries recently gathered at the Federal Palace Hotel, Victoria Island, Lagos to share business ideas and brainstorm on the business opportunities available on the African continent. The well attended event was declared open by Minister of Tourism and Culture, Chief Edem Duke, reports Olusegun Rapheal

L-R: Zeika Spoja-Vieira and David Church

L-R: Minister of Tourism, Culture and National Orientation, Chief Edem Duke; Managing Director, Infogem Ltd, Ayo Olumoko; and Director, Future Group Mr Richard Lendrum

Mr Olabode Ajayi and wifeAbimbola

L-R: Joke Adeyemi and Yinka Titilola L-R: Chairman, Gambia Hotel Association, Alieu Secka and Bukola Arowosafe

L-R. Joke Shogunro-Umah, Lawunmi Bibilari

L-R. Princes Omubo Princewill and Alhaja Ganiyat Fawehinmi and

Sir and Lady Olubunmi Patrick Famosaya, Head of Service Ekiti State

L-R: Mr. Temitope Ogbeni-Awe and Mr. Stephen Jordan

L-R. Pastor, (Mrs) Busola Jegede, representing Erelu Bisi Fayemi, Ekiti State first Lady and Chief Kola Akomolede

MR Olufemin Adefowope and Mr Ohis Ehimiaghe

L-R, Hon. Adetunji Orisalade, Deputy Speaker, Ekiti House of Asembly , Arch. Dipo Ajayi and Chief Alex Duduyemi

FROM THE CAMPUS PAGE 46

THE NATION SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 13, 2011

T

HE whole of last week was all about one man and deservedly so.

Sir Alex Ferguson's 25th anniversary at Manchester United is a remarkable achievement for a remarkable man and he has earned every plaudit he will receive twenty-five years and 37 trophies later, Sir Alex Ferguson is acclaimed across the world as the manager for all seasons, the recipient of countless tributes as he celebrates a remarkable landmark, including a glittering dinner in Manchester last Thursday night.

To stay in management for 25 years is a great achievement, but to do it for that length of time at a club like Manchester United, where you are under such pressure to get results with all the attention focused on you every day, shows the sort of man he is.

We have seen people struggle to stay motivated after tremendous achievements but not Sir Alex. Where he gets the energy from is a wonder, when people as young as Chelsea boss Andres Villa Boas are already looking forward to retirement.

At the age of 69 and as always, Fergie still has the drive, hunger, motivation and desire to get up every day and get the best out of his players. At the start of every season you have to have all those things personally, and you also have to ensure your players have that as well.

He must have tremendous inner and mental strength to do what he does, as well as complete self-belief. He must still want it so badly that he can't walk away.

Why should he while he is still winning Premier League titles and taking United to Champions League finals and even winning it as recently as 2008?

The man has seen off various challenges as well as over 144 managers at rival clubs in European football.

I remember when Roman Abrahamovic bought over Chelsea, and the Chelsea revolution was in full swing, we all thought United's era of dominance may have been coming to an end, not a conclusion anyone would reach lightly. And yet Ferguson rebuilt to win three successive titles in 2007, 2008 and 2009 and the Champions League against Chelsea in 2008.

This ranks up with his greatest achievements

• Ferguson

Tribute to Sir Alex Ferguson

BY Bunmi Ashebu

with the treble in 1999 being the greatest in my opinion.

Well there's no question now that he's the most successful manager ever in the English game. I think he has built about four teams and that is really amazing.

For one manager to build four teams at the same club has to be a phenomenal achievement."He's a genius at building teams. Take last season for instance; most people would say they were not the best United team, especially with their away record, which was very poor for champions.

But nobody realized Alex was building a team while he was winning a championship. That is fantastic management.

When you are building a team you are doing well if you are staying in the top three or four. Alex is winning championships while he is building a team.”

SAF as he is popularly called by united fans has a fantastic work ethic and that coupled to the demands he has put on players to adhere to his club’s standards, have been the cornerstone of his success.

He injects his own DNA into the club and it is his personality and character that runs throughout that club, not just on the pitch on a Tuesday, Wednesday, Saturday or Sunday, but behind the scenes at the club. Anybody who joins, no matter how much he costs, has to come into that team unit.

What next for Ferguson, though? What motivates a man who has done it all?

Or as Dwight Yorke asks in another part of the ESPN series: “Who motivates the greatest motivator?”

25 years ago, on Saturday 6 November, Ferguson took over at Manchester United and the bottom four clubs in the old Division One were Chelsea, Manchester United, Newcastle United, and Manchester City.

Today’s top four. How times have changed. To think he was just one game away from losing his job as manager at Manchester United; who would have ever thought he would go on and break the EPL record by knocking their fiercest rival Liverpool “off the perch”?

Manchester United renamed Old Trafford's North Stand in honour of legendary manager Alex

Ferguson ahead of Saturday's match with Sunderland and his 25th anniversary at the club.

The renaming of the North Stand after Ferguson clearly humbled the Scottish manager and he expressed his gratitude to the club, who will also unveil a statue of the great manager outside the stadium next summer.

"I never expected that tribute," he said.

"That was a real surprise.

I'm so proud and honoured and I have to thank Manchester United for doing that. It was very good of them."

He said: “I was emotional and stunned when David Gill -announced it to the fans before the game. I didn’t have a clue the club was planning to do that.

It’s a fantastic honour.

There have been many tributes by great players and managers.

I particularly like that of Cristiano Ronaldo.

From Real Madrid the words of the world’s most -expensive player were heartfelt and genuine.

He said: “I wanted to go to the party. It was amazing for Sir Alex. He’s had such an amazing career and he keeps going.

-Because of our -training -schedules I couldn’t make it. That’s why I was desperate to speak to him on the phone.

“Unfortunately I couldn’t get through so I told chief executive David Gill to pass on my -congratulations for all Sir Alex has achieved. He is a fantastic manager. He helped me so much in my career.”

Fergie made Ronaldo into the thrilling striker Real Madrid paid £80million for in July 2009.

The Portuguese superstar went on: “Sir Alex has a special place in my life. In fact, he was the main man. I was not famous, I was not a star. I arrived at Old Trafford as just another young talent.

“He was the one who told me to do all the right things.

He gave me the opportunity to play in one of the biggest clubs in the world.

“So he is one of the most important people in the world for me.”

I think everybody recognizes there have been great managers in the game but Sir Alex, for me, is the best. Love him or hate him it doesn’t matter but you can’t but salute his achievements. On behalf of myself and everybody else who appreciates the world’s best manager, I would like to say congratulations to the most successful club manager in English football.

With Prof. Emmanuel Ojeme

Sports teacher in the development chain (2)

T

HE meaning and goals of a field of study and human experience are upto the experts in the area to define.

Physical education, of which sports is an integral component is such a subject. In this regard therefore, it is appropriate to conceive of physical education as a subject that deals squarely on sports matters among others with the P.E (Physical education) teacher working in the school system as its main professional protagonist. A physical education teacher, properly educated and trained and working in the school situation can be trusted with the job of incubating and cultivating in pupils and students the basic skills of sports and human movement. He also should be well equipped to provide leadership for intramural and extramural sports programmes and experiences. Failure in this task is a professional disaster for the individual who is engaged in this position within the school.

There are three basic programmes through which physical education teachers sports’ interventions occur, namely: 1. Instructional Physical Education.

This is a teaching and learning medium through which the P.E Teacher (Physical Education Teacher) exposes the pupils in indoor and outdoor settings to the theories and practice of human movement and sports activities. A well presented and managed instructional experiences help to brew sports knowledge, skills and dispositions. Infact from this setting, the seeds of future athletes are sown.

2. Intramural Sports.

The intramural sports programme provides the physical education expert in the school the opportunity to organize free play and sports based sessions throughout the school year. The P.E teacher must not shy away from taking charge of this programme as it is his core responsibility. It is funfilled and it entrenches a wide spread sports culture in the school setting. School sports can gain accelerated development in a school situations that practice well supported intramurals.

3. Extramural Sports.

A talented and gifted P.E teacher grabs the opportunity of extramural sports programmes to provide leadership in training and organizing sports competitions for pupils and students. It should be noted that all sports programmes operated within the school go with their educational connotations and are principles – based. The internalization of these principles is indigenous to the professional education of the P.E. teacher. It is thus incumbent upon him to deploy this knowledge in all school based sports programmes.

In all, sports development needs school sports to flourish. School sports will flourish if it becomes an integral component of school life and culture as an instructional, intramural and extramural experience. In primary and secondary schools where the P.E. teacher operates, he must be at the centre of these programmes, assisted by other well meaning school personnel. Leadership in this programme is his prerogative and core professional responsibility. The P.E and sports teacher must be given needed support to perform this function. In the same vein, this serves as notice to all institutions engaged in the preparation of P.E teachers to ensure that their products are well equipped to carry out the functions briefly outlined here. A PE teacher must be trained and certified to teach human movement and sports activities, organize intramurals and coach the pupils and students in the extramural sports programmes. Our founding fathers – Isaac Akioye, Harding Ekperigin, J.A. Oyewusi, Jerry Enyeazu, Eze Achiugo Anthony Omoosagie, Awoture Eleyae, J .C. Omoruan, J.O. Uti, M.O. Ajisafe, A.O. Fatile, J.A. Adedeji, and others have implanted this legacy. We must not let it die. School sports development is a core challenge of the physical education teacher.

• Kids slugging it out in the game of football at the grass root

THE NATION ON SUNDAY NOVEMBER 13, 2011

Arts Extra

History on stage

O

NE thing that anyone leafing through the living pages of Every Soul, a compact collection of poems creatively produced

by Zinet Oseni, will notice is the affecting and deft blend of sound and sense for the eventual production of challenging, entertaining, and didactic messages. The lucidity of the poetess’ evocations is enhanced eminently by the careful selection of words, a more famously known stockin-trade of imaginative verifiers.

Though the collection evidently thematises the workaday realities of numberless souls, it is the alluring skillfulness of the minstrel’s ability to de-familiarise the familiar that appeals to readers and sustains their attention. For example, the poem – “Every Soul” –, which is the title of the collection, focuses on the transience of human life and the inevitability of death, a subject matter that has found overly engaging expression in the imperishable works of many a fecund poet. But in spite of the almost complete

47

A minstrel's offering BOOKS

By Ademola Adesola

triteness of the subject, Oseni handles it in such a way that anyone reading will have a feeling of engaging a seemingly new reality.

This is meaningfully enabled by the disciplined selection of words that enriched the musicality of the threestanza poem realized through the tropes of repetition, imagery, rhetorical

questions, and the couplet rhyme scheme. And beyond the fact of death, the clearly uneven structure and lines of the splendidly crafted poem foreground other incontestable facts of life, which are: no matter what we all have in common, sometimes our experiences differ; and that life is not a straight-line graph. Bits and pieces of these facts are evident in poems like “Life”, “Meet to Part”, and “Life and Living”, grouped under the heading REALITY, which also contains a poem that bemoans the relentless shattering of the laudable dreams of the country’s founding fathers; and another poem which harps on the dire need for unity in spite of the manifest befuddling contradictions and the wounding exploits of centrifugal forces.

Regardless of the low point of the 56-page collection, no genuine lover of good poetry will deny that what Oseni offers us is a masterful reflection on life.

Cutting-edge in Mathematics • The cast and crew of Nigeria The Beautiful.

Nigeria The Beautiful, a metaphorical dance – drama on Nigeria’s march to nat i o n h o o d mounted the stage recently during this year’s Festival of Nigerian Arts. Edozie Udeze was there

N

IGERIA The Beautiful, is the story of the Nigerian nation.

Odia Ofeimun who produced the story used it to showcase a nation besieged by problems from the moment it was created in 1914 till date. And because of its historical relevance, members of the National Association of Nigerian Theatre Arts Practitioners (NANTAP) decided to use it to open its annual Festival of Nigerian Arts (FESTINA), which took place recently at the National Theatre, Iganmu, Lagos.

With assorted colourful costumes and the nonstop sounds of the drums, the show went from stage to stage to dramatize the many stages the country has undergone in its march to becoming a nation. It is a complete theatre that hinges essentially on dance-drama. Nigeria The Beautiful brings out the quagmire that defines inept hardship, inefficient system and epileptic social infrastructure that have helped to keep the nation in perpetual doldrums.

With Lord Lugard (played by Nissi George) in place, there was the heavy presence of the British in

DRAMA the affairs of the nation.

But the people did not want to conform; first to fight back were the Egbas who strongly oppressed the imposition of the British. They did not intend to be intimidated by Her Majesty’s big hammer on the local people. They therefore stormed the stage to protest undue colonial policies of intimidation, harassment and all.

Lugard was so angry that he intoned, “I will not want to tolerate these local people from Egba and Ibadan. The rules of Her Majesty must be obeyed without question”. But little did he realize that more troubles and protests were underway.

From the North came stubborn local leaders who were opposed to indirect rule and other colonial repressive tendencies.

Thereafter, came series of strikes from the East and other aggrieved minorities.

Each of these scenes was replicated in dance forms with different costumes to rhyme with the messages embedded in the story.

The audience were so carried away that they did not bother about the three hours spent in the cinema hall. The dances were real as the scenes truly represented a nation in the throes of confusion, repressive military leadership, ineffective civilian governance and so on.

It was good to see the dancers mimic some of the nation’s past leaders whose theatrical utterances leave much to be desired. “Let me hand over to a democratically elected government”, someone said to mimic Obasanjo in 1979. At this juncture, the audience clapped to herald that drama which was

PHOTO: EDOZIE UDEZE

so real and timely. Yet, afterwards the same leader thrust himself forward saying: “I have dusted my Khaki; let me now don my agbada to finish these people”. It was the total replica of the hoarse voice and the dramatic tendency of the man that moved the people to ecstacy.

However, Efe Mayford Orhorha who played the lead role was able to stir the people to total consciousness. Efe was in her element, dishing out instructions to justifythe stand of colonialism and the very core issues of total submission to the will of Her Majesty. “This government must stand”, she said over and over again to register her resolve to the colonized. Her firm stand on those knotty issues were excruciatingly suffocating to the people.

Even as a play, the audience could feel the effect of these piercing words of arrogance. Indeed, the people of Nigeria were ashen and haunted, aged by decades of frustrating subjugation. But has the situation improved today?

Directed by Felix Okolo, the dance – drama is a total satire that made Nigerians to gulp air, flashing their minds to and fro to see if their leaders have been doing well even decades after the British have left. The scenes tended to stir in you those hidden feelings of frustration and anger to go out there to change the society for the better.

Other plays in the FESTINA outing this year include The Waiting Room

by Wole Oguntokun, The Golden Fleas by Segun Adefila, The Wives by Ahmed Yerima and lots more. The plays will run till November 15, when Ajigbe will be performed.

F

OR a large number of Nigerian students, the subject Mathematics is a necessary evil, a stumbling block, a nightmare, and an obstacle of some sort. For others still, a mere mention of the word Mathematics sends eerie chills down their spines and conjures up a mixed feeling of morbid fear, apathy, and hate in their minds.

The author of this book titled ‘Winning Secrets for Mathematics’ in two practical sections analyses the causes of mass failure in Mathematics and proffers workable solutions to the problem. Also, he attempts to encourage students of Mathematics at all levels by giving examples and providing solutions to the questions on different topics, this is for them to appreciate the importance of the subject.

It is the believe of the writer that Mathematics is not a difficult subject rather it is a very interesting subject that is able to stimulate and expand one’s mental capabilities. Though it may well seem abstract sometimes, Mathematics very

By Omotayo Babalola

well finds practical application in real life issues and situations all of the time. In fact, Mathematics equips its students with excellent practical problem-solving skills.

In other words, it helps them acquire the ability to think in simple logical steps in arriving at a solution to real life challenges. This perhaps explains why educators and curriculum developers at all levels of our educational system deem it necessary to make it a compulsory or general course.

According to the author the fear of the subject is largely responsible for the mass failure in recent times.

This book seeks to change the average Nigerian student’s wrong orientation, perception (attitude), and misconceptions about the subject.

The author diagnosed the problem leading to failure in Mathematics to include the following: lack of interest in the subject, the influence of societal corruption, fear of the subject, parental neglect or ignorance, improper ad-

ministration of public examinations, amongst others.

Therefore he gave the following key notes as guidelines to conquering fears in Mathematics: believe you can, overcome negative selftalk, build self-confidence by being actively involved in class, do not mind what others think or say about your ability in Mathematics, develop and sustain your interest or passion for the subject amongst others.

In the book are strategies for preparing for a fast approaching test or examination and also getting divine help from God. Title: Winning Secrets for Mathematics

Politics without bitterness

T

HIS collection of 23 essays was written by friends, associates, colleagues and former students of Professor Gabriel Olatunde Babawale and edited by Dr Akin Alao, to celebrate him. Professor Babawale is a man of many parts. To some, he is a political scientist of note; to some others who came in contact with him in the last four years or thereabout, he is a cultural administrator; but to his “grassroots friends,” he is an eminent Professor of Political Science who has demonstrated clearly through his leadership of the Centre for Black and African Arts and Civilisation (CBAAC) that the training provided political scientists is very broad. Babawale has shown that knowledge in political science can enhance cultural production and administration. This is worth celebrating and this is the

By Isaac Olawale Albert

mission of the book: Politics, Culture and Development in Nigeria. In a developmentrelevant fashion, the book calls attention to the role of culture in repositioning the Nigerian state.

Though not of equal quality, length and relevance, the papers in this publication are very refreshing and constitute a significant contribu-

tion to knowledge. The number of papers speaks directly to the level to which Nigerians of diverse ethnic, religious and academic backgrounds acknowledge and appreciate Professor Babawale’s scholarship and contributions to public administration. I found the editing of the work to be very thorough and the preface sufficiently persuasive as to why the book was published in honour of Professor Babawale. In other words, this is not a propaganda project but a sincere token of appreciation to a man who has done so much to Nigeria’s art and culture within a limited space of time of becoming the Director General of CBAAC. It is also evident that Professor Babawale has done a lot in the direction of bringing Africans in diaspora closer to Africa than many would have ordinarily imagined.

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THE NATION ON SUNDAY NOVEMBER 13, 2011

Arts & Life

SUNNY SIDE

Cartoons

By Olubanwo Fagbemi

POLITICKLE

deewalebf@yahoo.com 08060343214 (SMS only)

Contemporary perception In the second of a series of pointed narratives adapted from the internet, the writer continues in his quest to stimulate intellectual witticism while challenging the reader to decipher morals intended.

CHEEK BY JOWL

OH, LIFE!

THE GReggs

Peanuts and the stranger ON a tiring business trip a lady’s return flight was delayed at the airport. So she went to the airport shop, bought a book, coffee and a small packet containing five ginger nut biscuits.

The airport was crowded and she found a seat in the lounge, next to a stranger. After a few minutes of reading she became absorbed in her book. She took a biscuit from the packet and began to drink her coffee.

To her great surprise, the stranger in the next seat calmly took one of the biscuits and ate it. Stunned, she couldn’t bring herself to say anything, nor even to look at the stranger. Nervously she continued reading.

After a few minutes she slowly picked up and ate the third biscuit.

Incredibly, the stranger took the fourth ginger nut and ate it. Then to the woman’s amazement, he picked up the packet and offered her the last biscuit.

This being too much to tolerate, the lady angrily picked up her belongings, gave the stranger an indignant look and marched off to the boarding gate, where her flight was now ready.

Flustered and enraged, she reached inside her bag for her boarding ticket, and found her unopened packet of ginger nuts.

The cheerleader A small boy was auditioning with his classmates for a school play.

His mother knew that he’d set his heart on being in the play – just like all the other children hoped too – and she feared how he would react if he was not chosen.

On the day the parts were awarded, the little boy’s mother went to the school gates to collect her son. The little lad rushed up to her, eyes shining with pride and excitement.

“Guess what, Mum,” he shouted, and then said the words that provide a lesson to us all, “I’ve been chosen to clap and cheer.”

Wise donkey A farmer’s donkey fell into a well. The farmer frantically thought what to do as the stricken animal cried out to be rescued.

With no obvious solution, the farmer regretfully concluded that as the donkey was old, and as the well needed to be filled in anyway, he should give up the idea of rescuing the beast, and simply fill in the well.

Hopefully the poor animal would not suffer too much, he tried to persuade himself.

The farmer asked his neighbours to help, and before long they all began to shovel earth quickly into the well. When the donkey realised what was happening he wailed and struggled, but then, to everyone’s relief, the noise stopped.

After a while the farmer looked down into the well and was astonished by what he saw. The donkey was still alive, and progressing towards the top of the well.

The donkey had discovered that by shaking off the dirt instead of letting it cover him, he could keep stepping on top of the earth as the level rose. Soon the donkey was able to step up over the edge of the well, and he happily trotted off.

Life tends to shovel dirt on top of each of us from time to time. The trick is to shake it off and step up.

QUOTES •Much of your pain is self-chosen.

—Kahlil Gibran, The Prophet, 1923 •The robbed that smiles, steals something from the thief.

—William Shakespeare, Othello

Jokes Humour Calculated Kill THREE statisticians went hunting in the woods.

Before long, one of them pointed to a plump pigeon in a tree, and the three of them stopped and took aim.

The first fired, missing the bird by a couple of

inches to the left. Immediately afterwards the second fired, but also missed, a couple of inches to the right.

The third put down his gun exclaiming, “Great shooting lads, on average I reckon we got it!”

•Culled from the Internet

Skill Workshop •Scribble secret notebooks, and wild typewritten pages, for your own joy •Submit to everything, with an open mind •Try never to get drunk on words outside your house •Be in love with your life •Something that you feel will find its own form •Be a crazy fool of the mind •Blow words as deep as you want on paper •Write what you want from the bottom of your mind •Look for the unspeakable visions of the individual •No time for poetry but write exactly what is •Exploit your vision on paper •In tranced fixation, dream upon subject before you •Remove literary, grammatical and syntactical inhibition from your writing

24 Cool Tips by Jack Kerouac •Like Marcel Proust exploit events and time •Tell the true story of the world in your very own words •The jewel of interest is the eye within the eye •Write in recollection and amazement for yourself •Work from inside out, swimming in the sea of language •Accept your loss forever •Believe in the holy contour of life •Struggle to sketch the flow that already exists intact in your mind •Don’t think of words when you stop but try to see the picture better •Keep track of the day emblazoned in your morning No fear or shame in the dignity of your experience, language and knowledge

SUDOKU 1ST STEP IN SOLVING PUZZLE: (352) Look at the 3 right vertical (ghi) 3x3 boxes.

The top box has 4 in cell Ch, while the bottom box has its 4 in cell Hi. The middle box must, therefore, have its own 4 column g, where there are 2 vacant spaces — cell Dg and Fg. But,

PUZZLE 352

A 1 B 8 9 3 7 C 4 3 7 D 9 4 E 4 1 8 F 6 3 5 9 G 6 2 4 H 4 7 8 6 5 I 8 4 a

b

c

d

e

f

g

h

i

13/11/2011

since row D already has a 4 — in cell Dd, the only space available to accommodate a 4 in the middle box is cell Fg. Reasoning along these lines, try and fill in all the other vacant cells.

Solution on Saturday. Happy Puzzling!

SOLUTION TO PUZZLE 351

9 6 2 4 3 7 1 8 5

5 7 8 6 1 2 3 9 4

1 4 3 8 5 9 2 7 6

6 9 1 7 2 4 5 3 8

4 8 5 9 6 3 7 2 1

2 3 7 1 8 5 6 4 9

3 1 9 5 7 8 4 6 2

8 2 6 3 4 1 9 5 7

7 5 4 2 9 6 8 1 3

THE NATION ON SUNDAY NOVEMBER 13, 2011

51

With Joe Agbro Jr. 08056745268

Hello children, Hope you are doing fine at school and at home. Do not forget to learn something new everyday.

BIRTHDAYS

• Miracle Emmanuel of Nursery II, Denice Nursery and Primary School, Ogudu, Ojota, Lagos, clocks four today.

• Favour Samuel of Nursery II, Victory Home School, Ojota, Lagos clocks five today

PUZZLE •Pupils of Corona Secondary School, Agbara, Lagos, being inducted into the Red Cross Society of Nigeria.

PHOTO: ADEGUNLE OLUGBAMILA

Word wheel NINE LETTER WORD: fireplace OTHER WORDS: café, calf, clef, elf, face, facile, fail, fair, far, farce, fear, fee, feel, feral, fierce, file, filer, fir, fire, flair, flap, flare, flea, flee, flier, flip, frail, free, leaf, leafier, life, pilfer, preface, reef, refile, relief, rife, rifle

WORD SEARCH Snakes

Snakes are elongate, legless, carnivorous reptiles of the suborder Serpentes that can be distinguished from legless lizards by their lack of eyelids and external ears. Like all squamates, snakes are ectothermic, amniote vertebrates covered in overlapping scales. Many species of snakes have skulls with many more joints than their lizard ancestors, enabling them to swallow prey much larger than their heads with their highly mobile jaws.

Living snakes are found on every continent except Antarctica and on most islands. Thereare over 2,900 species of snake which range in size from the tiny, 10 cm-long thread snake to pythons and anacondas of up to 7.6 meters (25 ft) in length.

Most species are non-venomous and those that have venom use it primarily to kill and subdue prey rather than for self-defense. Some possess venom potent enough to cause painful injury or death to humans. Non-venomous snakes either swallow prey alive or kill by constriction.

ADDER ANACONDA ASP BOA BUSHMASTER COBRA COPPERHEAD DIAMONDBACK HABU KEELBACK KRAIT LANCEHEAD MAMBA MOCCASIN PYTHON RACER RATTLESNAKE SIDEWINDER VIPER WUTU YARARA

At the local model boat club, four friends were talking about their boats.

There were a total of eight boats, two in each colour; red, green, blue and yellow. Each friend owned two boats. No friend had two boats of the same colour.

Alan didn't have a yellow boat. Brian didn't have a red boat, but did have a green one. One of the friends had a yellow boat and a blue boat and another friend had a green boat and a blue boat.

Charles had a yellow boat. Darren had a blue boat, but didn't have a green one.

Can you work out which friend had which coloured boats?

WORD WHEEL This is an open ended puzzle. How many words of three or more letters, each including the letter at centre of the wheel, can you make from this diagram? We’ve found 40, including one nine-letter word. Can you do better?

Word search created by Ifeoluwa Onifade

Send in your stories, poems, articles, games, puzzles, riddles and jokes to sundaynation@yahoo.com

52

HAVE YOUR SAY

DIS GENERATION

THE NATION ON SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 13, 2011

T

HE Federal Government has announced its readiness to bring back the toll gates on major highways belonging to it. It will be recalled that the administration of former President Olusegun Obasanjo was responsible for the demolition of the toll gates on the excuse that less than the generated amount at the collection points was remitted into government’s purse.

Expectedly, Nigerians have started speaking to the issue of reintroduction of toll gates. Below are some of the views expressed on the plan.

The idea may not be too bad if the “Nigerian factors” can be curbed. But has the errors of the past been mended? If the implementation is properly planned that the ordinary commuters will not be burdened, that the products of the programme will not end up in private purses, that the roads will be properly maintained, that the usual cartels will not take over the proceeds and, that it will holistically be pursued, then so be it. But what will the Federal Government ever do free of charge for the citizenry?

Akinduro, H.O., Okitipupa, Ondo State.

Toll is good, but let not touts, hoodlums and police use it as a base to extort money from innocent people.

Obadiah Victor, Port Harcourt, Rivers State.

Toll gates for what? The government has no focus. What does the government plan to do with oil subsidy money? This is a clear agenda to make the poor poorer.

Bamidele Baiwa, Nasarawa Town, Nasarawa State.

Bringing back the toll gate is the worst thing in recent time. The Federal Government wants to milk poor Nigerians to the last blood in our vein.

Akinleye H.O., Ipole-Iloro, Ekiti State.

The idea is good if it is objectively done, but from past experience it was a disaster that is ready to happen.

Omotayo Olatubosun, Ijebu-ode, Ogun State.

I suggest that it should be brought back in a modified form.

Monies collected should be used to repair that trunk. Secondly, security men should be by the side and not road block to check the menace of armed thief.

Dr Oliver J Nzalak, ABU Zaria, Kaduna State.

If the decision will help make our present death traps called roads motorable, then it is a welcome development. But if not, then forget it.

Yinka Afolabi, Minna, Niger State.

It is a pity that Nigeria has no clean policy. Each government that comes in comes out with unsustainable policy. I would like to know the so-called reasons which made president Obasanjo’s government to remove toll gates on our roads. To me, government should not create additional wealth for some people. No need to reintroduce toll gate on our roads.

J. Musa, Ilorin, Kwara State.

Bringing back toll gates is another way of enriching the relatives and cronies of those in government, as it is only them that will be employed as toll collectors who will turn round to print toll receipts to be given to the unsuspecting motorists. So, it will be 40% to the government and 60% into their private pockets.

Jamike Udeh,

What is your view about the plan to bring back toll gates to Federal roads?

Agbani, Enugu State.

The removal of Nigeria’s toll gates was Obasanjo’s first and biggest ill-informed decisions. Wellmanaged toll gates are vital infrastructures in any developed(ing) system. An efficient and effective toll system provides support funds for road development and maintenance, employment, highway emergency response stations/security. They attract development of satellite communities around them. I’m yet to understand the reason they were ever removed in the first place. Please we need them back, ASAP! Ekene Akanisi, Wuse Zone1, Abuja.

The plan to bring back the toll gates on our roads will be a welcome development provided funds generated are not taken to personal bank accounts of the managers of such funds, which has become a normal way of doing things in this country.

Audu Onmikpa, Abuja.

Bringing back toll gates to federal roads is a welcome idea. It will provide job opportunity for the youths and be a source of revenue to the nation provided the employee will be honest with the system.

Mrs Ogundana A., Yemi College of Education Ikere-Ekiti, Ekiti State.

Bringing back toll gates is a good idea because the money realised will help to maintain our federal raods which are in worst condition. But will corrupt ones among the fee collectors not connive with motorists to enrich their pockets? God-fearing ones should be made to man the toll gates. Nigerians will enjoy it.

Ozor Cletus, S/Abubakar Road, Sokoto State.

It is consistent with the policy inconsistency and deceit of Nigerian governments. When Gen. Obasanjo destroyed the toll gates, he told us that 1.50 naira of refined petroleum products sold would be used for road maintenance. Considering the costs of destroying the toll gates and the proposed reconstruction, it is obvious that government is an economic adversary to the Nigerian people.

Dr Emmanuel Irabor, Benin City, Edo State.

My opinion about the plan to bring back toll gates to federal roads is that it is a welcome development because it will bring employment to the youths and tackle poverty.

Abdullahi S. Hameed, Umuahia, Abia State.

Toll gates on federal roads are okay, provided ALL road users including government vehicles pay.

Most importantly, the proceeds should be used to maintain the roads.

Akpan Emmanuel, Enugu State.

If the Federal Government can transform the roads from the death traps that they are to those deserving of civilized Nigerians that we all yearn it to be, I will support tolling of the roads. But definitely not before! May common sense be manifestly seen to prevail!

Kayode A, Abeokuta, Ogun State.

I am in full support of the plan to bring back toll gates to federal roads, but without politics. That will help FERMA in road mainte-

•Minister of Transport Senator Idris Umar

nance. The EFCC should be involved.

Philip Adamu, U/Yelwa Television, Kaduna State.

There is nothing bad in bringing back the toll gate. But the question is why were they removed in the first instance? If they were closed due to corrupt managers, has the government got another method of collecting the tolls? If these questions have positive answers, let the gates be brought back.

Sunday Adeniyi, Osun State.

One of the major causes of underdevelopment is the inability of government to identify the real economic, social and political needs of its citizens and the inconsistency with which government policies towards combating identified problems are being implemented.

It is totally inconceivable that after spending billions of Naira to dismantle the toll gates constructed all over the country with billions of Naira, government is contemplating bringing back same on federal roads. This is characteristic and symbolic of an institution devoid of concrete ideas and in-depth knowledge of the actual problems of the nation.

Olaniran Afolabi A., Benin City, Edo State.

Toll gates are extremely essential because it serves as back up for security purpose in my own perception, and also generates revenue for government.

Tunji Salami, Ilorin, Kwara State.

Re-introducing toll gate in Nigeria is a total waste of revenue. It is supposed to be a job creation, but in Nigeria it is a creation of another chance for people to create wealth. I know very well that after everything is said and done, it will be handed over to their main man to handle where no kobo will be paid into the Federation Account. I am of the view that the toll gate should remain scrapped.

Augustine A. Ozor, Sango Ota, Ogun State.

Toll gates are a part of security.

I think with toll gates it will be impossible for people to carry arms about.

Osume Samson, Delta State.

OBJ destroyed t e toll gates.

Now, GEJ wants to bring them back. Another billion will be spent in putting them back. The PDP is asking for a revolution in this coun-

try. What kind of nonsense is this for goodness sake?

Otunba Bola, Abuja.

Nigerians are not scared of taxes, but our leaders are not accountable to us as the custodians of our commonwealth; the more the taxes the more the poverty.

Abiodun Balogun, Offa, Kwara State.

Bringing back toll gates to federal roads is good only if all the federal roads can first be extended from two lanes (one side) to a minimum of four lanes and rehabilitation carried out effectively, mostly on Lagos-Ibadan Road; SagamuBenin Road; Ibadan-Ife Road. Else, forget it!

Banjo Oluwasegun Joseph, Ijebu-Ode, Ogun State.

There is nothing bad in bringing back toll gates to federal roads.

It must be after proper reconstruction of the roads to make it very very motorable. Apart from that “No way” .

Ade Sowemimo, Sagamu Remo, Ogun State.

It shows the level of inconsistency of our leaders. It shows the state of confusion the country is in. We wonder what would be the state of the nation in 10 years time if the country still exists.

Alagbawi, Ibadan, Oyo State.

The toll gate is a good idea only if the primary aim will be met: (1) Maintenance of the road; (2) curtailing robbers on our highways; (3) emergence of emergencies services on our highways.

Ugwuodo Shanka Iyke, Enugu State.

Toll gates federal roads should not be brought to back. They are drainpipes.

Lanre Oseni, Lagos State.

Toll gate fees are one of the many ways government generates revenue for maintenance. This to me is not a bad idea at all. But the fear of embezzlement is my concern. It is another way of siphoning public wealth.

Tunde Olayemi, Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State.

To even think about it shows that government has no modicum of respect for the citizens and their feelings. I’m of the view that Nigerians should resolve to make Jonathan the last of these irresponsible leaders by chasing him out like Egyptians did. Toll gate is not what we need now. I think the current minister is looking for his own loot.

Kunle Abbas, Ogba Lagos State.

May God have mercy on our leaders! So After spending billions of naira to demolish the toll gates, yet another billion will be spend to construct them again all in less than a decade?

Danjuma Emmanuel, Adi. Bringing toll gates back to federal roads is a way of bringing back untold hardship on Nigerian masses that ARE already PAUPPERISED by government’s bad policies. This “job for the boys” will bring about astronomical increase in Transport Fare which in turn will affect the masses the more.

Femi Hassan.

Continued on The Nation website: www.thenationlineng.net, click on Sunday Magazine, then Have Your Say

By Jennifer Ehidiamen 08054503875 (Sms only)

Thank you Mr Patrick for teaching me about trust

L

AST week, I was almost murmuring about why Nigerians love public holidays so much. Actually, I did enjoy my holiday. Well, until I ran out of Internet access and realised my work will be left unattended to if I did not renew my subscription immediately. The office of the Internet provider also observed the public holiday so there was no way out.

Or so I thought.

My good friend, Chinwe, suggested to drive through Starcomms office to see if the retail distributors were available. But then, she had a better idea- to call one of them and find out where he was.

Mr Patrick, one of the distributors confirmed what we already knew- all the retail shops were closed. Now, if you reside in Abuja you’ll understand how shutdown the city looked during this holiday; even though it was supposed to be a festive one. The fear of Boko Haram sent “everyone” indoors.

To cut the long story short, Mr Patrick offered to recharge my line. He has never met me yet he was willing to take the risk. He said that he would renew my Internet subscription and collect the money after the holiday.

Within a few minutes, my Internet access was restored.

I met Mr. Patrick the following day to make my payment. Out of curiosity, I asked if he did that often. He showed me a notebook with numbers of people who subscribe through him. Just a phone call and bam! he plays his role while they play theirs.

Trust and honesty is the watchword.

I began to imagine what our society would look like if we had more of Mr Patrick and the people who do business with him in Nigeria. More honest Nigerians. More transparent Nigerians.

More people of integrity. More selfless people. More people who are willing to think good of others irrespective of their tribe or family background.

The socio-economic situation is not looking good in Nigeria. But you know, a change in attitude and action will change everything.

We blame Goodluck Jonathan for things wrong in Nigeria. The meat seller who cheats others in the market blames the government. The religious leaders who brainwash their followers and stir up religious crisis blame the government. The teachers and others active in public service that collect bribe also have the guts to blame the government. The uncles and fathers who abuse the girls and women in their care blame the government.The employer who exploits the employees in his organization blames the government.

I am not a saint. I also blame the government when things really suck.

But I realize the day we stop the blame game and start acting responsibly will be is the day Nigeria will start working.

In a nutshell, if we all can take out the log in our eyes before trying to take out the plank in our government leaders’ eyes, NIGERIA will be fine.

Our government leaders misbehave because they know some of us are easily swayed by empty promises. But that too has to change.

In case your path crosses with that of Mr Patrick in future- tell him thank you, again, for trusting and showing me that we can start by trusting each other to change Nigeria.

He reminded me that Nigeria is not a big geographical location far from our sphere. Nigeria is you and I. Our attitude to one another have a rippling effect on the way the government leaders perceive us. Be the change you want to see in Nigeria- this is not a cliche.

THE NATION ON SUNDAY,NOVEMBER 13, 2011 CHANGE OF NAME CHANGE OF NAME CHANGE OF NAME OKEKE I,formerly known and addressed as Miss Sandra Ogechukwu Okeke, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs Sandra Ogechukwu Chioma Maduka. All former documents remain valid.

The general public should take note.

OLADEJO

I,formerly known and addressed as Miss Oladejo Olaronke Olaitan, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs Olaoye Olaronke Olaitan. All former documents remain valid. NYSC general public should take note.

ARIWERIOKUMA I,formerly known and addressed as Miss Tamunotari Bennett Ariweriokuma, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs Tamunotari Richard. All former documents remain valid. The general public should take note.

OLABODE

I,formerly known and addressed as Miss Olabode, Rebecca Abiodun, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs Feyijimi, Rebecca Abiodun. All former documents remain valid. The general public should take note.

OGUNLEYE

I,formerly known and addressed as Miss Ogunleye, Mary Solape, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs Kehinde, Mary Solape. All former documents remain valid. The general public should take note.

OSEMWEGIE I,formerly known and addressed as Miss Osemwegie Esohe Christiana, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs Adebisi Esohe Christiana. All former documents remain valid. General public should take note.

ABIRI

I,formerly known and addressed as Miss Abiri, Taye Tomi, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs Arileola Taye Tomi. All former documents remain valid.

General public should take note.

ADEWUMI

I,formerly known and addressed as Miss Titilayo Comfort Adewumi, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs Titilayo Comfort Alao. All former documents remain valid. General public should take note.

UDOH

I,formerly known and addressed as Miss Imelda Joseph Udoh, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs Imelda Imaobong Micheal. All former documents remain valid. Niccon Insurance Plc. and general public should take note.

AKINLOYE I,formerly known and addressed as Miss Akinloye Temitayo Opeoluwa, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs Fakinlede Temitayo Opeoluwa. All former documents remain valid. NYSC and general public should take note.

ALABI

I,formerly known and addressed as Miss Alabi, Rukayat Adeola, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs Muhammed, Rukayat Adeola. All former documents remain valid. General public should take note.

SALAMI I,formerly known and addressed as Miss Moronkeji Salami Sekinat, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs Oseni Salami Sekinat. All former documents remain valid. General public should take note.

AKPEDE

I,formerly known and addressed as Miss Akpede Ufuoma Josephine, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs Ogeleka Ufuoma Josephine. All former documents remain valid. General public should take note.

OLUDE I,formerly known and addressed as Miss Olude Temitope Tracy, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs Adenuga Temitope Tracy. All former documents remain valid. NYSC and general public should take note.

OKORIE

I,formerly known and addressed as Miss Okorie Grace Chinasa, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs Orji Grace Chinasa. All former documents remain valid. NYSC and general public should take note.

HASSAN

ONYENOBI I,formerly known and addressed as Miss Onyenobi Cynthia Cecelia, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs Olajide Cynthia Cecelia. All former documents remain valid.

Embassies of Nigeria, other countries Immigration offices and general public should take note.

AKUNEZIRI I,formerly known and addressed as Miss Akuneziri Dorathy Onyinye, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs Ezeakunne Dorathy Onyinye. All former documents remain valid. Imo State University, NYSC and general public should take note.

YAKUBU I,formerly known and addressed as Dennis Yakubu, now wish to be known and addressed as Ayuba Yakubu Agwom. All former documents remain valid. General public should take note.

OJO I,formerly known and addressed as Miss Ojo Omowumi Mary, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs Faluyi Omowumi Mary. All former documents remain valid. Ise/ Orun Local govt., Ise Ekiti and general public should take note.

BADMUS

I,formerly known and addressed as Miss Badmus Soburat Abiola, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs Kazeem-Agemo Soburat Abiola. All former documents remain valid. General public should take note.

AMUSAN

I,formerly known and addressed as Miss Amusan Kehinde Yetunde, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs Ojo Kehinde Yetunde. All former documents remain valid. Oju Elegbe Road Daleaw Alakuko, Ogun State and general public should take note.

FAMODIMU

I,formerly known and addressed as Famodimu Awoyemi Mary, now wish to be known and addressed as Alagbe Awoyemi Mary. All former documents remain valid. General public should take note.

OKON

I,formerly known and addressed as Miss Elizabeth Francies Okon, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs Elizabeth Aniebiet-Abasi Godwin. All former documents remain valid.

NYSC and general public should take note.

OKO

I,formerly known and addressed as Oko Anthony Iye, now wish to be known and addressed as Iye Anthony Cyrus. All former documents remain valid.

University of Calabar and general public should take note.

ANYINKA I,formerly known and addressed as Miss Anyinka Obiageli Elizabeth, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs Chukwuma Obiageli Elizabeth. All former documents remain valid. General public should take note.

EDOBOR

I,formerly known and addressed as Miss Edobor Iyayi Abiodun, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs Oludayo Iyayi Abiodun. All former documents remain valid. General public should take note.

SAMBER

I,formerly known and addressed as Miss Mngunongun Alice Samber, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs Mngunongun Alice Iorwuese. All former documents remain valid.

Constituted Authorities and and general public should take note.

AJAYI

I,formerly known and addressed as Miss Ajayi Oluwakemi Roseline, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs Fafure Oluwakemi Roseline. All former documents remain valid. Ekiti State Hospital Management Board, Hospital Ode-Ekiti and general public should take note.

AHAMEFULE I,formerly known and addressed as Miss Ahamefule Jacinta Oluchi, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs Abazie Jacinta Oluchi. All former documents remain valid. General public should take note.

DIKE

I,formerly known and addressed as Miss Hassan Omobolanle Sherifat, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs Ayanlaja Omobolanle Sherifat. All former documents remain valid. General public should take note.

I,formerly known and addressed as Miss Obianuju Louisa Dike, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs Obianuju Louisa Ugochukwu Emeruwa. All former documents remain valid.

NYSC and general public should take note.

OLOLADE

OYESOLA

I,former known and addressed as Miss Eniola Habeebat Ololade, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Eniola Habeebat Olaide-Adetela. All former documents remain valid.

University of Ibadan, NYSC and general public take note.

I,formerly known and addressed as Miss Oyesola, Taiwo Oyenike, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs Azeez Taiwo Oyenike. All former documents remain valid. Osun State Polytechnic, Iree, NYSC and general public should take note.

OFILI I,formerly known and addressed as Miss Ofili Julia Nkemdilim, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs Onwubuya Julia Nkemdilim.

All former documents remain valid. General public should take note.

CONFIRMATION OF NAME I, Toli George Amiofori and Toli Suobere are one and same person, now wish to be and addressed as Toli George Amiofori. All former documents remain valid. General public should take note.

BOSAH I,formerly known and addressed as Miss Bosah Mary Ann, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs Egwete Mary Ann. All former documents remain valid.

Nigeria Police Force and general public should take note.

NNAJI

53 CHANGE OF NAME

CHANGE OF NAME

LAWAL

ADEJUYITAN

I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Lawal Hazzanat Taiwo, now wish to known and be addressed as Mrs. Orenaya Hazzanat Taiwo. All former documents remain valid.

NYSC and general public take note.

OSENI I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Oseni Ebunoluwa Abidemi, now wish to known and be addressed as Mrs. Lawson Ebunoluwa Abidemi. All former documents remain valid. Ogun SUBEB, Odogbolu LGEA and general public take note.

BOLORUNDE I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Bolorunde Bunmi Olabisi, now wish to known and be addressed as Mrs. Olayinka Bunmi Olabisi. All former documents remain valid. NYSC and general public take note.

OYENUGA

I,formerly known and addressed as Loveth Chinyere Nnaji, now wish to be known and addressed as Loveth Chinyere Ekhoragbon.

All former documents remain valid. General public should take note.

I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Oyenuga Folashade Seun, now wish to known and be addressed as Mrs. Oyenuga Folashade Seun. All former documents remain valid. NYSC and general public take note.

OLORUNTOLA

OGUNYEMI

I,formerly known and addressed as Dr (Miss) Oloruntola Olufunmilayo Ajoke, now wish to be known and addressed as Dr. (Mrs)Popoola Olufunmilayo Ajoke. All former documents remain valid. NYSC and general public should take note.

I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Kuburat Titilope Ogunyemi, now wish to known and be addressed as Mrs. Esther Titilope Okude. All former documents remain valid. Ijebu North East Local govt. Atan and general public take note.

EKWEBELEM

I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Salami Oluwaseyi Oyenike, now wish to known and be addressed as Mrs. Sonoiki Oluwaseyi Oyenike. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

I,formerly known and addressed as Mr. Francis Echezona Ekwebelem, now wish to be known and addressed as Mr. Francis Echezona Chukwujike.

All former documents remain valid. General public should take note.

FOLARIN

I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Folarin Aminat Oluwakemi, now wish to known and be addressed as Mrs. Akande Folarin Aminat Oluwakemi. All former documents remain valid. NYSC and general public take note.

AJAO I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Ajao Rukayat Folasade, now wish to known and be addressed as Mrs. Omotosho Rukayat Folasade.

All former documents remain valid.

Concern Authority and general public take note.

OMOTAYO I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Funmilola Ayoola Omotayo, now wish to known and be addressed as Mrs. Ojediran, Funmilola Ayoola. All former documents remain valid.

LASPOTECH, NYSC and general public take note.

KUSHORO I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Hijrah Yetunde Kushoro, now wish to known and be addressed as Mrs. Hijrah Yetunde Adelowo. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

FANUSI I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Funmilayo Temitope Fanusi, now wish to known and be addressed as Mrs. Funmilayo Temitope Fanusi-Afolayan. All former documents remain valid.

General public take note.

TIJANI I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Tijani, Tawakalitu Biola, now wish to known and be addressed as Mrs. Akinsipe Tawakalitu Biola. All former documents remain valid. Federal Polytechnic, Ede Osun State NYSC and general public take note.

OLUTAYO

I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Olutayo Olubukola Juliana, now wish to known and be addressed as Mrs. Johnson Olubukola Juliana. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

ADEGBOYE

I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Adegboye Dorcas Oyebamiji, now wish to known and be addressed as Mrs. Olamilo Dorcas Oyebamiji. All former documents remain valid. NYSC and general public take note.

ADEDAYO

I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Rafiat Asade Adedayo, now wish to known and be addressed as Mrs. Lawal Rafiat Adedayo. All former documents remain valid.

NYSC and general public take note.

ASHIRU I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Ashiru Abibat Mojisola, now wish to known and be addressed as Mrs. Bello Abibat Mojisola. All former documents remain valid.

NYSC and general public take note.

BALOGUN

I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Balogun Abidemi Ramota, now wish to known and be addressed as Mrs. Oyenuga Abidemi Ruth. All former documents remain valid. NYSC and general public take note.

SALAMI

SOREMI I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Soremi Kofoworola Abiola, now wish to known and be addressed as Mrs. Lawanson Kofoworola Abiola. All former documents remain valid. TASUED Ijagun, NYSC and general public take note.

ADEBIYI

I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Adebiyi Rebecca Kemi, now wish to known and be addressed as Mrs. Rabiu Rebecca Kemi. All former documents remain valid.

General public take note.

DISU I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Disu Ayodeji Fausat, now wish to known and be addressed as Mrs. Oke Ayodeji Fausat. All former documents remain valid.

General public take note.

GBADAMOSI

I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Gbadamosi Adewumi Kudirat, now wish to known and be addressed as Mrs. Awopetu Adewumi Kudirat. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

FATUNSIN I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Fatunsin Racheal Omotola, now wish to known and be addressed as Mrs. Olarewaju Racheal Omotola. All former documents remain valid. Osun State College of Education, Ilesa, University of Ibadan, NYSC and general public take note.

CONFIRMATION OF NAME I ,faluro Adebanjo is the same and one person as James Babalola Adebanjo and Jayeoba James Babalola Adebanjo. All documents beraing the above names remain valid. Osun State College of Technology, Esa-Okeand general public take note.

JUWAHAN I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Juwahan Kehinde Adenike, now wish to known and be addressed as Mrs. Adeboyejo Kehinde Adenike. All former documents remain valid. University of Ibadan, Osun State College of Education, Ilesa NYSC and general public take note.

ABANIKANDA I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Yetunde Abanikanda Oluwakemi, now wish to known and be addressed as Mrs. Fowowe Yetunde Oluwakemi. All former documents remain valid. Ilesa West Local government and general public take note.

OLOWOOKERE I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Olowookere Esther Morenike, now wish to known and be addressed as Mrs. Olowookere Esther Morenike. All former documents remain valid. NYSC and general public take note.

KELANI I formerly known and addressed as Miss Kelani Abimbola Oluwaseun, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Aina Abimbola Oluwaseun. All former documents remain valid.

Ogun State Water Corporation (OGSWC) and general public take note.

I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Adejuyitan Titilayo Christianah, now wish to known and be addressed as Mrs. Aluko Titilayo Christianah. All former documents remain valid. TESCOM, Ado-Ekiti and general public take note.

OLOGUNAGBA

I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Ologunagba Funmilayo, now wish to known and be addressed as Mrs. Sunday Funmilayo. All former documents remain valid.

Nigeria Police Force and general public take note.

AFOLABI

I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Afoplabi Maryam Yetunde, now wish to known and be addressed as Mrs. Ajayi Maryam Yetunde. All former documents remain valid. University of Akwa Ibom State, NYSC and general public take note.

SHIRU

I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Lucy Nnawo Shiru, now wish to known and be addressed as Mrs. Lucy Nnawo Gana. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME OYEBAMIJI

I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Oyebamiji Rukayat Bukola, now wish to known and be addressed as Mrs. Oyebode Rukayat Bukola. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

ATOLAGBE

I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Atolagbe Oluwabunmi Elizabeth, now wish to known and be addressed as Mrs. Afolayan Oluwabunmi Elizabeth. All former documents remain valid.

General public take note.

ADEWUSI

I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Adewusi Kikelomo Adebola, now wish to known and be addressed as Mrs. Adeyemo Kikelomo Adebola. All former documents remain valid. Moshood Abiola Polytechnic, (MAPOLY), NYSC and general public take note.

SOGUNRO

I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Sadiat Eniola Sogunro, now wish to known and be addressed as Mrs. Sadiat Eniola Odusote. All former documents remain valid.

NYSC and general public take note.

CHOGUDO

ESEMEKAI

I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Chogudo Janet, now wish to known and be addressed as Mrs. Alaiya Janet. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

WOMA

I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Obikanyi Benita Chinyere, now wish to known and be addressed as Mrs. Chukwu Benita Chinyere. All former documents remain valid. NYSC and general public take note.

I, formerly known and addressed as Esemekai Victor, now wish to known and be addressed as Victor Eyetan. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Gladys Odiri Woma, now wish to known and be addressed as Mrs. Gladys Odiri Ogba. All former documents remain valid.

General public take note.

CONFIRMATION OF NAME I, Mrs Durojaiye-Rasaq, Monsurat Olaide is the same and one person as Rasaq Olaide and Durojaiye Rasaq, Monsurat Olaide. All documents rebearing the above names remain valid. General public take note.

NWANZE I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Nwanze Nneka Racheal, now wish to known and be addressed as Mrs. Ogbolu Nneka Racheal. All former documents remain valid.

General public take note.

ADESINA

I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Omotunde Abiola Adesina, now wish to known and be addressed as Mrs. Omotunde Abiola Koledoye. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

NWADEI

I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Nwadei Christiana Chinyenum, now wish to known and be addressed as Mrs. Omotosho Christiana Chinyenum.

All former documents remain valid.

Lagos State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB) and general public take note.

AREWA I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Arewa Kafilat Titilope, now wish to known and be addressed as Mrs. Oyetunde Kafilat Titilope.

All former documents remain valid.

NYSC and general public take note.

ABIOYE

I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Abioye Wasilat Abiodun, now wish to known and be addressed as Mrs. Olayiwola Wasilat Abiodun. All former documents remain valid. NYSC and general public take note.

AROKOYO

I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Arokoyo Ajibike Augustina, now wish to known and be addressed as Mrs. Babalola Ajibike Augustina. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

BOGUNJOKO

I, formerly known and addressed as Bogunjoko Marion Oluseyi, now wish to known and be addressed as Adeoti Marion Oluseyi. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

BOGUNJOKO

I, formerly known and addressed as Mrs. Bogunjoko Grace Bosede , now wish to known and be addressed as Mrs. Boluwajoko Grace Bosede. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

JIMOH

I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Jimoh Fatimoh Olaide , now wish to known and be addressed as Mrs. Rasulu Fatimoh Olaide. All former documents remain valid.

General public take note.

ODERHOWHO I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Oderhowho Elizabeth, now wish to known and be addressed as Mrs. Ajakaye Elizabeth. All former documents remain valid.NYSC and General public take note.

OBIKANYI

OKON

I, formerly known and addressed as Ethel Edem Okon, now wish to known and be addressed as Peace David Akpaessien. All former documents remain valid. St. Brain’s Model College, Uyo, University of Uyo and general public take note.

ADEDEJI

I formerly known and addressed as Miss Adedeji Adetoun Rachael, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Oluwafemi Adetoun Rachael. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

ENITILO

I formerly known and addressed as Miss Enitilo Toyese Oludele, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Yisau Akinkunmi Toyese Oludele. All former documents remain valid.

OAUTHC., Ile-Ife and general public take note.

AZENABOR

I formerly known and addressed as Miss Azenabor Glory Eseose, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Adeyemi Glory Eseose. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

OKPAGI

I formerly known and addressed as Miss Okpagi Amanukpo Friday, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Amanukpo Kenneth Ekpeye. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

AMOO I formerly known and addressed as Miss Amoo Enitan Idunnu, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Joseph Enitan Idunnu. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

ADEBISI

I formerly known and addressed as Miss Adebisi Adebola, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Bola Oladitan. All former documents remain valid. NYSC and general public take note.

BALOGUN I formerly known and addressed as Miss Balogun Kafayat Omowunmi, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Kareem Kafayat Omowunmi. All former documents remain valid.

General public take note.

OLADAPO

I formerly known and addressed as Miss Ruqayat Olapeju Oladapo, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Giwa, Ruqayat Olapeju. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

ADVERT: Simply produce your marriage certificate or sworn affidavit for a change of name publication, with just (N3,500.)

The payment can be made through FIRST BANK of Nigeria Plc. Account number 1892030011219 Account Name - VINTAGE PRESS LIMITED Scan the details of your advert and teller to gbengaodejide@yahoo.com or thenation_advert@yahoo.com For enquiry please contact: Gbenga on 08052720421, 08161675390, Emailgbengaodejide @yahoo.com or our offices nationwide.

Note this! Change of name is now published every Sundays, all materials should reach us two days before publication.

THE NATION ON SUNDAY NOVEMBER 13, 2011

54

EBERE WABARA

PICTURE THIS !

WORDSWORTH 08055001948

ewabara@yahoo.com

Writers’ Freudian slips B USINESSDAY of November 9 leads the pack today with three goofs: “…that effort at sensitizing Nigerians on (to) the essence of the Vision 20-2020 is well in an advanced stage.” What is the definition of the cliché ‘advanced stage’? Any form of public communication—gestural, written or verbal—that is subject to individualistic interpretations is not efficient and effective.

“NPA beefs-up (beefs up) security at port…”

From the business newspaper, we move to DAILY TRUST of November 9 which bungled three headlines: “ACF urges Boko Haram to sheath swords” Truth is a burden: sheathe swords.

“New car owners stranded over plate numbers” Aso Chronicle: number plates “New Year bomb victim dissatisfied over (with) treatment abroad” VANGUARD of November 9 also contributed two gaffes to the pool of headline infelicities: “UNAD staff arrested over (for) missing N100m” “Heartland, Enyimba reignites rivalry” Midweek Sports: why the discord?

As usual, our own charity begins midway, instead of at home, as we open to last week’s edition of this medium which disseminated multifarious blunders, particularly from its EDITORIAL: “Muslims in all continents of the world would today celebrate EidEl-Kabir.” My comment: on all continents. “…at (in) the nick of time to provide him a white ram that was slaughtered as replacement (a replacement) of (for) his son, Ismael (Ismail/Ishmael).”

“It is hoped that those engaging in acts inimical of (to) the nation’s corporate progress….”

“We seize today’s occasion of….” For Americanism and all its informalities, this is acceptable. But, in formal (standard) British entry—which I strongly advocate—you take or use an occasion/ opportunity. ‘Seize’ has an inherent, elemental force (connotatively and denotatively). Exit the Editorial for other pages in defence of freedom.

“Entrepreneurs teamup (team up) with Rivers on investment” “...the intrigues has (have) just begun.”

“Each passing day I pray that the lord will wipe my tears, heal the wound

and the pains that your sudden departure have (has) left in my heart.”

“I still thank God because I believe that you are resting peacefully in His bossom (bosom).” And this, by the way: in God’s bosom, peace is integral and guaranteed. My condolences, the avoidable slips notwithstanding.

“We are however rest assured that you are been (being) taken care of and that one day, we will meet to part no more.” “…many Nigerians have expressed mixed reactions over (to) this development.”

National Mirror of November 5 circulated copious errors: “The herbalist allegedly demanded for his wife’s eyeball….” Delete ‘for’ in pursuit of lexical excellence.

“Bianca extols Ojukwu at 78 th ” For Ikemba’s speedy recovery at 78 or Ojukwu on 78th birthday “Odubote who is currently representing Epe Federal Constituency in the National Assembly….” Who can tell me what ‘currently’ is doing here?

“OGBC begins 24hours (sic) broadcast” Get it right: 24 hours’ broadcast/24-hour broadcast “Nigerian women are not mediocre” Our women are not mediocrities or mediocrists. Put differently, Nigerian women are not mediocre people (adjectival parlance).

“Nigeria’s First Lady and wife of the president Dame Patience….” (DAILY SUN, October 28) Obviously, ‘Nigeria’s First Lady’ or ‘the president’s wife’ is enough—not both at the same time! (This observation was contributed

by Lucky Ihanza) The next four unpardonable indiscretions are from TRIBUNE EDITORIAL of October 26: “Several (Many, preferably) innocent Nigerians have been killed by uniform (uniformed) men at checkpoints for failure to give bribe (bribes).”

“He got the woman’s phone number and texted (text-messaged) her N500 phone (recharge) credit.”

Skip Nigerian Tribune Editorial and navigate to Compass. “…until such a time his adversary is able to proof (prove) to the court that he is not the rightful king.”

(Nigerian Compass Features, October 26) “Police contributes (contribute) to sexual violence in Nigeria, says

Olufemi” (Source: as above) “I doff my hat for the resilience of those who staked their necks to confront the excesses of the military.” Dogma at the barricades: I doff my hat to (not for) newspaper contributors, the occasional Freudian slips notwithstanding. You can also take off your hat….

“Others just ridiculed me outrightly.” A protester at the American embassy: Others just ridiculed me outright.

“New govt. to be sworn-in January 29” Again, phrasal verbs do not admit hyphenation.

“NCP raises alarm over alleged harrasments of market women” Across the nation: harassment. Also note that ‘harassment’ is uncountable, unlike ‘embarrassment’. “…but the incidence rather than subdue you, (sic) should instead spur you to greater hights (heights).” The human angle: incident (not incidence). ‘Instead’ has no function here.

“Gather every members of your family.” Either every member of your family or all members….

My dear reader, please note that ‘banter’ is uncountable. “...the chilling story of Calabar’s rival gang members who not only slaughter themselves (one another) but.…”

“Eagles confront Malawians under scorching sun” This way: in (not under) the scorching sun. ‘“In times past, the media might even have queried the double standards.” Professionalism: double standard.

“We maintain that like every other institutions established by law....” Already addressed.

“Customs intensify air border patrol” No news: Customs intensifies.

“PHCN has (had) earlier indicated that progress made towards stabilizing power supply has been reversed.”

“Ringim who was on a one-day working visit to Kano to round up (off) his familiarization tour of police formations in the country.…” I can understand the mix-up because of IGP’s involvement!

“December Polls: Jega, INEC chiefs hold last minute (last-minute) talks” “UNIJOS alumni holds convention” Yellow card: alumni hold, but alumni association holds.

•What a woman can do, a man can do better !

PHOTO: BADE DARAMOLA

Safety and Security Alert!

Effective Campus Safety and Security Management

A

T the end of the just concluded SouthWest zone of Federal Unity Colleges principals’ retreat, it was resolved to ensure effective campus safety and security management system in our post-primary institutions.

What is Campus Safety and Security?

Campus security could be described as the act of providing defensive measures that is capable of providing protection to persons, properties and information and prevention of losses, wastages, crimes, accidents, incidents, nearmisses as well as eradicating hazards within the campus community.

Mission of Campus safety & security • Foster cooperation among various stakeholders.

• Provide conducive and enabling environment for teaching, learning, research and community workplace.

Objectives of Campus Safety & Security 1. Protect persons through proactive law enforcement policies.

2. Promote a safe and secured environment.

3. Address issues that disrupt the orderly operations of academic efforts.

4. Protect institutions’ physical and intellectual properties.

5. Educate campus community against crime prevention methods.

6. Achieve “goal zero” hazard tolerance.

Every post- primary institution in Nigeria is expected to constitute safety and security committee which shall carry out the following func-

tions: - Outsource private guard company(ies) - Put in place safety regulations (HSSE-MS) - Ensure adequate defensive measures are put in place - Organise annual safety and security week - Conduct internal termly safety and security audit.

- Review existing safety and security policies, procedures and set achievable standards Responsibilities of Campus Safety & Security Operatives • Put in place efficient guard force at strategic points in line with the vulnerability assessment.

• Carry out scheduled and unscheduled patrols.

• Educate guard force on modern crowd control techniques.

• Train and lead guard force in strategies for managing crises.

• Ensure constant training on crime prevention, detection techniques, and methods of crime reduction and update crime records.

• Put in place a comprehensive Standard Operating Procedure (SOP).

• Put in use standard Key performance Indicators (KPI) chart..

Skills Needed by Campus security Operatives: 1. Physical fitness 2. Writing and reading 3. Verbal/ radio communication.

4. Effective decision making 5. Crime prevention and many others.

Crimes in post-primary campuses The following are some the prevalent criminal offences: 1. Bullying 2. Battery 3. Lesbianism 4. Cheating 5. Lawlessness

6. Hate crimes Crime Prevention Techniques on Campus 1.

Provision of physical barriers 2.

Installation and maintenance of Intrusion Detection Devices (IDD).

3.

Effective use of Closed Circuit Television (CCTV).

4.

Setting up of Campus Safety & Security watch.

5.

Put in place policies on: - Crime records and statistics - ‘Campus weapon’s-free zone’ - Prevent squatters.

- Safety and security orientation and awareness programmes.

Safety and Security tips for Campus Community Each campus has its peculiar crime problems which change in nature and severity with time. To deal with these distinct situations, a universal safety and security tips should be published using every available means.

Some of the tips are: 1. Do not walk alone at night.

2. Walk along walk-ways well lighted.

3. Never take a short cut through a poor-lit area or heavy shrubbery 4. If you think some one is following you, trust your instincts.

5. Never be shy to scream or shout for help.

“BE ALERT, SECURITY CONSCIUOS AND INVOLVED”

Please, send comments, responses and contact the undersigned for security and safety challenges by sms or e-mail.

By: Mr. Timilehin Ajayi (Safety and Security Consultant) E-mail: timilehinajayi@yahoo.com 08095683454, 08075518732

Your HEALTH THE NATION ON SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 13, 2011

55

With

Patience Saduwa 08023201831 (sms only) psaduwa@yahoo.com

‘Excess belly fat increases risk of heart disease, stroke’ Visceral fat, also known as abdominal or belly fat (pot belly in local parlance) has some health implications. It can substantially increase the risk of heart diseases, strokes, cancer, diabetes, and sleep disorders among other ailments.

Ngozi Nnadozie, CEO, Lunice Health and Beauty SPA, Satellite Town, speaks on the need and ways of getting a firm, flat tummy, foods that cause belly fat, health implications of being overweight and other issues. Excerpts;

W

HAT is responsible for How effective belly fat? are diet pills, injections and other Well there are many factors that could be responsible. It could s h o r t t e r m d i e t be hereditary, you can have it after methods in reducing child birth, eating late at night, belly fat?

Burning fat skipping meals, taking lots of alcohol, fatty, high calorie foods s i m p l y r e q u i r e s and as a result of metabolic proper eating habits and regular, effective disorder. exercise. No magic What foods cause belly fat?

There is an old saying in the pills, injection or fitness world, “abdomen are made short term diet will in the kitchen, not in the gym.” cause a long term There is a lot of truth in that r e d u c t i o n i n a statement. Having a trim, flat person's belly fat. I stomach has more to do with what you eat than how many crunches you can do. It's good to limit consumption of fatty foods, alcohol, soda, trans-fat, which include commercially prepared foods like baked food, frozen pizza, donuts, potato chips, buttered popcorn, soft drinks like coke. Use calorie-free sweetener instead of sugar to cut down calories.

sNnadozie

mean no short cuts!

Many women want to get their shape back after child birth. What should they do to get a firm, trim tummy?

Protruding belly is one of the reasons people consider losing weight. It is the first sign of being overweight. And the best way to reduce belly fat is to reduce the total number of calories you consume each day and the consumption of soda, sweets and snacks.

Increase the amount of vegetables, foods rich in lean protein, fibers, fruits and unprocessed grain in your

diet. Ensure you take enough water. Regular exercise is also essential for sustainable weight lose in the abdominal area. It's also good to visit the gym and spa for your steam bath and massage. Participate in exercise such as biking , rope skipping, running, dancing, and also pick any of the cardio exercises that suits you like swimming aerobics or spinning. You can also do moderate abdominal work, crunches, sit-ups, leg-lift, and torso twist. It can help to tighten and define your abdominal area. In summary, to achieve a trim, flat tummy, you need a healthy nutrition, regular exercise, adequate sleep, stress relief and medical checkup, measurement and feedback.

Can a woman ever expect her abdomen to be firm and flat Big belly, big trouble: Excess belly fat is a major again after pregnancy? cause of heart disease, high BP, stroke and diabetes Acquiring a firm, flat belly right after having a baby is possible. It takes a Does breastfeeding help in weight lot of discipline and you having the desire to get loss?

Breast feeding mothers lose back to shape. With each pregnancy, your body additional calories per day, which aids goes through a lot of physical changes, which in weight loss.

Breast feeding can burn may linger long after you have delivered. You more calories a day, if you do not can get those fats out with proper diet, effective supplement your infants diet with exercise and also living a healthy life style. formula.

Concerns grow over hepatitis ...And the boxing champ felled by cancer Continued from last Sunday

T

HERE's also the junk food angle.

Experts have attributed the increasing cases of liver problems both in the developing and developed world to a westernised diet. A medical expert, Dr Oyedele Adeyi, a pathologist at the University of Toronto, Canada noted recently at a workshop of the Society for Gastroenterology and Hepatology in Nigeria at Ibadan that , “westernised diet predisposes to diabetes, obesity and other metabolic syndrome conditions, which had been linked to liver problem conditions.” He advised that refraining from westernised diet was, “a panacea for checkmating fatty liver, a condition that predisposes to liver cirrhosis and later liver failure.”

Early screening important The liver is like the body's power house, performing more than 1,500 functions for the body, including more than 300 lifesaving procedures. If the liver stops doing its job, all kinds of health problems develop quickly and death can come rapidly. This is where early screening comes in according to health practitioners.

Dr.Olufunmilayo Lesi of the Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH), Idi-Araba, Lagos, speaking to journalists

recently in Lagos harped on the need for early screening in order to save more lives.

“I wish we could see hepatitis patients early and treat them before the disease develops into liver cancer or liver cirrhosis; I wish patients would present early for us to give them hope and treat them and not bother about the issue of liver transplant which is still a dream in Nigeria,” she stated.

Lesi disclosed that about 20 patients diagnosed with different stages of severe liver damage are seen every other week in LUTH. Her colleague, Dr. Ganiat Oyeleke from the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH) corroborated the figure. As she disclosed: “We see no less than 10 cases every week and these are cases you really can't do much about.”

Both physicians described it as a silent killer, noting that the ailment shows no symptoms until it has got to the end stage where the patient comes into the hospital with a swollen stomach, jaundice and coughs or vomits blood. At this stage, there is really little any doctor can do.

“Our political leaders cannot even think and realize that our people are dying in their hundreds of thousands of this disease and declare it a public health emergency and make commitment to funding it.”

Concluded

T

HE death of former heavyweight boxing champion Joe Frazier to liver cancer last week has once again put the spotlight on the chronic disease.

The boxer, known as Smokin' Joe and the first to beat Muhammad Ali in the 1971 “Fight of the Century,” lost the battle with liver cancer just one month after his diagnosis. He was 67. The disease is said to strike about 24,000 Americans a year. Rates of liver disease have been rising in the United States over the past several decades, the American Cancer Society reports, and, in other countries, it ranks as a leading cause of death.

In the U.S. the number one risk factor is infection with the hepatitis C virus (HCV). The disease is usually spread through exposure to the blood of an infected person, which could have occurred during a boxing match, since the brutal sport frequently causes blood loss.

Common ways the virus is transmitted include using contaminated needles for IV drug abuse, medical injections, tattooing,

sJoe Frazier

or sharing personal items, like razors with an infected person.

In Nigeria, hepatitis B is the commonest and often manifests in noticeable symptoms, such as a flu-like illness and yellowing of the eyes or skin (jaundice).

Your Health

56 THE NATION ON SUNDAY NOVEMBER 13, 2011

WELLBEING

De-stress with music

S

TRESS is part of modern day life. We get it at work, school, home, in traffic… it seems endless. However, there are some simple things you can do to de-stress your body and mind.

Don't let stress get out of control and affect your life. It will eat away at your relationships and your work if you let it. Recognize that you are in control of it and there are things you can do, yourself, to reduce your stress levels. A cool way to de-stress your distressed

Sound for the soul: Renew your spirits with the right music

Travel

Leisure

S

PAS are places where you can get a wide range of health and beauty treatments that are meant to relax and relieve your body from stress and strain. Due to extreme stress in professional and personal lives, spas have become more popular, offering all kinds of relaxation treatments. These will help your tired body, probably overworked by today's hectic modern life style that leaves most people sick, stressed and exhausted, feel refreshed and rejuvenated.

The word spa is derived from Latin “solus per aqua”, which means health through water. The spa concept of immersing the body of the person in water to restore and maintain health is considered to be very important to life.

According to Sebastain Kneipp, father of hydrotherapy, water and herbs mixed in the right combination; can be used to cure any illness. To maintain a good balanced diet, good exercise and

body and mind and feel better with a renewed sense of wellbeing is by listening to music especially classical music, jazz, blues and other cool music.

Many scientific studies have shown that the brain exhibits different behaviour when listening to classical music. One of these is that it causes the release of chemicals that make you feel better. These are the

Cuisine

Spa treat -rejuvenate, refresh, recharge enough rest has become a real challenging issue for both men and women. They get stress from working all day and get even more aggravated when doing the household chores after the day's work.

The spa treatments include facials, massages, sauna and other skin and body treatments like pedicure and manicure.

Some spas are dedicated to particular health aspects like weight loss regime or for back p a i n t r e a t m e n t .

Massage has many important health benefits. In fact, massage can help you maintain physical, mental and emotional well being, especially when it is part of your regular wellness routine.

Some of the benefits include * Massage calms the nervous system and promotes a sense of relaxation and well being. * Massage reduces tension and anxiety. * Massage improves blood circulation, which delivers oxygen and nutrients to the cells. * Massage stimulates the lymphatic system, which carries away the body's waste products. * Massage prevents and relieves muscle cramps and spasms. * Massage therapy can help with pain management in conditions such as arthritis, sciatica, muscle spasms.

Massage is not a good idea if you have a fever, infections, inflammation, osteoporosis and other medical conditions.

sMagic fingers: A good massage helps relieve a tired body, muscular pain...

Want to live longer?

Run for your life!

FITNESS

R

sRace

same ones that get released when you exercise. Science has also shown that classical music can act as a cause to slow down your breathing and heart rate which can be very useful in certain situations.

Classical or any cool music is particularly helpful in some stressful situations like exams, work deadlines or a bad patch in a relationship. Playing some music can help the nerves cool down.

of life: Running increases longevity and prevent certain chronic ailments

UNNING is very good for your health. It provides a great cardiovascular workout, strengthens and tones your muscles.

Regular jogging gives better overall physical condition as well as some other health benefits, including mental benefits such as relaxation and reduction of anxiety. It's also a good way to lose weight (for the overweight) and enable one generally get fitter.

But did you also know that running or jogging can help one live longer? A new study from the Stanford University School of Medicine that has tracked 500 older runners for more than 20 years showed that regular running slows the

effects of aging. Elderly runners have fewer disabilities, a longer span of active life and are half as likely as aging nonrunners to die early deaths, the research found.

“The study has a very proexercise message,” said James Fries, MD, an emeritus professor of medicine at the medical school and the study's senior author. “If you had to pick one thing to make people healthier as they age, it would be aerobic exercise.”

When Fries and his team began this research in 1984, many scientists thought vigorous exercise would do

older folks especially those in their 60s and 70s more harm than good. But the dire injury predictions other scientists made for runners have fallen completely flat. Fries and his colleagues published a companion paper showing running was not associated with greater rates of osteoarthritis in their elderly runners.

And the effect of running on delaying death has also been more dramatic than the scientists expected. Not surprisingly, running has slowed cardiovascular deaths.

However, it has also been associated with fewer early deaths from cancer, neurological disease, infections and other causes.

Exercise also tends to lower blood pressure, decreasing the risk of heart attack and stroke, and trims the chances of becoming obese or developing non-insulindependent diabetes mellitus. Regular physical activity has also been linked with lower rates of certain kinds of cancer. In general, exercise extends longevity by diminishing the risk of a variety of different ailments.

Source: Motleyhealth.com

THE NATION ON SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 13, 2011

PAGE 57

I lost three children in three months —Fatai Rolling Dollar —PAGE 59

‘Why Kenyan ladies are crazy about Nigerian men’ Ikechukwu Arthur Anoke, 27, is Chief Executive Officer of Mtech Communications, Kenya. He spoke to Kayode Alfred on life in the East African country and how he is promoting ties between Nigeria and Kenya

•Anoke

A

S the chief executive officer of Mtech East Africa, can you give us a little insight into your job?

Mtech is a pan-African mobile content solution company. We are product vendors for mobile operators.

My job as chief executive officer is to drive the business, from a strategy of profit and loss and from the strategy and leadership point, and taking the business to the next level.

Also, my responsibility entails mentoring young entrepreneurs or younger colleagues into world-class managers.

You have achieved all these at the young age of 27, can you tell us what the journey has been like for you?

I joined Mtech straight from school. I was a content administrator. I was in charge of Cosmo FM in Enugu, Nigeria.

I joined Cosmo FM in 2005. By 2006, I moved to Mtech Lagos, where I worked as a media partnership coordinator. I was responsible for all our media partnership in Nigeria. Four months later, I was appointed as product manager, responsible for media. In 2008, I came to Kenya as a consultant for our organization. After

spending three months, I resumed as Regional Operations Manager.

In September 2008, I took over as Acting General Manager. In December 2008, I became General Manager. In February 2009, I became Deputy CEO and CEO, East Africa.

At the time you became the CEO, you were quite young.

Didn’t you feel intimidated at some point?

Mtech has a culture of having young chief executives.

Chika Nwobi, one of the executive directors and founder of Mtech, formed the company fresh out of school.

For me to become a chief executive officer at 27 was nothing out of the ordinary.

Most of us joined Mtech fresh out of school, and we were dealing with marketing directors of telecommunication companies. In terms of confidence and exposure, we have built it. Sometimes, of course, your age will come to play, but the training must have exposed you and given you the confidence that you can do the job. My being young wasn’t much of a challenge or problem.

What has it been like working in a foreign country like Kenya?

It is very challenging. The first thing about being a Nigerian here is that you have to fight perception. When I came to Kenya in 2008, it was tough being a Nigerian. When you opened the pages of newspapers, they had nothing good to say about Nigerians. It was tough to do business with people, because they saw Nigerians as conmen. The stereotype was very bad. It was very difficult from a business turn-around perspective, because you have to deal with stereotype, perception and deep-rooted suspicion. Yet, in spite of all these challenges, you have to grow the business.

The issue of perception is a problem every Nigerian executive that works outside Nigeria will face.

How were you able to break that barrier?

I believe my background in activism helped a lot in making me break the barriers. I see Nigeria as a brand. When a brand is badly managed, then

you are going to have all sorts of negative perceptions around the brand. I saw it as a challenge. I remember that in one of the board meetings, the directors decided that they were going to hire a local CEO for East Africa, because people do not like Nigerians. For me, that was a slap on the face. Here I was, a young executive aspiring to be chief executive one day and I am in a board meeting in Kenya where my local directors are saying they don’t like Nigerians. That was a major challenge for me and it propelled me to change that perspective. If you go through the issue of perception properly, you will find out that most of the people who claim they hate Nigerians have not even encountered a Nigerian.

They don’t even know who a Nigerian is. So, we have to do what we call cultural diplomacy, which is all about using what people like about you and get them to like you.

So, we started with music.

Being one of the biggest content solution companies, Mtech does a lot of ring tones and has access to all the artists. We started bringing in popular artists like Dbanj, P Square, Bracket and others. Now, Nollywood has done a lot of work before hand. It is one of the biggest exporters of Nigerian culture. What we did was to complement it in a very good way. We flooded radio stations in Kenya with our music and the people loved it.

Before long, our lingo and music became very popular •Continued on page 60

58

THE NATION ON SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 13, 2011

Life

I enjoy my deformity, says lecturer hit by polio Knocked down by the dreaded polio ailment at the tender age of five and subjected to all sorts of inhuman treatment in a polygamous home, Kolade Rotimi, a lecturer, has braved all odds to live his dreams, writes Gbenga Aderanti

H

E walked with effort as he arrived for the interview. The best way to incur his wrath is to look at him with pity. Though what he can do is limited, this brilliant, young man does not see himself as physically challenged.

For him, people who beg for alms on the streets are nothing but a burden to the society.

Now in his late 30’s, Kolade Rotimi was incapacitated by polio at the age four.

And for close to eight years, he was crawling to and from school.

The hope that he would live up till now was slim. But he has not only crossed his 30 th birthday, he is doing well for himself.

Kolade, who heads the IT department of the Federal School of Surveying, Oyo, is a classic case study of a man, who was determined to succeed against seemingly insurmountable odds.

And with a combination of hard work and divine grace, Kolade has a sweet story to tell about how his life has turned out. Take the case of how he got his present job. “I got this job through God’s favour and intervention because initially, I was not looking for an appointment there,’’ he said. “But when I came around for my graduation, the Permanent Secretary, who represented the minister that day informed the Rector to employ me immediately and I was given an employment.” He has since been managing the IT department of the institution.

Don’t bother to engage Kolade in the argument that some people are disabled. You will never win.

“It happens to people that are able too; people, who have everything to earn a living, you still see them on the street begging.”

Self-driven, Kolade has many awards in his kitty.

What he has lost to polio, he has gained in academic endeavour.

“I’m always sitting down; I read a lot while sitting down. Later, I realized that if I had been able to walk like my colleagues, I would not be able to have the opportunity.

It is not that I feel bad; God knows why I’m like this. I even enjoy it! I don’t feel I’m deformed.”

Though sure of his abilities to carry out things that what many would consider almost impossible for someone in his condition, Kolade confessed that there is a limit. He said, “I can drive any car, but I can’t drive a trailer.”

He advised those that are deformed not to look down on themselves, adding, “If I had

looked down on myself, I would not have attained this height. If you are deformed, it makes you to be ahead of others. Once your brain is not deformed, you have enough time to think; you have enough time to prepare yourself for the future. And I believe with that, the sky is the limit.“ Despite Kolade’s stoic attitude to his ‘challenge’, even the visually impaired could see the pains on his face as he recounts how his deformity came about. “I was about five years old and while sleeping, I noticed that I had malaria and my mother rushed me to the General Hospital, Osogbo (now LAUTECH)’’, he began to speak in measured tones. “I was given an injection by a nurse. When we got back home some hours later, I couldn’t talk and I couldn’t move any part of my body. So, my mother rushed down to the hospital again. I later discovered that I couldn’t’ walk again. And since then, I’ve been crawling. It was later that I discovered that it was polio.”

That things were pretty rough for him is stating an obvious fact. For many years while he was in primary and high schools, he had to crawl to and from school. Sometimes, people he never knew would give him a ride to school, but most times he was abandoned to his fate.

A more cruel fate was to befall Kolade when his polygamist father stopped paying his school fees for no just reason. Recounting how he surmounted that obstacle, he said, “I had this talent then; I would build toys for pupils of my age and they would come around to buy. The toy was like a car really. I kept improving on my skills and whatever I realised from sales, my grandmother would keep it for me.”

Getting admission into the Federal Polytechnic, Ede in Osun State was problematic, but his sojourn in the institution was even more traumatic. He recalled, “I did not have money for accommodation or anything, because I had lost my mother. I slept in the classroom for a semester, because there was no money to pay for accommodation.

Everyday, I woke up at 6am and took my bath at the back of the block. God saw me through. I studied Computer Science.”

As the interview progressed, a dark-complexioned, beautiful woman walked in gracefully. Kolade paused momentarily and in a soft voice said with pride. “This is my wife.’’

•Continued on page 60

•Rotimi

THE NATION ON SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 13, 2011

Life

59

I lost three children in three months —Fatai Rolling Dollar For many years, life was at its lowest ebb for highlife musician, Fatai Rolling Dollar. But his situation has since changed for good and the man can’t stop counting his blessings. Two weeks ago, he marked his 85th birthday and told REMI ADELOWO what it has cost him to get this far

H

OW does it feel to clock the age of 85?

God is marvelous and that is why he does unbelievable things. God knows the reason why he has kept me up till this moment. I feel very happy clocking 85 Did you ever believe you will attain this age considering what you had gone through in life?

Not at all! And the reason is simply because I was very, very rascally in my youthful days. As a matter of fact, I have a certificate in rascality. It was through rascality that I found my way into music. I thank God that all my sufferings have not been in vain.

At the time you were really down, what was going through your mind? Did it ever cross your mind that you will bounce back big?

To be honest, I had lost hope at some point. I was so frustrated that on one particular day, I nearly jumped from the Carter Bridge into the lagoon. It was a good Samaritan who saved my life. Then, I was living somewhere at Moshalahi, Yaba, just three houses from the late Fela Anikulapo Kuti’s house. During the time of the ‘Unknown Soldier’ saga, I was attacked and all my musical equipments were destroyed. My car, a Peugeot 405, was also set ablaze. With no other source of livelihood, I settled for a job as a security man from 1980 till 1999. Sometime that year, I was attacked by robbers, but as a former boxer, I engaged them in a fight and overpowered two of them, but I was injured in the eyes and taken to the hospital. When I got back home, I got this feeling that I should not resume my job as a security guard. Then, I got a job at a church to play instruments for them. The salary was small, but I needed a job to survive.

So, you converted to Christianity?

I never did! But while I was working in the church, I changed my name to Francis Olayiwola Olagunju but I left the church after I was accused of not closing my eyes during prayer sessions. I told the pastor I would never close my eyes, because I want to be the first person to see Jesus Christ and receive blessings when He comes. They also accused me of smoking and I replied that, that should not be their business.

Do you still smoke?

I was once a chain smoker, but now, I smoke once in a blue moon.

When exactly did you experience a turnaround in your life and did you have a premonition?

As I said earlier, I had lost hope, but I got closer to God and I kept praying that he should lift me out of

•Rolling dollar

poverty. And God did it when I waxed an album “The Return” in 1999. Thereafter, I released another album “Won kere si number”, which became a national anthem. From this point, things changed for the better and I started travelling abroad since 2006 at the age of 76. Before then, I never got inside an aircraft. My first trip was to Morocco sponsored by the French Cultural Centre. Now, I have been to Holland, United States, Germany, Sweden and so on. God is marvelous because I never believed I could ever interact with white people and also entertain them.

What lesson did you learn from all of the things you experienced while things were tough?

One lesson I learnt is that you must only rely on God and no one else. When life was okay for me, I had many friends, but as soon things became really bad, they all deserted me. Also, I would never forget how I lost three children within three months. They only had minor ailments and before I knew it, they died one after another.

When the second one died, I took him to the cemetery and when the attendants insisted on collecting money from me, I dumped the corpse with them and told them to do whatever they liked with it. But God later took control and has multiplied my blessings.

So, how rich are you now?

I am still penniless. With my fame, I believe I should be a very rich man but that is not the case, though I still thank God. I am 85 and I am happy. On my birthday, I

launched my new album “Won kere si Jesu wa”.

Should I assume that you are now a Christian?

I never converted to Christianity when I was really suffering, so why should I now?

How do you keep fit because you look so trim and agile?

I do exercise a lot; I engage in a lot of road walk.

You still have a young wife and young children, do you still have sex?

Of course I do. Right now, I have two wives and I will soon marry a third wife.

Are you not too old having kids?

I am not old or tired to have kids. But if God tells me to stop, I will obey.

It is said that you take local herbs to remain this agile.

I believe so much in herbs. I have someone who brings herbs for me and there is also a book, which my father gave, on how to prepare herbs.

What are your future plans?

Just like the former Governor of Lagos State, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, lifted me out of poverty, I also want to help people to actualize their dreams in music. I am planning to establish Fatai Rolling Dollar Foundation and School of Music to teach young ones how to play indigenous music and musical instruments, but funds have not been forthcoming. I don’t want my name to die after I pass on.

60

Life

THE NATION ON SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 13, 2011

‘Being CEO at 27 is no big deal’ •Continued from page 57

among Kenyans. The good thing about it is that being a corporate CEO makes you a respectable person. People know that you are legit, and this gave a lot of legitimacy to what we call attitude change or perception change for Nigerians. That broke down the barriers because people saw you as a Dbanj, a Ramsey Noauh, a P Square, a Genevieve or a Tuface. All these helped in Nigerians being able to be granted visas on entry into Kenya.

It appears now that the Kenyans have learnt to accept Nigerians.

Few years ago, if a Kenyan lady told her parents that she was dating a Nigerian, it became a big issue.

Today, if she told h e r parents t h a t she is dating a Nigerian, they rejoice.

T h e Nigerian man in Kenya is looked up to as an ideal man. Also,

Nigerian culture has permeated the society. Today, they love our music, our movies, our comedy and our fashion. In Kenya, Mudi is regarded as the best designer in Africa. Nigerian culture is regarded as the richest in Africa.

It is becoming more prevalent in the everyday Kenyan society and East Africa in general.

What informed your decision to use comedy as a means to bridge the cultural gap?

We know that comedy clips will sell as caller ring backtones.

It is good when somebody calls you and listens to funny jokes.

When I was contacted to assist in organizing a comedy show in Kenya, I felt it was a good move.

That is one thing about building strong synergies between West and East Africa. I didn’t really do much. All I did was to introduce them to the right people they could speak to about doing a PanAfrican comedy concert. The idea of organizing a pan-African comedy concert in Kenya is to help grow their local comedy industry, because it is still at infancy. The result was a worldclass comedy show.

Your event management company, Taurus, organizes the Naija Night concert in Kenya during Nigeria’s independence anniversary.

What is the focus of this initiative?

It started as a hobby for me. The focus is on cultural integration and cultural diplomacy. It is a forum where people need to come and experience Nigeria. This is the platform on which Naija Night was started. Today, it has

grown big. I have handed it over to a trust, which will take the responsibility of organizing and preserving the dream of setting up a night that celebrates Nigerian culture. However, it has grown beyond concert. It has now grown to a level where we are going to have a CEO Roundtable, where Nigerian CEOs and their Kenyan counterparts will sit down and discuss how to grow the business in these regions. For instance, we will look at how Kenyan companies can enlist in Nigerian Stock Exchange and how Nigerian businesses can invest in East Africa.

What is your projection concerning your career and ambition?

As a young person, I will want to be involved in entertainment in any level I can.

My primary object is to build Mtech into a 10 million dollar a year business. We want to build the organization to be the biggest and strongest Pan-African mobile content company and music aggregator, providing world-class scalable projects.

Then, as per politics, I believe that Nigeria needs to build a stronger participatory political culture.

Not everybody will run for an elective office. But every Nigerian needs to be aware of his political surrounding and political systems and processes, and contribute in the shaping of our political future. We, the youth, can change our political destiny and future.

‘Beggars are burden to society’ •Continued from page 58

Quickly reading the reporter’s mind, Kolade continued, “She is a Yoruba from Kabba in Kogi State.’’

Perhaps with the exception of the lovebirds, no one believed that theirs was indeed true love that was divinely ordained.

Kolade narrated the opposition he faced from his would-be inlaws.

“During our introduction, my wife’s elder sister called her right in my presence, and said, ‘Are you really sure that you have seen this person (in reference to his deformity) and you want to marry him?” My wife said yes.

The woman was not done yet.

“Iyabo, I’m repeating it. Are you sure you want to marry this man?’ She said it thrice and my wife said yes, I want to marry him’. I discovered that the reason why she was stressing it was to let everybody around hear the kind of person I was.

My wife even told me that her younger sister too asked her why she chose me of all the men around.’’

Getting married to his wife was a victory of sort. At an early age, the girl that he had attempted to date broke his heart because of his condition.

Again, his grandmother once told him that with his condition, it would be very difficult for him to get a partner.

“She was using it to draw me

closer to Christ, because she was from the Apostolic Faith.

It came to a point when I decided not to talk about getting married.”

Rather than wallow in self pity, he channeled his energy towards his education. “I discovered that my deformity was not even a challenge; what matters on earth is that if you have the skill of what it takes to live on earth, people will forget it. Because I discovered that a lot of people move closer to me now, I can’t even feel that I’m having any kind of deformity at all.”

One thing that remains evergreen in his mind is his experience in a polygamy setup. According to Kolade, the treatment he got from the person who was supposed to take care of him was unpalatable. Many times, the young Kolade was thrown into the gutter by his guardian, and would be left there. There were other cases of inhuman treatment he was subjected to.

“You know, I could not walk, I can only crawl. Sometimes, my guardian’s son would mess up the floor and she would tell me to mop it. To even eat at home was a problem especially if my father was not at home.’’

One thing he enjoys doing is driving. It was his determination to succeed in life that made him risk driving a car. He said with confidence,

•Rotimi and wife, Iyabo on their wedding day

“Almost everything I do, nobody taught me.’’ Necessity made him drive a manual car.

Although he is financially comfortable and can afford to buy as many shoes as he wants, he makes do with two pairs. Because of the difficulty in wearing the shoes, he

doesn’t bother to buy many.

A humanist, Kolade has been supporting polio centres, but he added with a tinge of regret, “The only thing is that my salary cannot do what I feel like doing for polio victims.”

On the home front, explaining to his children

about his predicament is a bit difficult. He said, “there was a day and my daughter wanted to lift me up, but couldn’t. She once asked me why one of my legs was smaller than the other and I told her she would understand better when she becomes an adult.’’

BUSINESS THE NATION ON SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 13, 2011

61 INTERVIEW

‘CHOGM reinforced Nigeria, Australia partnership’ — Page 63

Tax hassles

•Jonathan

•Okonjo-Iweala

•Omoigui-Okauru

In the view of many discerning Nigerians, the tax regime in operation in the country is too harsh. Many would gladly act in breach of their civic responsibility rather than readily comply with the tax laws, report Ibrahim Apekhade Yusuf and Ola Ojelade

M

RS. Awero Pelumi (not real name) is a level four civil servant in the employ of a Ministry in one of the Southwestern states of the country. Her basic monthly salary was N17, 000 before the newly approved minimum wage of N18, 000 out of which she pays about N7, 500 in taxes alone every month leaving her with a miserly N9, 500.

While sharing her experience with The Nation, Mrs. Pelumi said disproportional level of taxes she has been subjected to in the past three years has had a rather telling effect on her welfare such that she is beginning to rue the day she opted to work in the civil service.

“My brother it is not easy at all.

In fact, I find it hard to survive on my salary as such I have to augment it with my provision store”, she said.

As to whether she would enjoy some relief now that the new minimum wage has been approved, she answered in the negative. “My brother, it is still the same thing.

There is really no difference at all. I think something has to be done about these excessive taxes”, she declared deadpan.

There many Pelumis out there who are groaning under the weight of excessive taxes.

Unlike Pelumi who is sad over her tax status, a trader in Agege area of Lagos, who simply gave his name as Mr. Ifeckukwu said he has gotten used to paying taxes and levies on a monthly basis to both the councils and state government agencies.

According to him, he pays over N3000 which he doesn’t really find hard to pay as the Lagos Inland Revenue Service office is very close to him.

Mr. Sunday Nwali also expressed the same sentiment with Ifechukwu but only complained that besides the personal income tax, he also required to pay sundry surcharges in form of levies for Radio

and Television permit and Development levy to the council’s coffers.

Mrs. Anita Ben, a trader in Oshodi-Isolo Local Council Development Area disclosed that she grudgingly pays different taxes and levies imposed by the council and state government for fear of being harassed by the agency. “I do pay the lock up permit, trade permit, radio and television permit because we do use them here and at the same time I pay the normal tax paid by everyone because these days if you don’t pay it your children will not be able to government owned schools in Lagos.”

Constitutional backing for taxation In the view of Barrister Tunji Orisalade, former Chairman, Nigerian Bar Association, Badagry chapter, “The constitution is very clear on the issue of payment of taxes. In section 24(f) of the 1999 constitution, it says: ‘It shall be the duty of every citizen to declare his income honestly to the appropriate and lawful agencies and pay his tax promptly. Section 41 subsection 3 of the Personal Income Tax Act (PITA) 104 of 1993, says: ‘A taxable person shall file with the relevant tax authority the returns within 90 days from the commencement of every year of assessment.

“Section 86(1) of Personal Income Tax Act (PITA) further states that: ‘A person who fails to furnish a return as required by the law is guilty of an offence and liable on conviction to a

fine or imprisonment or both.”

Increased tempo of revenue drive across the federation Whether in Abuja, Lagos, Edo, Delta, Oyo, Ogun, Kwara, Rivers, Kano, Kebbi, Kaduna, Jigawa, Rivers, the need to pay taxes, have literally become the slogan on everybody’s lips, as revenue authorities are not leaving any stone unturned to get as many people into its tax net, as much as possible.

A middle-aged woman, who works for a private outfit, who would not be named said the tax regime in the state was such that it has become practically impossible to escape from the tax officials in the state.

According to her, Lagos state is probably one of the states, where the revenue authorities have designed some ingenious ways of going after those who would not ordinarily want to pay their taxes.

Citing a specific example, the source said for instance, “If you are caught by the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA), for a traffic offence, apart from paying their fine, they will also require you to tender your tax certificate as well. At the embassy, it is the same thing. Echoing the similar views, the Executive Chairman of the Lagos State Internal Revenue Service, Mr. Tunde Fowler, who spoke with The Nation recently said the only alternative source of funding available to the state remains internally generated

List of taxes payable by individuals and corporate bodies •Personal income tax (individuals only) •Capital gain tax (individuals only) • Stamp duties on instruments executed by individuals • Pools betting and Lotteries, Gaming and Casino Tax • Road tax • Business premises registration fee.

• Development levy (individuals only) •Names of streets registration fees in the state capital •Rights of occupancy fees on land owned by the state government •Market taxes and levies.

Source: LIRS

revenue through taxes, hence the insistence by the revenue board that all residents in Lagos should continue to address themselves to that aspect of their civic obligation, by not only paying the right amount of taxes, but promptly too.

New income tax regime coming Last month the President Goodluck Jonathan assured of his readiness to assent into law the new income tax bill in order to make it operational soon.

Jonathan made this known at the 2nd International Tax Conference and 50th anniversary of the Joint Tax Board (JTB), held in Abuja.

The new income tax (amendment) bill was passed by both chambers of the National Assembly in May, this year and transmitted to Mr. President for assent in June.

It will also introduce a more equitable system of personal income tax administration, improve and simplify tax compliance for all taxpayers amongst others.

Jonathan, who was represented by the Minister of Finance, Dr. Ngozi OkonjoIweala, said the signing of the bill would demonstrate his administration’s commitment at strengthening the regulatory framework of tax administration in the country.

In his words, “the personal income tax (amendment) bill, 2011 is currently before me for assent into law and I want to assure the JTB that the bill will receive expedited action so that it can become operational shortly.”

On the challenges of tax administration in the country, he said, “I am not unaware of the various challenges, which are currently being faced especially in the states, with respect to the administration of personal income tax. The bill when passed into law will impact on the revenue collection at the state and federal level and also its impact on the wages of our workers.”

Jonathan urged the board to ensure continuous deliberations on issues that affect the nation’s tax system, and its ability to be a tool for good governance and sustainable growth.

While commending the board for organising the event, he stated that with the theme ‘Taxation and Good Governance: A Recipe for Sustainable Growth’, the board was conscious of the role, which it is expected to play in national development and the expectations of government in this regard.

Justifying the need for the bill, the chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service, Mrs. Ifueko Omoigui-Okauru, maintained that the bill will greatly enable the three tiers of government to enhance the ability of tax authorities to effectively play their roles of raising revenue for government and properly utilising these revenues for developmental purposes.

Briefs IFC earmarks $400m for Africa telecoms

T

HE International Finance Corporation (IFC) has hinted of plans to spend up to $300 million in the financial year ending June and another $400 million in the following year on new African telecoms projects that are not commercially attractive to traditional financiers. “We would very much be looking to do $200-$400 million a year for our own account in Africa and ideally helping mobilise funding from other sources - commercial banks, other development institutions to double or triple that,” said Kent Lupberger, IFC’s global head for Technology, Media and Telecom on Thursday.

The private sector financing arm of the World Bank previously did a lot of financing of cellular companies but is doing less of that now because the firms are now established and have easier access to financing.

CSR training for journalists

A

FOUR-DAY capacity building training on “CSR Reporting for Media Professionals” will hold from Wednesday till Saturday this week in Lagos.

The training, according to the organisers, ThistlePraxis Consulting Limited is aimed at building and strengthening human capacity development for the African media on corporate social responsibility and sustainability reporting in Africa.

Among the facilitators expected at the event include Aman Singh, Forbes CSR Blogger and CEO, Singh Solutions; Ken Egbas, Managing Partner, TruContact PR; Ini Onuk, Lead Consultant/CEO, ThistlePraxis Consulting, Nigeria and Mumo Kivuitu, Executive Director, Ufhadili Trust in Kenya.

According to the organisers, the purpose of the training is threefold: to provide background information for accurate and effective media reporting of CSR activities, policies and strategies of businesses operating within the African continent. This enables the media professionals to gain exposure to different dimensions and aspects of the practice that are beyond the scope of their communities or countries.

STOCK MARKET REVIEW

T

HE Nigeria Stock Exchange AllShare Index lost 57bps cumulatively last week. The banking sub-sector topped the losers chart. GTBank recorded the lone gain by a top –tier bank, with a 2.0% uptick, while unrelenting offers shaved off 5.3%, 4.9%, and 3.8% cumulatively from UBA, First Bank and Zenith Bank respectively. Midtier banks, Access Bank and Skye Bank also lost 1.4% and 1.2% respectively.

In the building materials sectors, Dangote Cement and CCNN recorded marginal gains, while Lafarge Wapco and Ashaka Cement were sent southwards, shedding 2.6% and 2.1% respectively.

Firms in the petroleum marketing sector, including Forte Oil and Oando bagged cumulative gains of 10.2% and 1.6% respectively while Eterna Oil lost 9.1% as other stocks in the sector recorded no price change.

62

THE NATION ON SUNDAY NOVEMBER 13, 2011

Business Intelligence

‘Blame poor enforcement for tax evasion’ Mr. John Femi Jegede is President/ Chairman in Council, Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria (CITN). In this interview with Ibrahim Apekhade Yusuf he gives useful insight on the different tax regimes in Nigeria and other related issues

T

HERE are complaints that Nigeria has a regressive tax system.

Do you agree?

I do not agree that Nigeria has a regressive tax system but let me explain the different tax systems to enable taxpayers comprehend what a regressive tax regime is.

A progressive tax system is one in which those who earn higher incomes pay a higher percentage of their incomes as tax than those with lower incomes. A tax system is said to be progressive when the higher the income, the higher the tax liability and the lower the income the lower the tax burden, ceteris paribus. The main reason for progressive taxes is to achieve fairness and equity in taxation.

The opposite of progressive tax system is regressive tax system in which tax liability decreases as people earn more money. A tax is regarded as being propor-

tional when the same rate is imposed on every taxpayer irrespective of the amount or size of the income.

A tax system where the rate of taxation is proportional to income is said to be a proportional tax system. In other words, it takes a constant proportion of income.

With this distinction it is clear that Nigeria adopts a progressive tax system since those who earn higher incomes pay a higher percentage of their incomes as tax than those with lower incomes, same for profits of companies. The more the profit they make, the higher the tax they pay.

In Nigeria and also in advanced economies of the world for instance, the income tax paid per year by citizens is progressive. It is based on income levels and as these income levels rise, so do tax payable. The only reason why people think the tax system is regressive is that the current rates and al-

•Jegede

lowances being used to compute the personal income tax liabilities payable by individuals are outdated and until the Personal Income Tax (Amendment) Bill passed by the National Assembly is signed by Mr. President, this complaints by the tax payers will continue.

What is the effort by the CITN to ensure tax awareness among Nigerians?

The efforts of the CITN have been tremendous through numerous programs. I will mention a few.

Namely the yearly, Manda-

PHOTO SHOP

PHOTO: BADE DARAMOLA

tory Professional Training Programs (MPTP) This year alone, it has been held in Lagos, Port Harcourt, Abuja, Kaduna, Abeokuta.

We organise many workshops and Seminars to make the citizens be aware of tax and thus cultivate tax culture. In February this year, for example, CITN organized seminar on the tax implications of International Financial Reporting System (IFRS) in Lagos in order to create awareness on the tax implications of adopting IFRS in Nigeria.

Annual tax conference, which is the largest gathering of tax practitioners and administrators in Africa. Participants attend from other countries like Ghana, South Africa and Liberia. Topical

taxation issues are discussed at the conference.

We attend to requests from the press such as this one and public awareness are created. We take part in public hearings and we contribute to debates on how to improve the tax system in the country. On tax education, we have collaborative trainings with organisations such as the FIRS, CIBN, EFCC, etc. Right now we are in the process of organizing to collaborative training with the Nigeria Customs Service. The technical faculties put in place by Council had come up with research findings which are useful inputs into Federal Government Annual Budgets Nigeria has been described as a nation of tax evaders. Do you share the same sentiments?

No, I do not share the view. Put simply, Tax evasion is a contravention of the tax laws, whereby a taxpayer reduces the tax liability or neglects to pay the tax due, or by rendering untrue returns to the tax office. Or illegally paying less in taxes than the law permits; committing fraud in tax payment. Tax evasion is a crime in any country and the guilty party can be subjected to fines and imprisonment. In China, the punishment can be as severe as death.

Nigeria should not be singled out as a nation of tax evaders as all countries of the world have one form of tax evasion or the other and the level differ from one country to another. Every continent is guilty. The concept of tax evasion is a universal one

and no country is an exception. Usually tax conferences in the Commonwealth have always focused on tax evasion and we have come to a painful conclusion that all are guilty.

In Nigeria, the reason why there is high incidence of tax evasion is the low level of enforcement. This is a country where people display wealth and affluence and pay little or no tax. In advanced countries, if you buy an expensive car, the next day tax officials will raise on the buyer what is called best of judgment (BOJ) assessment if the tax paid is not commensurate with the kind of expenditure but in Nigeria today you see many people using expensive “Jeep” yet nobody is asking whether the tax they paid to government actually reflects the magnitude of the expenditure. Until we start to ask questions along this direction, the level of tax evasion in Nigeria will remain high. On the other hand, Government encourages tax evasion by delaying passage into law amendments to Tax Acts for example, the tax rates and allowances that was in the Personal Income Tax Act 1993 are still being applied to tax computations in 2011 a situation that encourages tax evasion when in countries like United Kingdom and South Africa, amendments to tax laws are done through Annual Appropriation Acts in order to bring the tax rates and allowances in tandem with current economic realities and encourage voluntary compliance.

Business Week

CEOs’ night out with Johnnie Walker

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•L-R: Head International Standards and Small Medium Enterprises, Standards and Small Medium Enterprises, Standard Organisation of Nigeria, Mr. Rob Okiyi, Adviser, Enterprises Development, the Commonwealth Secretariat, Mr. Ronald Charles, National President, Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NACCIMA), Dr. Herbert Ajayi and Consultant to Commonwealth on the Quality Standard, Mr. Bob White during a workshop on the introduction of SON SME Standards in Lagos recently.

PHOTO: ABIODUN WILLIAMS

•L-R: Rauri Twomey, Marketing Director, Guiness Nigeria Plc; Thomas Jones, Johnnie Walker Global Brand Ambassador and Biodun Awoyale, Brand Manager Johnnie Walker at the Johnnie Walker Annual Society Event in Lagos on Thursday

OR many upwardly mobile executives, a chance to unwind after the daily hustle and bustle is always welcomed. So it was at the Johnnie Walker Annual Society event which held in Lagos on Thursday with top echelons of the Lagos business community, socialites and entertainment bigwigs in attendance.

At the upscale Ember Creek, Ikoyi, venue of the night out, the guests were in an upbeat mood, thanks to the perfect ambience which afforded them the chance to trade banters, clink glasses as well as whet their palates with the “best of Scotch whisky.”

Mr. Devlin Hainsworth, Managing Director, Guinness Nigeria/Diageo Plc, who incidentally was part of the organisers, in his welcome address, said his company was delighted to host the third edition of the Johnnie Walker Annual event to celebrate “giants” – individuals who are successful in their endeavours despite challenges.

“I’m convinced that gathered here today are incredibly successful individuals in their chosen fields who also have a passion for Scotch whisky because Scotch whisky is their drink category of choice”, said an elated Hainsworth.

The Diageo boss while regaling the audience with the heroic exploits of John Walker, the founder of the Johnnie Walker brand of blended

By Ibrahim Apekhade Yusuf

whisky, recalled that the legendary John’s hunger for excellence saw him traverse the length and breathe of Europe over 200 years ago, adding that it was self-evident that the “journey” embarked upon by the 14 years old lad, was not in vain after all, judging by the wide acclaim the brand has since attained today.

While shedding light on the “Walk with Giants campaign”, Hainsworth said it offers inspiring stories of progress for people across the world as consumers are given the opportunity to take a walk with and be inspired by some of the greatest striding men on earth. The activity brings to life the brand’s message of inspiring personal progress; with the striding man as the icon of progress, he stressed.

The highpoint of the occasion was the presentation of the “Whisky Master Class” by the Johnnie Walker Global Brand Ambassador, Mr. Tom Jones.

Jones, who is said to be a passionate advocate for the brand as well as highly knowledgeable and credible Scotch Whisky expert, literarily held the audience spellbound as he took them on a journey of discovery by providing intimate knowledge of whiskies, especially the amazing history and heritage of the Johnnie Walker blended whiskies over two centuries ago.

The Johnnie Walker Global Brand Ambassador who has been associated with the brand in the past 25 years having lived in Scotland also took the audience through mentored tastings of the Johnnie Walker branded whisky.

Jones, who also seized the opportunity to launch the red label brand of the Johnnie Walker whisky, said it took 12 years to blend the whisky, adding that like other labels in the Johnnie Walker family, the red label was a welcomed addition thanks to its growing popularity across the globe, including Nigeria.

Like the connoisseur of good taste, Jones practically demonstrated the different ways of blending the Johnnie Walker branded whisky to in his words “attain the ultimate perfect taste”, all to the admiration of the audience, many of who became inspired to fill their taste buds with the spirit along with mouth-watering edibles such as spiced beefs, shrimps and other small chops with gentle music wafting in the background.

To say that the evening was well-spent is an exaggeration of sorts as the thoroughlysatisfied crowd made up of top celebrities including the former Super Eagles coach, Samsom Siasia who was in the company of his friends and associates pumped their fists in the air in a gesture of admiration.

Business

63

THE NATION ON SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 13, 2011

‘CHOGM reinforced reinforced ‘CHOGM Nigeria, Australia Australia Nigeria, partnership’ partnership’ Senator Danladi Sankara is Vice Chairman, Senate Committee on Water Resources. He was one of the delegates at the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting held in Perth, Australia recently. In this interview with Kolade Adeyemi he speaks on the benefits of the conference to the transformation agenda of President Goodluck Jonathan INTERVIEW

Y

OU were on the entourage of President Goodluck Jonathan to the just concluded Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting, CHOGM in Australia as a delegate of Nigeria. What was the experience like?

It was a very exciting and rewarding experience. As you are aware, the CHOGM was held at Perth, Australia from Sunday 23rd October to Monday 31st October 2011.

At the Assembly of Heads of Government of Commonwealth nations, a lot of issues were discussed at various levels, especially topical issues of global, regional and state dimensions. The Nigerian delegation under the leadership of President Goodluck Jonathan made very significant impact on all aspects of the conference. President Jonathan made very good use of the opportunity offered by the Commonwealth conference to re-affirm and consolidate the existing bilateral economic co-operation between Nigeria and Australia; while at the same time, new mutually beneficial economic agreements were ratified between the two countries. Remember that before this 2011 Commonwealth Meeting, Nigeria has been Australia’s 2nd largest trading partner in Africa. This status and the visible economic gains recorded over the years between the two nations informed the renewed commitment to widen the scope of bilateral

co-operation resulting in the fresh trade and •Sankara economic agreements.

What are the specific details of the new trade and economic co-operation between Nigeria and Australia?

The main focus of the gains of the meeting was the historic event of Wednesday 27th October 2011 when President Goodluck Jonathan and Her Excellency Julia Gillard heading the Australian delegation jointly ratified the establishment of Australia– Nigeria Trade and Investment Council. The council is mandated by the new agreement to identify and develop new business opportunities between the two countries.

President Jonathan and the Australian Prime Minister Julia Gillard jointly noted that Nigeria is a strongly growing emerging market and is Australia’s second largest trading partner on the continent of Africa.

So far, six Australian mining companies are already active in Nigeria, in addition to the Macquarie Bank which is already operating in the country. Most importantly, the joint council will focused initially on collaboration between Nigeria and Australia in the critical economic sectors of energy, mining, agriculture and financial services. And with the private sector backing, the council will establish functional secretariats in Perth, Australia and Lagos-Nigeria. Solid minerals,

oil and gas and agricultural development were the key issues and sectors President Jonathan focused mostly in his various interactions with Australia business and economic communities. These are the key areas he is determined to make impact, and he extended invitation to experts and investors to come to Nigeria to explore the vast potential resources available. Dr. Jonathan was very passionate about his desire to involve Australian investors also in areas of infrastructural development, particularly the agricultural sector. He affirmed at the various fora that Nigeria has abundant agricultural land which the federal government is very ready to collaborate with Australia to explore in order to achieve the nation’s quest for food security.

What are the other areas that Nigeria and Australia made significant progress in bilateral co-operation during the Commonwealth meeting?

Yes, there were other equally important issues that the two leaders made visible progress on at the meeting. For example, at a Global Polio Eradication Initiative held as part of the Commonwealth meeting, President Jonathan made a pledge that Nigeria would spend about N9billion, that

is about $60 million towards the complete eradication of Polio in Nigeria within 24 months. This issue was a re-affirmation of the earlier pledge the President made to the visiting Mr. Bill Gates in Abuja shortly before the Commonwealth meeting. Also, the Australian Prime Minister and the new Chairperson of the Commonwealth, Ms. Julia Gilliard who presided over the event pledged that her government would also provide another sum of $50 million to the global Polio Eradication effort, in the same manner as the British Prime Minister, Mr. David Cameroon announced that Britain would give additional £40 million towards polio eradication. From my explanation, you will appreciate the great success recorded

by Nigeria under the leadership of President Goodluck Jonathan at the just-concluded Commonwealth meeting. The position taken

by Dr. Jonathan in rallying world leaders and governments at the meeting to contribute to the eradication of polio has paid off. This is even more evident when you consider the fact that Nigeria is a focal point in polio cases over the years. The efforts of Mr. President at the Commonwealth have certainly given the nation the leverage to wipe out the disease completely from Nigeria.

Small Business

Firm promises employment opportunities for youths

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GEL Enterprises, a United States company has promised to create employment opportunities for teeming Nigerians while adding to the life expectancy of Nigerians.

Speaking in Lagos during the launching of its six products in Lagos, the Co-Managing Director of the organisation, Mr. Ian Callender, said Nigerians would benefit immensely from its new supplements.

“Today the life expectancy is 47; we have a product line that will impact the lives of Nigerians. This product line is gel suspension technology. These products focus on delivering the exact dosage that the body needs in form of more bioavailable than others. In fact studies have shown absorption rates of key nutrient over 4 times

greater than conventional pills or soft gels,” Callender said.

He said while other supplements have their side effects, the goal of the organisation is “to add ten years to life expectancy in Nigeria.”

Ian said Callender would offer

S

Stories Ola Ojelade

unprecedented opportunities to Nigerians. “The unmatched compensation plan allows individuals to build strong viable business that will last because they are based on strong,

competitive, marketing leading technologies and sound business principles.

The Co-managing Director said the organisation would start business module that will benefit Nigerians. According to him it would afford Nigerian to

generate income for themselves with a phenomenal compensation, which is built and calculated in dollars adding that the business is not just about generating money, it would afford them he opportunity of good health.

Council boosts subsistence farming

UBSISTENCE agriculture in rural community in Boripe Local Government council in Osun state has received a major boost with farmers being encouraged to go into full-scale food production.

Justifying the need for the farming initiative, the chairman of the council, Hon. Hassan Kehinde Moronkeji said the council was persuaded to engage the youths in the area in farming with a view to increasing the council’s internally

generated revenue base from N1million to over N2million through the cultivation of pepper and tomato.

Moronkeji who disclosed that the local government invested so much on the agriculture to complement the effort ofthestategovernor,MrRaufAregbesola in the area of employment and revenue generation for the state, adding that the money realized from the farm produce would be used for capital development projects in the council area.

Moronkeji also declared that the local government realizes over N300, 000 every week as proceeds from the sales of the produce.

“We acquire 60 hectares of land to plant pepper and employed 200 youths called Boripe Youths Employment Scheme (BOYES) cadet which were deployed to work on the farm for maximum productivity and the local government is paying them N10, 000 every month. Any pepper, you see in

our market today is the pepper harvesting in our farm”, said an elated Moronkeji.

Expatiating, he said: “I realized that in our local government area, we do not have oil like other council areas but we have fertile lands for farming to generate revenue and one of the factors used for federal allocation was revenue generation. Through this engagement, we have been able to improve the life of our people.”

Business

THE NATION ON SUNDAY NOVEMBER 13, 2011

VOL 1 NO. 033

64

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 13, 2011

ADVERTISING: Client’s brief and effective advertising ...Insurance Brand

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RANDS management is a knowledge-based profession. Its effectiveness or otherwise, therefore, is a direct function of the quality and quantity of information available on the one hand and the quality of interpretation of available information, on the other.

In some respect, therefore, advertising shares similar character traits with the information management system that says “garbage in, garbage out”. The importance of very good quality information gathering and processing to effective brands management and advertising can hardly be over emphasized.

Contemporary advertising in today's local environment posts compromised quality version principally because compromised information gathering and interpretation. For a fact, both Client contact(s) and consultants post quality compromise, hence prevalence of not too effective (we are running aware from mentioning “brilliant”) advertising. Looking deeper into quality of advertising today, most advert messages are empty in focus, essence and execution only because of the reasons mentioned above.

Appreciation of client's brief was one of the hard lessons we learnt as rookies in brands management in the INSIGHT SCHOOL, when it all began. The creative process starts with the client's brief. We were not even permitted to run with a verbal brief from the client.

Therefore, the client deliberately captured what the assignment was, supplying necessary information to include brand characteristics, present market performance, competitive analysis of market situation, some derivatives from SWOT consideration and the marketing or advertising objective. Taking on Clint's assignment armed with good quality information as listed above, became fun.

Then-on, the creative process gets interestingly logical, systematic and scientific. Among other things, what the client's brief does is provide industry and brand information that aids the agency strategic planning process towards robust information gathering and processing. When agencies churn out good adverts, it is not due to superior knowledge of given market, versus the client, but only as a result of professional and scientific processing of information provided by the client. So, it all starts with the client and the client's brief.

We once mentioned on this page that advertising serves as change agent and growth catalyst. So its importance is not parochial to meeting the advertiser's need only, but also stimulate better living standard among targeted segment in the larger society by reason of its function of information and awareness generation. So, practitioners and brand owners should begin to appreciate advertising quality as a service to society and contribution to economic growth. A good advert message helps the target audience towards making safe and beneficial choice at the market place.

The import of such good decision automatically impact on financially rewarding buying decision, appropriate deployment of scarce resources, etc.

Unfortunately, today's experience with brands management practice and appreciation is one of compromise. More and more, quality of input from the client's and agency is consistently suspect in quality, in more ways than one. Brand or marketing managers do not even write briefs anymore. Even among brand managers trained in brief generation, some of them are now too lazy to so-practice. Writing a brief draws a lot on intellectual discipline and exercise. It requires deliberate efforts at critical thinking, information gathering, generation and analysis. It requires having

a working knowledge of the brand in question, the market, competition and setting the right marketing objective.

We agree proper brief writing is one very tasking assignment. It is only when all of the mentions above are professionally handled that good results are posted. Such good results manifests in successful and profitable brands management, loyal consumers, market leadership and all the other plusses. Hence successful brands will not compromise in their quality of human resource. They will consistently train and retrain their process managers to keep up with set professional standards and philosophy.

By extension, therefore, the quality of input in the generation of information for mass consumption, the better the impact of such input to the over-all good of the related public. So, if for instance the banking public is fed inadequate information on banking services on offer and their value essence, that public will be com-

so, industry players might as well go to sleep at the acquisition of operating license.

The public is the looser. Because the industry players are not challenged, supposed brand managers do not even bother to generate process and disseminate information to enlighten the public on the various advantages in engaging insurance. Empirical studies have proven insurance to be materially instrumental to macro-economic growth. It improves investment climate and promote a more efficient mix of activities than would have been undertaken in the absence of risk management instruments. In aggregating the sector-by-sector contribution to societal macro-economic growth, insurance leads in comparison to the contribution on of banks and securities trading. Unfortunately, banking and stock trading that are only marginally complementary to the leadership role of insurance star in glamour and appreciation because insurance has not been well sold and presented to the public.

The public is loosing. The average man and woman in Nigeria foes not know insurance as the most reliable means to prosperity. Among other benefits, insurance enables the following, exclusively: 1. Indemnification and risk pooling facilitates commercial transactions, provides credit, measures and manages nondiversifiable risk.

2. Insurance enables risk averse individuals and entrepreneurs undertake higher risk and higher return activities.

3. Insurance promotes higher productivity and growth 4. Insurers are institutional investors positioned to provide capital infrastructures and other long term investments 5. Insurers provide very safe investment advisory services for optimal return on investment best investment decision- making process management.

6. To a great extent, insurance supports healthy and happy living.

The list goes on. But the public's knowledge of the benefits of insurance is near zero. The

promised on the benefits of such information towards optimizing options in engaging banking services and products. On the aggregate many sectors of our macroeconomic environment have been suffering from improper professional handling over the years, and of interest to us at this point is the insurance industry.

As mentioned some where above, particular industry owe most benefits to the recipient public than the operators, and insurance is one of them unfortunately, however, the insurance industry is one very important offer of direct positive impact on economic growth with immense value on the individual and the public which value has not been adequately tapped, only because the industry players have not been quite responsible in managing the offer and value-essence (with all due respect).

Perhaps owing to the historical perspective, insurance products and services are generally sold on the basis of compulsion, such as non-life penetration in the area of vehicle insurance, marine insurance and such various other commercial engagements the law has made to purchase relevant insurance products by force. And because such businesses pull huge earnings for industry players, laxity replaced professionalism, drive and innovation in our local market. In fact the introduction of health insurance added to the must-buys, so much

average individual in Nigeria runs with the top-of-mind reference to insurance as a fraudulent engagement forced on people by statutory regulation. Vehicle insurance is taken up just to fulfill all righteousness. The scope of any economy's insurance market directly impact on the range of available risk management alternatives, and the quality of information available to guide investors in the process of deciding on which alternative to stay with. Therefore, the deliberate effort by macroeconomic policies in support of insurance penetration in any economy is a very strong stimulant for improved productivity, investment and over-all economic growth.

The scenario in our local market is quite sad: while the macro-economic policies have set the stage for a vibrant insurance market, the industry is peopled by those not equally driven in enthusiasm. If only efficient brand managers are driving the industry inside-out, our macroeconomy would have been better for it.

In conclusion, therefore, we like to state that managing insurance brand is requiring of dedicated professionals from among industry players and brands management consultants, to help one and all draw from the enormous growth potentials on offer by INSURANCE. It requires professionalism, commitment, dedication and hard work from us all.

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THE NATION ON SUNDAY NOVEMBER 13, 2011

Business

Company News

Group faults devaluation of naira

PEARL Awards targets quoted companies

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HE PEARL Award is to identify and reward quoted companies that performed excellently despite the precarious situation in the capital market.

Disclosing this at a briefing on the forthcoming PEARL award, the President/Chief Executive Officer, PEARL Awards Nigeria, Mr Tayo Orekoya said there is the need to reiterate the call for concerted and well focused regulatory initiatives that would speedily restore sanity, renew investor’s confidence, promote market stability, and return the stock market to the path of growth and development.

“Permit me to reiterate that the PEARL Awards is the only award initiative in Nigeria and this part of the world that identifies and rewards actual performance by companies quoted on the stock exchange. The award process continues to be based on verifiable facts and figures assessed utilising credible parameters and tools of data evaluation that meet international standards and are globally acceptable,” he said.

Orekoya said the award will provide a forum for quoted companies to showcase the result of the various measures and innovations adopted to weather the storm in the midst of prevailing market and

By Toba Agboola economic volatility and instability.

“Thus, in spite of the vagaries of economy and the capital market, a number of companies that strategically outperformed others must be recognised and celebrated.

“This year’s award , like

in the recent years , were determined utilising 10 operational and stock performance indices namely; turnover growth, return of equity, earnings yied, share price appreciation, stock activity, dividend cover, dividend yield, net asset ratio, dividend growth and profit margin ratio,” he said.

Orekoya said the award will be in three categories. These include,

Sectoral Leadership Awards, Market Excellence Awards and Overall Highest Award category.

Past winners include: Nigerian Breweries, Union Bank, Omega Bank(now Enterprise Bank), Guinness Plc, 7UP Bottling Co Plc, UACN Plc, Conoil Plc, Ashaka Cement and Lfarge Cement Wapco.

IGI exhibits at Lagos Int’l Trade Fair

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NSURANCE giant, Industrial and G e n e r a l Insurance (IGI) Plc, is presently at the ongoing International Trade Fair wooing customers with a variety of unique products and services.

Speaking at the company’s stand at the fair, the Assistant Director, Marketing, Mrs. Assumpta Udo said:”Our products have a value added features such as flexibility in policy management,

modification of existing policies, seamless access to the various insurance products, and ability to make a claim on line holders and prospective client.”

Among the products on display were IGI Annuity Plan, IGI Credit Life Plan, IGI School Fees Plan and IGI Easyride. There were also automated and information Technology -driven products such as IGI Mortgage Care , IGI Estate Fire Insurance Scheme (EFIS), IGI Personal and Annuity Plan (PPA), among others.

Udo urged customers and visitors at the IGI stand to access the company’s e-payment solution for travel health insurance, dedicated telephone lines for 24-hour customer care service as well as the online, real time insurance services.

According to her, customers and visitors will also be able to enjoy product and service of some of the company’s subsidiaries, notably Global Trust Savings and Loans and so on.

Vegefresh partners NIHORT to optimise agric potential

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EGEFRESH Company Limited, a wholly indigenous farm facility development and management company and the National Institute of

Horticultural Research (NIHORT) at the weekend entered into a memorandum of understanding aimed at boosting tomato production and processing in Nigeria.

•L-R: Deputy Vice Chancellor, Nnamdi Azikiwe University Awka, Prof. Joe Ahaneku, Group Head, Public Sector South, (Enugu), FirstBank of Nigeria Plc, Mrs. Nwanneka Okolo, and Chair, FirstBank Endowment Fund in Banking and Finance, Prof. Francis Okafor during the presentation of Prof. Okafor’s research report on: “Fifty years of Banking Sector Reforms in Nigeria (1960-2010), Past Lessons and Future Imperatives” in Awka, Anambra State recently

•L-R: Winner of the Star Mega promo, Mr. Ojo Adetunji, from Akure in Ondo State, his wife, Opeyemi and Managing Director/CEO, Brila FM/Special Guest, Mr. Larry Izamoje, during the presentation of the star prize of Toyota Corola Saloon car to the winner by Nigerian Breweries Plc, in Lagos.

PHOTO: ISAAC AYODELE JIMOH

Speaking at the occasion, Head, Project Planning – Vegefresh Company Limited, Olumide Ojo said that one of the sub-sectors where Nigeria has comparative advantages is the tomato industry with Nigeria ranking as the second largest producer of tomato in Africa and 13th largest in the world.

He said the absence of effective public-private partnership and neglect of agriculture in government policy formulation have undermined the potential of the tomato industry as well as the entire agricultural sector.

According to him, Nigeria’s agriculture has suffered tremendous neglect due mainly to lack of coordinated synergies between stakeholders in the industry; especially in institutionalizing platforms for value chain system that could drive agricultural development.

“Regrettably however, more than 50 per cent of harvested tomatoes are lost to post-harvest spoilage due mainly to lack of value chain capacities of processing and packaging. The attendant effects are further impoverishing of tomato farmers, low productivity, low economic contribution, continual discouragement of interested investors and capital flight through importation of tomato products,” Ojo said.

He noted that Vegefresh Company is championing a renewed drive at revolutionizing agriculture through the establishment of value chain systems in Nigeria pointing out that the motive of the company is to fully industrialize the sector through the introduction of contemporary farming models and processing technologies that will propel the sector to create massive employment opportunities, significant contribution to national GDP and attainment of food security.

By Ola Ojelade

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HE Committee for Democracy and Right of the People, (CDRP), a human rights group, has described as worrisome the decision of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to devalue the Naira, saying this would increase the suffering of the people as well as lead to the collapse of the economy.

The group, which spoke through its National Coordinator, Chief Amitolu Shittu said: “There is no basis for the devaluation of currency as the ongoing crisis in Nigeria is enough to battle with than to increase the suffering of the people.”

The devaluation of currency at the moment, he stressed: “is ungodly as the rate of criminality in Nigeria is due to the bad economic policies of the government. The devaluation of currency would increase the rate of bombings, robberies, kidnappings as well as stealing of public funds.”

The action, according to Shittu, had the potential of disrupting the public peace as such, he enjoined President Goodluck Jonathan to rethink the decision.

Going down memory lane, the human rights activist recalled that: “In the 50’s Nigerian rulers including Obafemi Awolowo in the old western region, Ahmadu Bello in the old northern region and Nnamdi Azikiwe in the old eastern region had embarked on agricultural revolution which were profitable ventures as at then and which they operated without borrowing money from the bank”, adding: “This shows that with the right leaders the country can grow instead of devaluing the Naira.”

Minister, others seek eco-solution to climate change

By Ola Ojelade N view of the increasing environmental degradation on account of the climate change, the Minister of Environment, Mrs. Hadiza Ibrahim Mailafia, has stressed the need for the country to comply with all existing protocols concerning environmental management, saying this has become paramount to ensure environmental sustainability.

The minister spoke at this year’s annual Ecological Fair held in Abuja recently.

According to the Mrs. Mailafia, the global community has come under grave dangers posed by myriad of problems which are direct consequences of climate change and other forces of environmental degradation, adding: “this underscores the relevance of international efforts at reversing the prevailing environmental disequilibrium, as exemplified by the climate change conference, the most recent of which, took place in Cancum, Mexico.”

In her remarks, Mrs. Ibukun Odusote, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Power said the Federal Government was determined to solve ecological problems in various parts of the country in line with the transformation agenda of President Goodluck Jonathan.

Mrs. Damilola Segun-Ogunsola, Technical Manager, Officine Maccaferri Limited, one of those who participated at the fair described the event as meaningful considering the different brainstorming sessions and interfaces with experts drawn from different backgrounds.

Among those who graced the occasion include staff of the ministries of environment and aviation, commissioners from various states of the federation, the Ecological Funds Office, and the Chairman, House Committee on Environment..

Others at the fair include experts from the Niger Delta Basin Development Authority, Bayelsa State Ministry of Environment, Mr. Mustapha Bulama, President of the Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN), Prof. Akinwale Coker, Department of Civil Engineering, University of Ibadan, Benin-Owena River Development Authority and Mr. Adebayo Fari, Commissioner for Environment, Ogun state.

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Entrepreneur restates commitment to ICT development

By Adeola Ogunlade

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HE Chief Executive Officer of Mannamart Online Group, Ayoola Benson has restated his commitment towards the development of e-commerce in Africa inorder to reduce youths unemployment.

Benson made this pledge recently at the just concluded 41th Accountant Conference organised by the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN) in Abuja.

According to him, there are limitless opportunities on the internet to create jobs and reduce unemployment among Nigerian youths, “thus, we can redirect their energy to embrace these opportunities and where there are constraints, we work hard to either remove or ameliorate those constraints.”

He said that the energy the youths need to earn money on the internet is a lot less than that used in committing crime and a lot more profitable in the long term.

Benson, who holds an MBA from Oxford University, UK, said: “I have produced two outstanding platforms on the internet, online portals, which aids Nigerians to buy goods and services from UK at bargain prices”, adding that these avenues have helped in no small measures to serve as interface for Nigerian businessmen who are desirous of reaching the larger markets abroad.

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WORLD NEWS THE NATION ON SUNDAY NOVEMBER 13, 2011

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HE Arab League yesterday voted to suspend Syria in four days and warned that the regime could face sanctions if it does not end its bloody crackdown against antigovernment protesters. The decision was a symbolic blow to a nation that prides itself on being a powerhouse of Arab nationalism.

Qatar’s Foreign Minister Hamad bin Jassim said 18 countries agreed to the

Arab League to suspend Syria over bloodshed suspension, which was scheduled to take effect on Wednesday in a significant escalation of international pressure on President Bashar Assad’s government. Syria, Lebanon

and Yemen voted against it, and Iraq abstained.

The Arab League also will consider introducing political and economic sanctions against Syria.

“Syria is a dear country

for all of us and it pains us to make this decision,” bin Jassim said. “We hope there will be a brave move from Syria to stop the violence and begin a real dialogue toward real reform.”

The decision comes as November shapes up to be the bloodiest month yet in Syria’s 8-month-old uprising, with more than 250 Syrian civilians killed so far, most as part of a siege of the rebellious city of Homs, according to activist groups.

Bin Jassim suggested that Arab League members withdraw their ambassadors from Damascus but left that up to the individual countries.

The 22-member league will monitor the situation and revisit the decision in a meeting Wednesday in the Moroccan capital Rabat, bin Jassim said, a move that appeared to give Assad time to prevent the action from being implemented.

Syria’s envoy to the Arab League, Youssef Ahmed, called the decision “illegal and contrary to the league’s internal charter,” according to the country’s state-run news agency SANA. Ahmed was quoted as saying that Syria remains committed to its pledges to the Arab League and said

Damascus is calling on the “armed opposition abroad to lay down arms, surrender, stop the violence and accept a national dialogue.”

The vote was a strong message from the Cairobased organization and showed growing impatience as violence has continued unabated since Syria agreed on Nov. 2 to an Arab-brokered peace deal that called for the Syria to halt attacks against protesters, pull tanks and armored vehicles out of cities, release political prisoners and allow journalists and rights groups into the country.

Arab nations also are eager to avoid seeing another Arab leader toppled violently and dragged through the streets, as happened to Libya’s Moammar Gadhafi last month. An Arab League decision had paved the way for the U.N.-mandated no-fly zone and NATO airstrikes that eventually brought down Gadhafi, but bin Jassim stressed international intervention was not on the agenda.

“No one is talking about a no-fly zone, people are trying to mix up the cases.

None of us is talking about this kind of decision,” he said.

Arab League chief Nabil Elaraby echoed that sentiment.

Fighters clash again near Tripoli, two dead Patriarch of Moscow and All Russia Kirill (C ) attends a religious service at the Maryamiyya Church in old town of Damascus yesterday.

Kirill is on a four-day visit to Syria and Lebanon to visit Orthodox churches in the two countries. He would hold talks with President Bashar Assad and other Muslim and Christian clergymen. The Moscow Patriarchate said in a statement ahead of the visit that its hopeful that the visit will contribute to peace in these countries.

AFP PHOTO/LOUAI BESHARA

Niger grants Gaddafi’s son asylum

P

RESIDENT Mahamadou Issoufou of Niger Republic said on Friday he had granted Muammar Gaddafi’s son Saadi asylum on humanitarian grounds but did not know the location of another fugitive son Saif alIslam, South African media reported.

The announcement will strain already troubled relations between Niger and Libya’s interim rulers, who overthrew Muammar Gaddafi after an eight month uprising and want both sons to stand trial for alleged atrocities.

Saadi, a businessman and

former professional footballer, is in Niger after escaping across the border from Libya when National Transitional Council (NTC) forces captured the capital Tripoli in August.

“We have agreed on granting asylum to Saadi Gaddafi for humanitarian reasons,” the South African Press Association (SAPA) quoted Issoufou telling a news conference at the end of a twoday visit to South Africa.

Interpol has issued a “red notice” requesting member states to arrest Saadi with a view to extradition if they find him on their territory.

Libya’s interim justice minister on Friday questioned Niger’s grounds in granting asylum on humanitarian grounds, saying it was usually given to people facing persecution in their own country.

“But al-Saadi has practiced persecution and incitement to murder. He is accused of killing Tripoli football player and national team member Bashir Al Rayan ... There is strong circumstantial evidence that he was involved in that,” Mohammed al-Alagi told Dubai-based Al Arabiya television.

Issoufou said he did not know the location of Saif alIslam who is wanted by the International Criminal Court (ICC) on charges of crimes against humanity.

M

•Kyi

said yesterday, paving the way for a political comeback after years of exclusion by army generals.

Her National League for Democracy (NLD), delisted last year for boycotting the first elections for 20 years, will consider on Friday whether to re-register as a political party, after Myanmar’s president recently approved changes to the registration laws.

“The NLD is likely to register and also Daw Suu is likely to participate at the coming by-election,” Nyan Win, a party spokesman told AFP. Daw is a term of respect.

It is not yet clear when a byelection will be held, but there are more than 40 seats available in parliament’s two chambers.

Suu Kyi swept the NLD to election victory in 1990 but the party was barred from taking office, and it shunned last year’s vote largely because of rules that would have forced it to expel imprisoned members.

Suu Kyi was under house arrest at the time.

Locked up for 15 of the past 22 years, the 66-year-old Nobel peace prize winner was released from her latest stint in detention a few days after last November’s poll, which was

Zawiyah and the capital.

At least two had been killed on Friday after tension flared between the two groups.

As gunfire continued nearby, Nidal al-Akrout, a fighter from Zawiyah loyal to the Libyan interim government, told Reuters at the scene that two men from his brigade had been killed.

Issam al-Tarhouni, another fighter from Zawiyah, said by telephone that he had seen at least three people dead.

Blast at Iranian arms depot kills 27

•Saadi

Suu Kyi ‘likely’ to stand in Myanmar by-election

Y A N M A R ’ S democracy icon Aung San Suu Kyi is likely to contest an upcoming by-election, a party spokesman

A

T least two Libyan fighters were killed, their comrades said, in a second day of clashes yesterday near Tripoli which have raised fears that tribal rivalries and lingering support for Muammar Gaddafi could rupture the postwar calm.

Several anti-Gaddafi fighters from the port city of Zawiyah said at least two of their comrades were killed by fire from an armed tribal group which was in control of an area at Imaya, between

widely condemned as a farce by the West.

The new army-backed government has, however, surprised critics with a string of reformist steps, such as defying ally China by freezing work on an unpopular mega-dam in the north, and holding direct talks with Suu Kyi. The daughter of Myanmar’s independence hero Aung San, who was assassinated in 1947, Suu Kyi took on a leading role in the pro-democracy movement in 1988, the year that protests erupted against the military and were brutally crushed.

A

N accidental explosion at a Revolutionary Guard ammunition depot west of Tehran killed at least 27 soldiers yesterday, Iranian officials said.

The explosion occurred while military personnel were transporting munitions at a base, said Guard spokesman Gen. Ramazan Sharif. The site is located outside Bidganeh village, 25 miles (40 kilometers) southwest of the capital.

The Guard is Iran’s most powerful military force.

“My colleagues at the Guard were transporting

ammunition at one of the depots at the site when an explosion occurred as a result of an accident,” Sharif said.

At least 27 Guard members were killed, state TV reported.

The broadcast said 16 other soldiers were injured and hospitalized. Sharif said some of them were in critical condition.

Lawmaker Parviz Soroori ruled out sabotage.

“No sabotage was involved in this incident.

It has nothing to do with politics,” Soroori was quoted as saying by the parliament’s website, icana.ir.

THE NATION ON SUNDAY NOVEMBER 13, 2011

67

68

WORSHIP THE NATION ON SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 13, 2011

Living J Faith

By David Oyedepo

Wonders in God’s word! (2)

L

AST week, I showed you th eimoortance of God’s Word. I told you that the Word of God is the antidote to hardship, frustration and stagnation. God’s Word is full of wonders!

Wordfor is converted power at the Every instance of your faith.is We are God’s born again signs andtofor wonders. child of God ordained to be a wonder to his world (Isaiah 8:18).

I breifly showed you how to become a wonder and the master tool for the working of wonders.

Today, I will be showing you, The Wonder Genes In The Word Of God. 1. The Spirit Of Life: It is the spirit that quickeneth; the flesh profiteth nothing: the words that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are life (John 6:63).

In the Word is life. What kind of life is in the Word? It is divine life (2 Peter 1:4). So, we partake of divine life from the Word. The more Wordloaded you are, the more divine nature you exhibit. It distinguishes everyone that comes to this world. So, through the Word, we imbibe divine nature that distinguishes us among men.

The Word of God inculcates divine nature, and that gets you immune to all forms of sickness and disease (Proverbs 2:20-22). So, that life exhibit itself in form of divine health.

2. The Power Genes: For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to everyone that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek (Romans 1:16). God’s Word carries power genes. By receiving the Word, you are empowered to manifest as a son of God (John 1:12).

What does this power carry?: (a). It carries the power to live above all hurt is in the Word (Psalms 66:3). (b). It carries the power to cause your enemies to surrender. (c). It carries the power to rule and to reign, in spite of your enemies (Psalms 110:1-3).

3. Creative genes: God’s Word can creatively re-package your destiny, and give it colour and beauty. All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made that was made (John 1:3). In Genesis 1:1-31, God said, and God saw! God’s Word is loaded with creative genes.

4. Breakthrough genes: The breakthrough forces in the Word are irresistible and unstoppable. Scriptures are packaged for profitable living.

There are breakthrough genes in scriptures (2 Timothy 3:16 & 17; 1 Timothy 4:13, 15).

5. Divine light genes: The entrance of His Word giveth light and it gives understanding to the simple (Psalms 119:130). That light does not only enlighten you, it lightens you up. It turns you to a divine illuminant. It offers direction (Psalms 119:105). It confers dominion over the forces of darkness (Palms 60:1-2).

6. Victory genes: Behind every verse of scripture is the victorious voice of the Lord (Psalm 29:3).

7. Prophetic genes: The Word of God carries prophetic genes. God’s Word is prophetic in nature. When you believe it, you have committed God to confirm it (2 Peter 1:21).

8. Spiritual wine: There is spiritual wine in the Word. Wine maketh merry (Isaiah 55:1). So, there is joy and rejoicing in the Word. The wine of the Word is highly intoxicating. It puts you perpetually on top of situations.

9. Healing genes: God’s Word carries healing virtues. Jesus was preaching and the power of God was present to heal them (Luke 5:17).

The power of God was present in the Word that He was teaching them.

When you sit down in the Word, you are in God’s clinic. Through His Word, He transmits into you healing genes, so you can live a healthy life.

Avenues through which God opens The Book: 1. New birth grants you access to the mysteries of the Word (Mark 4:11).

2. By the ministry of the Holy Spirit (John 16:12; John 14:26).

3. Through the communion (Luke 24:30-31).

4. Through the Blood Covenant (Hebrews 9:7).

5.Through anointed interpreters. You see the wonders in the Word through anointed interpreters. For instance, Smith Wigglesworth interpreted my new position in Christ, seated far above in heavenly places.

Friend, the power to engage these wonder genes in the Word is the exclusive preserve of those who are redeemed. You are redeemed by confessing your sins and accepting Jesus as Lord and Saviour of your life and family.

You can do so now if you haven’t, as you say this prayer: Lord Jesus, I come to You today. I am a sinner. I cannot help myself. Forgive me my sins.

Cleanse me with Your precious Blood. Deliver me from sin and satan to serve the Living God. From today, I accept You as my Lord and Saviour. Now I know I am a child of God. I will continue this series next week. May the Almighty God bless you!

Our Ministry is getting set for SHILOH 2011, which will hold at Faith Tabernacle Canaan Land, Idiroko Road, Ota from December 6-10. Among the highlights of the event with the theme, Waves Of Glory!, are specialized healing services. Come for a destiny turnaround!

Every exploit in life is a product of knowledge. For further reading, please get my books — The Force Of Freedom, Walking In Dominion and Exploring The Riches Of Redemption.

I know this teaching has blessed you. Write and share your testimony with me through: BISHOP DAVID OYEDEPO, Faith Tabernacle, Canaan Land, Ota, P.M.B. 21688, Ikeja, Lagos, Nigeria; Or call 7747546-8; Or E-mail: bishop@davidoyedepoministries.org

OURNEY from oil and gas to the ministry God reminded me of His calling in 1993 while still working with the then Agip Nig. Plc and I went straight to a Bible College, Faith Christian theological centre under Dr. Olumide Ige. I spent one session there before God instructed me to leave and go and meet Pastor Enoch Adeboye. When I finally met him, he instructed that I had to go and start all over with the Redeemed Christian Church of God Bible School in 1995. So I enrolled at the RCCG Bible College at Acme, Ikeja. I began asking God what next and was told to go to Ede, Osun state to conduct a crusade, which I did in June, 1996. After the one week crusade, God instructed me to go and conduct another one in my father’s house where there is an existing chapel. I got back to Lagos only for me to be instructed to go back to Ede, where I was ordained by a Christ Apostolic Church (CAC) Pastor in 1997. In 1999, God finally revealed to me that this was where He wanted me to serve Him. From ‘Baba Abiku’ to ‘Baba Abiye’ Fifteen days to his wedding before he knew Christ, my father became blind. After marriage, he was childless. In search of a solution to his problem, he began going from one place to another. It was in that process that he came across a Muslim cleric in Ilorin who told him to go back to his hometown that he will meet with a group of people wearing white garments dancing and singing. The Islamic cleric told him to follow the group till they get to a stream. He was told to build a house on one side of the stream and a Church on the other side of the stream. He was further told that after he has

INTERVIEW

‘Why God is not happy with Nigeria’ Minister-in-charge of Christ Apostolic Church (CAC) Ori-Oke Baba Abiye, Pastor Funsho Akande, studied Communications and Art at the University of Ibadan, Oyo State. He told Timilehin Osunde how he left his lucrative oil and gas career for the ministry

•Akande

done all that, people from all walks of life would visit there to worship God. His encounter with God changed his status from a childless man to someone with children. He became ‘Baba Abiye’ after he had his children because he used to be known as ‘Baba Abiku’ before then. I chose to name the Convention ‘Abiye day’ as a way of remembering my father who is the founder of the prayer mountain.

Modern pastors and prosperity I think what is lacking is balance. If a Pastor teaches deliverance, salvation, evangelism and the principles of prosperity, he has failed man and God. The members will be poor and if an individual is in want,

there is the susceptibility to yield to temptation. This situation is just a matter of removing the veil which the Devil has used to cover the vision of Christians. That is what Bishop Oyedepo and Late Archbishop Idahosa have done. At our prayer mountain, we endeavour to balance all the principles of God’s kingdom; you don’t just come here to pray alone. So there are other messages being preached not only prosperity. Listen to Bishop Francis Wale Oke, Pastor Tunde Bakare and others and you will know.

Response on receiving the call I can actually say that my calling preceded my birth and I used to say that if God must ordain me, it must be as a prosperous minister. On August 27, 1990, that was the day God anointed me in my sleep. Oil was poured on my head and when I woke up I felt it but did not see it. I called my father narrated my experience and he said, ‘that is the sign of a leader’. God has been revealing things to me even before my primary school days. In 1993, I was reminded of my calling wherein God told me that all that I had would not save me

from my childless marriage unless I serve Him. To the glory of God, His promises have continued to come to pass since I heeded the call.

Last word from late father I can say that anyone who says my father said anything before he died would have lied because he lost his voice and passed into a coma before he died. Maybe he did have some things to say but he lost his voice.

Salvation experience I want to say that I was not born again until 1995.

What I was exhibiting was good character and I discovered later that your character cannot lead you to heaven. When I attended RCCG Bible School, I discovered that certain actions became repulsive to me. I would let go of issues I would naturally become upset about it. One day I got home and began questioning my new attitude. It bothered me so much I went for counselling. Then I was told it was evidence of rebirth.

A word for Nigeria To be honest, God has not told anything about Nigeria recently except for the reiteration of what He showed me some few years back. God is not happy with Nigerian leaders presently. The sword revealed to me hanging over the nation in the past is still there.

NEWS

N

IGERIANS should be patient with President Goodluck Jonathan to deliver dividends of democracy, General Overseer of the Godsway Mission International Lagos, Rev Obahon Ogedengbe, has appealed.

He spoke ahead of his consecration as Bishop and launch of ‘The Ideal Christian Home’’, a book written by his wife, Rev. (Mrs) Mercy Ogedengbe.

The cleric acknowledged the numerous challenges facing the nation. He however called for patience to see electioneering promises fulfilled.

According to him, “I see Nigeria rise above her challenges, I see Nigeria walk

Cleric calls for patience with Jonathan talk among the comity of nation. Though, it may take time but I am convinced that there are better days ahead of us”.

He appealed to Jonathan to remain focus and decisive on his reform agenda in the power and infrastructure development sectors.

Ogendegbe noted that the epileptic power supply and the dwindling infrastructural development remain the bane of development that must be addressed headlong.

He lamented the politics and corruption in the power sector reforms by successive

By Adeola Ogunlade

government, which he said have undermined realisation of national goals.

He warned Jonathan to deliver, saying Nigerians will not hesitate to vote him out of power should he fail.

“We are only given the President a benefit of doubt as the people have the power to re-elect or remove any public office officer who is not worthy of steering the affairs of this nation,” he stressed.

What And Where?

CCC’s Unity and Peace 2011 The adult harvest and thanksgiving service of the Celestial Church of Christ (CCC), Lagos South Diocesan Headquarters, Ogudu, holds today.

The 34 th edition of the

service commences by 10am A statement said the service will be characterised by singing, dancing and massive celebration.

Worship

THE NATION ON SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 13, 2011

Knights support children living with cancer O

VER 500 choristers from various parishes and outstations of Catholic Diocese in Akowonjo Lagos last week rendered soullifting songs in support of cancer patients.

Tagged ‘’singing out with cancer’’, the fund-raising concert with the theme ‘’children the future champions’’ was organised by the District 16, 1st regiment Lagos Grand Commandery Knights of Saint John (KSJ).

The District Commander, Major Rufus Ezeakacha (KSJ) stated that taking care of the sick and less privileged members of the society is one of the four point agendas of the

By Joe Agbro Jr.

charitable organisation.

Ezeakacha, who noted that sickness has no barrier, pointed out that children are more vulnerable and voiceless.

Proceeds from the concert held in conjunction with Children Living with Cancer Foundation (CLWCF), he said, will be chanelled the foundation.

Other organisations with bias for cancer, he added, will also benefit from the proceeds.

Director of Communications, Catholic Archdiocese of Lagos, Monsignor Gabriel Osu, who spoke through Rev.

Father Anthony Emeka Nworu (SMMM), held that Nigerians are living in a complex society with mounting health needs.

He said: “our hospitals and health centres are poorly equipped and under-funded such that many of the equipments needed to attend to patients are either far from adequate or unavailable. ‘’The result is that, very often, many patients die due to negligence on the part of health personnel or nonavailability of drugs when required”.

Osu noted that Jesus did not only care for the spiritual needs of people but also took time to heal.

He called for support for

the sick saying, “we have a responsibility to care for those in needs through visitation and all types of assistance” President of the benefiting organisation, Dr. Nneka Nwobbi, expressed joy over the initiative of the Knights.

“What makes me most happy about this setting is that Knights of St John have set the ball rolling. I hope that this is the beginning,” she said.

She also canvassed for volunteers who would be involved in hospital visitations, explaining that such visits helped to alleviate the emotional trauma many sick people are going through.

How youths can prosper,

by Ayorinde

By Dorcas Adewolu

G

•L-R: Iruobe and Powerson dedicating the auditorium

Church celebrates 25 years of God’s goodness Members and wellwishers of Elshaddai Covenant Ministries, New Oko Oba Lagos, rolled out the drums last Sunday to celebrate the church’s 25th anniversary.

The service, which coincided with the dedication of a ultramodern church building, was marked by hilarious praise and celebrations.

The General Overseer, Dr James Iruobe, attributed the church’s survival and growth to God’s goodness.

He said, ‘’God has sustained us thus far and

By Sunday Oguntola

we are really grateful for what he is doing with and through us’’.

He recalled the church’s days of little beginning in Jos, stating that it has been to many turbulence and challenges.

Pioneering members took to the pulpit to testify of God’s wondrous acts at various points of their lives.

They unanimously declared that being in the church had added values to their lives and families.

The guest preacher, Archbishop Ojo Powerson, urged the congregation to trust for greater visitations.

God, he said, is not through with changing and adding values to lives.

He challenged them to reverse every negative pronouncement against their lives like Cain to receive more from God. The highlight was the cutting of the 25 th anniversary cake and dedication of the church’s u l t r a - m o d e r n auditorium.

Ezekiel to Nigerians: Be committed to God

G

ENERAL Overseer and National Coordinator of Christian Pentecostal Mission International (CPM) Revd Obira Ezekiel, has called on Nigerians to renew their commitment to God. He said righteousness exalts a nation, saying Nigeria will reach the Promised Land with more devotion to God. Ezekiel spoke at the Back-to-Bible conference

By Charity Williams

with the theme ‘’Glorious divine nature’’ last week in Lagos.

The conference attracted gospel ministers from across the nation for spiritual renewal and revolution.

Ezekiel said, ‘’God is interested in Nigeria. If only we give Him a chance on our hearts, He will do mighty things in this coun-

try.

‘’He will take us to our place of destiny if we follow Him close enough’’.

He called on ministers to maintain open heart towards God and remain focused in His presence.

Ezekiel said they remain the gateways to divine intervention in the affairs of the nation, calling on them to maintain their consecration.

ENERAL Overseer of World Evangelism Bible Church Lagos, Prophet Samson Ayorinde, has challenged youths to live above stains and immoralities.

He said their future remain secure and bright if they dare to serve God and maintain focus.

Ayorinde spoke last Sunday at the 16 th anniversary of the church at its international headquarters in Ogudu, Lagos.

He said, ‘’Youths have a special place in the mind and business of God. God is going to prosper them if they remain holy, committed and focused. ‘’They have all it takes to capture the future by living right today. If they handle today well, their future will be prosperous’’.

He called on governments to implement poverty alleviation schemes targeted at tackling rising youth unemployment.

This, he said, will give youths a sense of belonging and make them productive.

His wife, Rev (Mrs.) Mercy Ayorinde, led marathon of prayers for women, especially those looking for the fruits of the womb.

Ayorinde said the vision of the ministry was received after 40-day fast in Kaduna.

He acknowledged God was responsible for the giant steps of the church, saying it was not easy leaving lecturing for the ministry back then.

The cleric said it has never been easy leading the church for 16 years but noted God has been more than faithful.

He enjoined other religious leaders to lead by example, preach the gospel and always look for avenue to foster peace.

69

Making “S

Sense of Life

with adeWale Adefuye

Is Aso Rock under the spell of a lying spirit? (1)

G

“Micaiah may not be well known to many today but in his days, his prophecies struck fear in the hearts of evil kings. He used a combination of sarcasm, irony and an awful sense of humour to drive home his point. And, of course, he was in and out of detention most of the time. It was from one such detention that Micaiah was dragged to a summit.”

“Is this yet another hammering on the presidential asset declaration?”

“That would be a waste of time. Mr President will never declare his assets openly. He has so much to hide. My fascination today is with Micaiah’s vision. The summit I mentioned earlier that he was dragged to was on how to recapture Ramoth-Gilead, a precarious outpost occupied by hostile Syria.

Ahab, the Israelite king formed a military alliance with the godly Jehoshaphat, king of Judah, to wage this war. For spiritual comfort and assurance, Ahab invited about 400 state-sponsored, false prophets to his Aso Rock.”

“I’m concluding each of them, naturally, obliged the king and assured him of success.”

“Doesn’t he who pays the piper dictate the tune? But the godly Jehoshaphat insisted on consulting a true prophet, hence Micaiah was sent for. The prison escort tipped Micaiah off as to the situation he would face and advised him to get in step with the rest of the prophetic gang. ‘All the prophets before you have agreed that they should go up to war. So the smart thing for you, Micaiah, will be to agree with them.’”

“Are you trying to say they are agreed on removing the subsidy on fuel?”

“Officialdom really wanted Micaiah to say the politically correct thing in order to be in the good books of the king.”

“And start enjoying the use of the Presidential Jet, regular dinner invitations to the palace and other such perks...”

“So, Micaiah, using the precise words of the false prophets but in such a tone and manner that gave the game away, assured the assurancehungry kings of victory in the war against Syria. But Ahab was not fooled.

“Stop kidding me!” he fumed. “I know you don’t agree with them.” You see, Ahab wanted the Word of God, but he didn’t want it. He knew the difference between truth and falsehood, but he didn’t want to obey the truth. There are a lot of folk like that today.” adeWale Adefuye, info@walefuye.com, +44762 481 3 184 (SMS ONLY)

Christian Romance Series

T

OSIN stepped out of the house and closed the door gently,walking toward her car.

The door flew open again and Ladi stood there.

“Tosin!” He shouted. “Where are you going?”

Without stopping, she threw over her shoulder, “I’m going to the office! Any objection?”

Looking very angry, Ladi asked, “Shouldn’t you tell me you were leaving? Where is my breakfast?”

“The cousin you brought to the house without my permission should be able to get it for you.” Tosin said. She opened the car door and entered. ”Is that Sade’s responsibility? Look, I’m getting tired of this your ... I-don’t-care attitude and behaviour!”

“Too bad!” She said carelessly and started the car.

“Don’t move that car, Tosin!” Ladi said furiously, his anger getting out of control.

“Look, if you have something to say, just say it and get it over with! I’m getting late for work! You’re wasting my time!” She told him roughly, her tone matching his.

Ladi walked toward the wine-coloured Opel Omega car, his face twisted in anger. “Your husband is complaining about your attitude and you call that a waste of time?”

She was unmoved,knowing he wouldn’t hit her.

“It is a waste of time as far as I am concerned. Any other thing?”

She asked rudely, looking at him.

He wore a white shirt under an expensive black suit which was perfectly tailored for his tall, well built frame. He was a handsome man in his early thirties.

Ladi stopped midway to the car and considered his wife of four years. The 5feet, 8inches tall lady wore her favourite outfit of red silk blouse and navy blue suit, with open-toe red shoes. Her long hair was packed to a side in a very lovely way, and with her glowing dark skin, the twenty nine year old lady was a beauty.

Ladi thought of what to do. He could seize the car keys from her and delay her. He could slap her to teach her to mind her manners but none of these would solve the problem their marriage obviously had, he reasoned. Being a Christian, he believed a responsible man should not hit his wife, no matter the provocation. He had declared this belief several times. And several times Tosin had provoked him.

In fact, there were times he believed she deserved a thorough beating, but he had not raised his hand against her.

For some time now, all they did together was argue and quarrel, throwing harsh words at each other in anger. He could hardly remember the last time they discussed, joked or played together.

By Adeola Ogunlade

To be continued.

This story is from the novel LOVE FEVER By: Taiwo Iredele Odubiyi 08023000773, 08058040949 www.pastortaiwoodubiyi.org.uk

70 CHANGE OF NAME

CHANGE OF NAME

OSUNSI

ANYANWU I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Ngozi Christiana Anyanwu, now wished to be known and addressed as Mrs Ngozi Christiana Anyanwu. All former documents remain valid.

University of Jos and The general public should please take note.

I formerly known and addressed as Osunsi Oluwaseun Olumide, now wish to be known and addressed as Osinusi Oluwaseun Olumide. All former documents remain valid.

General public take note.

AKPAN

I formerly known and addressed as Daniel Nelson Akpan, now wish to be known and addressed as Daniel Ubong Nelson. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

SODIYA

I formerly known and addressed as Miss Sodiya Risikat Adesola, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs Ogunmuyiwa Risikat Adesola. All former documents remain valid. Moshood Abiola Polytechnic, NYSC and general public take note.

JOHN

I formerly known and addressed as Miss John Oluwatoyin Olufunmilayo, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs Olafioye Oluwatoyin Olufunmilayo. All former documents remain valid.General public take note.

ETSEMITAN

I formerly known and addressed as Miss Etsemitan Gloria, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs Edafe-Asedegbega Gloria. All former documents remain valid.General public take note.

GABARI

I formerly known and addressed as Miss Rita Ochukwu Gabari, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs Rita Ochukwu Enwereuzo. All former documents remain valid.General public take note.

IWALOYE I formerly known and addressed as Miss Iwaloye Toyosi, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs Alegbeleye Toyosi Grace. All former documents remain valid.

Akoko South-West Local govt.

Service Commission and general public take note.

ONI I formerly known and addressed as Miss Oni Adenike, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs Adenike Fakiyesi. All former documents remain valid. NYSC and general public take note.

ESAN

I formerly known and addressed as Miss Oluwatoyin Eunice Esan, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs Oluwatoyin Eunice Adedoyin.

All former documents remain valid.

General public take note.

AKINNESE I formerly known and addressed as Miss Akinnese Florence Owoekami, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs OlawumiAbiloro Florence Owoekami. All former documents remain valid.

General public take note.

CONFIRMATION OF NAME I, Mrs.Iyabo Adeniunju Olukemi Oluwole-Idowu is the same person as Mrs. Iris Aanuoluwapo Oluwole-Idowu now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Iris Aanuoluwapo Olukemi OluwoleIdowu. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

AWOYERA

I formerly known and addressed as Miss Awoyera Olapeju, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs Adekanmbi Olapeju Mary. All former documents remain valid.

General public take note.

ADESANYA

I formerly known and addressed as Miss Adesanya Adefunke Aderogba, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs Kadiri Adefunke Aderogba Abidat. All former documents remain valid.

Neetbeet Technology, Island Avenue, Lagos State and general public take note.

NKPURUOMA I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Hart Lilian Nkpuruoma now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs Chidozie Lilian Nkpuruoma. All former documents remain valid. NAMA and the general public should please take note.

LADIPO I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Ladipo Olaitan Sariat now wished to be known and addressed as Mrs Oyeboade Olaitan Folasayo. All former documents remain valid. The general public should please take note.

ODUNIYI I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Oduniyi Deborah Ayodele, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Yakubu Deborah Ayodele. All former documents remain valid Osun State University and general public take note.

ADEYEMO I formerly known and addressed as Miss Adeyemo Febisola Abiodun, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Ekundayo Febisola Abiodun. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

AKINOLA I formerly known and addressed as Miss Akinola Oluwasola Ayo, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Oluwadare Oluwasola Ayo. All former documents remain valid Federal Medical Centre Ido Ekiti and general public take note.

OGUNGBENLE I formerly known and addressed as Miss Ogungbenle Olufunke Catherine, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Isijola Catherine Olufunke. All former documents remain valid Federal Medical Centre Ido Ekiti and general public take note.

BAMISILE I formerly known and addressed as Miss Bamisile Oluwatosin Eunice, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Olonitoye Oluwatosin Eunice All former documents remain valid Ekiti State Judiciary,Ekiti State University, Polytechnic Ibadan and general public take note.

KUPOLUYI I formerly known and addressed as Miss Kupoluyi Aderonke Busayo, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Akinyemi Aderonke Busayo. All former documents remain valid. NYSC and general public take note.

AKINDEHIN I,former known and addressed as Miss Anuoluwapo Akindehin now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Anulowapo Adeoye-young all former documents remain valid. general public take note.

ADEWUMI

I,former known and addressed as Miss Adewumi Kehinde Odunayo, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Oyetunji Kehinde Odunayo all former documents remain valid. Ise/Orun Local Government and general public take note.

BAMGBOSE I,former known and addressed as Miss Omolabake Oluwakemi Mary Bamgbose, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Omolabake Oluwakemi Mary Oyediran. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

OHANEDU

OGWU

I formerly known and addressed as Miss Baptista Chiamaka Ohanedu, now wish to be known as Mrs. Baptista Chiamaka Okoro. all former documents remain valid. general public please take note.

I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Ogwu Helen Eberechukwu Maryann, now wish to b known and addressed as Mrs Bassey Helen Eberechukwu Maryann. All former documents remain valid.

ESUT, NYSC and general public take note.

I formerly known and addressed as Miss Angela Nwose, now wish to be known as Mrs. Angela Samson Matthew. All former documents remain valid. general public please take note.

NNUBIA I formerly known and addressed as Miss Nnubia, Onyinye Ifeoma now wish to be known as Mrs. Obelenwa_Okeke, Onyinye Ifeoma. All former documents remain valid. UNIZIK Awka, Dangote Group and the general public please take note.

NDIOLO I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Ndiolo Lynda Oluchukwu, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs Eze Lynda Oluchi. All former documents remain valid. NYSC and general public take note.

AKEJU

I formerly known and addressed as Miss Akeju Kemi Ibironke,now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Adeniyi Kemi Ibironke. All former documents remain valid.

NYSC and general public take note.

NWOSE

NJOKU I, formerly known and addressed as Professor Francis Ikechukwu Njoku and Mrs Ahunna Cecilia Njoku now wish to be known and addressed as Professor Franic Ikechukwu Ochor and Mrs Ahunna Cecilia Ochor respectively. All former documents remain valid.

General public take note.

IBE

I formerly known and addressed as Miss Ibe, Chinomso Sevita now wish to be known as Mrs. Okeke, Chinomso Sevita. All former documents remain valid, general public please take note.

ILE I formerly known and addressed ass Miss Nweri Blessing ILe, now wish to be known as Mrs. Douglas Nweri Blessing. All former documents remain valid NYSC. and general public please take note.

THE NATION ON SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 13, 2011

Essay

The quickening procession to breakage The prudent avoid the company of those who dine on the gravestones of others Continued from page 11

F

OR them, the financial speculator is always right because the speculator is as to lord of greed as the Seraphim are to God. Thus, the international financial community influences governments more than government controls the financial community.

Democracy has been undermined by plutocracy.

Before our eyes, the death sentence of genteel European democratic socialism is being executed. A harsh Social Darwinism that bodes ill for the poor and dispossessed is being imposed. Fiscal governance in Europe will begin to resemble the tenets of America’s Republican Party.

While the disaffected in America protest and seek to “Occupy Wall Street” it seems that the ways of Wall Street are trying to occupy Europe.

The irony of last week is that Italian PM Berlusconi is being shoved from office for one of the better performances of a scandalous tenure. His quick ouster highlights the overwhelming power of international finance. This man has survived over fifty parliamentary votes of confidence and several inquiries into alleged criminal activity. None of this could evict him. However, when he balked at the austerity that Merkel, Sarkozy and the banks they serve wanted to impose on Italy, Berlusconi quickly became an expendable liability. His moment was up.

For all his vanity, the man could discern he was being forced to swallow a deal injurious to his nation. Only an invertebrate leader could accept the ugly dictate with a

smile and congenial handshake. But that is what Europe has come to. Leaders are expected to see international finance as their primary constituents. Their voting public, their fellow citizens, are just the backwash of a dissolved and crumbling structure once known as democracy.

Thus, the leaders and corporate media have turned on Berlusconi, placing the blame for Italy’s woes solely on his table. This implies that things will get better if he just goes. International finance creates this false hope to snooker the public into the austerity program. It is a ruse make attractive by the man’s obvious excesses. He has become the scapegoat in the macabre game of repress the debtor nation. One need have no love for the man to be troubled that he is being blamed for a wrong he did not commit. Like the Greek PM before him, Berlusconi is being ousted because he dared the faintest resistance to the BerlinParis axis. Like the Greek PM, he is being replaced by a pliant and weak mainstream economist wedded to conservative orthodoxy.

While fellow parliamentarians did the deed, what lead to Berlusconi’s departure was orchestrated from abroad.

When it comes to high finance, interference in the national affairs of a debtor nation recognizes no bounds.

The euro has existed barely a decade yet teeters so close to disgrace. Hailed as a monumental achievement of a generation is may be the largest gaffe since the dirigible. There are two problems with the eurozone. One is structural. It lacks a true central bank that can function as a lender of last

resort to member nations when they run into liquidity problems. Consequently, temporary liquidity problems become solvency issues because creditors start to fear the nation will default. This concern drives up interest rates on the debt, making the debt balloon further, pushing the nation closer to bankruptcy.

The immediate solution to this crisis would be the ECB lending Italy money at discount rates so that it can service the debt or for the ECB to purchase debt bonds from Italy’s creditors. Because the ECB is not playing this role, creditors have swooped on Italy like vultures driving up interest rates on bonds to where repayment is nigh impossible. The second is the sad leadership to which Europe is saddled. That two blind mice, Merkel and Sarkozy, are the most important figures at this critical time bodes ill. Both are unimaginative conservatives whose knowledge of economics consists of only what they remember from antiquated textbooks. They further mar the situation by surrounding themselves with advisors whose only noteworthy attribute is that they are better versed in the dreadful economics taught in those same books.

As the duo imposes its will, the continental economy will worsen. Despite the evidence that their policies do more harm than good, MerkelSarkozy will stubbornly foist austerity on the backs of the southern debtor states. These states will become motes of economic stagnation and socio-political tension so dense it assumes a tactile quality. Last week it was Greece, today it is Italy. Next will be Spain or Portugal. These nations are being attacked by creditors like a wolf pack preying on a herd of sheep. One by one the

victims fall. At some point, one or more of these debtors will likely default and perhaps exit the eurozone. This is likely the unstated policy objective of Merkel-Sarkozy. Both France and Germany believe they have superior economies and national cultures to those of the countries on the Mediterranean rim. France and Germany would rather a monetary union limited to core and northern Europe. They may be using this crisis to translate this want into reality.

Otherwise, their handling of the crisis would make them the most inept European leaders since Neville Chamberlain and Edouard Daladier tried to contain Hitlerian bloodlust with nice words.

The irony is that they will be damaged the more they near their goal. All of these nations are trading partners. If one’s trading partners become impoverished, they buy less.

Unless they find new partners, German and French exports suffer. Their relatively strong economies thus weaken and Europe descends into a state of profound recession.

In the end, Europeans need a more realistic view of economic relations among nations. When the euro was formed, engineers of the new currency dismissed the fact that a certain level of competition and conflict was inherent in the economic and financial relations among states. All they saw was a harmony of interests. Now in the midst of crisis, Berlin and Paris seek to impose their will, not recognizing that their long term interests are better served by the debtor nations enjoying stronger growth that will allow them to repay debt without the pain inflicted by austerity. In other words, they need to recognize that creditors have a vested interest in the health of their debtors. A sick debtor is not a good prospect to repay what he owes. The push to austerity must be discarded. If the insistence remains, Europe will eventually experience a public backlash that will take these smug conservative politicians by surprise.

08074473182 (Sms only)

THE NATION ON SUNDAY NOVEMBER 13, 2011

N

IGERIA managed a goaless draw against Botswana in a friendly international at the Samuel Ogbemudia international stadium, Benin City on Saturday evening in what was coach Stephen Keshi’s first game in charge.

An enthusiastic crowd turned up to cheer the Super Eagles to victory, but they were left disappointed as the resolute, well coordinated Zebras held their own in defence to ward off the hosts in attack.

The Eagles found it hard to break down the Zebras with shots blocked by young goalkeeper Kabelo Dambe even as the Nigerians retained most of the possession throughout

Sport Extra NIGERIA 0-0 BOTSWANA:

Zebras hold Eagles A inKeshi’sfirstmatch the game.

Ike Uche, Joel Obi and Fegor Ogude all saw their shots kept out by Dambe as rain poured down for most part of the first half.

The eager fans then took to singing and asking for a goal

in the second half that saw a series of changes made by both coaches.

Substitutes Brown Ideye, Chinedu Obasi and Ahmed Musa had opportunities saved as the game drew to a close.

Dickson Etuhu was voted the Most Valuable Player (MVP).

Nigeria will next play Zambia on November 15 in Kaduna as they seek to rebuild after missing out of the 2012 Africa Cup of Nations.

Stay away from Eagles’ dressing room

F

lovers, we might have our own opinions, but at the end of the day it’s the coach’s team and, with all due respect, you have to leave him to do his job.

“As a friend you can call him and talk to him and give him your own opinion. But it’s left for him to take it or not.”

Okocha, who was with the team for most of Samson Siasia’s short-lived tenure, says his former teammate was unlucky.

“I think he was unlucky because in life sometimes little bit of luck can change things.”

•Kayode doubtful According to the Olympic Eagles’, Media officer, Arafat Aliu, the team is yet to receive words from Almeria (Spain) and Reggina (Italy) the clubs of Azeez Ramon and Daniel Adejo.

Coach Austin Eguavoen is expected to submit his final list of 21 players to CAF on the 16th of this month.

ASEC Mimosa’s striker Olanrewaju Kayode is the latest player who may miss on out for Nigeria at the final qualifying tournament for the 2012 Olympics.

According to team officials, ASEC has insisted the player would only be available from November 26, same day the Dream Team will open their CAF U-23 Championship campaign against hosts Morocco.

In the meantime, Atletico Madrid of Spain striker Olaitan Otubanjo has joined the team’s training camp in Accra, Ghana.

RESULTS OF INTERNATIONAL FRIENDLIES England 1 - 0 Spain Panama 2 - 0 Costa Rica Mexico 2 - 0 Serbia South Africa 1 - 1 Ivory Coast Wales 4 - 1 Norway Nigeria 0 - 0 Botswana Algeria 1 - 0 Tunisia

Okorocha to grace Euro clubs shun Nigeria over Dream Team V stars ASCON Oil football final

I

TALIAN clubs Torino and Reggiana as well as Almeria of Spain are the latest European clubs who

• As Govt. releases N63m

K

•Super Eagles' Ike Uche tries to outwit a Botswana opponent yesterday in an International friendly at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium Benin- City Photo: BOLA OMILABU

TLETICO Madrid of Spain striker, Olaitan Otubanjo on Friday night teamed up with the Dream Team V camp at the Lizzy Sports complex, East Legon, Accra, Ghana.

Al-Merreikh of Sudan striker Stephen Worgu, arrived Accra, on Saturday morning, while Victorial Setubal of Portugal defender Terna Suswam is expected to increase the number of foreign- based arrivals to three later.

Worgu and Otubanjo will be part of the Olympic Eagles team that will prosecute its second tune-up game on today against Ghanaian premier league side, Tema youths.

The former Enyimba forward, Stephen Nworgu will head back to Sudan on Monday for a crucial game with his Sudanese club on the 19th; after which he would team up with the Dream Team V should he make the final 21 list to Morocco.

Meanwhile, ASEC Mimosa of Ivory Coast striker, Kayode Olarenwaju is now a major doubt for the Dream Team V after his club declared that the player would only be available from the 26th of this month: same day the Dream team will begin its CAF U-23 Championship campaign against host Morocco.

8-NATION TOURNEY

Pillars to pay all sign–on fees on Monday ANO Pillars Football club players and officials will on Monday smile to the bank, as the club’s management have set aside 50 per cent of the N63 million approved by the State Government for the settlement of their sign on fees.

The club’s General Manager, Alhaji Abba Galadima who disclosed this to Sports writers in Kano yesterday, said that the players and officials would also be paid their 20 per cent outstanding sign-on fees of last season, including the 30 per cent of this year’s package.

However, Galadima expressed gratitude to the governor of the state, Engineer Rabiu Kwankwaso for his prompt intervention in ameliorating the numerous problems that faced the club, pointing out that this gesture will serve as a morale booster for the players and officials.

According to him, the state government’s gesture is highly commendable, adding that it has also placed the players and officials in high spirit, with the promise not to disappoint the

AHEAD LONDON 2012 QUALIFIERS

Otunbanjo, Worgu arrive Ghana camp

OKOCHA TO EX-PLAYERS

ORMER Nigeria captain Austin Jay Jay Okocha has warned explayers and others to stay away from the Super Eagles’ dressing-room during matches.

Former internationals and other officials regularly troop into the Eagles’ dressing-room at half-time and offer opinion, but Jay-Jay, a member of the NFF’s Technical Committee, says it is wrong.

“I don’t think it’s wise for explayers or whoever to contribute in the dressingroom because that’s wrong. If you have anything to say you should have said it beforehand or after the game,” he says.

“If all of us have something to say, then the dressing-room will not contain all of us. The coach is paid to make crucial decisions. All of us are not coaches. We might be football

71

From Kolade Adeyemi, Kano

governor.

Despite the challenges the club faced in its quest to win the continental ticket, the players and the officials were not deterred in their determination to make the state proud.

The General Manager explained that part of the money would also be used to settle the transfer fees owed other clubs for signing on some of the players that flew the club’s flag this season.

Galadima, also revealed that the club will forward its budget requirements for the next season to the state government on time, as well as explore the possibility of retaining most of its quality players for next season’s assignment.

The General Manager also called on the supporters of the club to troop out en-masse on Sunday to support their darling team against league leaders, Sunshine football club of Akure in their home ground, the Sani Abacha Stadium in the ancient city of Kano .

may not likely release their players to the Nigeria Olympic team.

Inter Milan as well as Dutch clubs PSV Eindhoven and VVV Venlo have already blocked their Nigerian players like Joel Obi and Ahmed Musa from the team.

The Nigeria U-23s will feature in an eight-nation qualifying tournament in Morocco for places at next year’s Olympics in London.

However, the competition is not on the FIFA calendar meaning foreign clubs are not under any obligation to release their players for the tournament.

Handlers of Ramon Azeez told MTNFootball.com that the midfielder will not be released by Spanish second division side Almeria.

U-20 skipper Azeez has yet to break into the first team of Almeria, but he has shone with the reserves.

Nnamdi Oduamadi is also a huge doubt for the final Olympic qualifiers later this month in Morocco because of injuries to two wingers of the table-topping Italian Serie B outfit.

However, Olympic team spokesman, Arafat Aliu, told MTNFootball.com that they remain positive about the availability of the players for the qualifying tournament.

“Yes, it’s true we are yet to hear from Azeez and Daniel

Adejo or their clubs, but we remain positive they will soon be part of the team,” Aliu said.

“As for Oduamadi, the last discussion we had with him, he assured us he is coming down to Ghana on Monday.”

Aliu confirmed that Atletico Madrid of Spain Striker Olaitan Otubanjo is expected in the Accra camp late Friday, while Victoria Setubal of Portugal defender Terna Suswan joins up Saturday.

Coach Austin Eguavoen will be in Benin to watch two of his players, Nosa Igiebor and Ekigho Ehiosun, in action for the Super Eagles against Botswana on Saturday.

The visit will afford Eguavoen an opportunity to discuss with both players in a conference telephone meeting with their club directors on the possibility of having them join the Dream Team after their outings with the Eagles.

Aside the meeting with the players, Eguavoen is also expected to parley with the NFF technical committee chairman, Chris Green, to put finishing touches on his team’s last days of camping in Morocco.

Nigeria are in Group A of the CAF U-23 championship alongside hosts Morocco, Algeria and Senegal.

A

LL is set for this year’s ASCON Oil U-17 Y o u t h Championship which comes up at the Jay Jay Okocha stadium, Ogwashi uku, Delta State, on Sunday. In the final match, Ethiope West will slug it out with Aniocha South for the star prize of N500,000 naira, while Isoko South and dethroned champions, Oshimili North, will go for each other’s jugular for the third place title.

The annual tournament which is put together by Dream Team Football Academy, Asaba, in honour of late Engr.

George Enemoh, late founder of ASCON Oil Company Ltd., saw teams from the 25 local government areas in Delta State competing for honours in the three designated centres; Oleh, Ughelli and Ogwashi Uku. Fireworks are expected as soccer aficionados will troop in their thousands to be part of the fun fare which has gripped the oil producing state for the past two weeks. Not to be left out as well is the Imo State government contingent which will be led by sportsloving governor, Owelle Rochas Okorocha. The governor, who had earlier during a courtesy visit by an entourage of the Dream Team Football Academy, promised to do everything possible to ensure that the dream of the oil magnate, Engr. Enenmoh, would be kept alive, is expected to storm the stadium

to add pep to the event. Also expected as part of his delegation is the amiable Commissioner of Youth and Sports, Comrade Kenneth Emelu. Owelle Okorocha, who has never hidden his love for sports development at the grassroots level, and who has emphasized on the need to partner developmental programme with serious organizations like Dream Team Academy, is expected to fulfill his promise of giving the Asaba based academy the necessary backing to make their vision a reality. It will be recalled that while reiterating the commitment of the Owelle Okorocha led administration to rescue the already dilapidated situation in Nigeria’s football, Emelu, had assured the academy officials of government’s maximum support towards the completion of the academy secretariat which will be named; “George Enenmoh Sports Complex”.

Meanwhile, Dream Team Academy CEO, Matthew Ossai, who is also a FIFA Licensed Players’ agent, has assured that the final of this year’s tournament, initiated in 2010 as part of activities to keep alive the dreams of the late ASCON Oil founder, will live up to it’s billing as a veritable ground through which talented players who litter the streets of Delta State will be discovered and given the necessary exposure. “

http://www.thenationonlineng.net

UTH IN DEFENCE OF FREEDOM VOL. 6, NO. 1936 SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 13, 2011 TR TRUTH

QUOTABLE “I am not encouraging an attack on any part of Nigeria, my interest is my jurisdiction which is Yorubaland. You can’t continue to waste lives. Let them come out and express their feelings. Let the whole world know what they want”.

National Coodinator of Oodua Peoples Congress (OPC), Otunba Gani Adams, condemning recent killings by members of the Boko Haram sect.

J

UDGING from his prefatory remarks on the subsidy removal issue to the 17th Nigerian Economic Summit (NES 17) holding in Abuja, President Goodluck Jonathan seems to think he is on the verge of an historic right.

Because he often confuses the office of the president with the destiny of the country, like virtually all his predecessors, he also gave the impression at the summit that if we failed to support the timely measure, the country would be doomed sometime in the future to depending on poorer nations like Chad and Ghana for its fuel needs. However, in contradistinction to his lofty projections, many of us think Jonathan is actually not poised on the verge of an historic right, but on the verge of an historic wrong.

The president was unsparing in his criticisms, particularly during the Presidential Dialogue with Global CEOs, scoffing when he had superior argument, or misrepresenting when his mind wandered obligingly towards his old nemesis, Gen Muhammadu Buhari. For most parts, however, the president simply gave an incredibly optimistic portrayal of the Nigerian economy and how it runs. He has been accustomed to painting fanciful pictures of the interrelationships between leadership and followers since he became a visible politician, but on this day with the CEOs he soared higher with great abandonment about the economy till we were no longer sure whether he was talking economics, politics or psychology.

There was the little coruscant about foreign investors regretting their failure to invest in Nigeria on account of terrorism, but otherwise, Jonathan’s remarks were indeed blasé. Perhaps we spied a wit here and there struggling for space in his talk; and some fury and hyperbole ventilated like molten magma in other parts. Beyond these, there was nothing really extraordinary. As usual, there was no philosophical or ideological stirring, and no nugget or pearl to warm the cockles of the heart.

The occasion was magnificently present alright, what with global leaders in business as his audience, and the panjandra of economics in attendance from all nooks and corners in Nigeria. They needed a peculiar message, one suited for the cortex, not the midriff; one that was grand, not middling. But they got a message meant for a different occasion. Jonathan was not only resolute in removing subsidy, which he was ready to swear would usher in the Nigeria of his utopian dream, he described his critics as Janus-faced. In summary, his opinion that critics of fuel subsidy removal were hypocritical and subversive offered us a disconcerting window into his worldview, particularly what he thought of democracy.

This column will resist the temptation to take on Jonathan’s ideas on politics and law today. I suspect that by now he is already wearied by our criticisms, most of which he puts down to the antics of the opposition Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN), a party he and his fawning aides claim suborns many of us columnists into its partisan plans against the state.

If he is wearied by our criticisms, he is not alone. We are also wearied by his relentless offer of errant public policies, policies that apparently always shunned rigorous thinking and debate, or even research, reflection and discipline. As I said in this place shortly before Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala assumed office as the czarina of the government’s economic management, Jonathan is at liberty to surrender the economy to the World Bank guru and alumnus, but he is definitely not at liberty to foreclose discussions on a subject that makes him uneasy.

Some of Jonathan’s statements at NES 17 were truly shocking. It is not clear where he got the precedent, but he even attempted to draw a line between economics and politics by denouncing what he interpreted as the politicisation of the subsidy issue. Notwithstanding Jonathan’s rather unresponsive approach to governance, particularly his attempt to make Okonjo-Iweala primus inter pares among his ministers, I am not sure we can find any analyst anywhere who would argue for the separation of politics from economics. Before the president claims we misunderstood him, we must let him know that we understood the two senses in which he looked at the

The trouble with presidential remarks

•Okonjo Iweala

•Jonathan

opposition to subsidy removal.

In one breath, it is possible the president thinks the opposition is informed by the desire to bring his government to grief. Said he: “Unfortunately, here, people play politics with all things. Now even those who were arguing for the removal of subsidy before are now speaking from both sides of the mouth. Now they want to bring the government down.” This conclusion is of course both far-fetched and embarrassing, but it did not deter the president from reaching for his enemies, for often when his passion is inflamed, he speaks with idiosyncratic boyishness.

But it is also possible that the president believes subsidy removal critics merely want to score cheap political points, to callously destroy a policy designed to lift Nigeria to great heights.

Whether he sees crass politicking or subversion in his opponents’ criticisms or not, the president is still wrong on both counts to feel incommoded by the vehemence of the opposition. Was he not rather naïve to think a policy as far-reaching as subsidy removal would be passed by lawmakers or accepted without debate or opposition, no matter how rancorous?

Even if he has made up his mind to drink hemlock, it is embarrassing that the president was not expecting passionate opposition. Sometimes, I suspect that Jonathan has a romantic or military or even monarchical view of government, all views that welcome the beguiling benefits of office without a corresponding acceptance of all its onerous responsibilities, views that allow all forms of enjoyments unmitigated by the gravity and complexity of ruling 167 million people.

Not only is there nothing like economics without politics, even the most incompetent president anywhere must expect that his opponents will attempt to trash his good policies, let alone the abhorrent policy of removing a subsidy no one has yet convinced us truly exists.

Rather than offer us convincing facts and figures, government propaganda on the subsidy issue has relied on sentiments, name-calling and scaremongering resting on leprous, contrived statistics. At a point, Jonathan tried to confer dubious honours on Gen Muhammadu

Buhari as a proponent of subsidy removal. The laconic general has denounced the effort and dismissed subsidy as a phantom.

But whether the president appreciates the politics and economics of fuel subsidy or not, he no longer seems enthusiastic about removing the so-called subsidy by January. The rea-

son is not that he has changed his mind, or that he is suddenly persuaded to love it. The reason is that when the president compartmentalised the issue of subsidy into economics and politics, it was easier to handle. Now that Nigerians have shown the two to be intertwined, the president has lost a bit of his appetite. Worse, given the sordid revelations coming from the fuel subsidy probes in both chambers of the National Assembly, particularly the obvious fact that a few ‘fat cats’ had conspired to suck inordinate amount of money from the national treasury on account of the subsidy, everyone is beginning to see that Buhari and Professor Tam David-West might be right after all that the socalled subsidy is nothing but fantasy. Who will set Jonathan free from mistaken belief?

Perhaps the high point of Jonathan’s discussions with the CEOs is his conviction that the menace of Boko Haram is a temporary setback. I forgive the president’s starry-eyed view of economics, knowing full well that right from his acting presidency days he has never been enamoured of economics. It is a subject that makes him squirm. But to say Boko Haram is a temporary setback stretches credulity to the limit. Boko Haram is in fact a major problem, not a setback or a temporary phenomenon.

Religious extremism in Nigeria is a logical progression from decades of treating religious violence with kid gloves. Years of rampage and killings by fanatics, especially in the northern parts of the country, rarely led to prosecution, not to talk of punishment. There was little official deterrence; indeed, there appeared to be only official connivance. When religion was fully introduced into politics in Zamfara State, the Olusegun Obasanjo government described it as a temporary fad that would soon go away.

Most Nigerian governments have been remarkably and irresponsibly insouciant about religious violence, the Jonathan government not excluded. Do we not recall Jonathan’s handwringing over Boko Haram, whether to fight or negotiate with it? And where has that disgraceful hesitation led us?

Jonathan may enjoy taking refuge behind the porous walls of global terrorism, but in the name of God, all right-thinking Nigerians must recognise that if our governments had not been negligent over the years in doing what is right, we would probably be immune from the deadly impact of the bloodletting we are witnessing today. That others are suffering does not mean we must suffer.

Subsidy removal subsidises unworkable 36-state structure

I

T is peculiarly Nigerian that with global economy teetering on the verge of deeper recession, and much stronger economies collapsing under debts, lobbyists here are still pressing on with their campaign for additional states. Recall, for instance, how our large and incongruous delegation to the last Commonwealth meeting in Australia produced great mirth for some newspapers in that country, and how they snickered behind closed doors at our egregious habits that defied economic realities. But now the same astonished world will be even more amused that the campaign for new states, with all its cost implications, seems to be receiving sympathetic hearing in high places, including our National Assembly.

I know that the seriousness of running a large, poor and unstable country escapes us. This probably explains why federal and state governments irresponsibly decided that rather than review the structure of our country, the best option is to look for more money to run the clumsy, clay-footed giant. To them, the solution is to remove what they identify as subsidy on petroleum products. Surely, there must be a limit to imprudence.

Apart from calculating the subsidy to be over a trillion naira, officials irresponsibly concluded that if that money went into government coffers rather than the pockets of nameless fat cats, we would move closer to utopia. The ongoing probes in the National Assembly, however, show that while consumption of fuel has stagnated, the cost of subsidy has more than quadrupled, far in excess of budgetary provisions. Worse, they are also discovering that in the labyrinth that is public accounts, some of our oil receipts were converted at a rate below approved Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) exchange

rates before being paid into the federation account.

The disclosures are so disturbing that an embarrassed federal government has eased up on its campaign for subsidy removal and pushed back the date of implementing the obnoxious policy.

If we had leaders who think deep, they would explore other options of raising money to run the country. The first question they would ask is whether we were running the country as efficiently as possible, even in this age of disingenuous outsourcing. The second step would be to look at the economies of countries selling petrol at higher prices and compare our economy with their standard of living, minimum wage, and the protection they afford citizens left in the cold?

It is annoying that at a time when the world is in the throes of revolutions, when the world is in ferment and is primed for upheavals, Nigeria’s bungling rulers have chosen the moment to sail near the wind. Why is it so difficult for them to recognise that all they need is the political will to restructure the country away from this unworkable and deceptively federal arrangement? What we need are compact regions run by premiers, and a truly federal and secular arrangement that does not disregard cultural and regional differences.

Jonathan may have been legitimately elected, but he must see his victory more as a rejection of other candidates or what they stood for than an endorsement of his competence or what he stands for. By refusing to summon the will to restructure the country, he makes his supporters and neutrals look foolish. Worse, he is now even pushing the country to the precipice and blaming the problem on his enemies.

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